How to Organize a Garage or Storage Area | Curb-It

How to Keep Your Storage Areas Clear of Clutter

by Rebekah Bell

With Americans spending more time at home than ever before, there’s never been a better chance to tackle the spring cleaning you’ve been putting off. Rather than trying to do everything at once, start with the main storage areas (think basements, garages and storage units) that have likely collected the most clutter over the years. By sifting through these storage areas and throwing away or donating possessions you no longer utilize or want, you can free up space in your home and help yourself feel more centered and grounded.

1. Basement

In many homes, basements can quickly turn into catch-alls that hold everything from sports’ trophies and report cards to old pieces of furniture and toys that have long since started to collect dust. As a result, they’re the perfect place to start when you want to clear out the clutter and start afresh. Begin your basement cleaning by breaking the area into smaller-sized sections so you can tackle one part at a time. Enlist your partner or kids to help haul away items that you no longer need or want. (For the really big pieces of furniture, hire a Curb-It Hauler to cart away your possessions to a new home so you can make a bit of cash in the cleaning process.)

If you aren’t sure whether to keep or toss something, ask yourself a few questions such as: When did I last use this? Have I already purchased a replacement? Do I have the space for this? Does it have important sentimental value to me, or is it something I’m totally fine with getting rid of? By breaking your basement into chunks and honestly assessing whether or not you want to keep certain items, you’ll be able to quickly clear away things you no longer need so that your basement can go back to being a living space instead of a makeshift storage unit.

2. Garage

If your garage is filled to the brim with lawn equipment, tools and dozens of other items, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get ready for some good old-fashioned spring-cleaning. Start by arranging everything into three distinct piles: keep, toss and recycle/donate. While you can easily box up smaller items to donate to a local non-profit or second-hand shop, you might want to call a junk removal company to safely dispose of larger items. Next, it’s time to unfurl your garage organization plan: after sweeping and mopping the floors, place associated items (like lawn care products and equipment) in designated areas so you can easily find them when an occasion arises.

3. Storage Units

Whether you’re transitioning to a new neighborhood or searching for a safe space to stow valuables while you’re renting a small apartment, storage units can be a great option for those who have limited space at home. But it’s important to follow good storage room organization tips to make sure your unit doesn’t get out of hand. To start, make a list of everything you’re keeping in the unit and label all your boxes so you can quickly find what you need. (Alternatively, you might want to consider putting everything in clear containers so it’s easier to find.) Put heavy items on the bottom and store regularly used belongings in the front.

By following these simple tips, you can get rid of excess clutter and ensure that your house feels like a livable, welcoming space for years to come.

Rebekah Bell is a writer who lives in Los Angeles.