Your garage can quickly become a catch-all space where items pile up without much thought. Over time, this clutter not only makes it hard to find what you need but also reduces the usable space you have.
Knowing what common items tend to accumulate can help you clear out unnecessary clutter and regain control of your garage. Taking a little time to sort through these things can make your garage more organized and functional.
Empty cardboard boxes
Empty cardboard boxes can take up more space than you realize. Holding on to them “just in case” often leads to clutter.
Recycling or donating boxes you don’t need can clear your garage quickly. If you want to keep some, consider flattening them to save room. Using sturdy plastic bins instead can help organize your items better and prevent boxes from breaking down over time.
Dried-out paint cans
You likely have old paint cans taking up space in your garage. Once paint dries out, it’s no longer usable and just adds to clutter.
Holding onto these cans can also be a safety concern, especially if the seals are broken. It’s best to check them and toss any that are dried out or expired. This clears space and makes your garage safer.
Old paint rollers
You might have old paint rollers hiding in your garage that have dried paint and feel unusable. Holding onto them takes up space and can add to the clutter.
If the rollers are still in good shape, consider cleaning them with water and soap. But if they are dried out or worn, it’s better to toss them to free up room for tools you actually use.
Broken tools waiting to be fixed
You probably have some broken tools in your garage that you meant to repair but never got around to. They take up space and add to the clutter.
If you don’t plan to fix them soon, consider recycling or discarding them. Keeping only the tools you use helps make your garage neater and more functional.
Expired automotive supplies
You might have old motor oil, brake fluid, or antifreeze sitting in your garage. These materials lose effectiveness over time and can be harmful if used after expiration.
Keeping expired automotive supplies not only takes up space but also poses safety risks. It’s better to dispose of them properly and replace them with fresh products when needed.
Leftover holiday decorations
You likely have bins full of holiday decorations tucked away in your garage. These can quickly add to clutter, especially if some items are broken or no longer meaningful.
Take a moment to sort through them. Keep what you truly enjoy and donate or discard anything damaged or unused for years.
Storing decorations thoughtfully will free up space and make next year’s decorating easier.
Outdated sports gear
Your garage can quickly fill up with old balls, helmets, and bats you no longer use. Keeping worn-out or broken sports equipment takes up space and adds to clutter.
It’s a good idea to sort through your gear regularly. Donate items in good condition or recycle what’s damaged to free up room for what you actually need.
Unused gardening equipment
You might have gardening tools and supplies tucked away that you haven’t used in months or even years. Old seeds, empty plastic bottles, or worn-out gloves often pile up without notice.
Take a moment to sort through these items. Toss anything that is broken or no longer useful. This clears space and makes it easier to find what you actually need when gardening.
Empty storage bins
Empty storage bins often take up more space than you realize. If you’re holding onto them “just in case,” consider whether you actually need all of them.
Using too many empty bins can make your garage look cluttered and harder to organize. Try keeping only the ones you use regularly or plan to fill soon. This will free up space for items that need storage.
Past their prime home decor
You might have some home decor items tucked away in the garage that no longer fit your style. These pieces can take up space and add to the clutter without serving a purpose.
Consider sorting through old vases, picture frames, or seasonal decorations that haven’t been used in years. Letting go of items past their prime opens up room for things you actually want to use.