3 Tips to Help You Clean and Organize Your Garage This Summer
Summer is a great time to finally tackle those big home projects we never seem to have time for, like cleaning out the garage. If you’re like many people, your garage turns into a ” catch-all” for tools, gardening and yard equipment, cleaning supplies, sports gear, and off-season decorations. When your garage isn’t organized, it can be difficult to find these things when you need them!
The good news is, it’s not difficult to reclaim your space and make your garage a more efficient storage spot. All it takes is a little time and patience!
Here are a few tips to help you clean and organize your garage this summer:
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Declutter first
You can’t clean your garage until you sort through the clutter! Start by pulling out all the ” stuff” from your garage and bringing it into your driveway. This way, you can sort things into similar piles and decide what to keep, donate, and throw away. Make sure you go through every single box, storage container, and cabinet. You might discover some sentimental items that you didn’t realize you had!
What should you keep?
What you keep is up completely to you! As a general rule of thumb, keep the items that you know you’ll need in the future. If you can’t picture yourself using something in the next year, move it to the donate or toss pile.
What should you donate?
Chances are, there are many items in your garage that you don’t need or want anymore! These things can likely be donated to Goodwill, where they’ll be given a new life in a new home.
Ohio Valley Goodwill gladly accepts donations including:
- Gently-used children’s toys
- Books
- Outgrown clothing, shoes, and accessories
- Sports equipment
- Artwork
- Seasonal décor
- Kitchen supplies
- Furniture
- Halloween costumes
Silver Mazda at Goodwill Auto Auction
Did you know? You can even donate a car to Goodwill! We gladly accept vehicles in any condition. Find a designated drop site or arrange to have your car towed free of charge. Get rid of your unwanted car and make some much-needed space in your garage!
What should you throw away?
As you declutter your garage, you’ll probably come across some trash and items that are broken beyond repair or expired. Some items, like household cleaners or lawn chemicals, might require special disposal. Make sure you’re recycling responsibly and using the proper disposal methods!
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Deep clean
Now that you’ve cleared out the clutter, you can give your garage a deep clean inside and out. Sweep out the dust, debris, and bugs, then use a concrete floor cleaner to remove oil stains and dirt. Make sure you check the ceiling for any cobwebs or insect nests!
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Create an organizational system
Finally, you’re ready to store your belongings in your spotless garage! Consider installing shelves, wall hooks, or pegboards to maximize space on the ground. You can easily hang bikes, tools, and ladders on the walls to save storage space. Then, get a few water-resistant, plastic containers to protect items like clothes and household decorations. Be sure to label the bins with what’s inside. Once you have an organizational system in place, it’s easier to find what you need when you need it!
With a well-organized garage, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a carefree summer! That’s a great feeling!
Ohio Valley Goodwill store
Thinking about donating your car to Goodwill to create more space in your garage? We make it easy to make a charity car donation in Cincinnati! Donate your vehicle at one of our convenient designated drop sites or fill out our online contact form, and we’ll be back in touch with you soon.
Thank you for donating a car and making a difference in your community!
