A garage storage system works when it matches what you own and the space you have. Sort your belongings, measure the walls and floor, then compare shelves, cabinets and wall-mounted rails for each group of items.
Sort and measure
- Empty a corner and sort items into groups: tools, garden gear, seasonal items, sports gear, cleaning supplies such as rags and fasteners, and long items such as ladders.
- Mark which groups you use weekly, monthly or rarely.
- Measure the wall length and height, ceiling height, door swing and the width of the car.
- Sketch the layout with frequently used items at easy reach.
The main kinds of storage
| Option | Suits | Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Freestanding shelves | Boxes and bins | Needs floor space; may need anchoring to the wall |
| Closed cabinets | Dust-sensitive items | Heavier and fixed in place |
| Wall rails and hooks | Long-handled tools, cords, bikes | Needs a suitable wall and fixings |
| Overhead racks | Seasonal items | Check ceiling strength and clearance |
| Rolling units | Tools you move around | Needs a smooth floor |
Wall and ceiling considerations
Know what your wall is made of before you choose fixings. Studs, masonry and thin board each need a different method. Follow the instructions that come with the rails or racks, and ask a qualified person if you are unsure about the load a wall or ceiling can bear. Keep clear of electrical wiring and pipes.
Keep the floor clear
- Use vertical space for items you handle less often.
- Keep paths to doors and the electrical panel open.
- Store chemicals according to the label, away from heat and out of reach of children.
- Label bins so you can see what is inside without opening them.
Do not forget the car. Park it in its normal place, open both doors, and mark the spots where the doors swing so that no shelf or hook sits in their path. Garages can also be damp or hot, so think about which items could suffer, such as cardboard boxes, cloth and electronics, and keep them in sealed bins off the floor.
Finally, build in a little spare room. A system that is full on day one will soon overflow. Look over the space each season, remove items you no longer use, and move things you use more often toward the front.
FAQ
Should I buy everything at once?
It is usually easier to add one zone at a time, so you can see what works in your space.
Do open shelves collect dust?
Yes. Bins with lids or closed cabinets cut that down for items you want to keep clean.
The Short Version
Sort first, measure second, and then match each group to shelves, cabinets or wall rails. Check wall type and load limits, and keep walkways clear.
