An organized garage is a WELCOME HOME mat

You may wonder why you should bother to organize the garage? And, the answer is because the garage may be the last spot you see when leaving in the morning and the first thing that greets you upon return. Not many visitors enter your home through the garage, but you probably do. Daily trips through a congested, disorganized garage can be hazardous to your health and well-being, both physically and psychologically. Trooping around piles of junk has a strong impact on your mood as well as a possible risk for bumps and bruises.

Why not consider this space, whether attached or detached, as a room just like any other room in your home. True of all the spaces in your home, it can quickly become a black hole for the broken, useless and excess. A little organization in the garage can go a long way in providing safe and effective storage as well as shelter for the family car.

Garages are generally filled with things we occasionally use, things we think we might use someday, and things we have not used in many years. There are two reasons why clutter accumulates: (1) items do not have a home, or (2) they are not put away after use.

Organizing the garage takes time and effort. It is a good idea to think about the reward waiting at the end of this clean up time. Maybe it will be the money you saved because now you can find the things you need. Or, it may be the cash you acquired from selling the extra stuff. Think of that tax deduction you will gain by donating to those in need. It may be that you will be able to move around the area without fear of bumping into boxes and equipment. And, finally the reward may be the fact that now your car does not have to sit in the driveway under the hot sun or inclement weather.

Periodically review your garage storage area and determine what is working and what is not. Fine tune areas that need extra attention. And, remember the saying: “Don’t put it down, put it away!”