The Complete Guide to Garage Storage & Organization

1. Assess Your Garage & Set Goals

Before buying any storage products, take inventory of what you have and what you want your garage to do. Ask yourself:

• Do you need to park cars inside?
• Do you need a workshop area?
• What sports/hobby equipment needs storage?
• What seasonal items need a home?
• What's your budget?

2. Declutter First

The biggest mistake people make is buying storage for things they don't need. Before organizing:

• Trash - Broken items, dried paint, expired chemicals
• Donate - Working items you haven't used in 2+ years
• Sell - Valuable items you no longer need
• Keep - Items you use regularly or seasonally

3. Create Activity Zones

Divide your garage into zones based on how you use it:

4. Wall Storage Systems

Walls are your most valuable storage real estate. The three main options:

Slatwall Panels

Best for: Flexible, modular storage that can be reconfigured

• Accepts hundreds of accessory types
• Clean, professional look
• $15-30 per square foot installed

Pegboard

Best for: Budget-friendly tool organization

• Inexpensive and widely available
• Easy to install yourself
• $2-5 per square foot

Track Systems

Best for: Heavy items like bikes and ladders

• Strongest weight capacity
• Great for bikes, ladders, large tools
• $10-20 per linear foot

5. Ceiling & Overhead Storage

Don't forget to look up! Ceiling storage is perfect for items you access infrequently:

• Overhead platforms - Best for bins and boxes ($150-400)
• Hoist systems - Great for kayaks, bikes, ladders ($50-200)
• Ceiling-mounted racks - Good for lumber and long items ($100-300)

6. Floor Storage Solutions

Minimize floor storage to keep your garage functional, but some items need it:

• Heavy-duty shelving - For bins and heavy items
• Cabinets - Hide clutter and protect from dust
• Workbench - Essential for any workshop zone
• Tool chests - Secure storage for valuable tools

7. Best Garage Storage Products

Our top recommendations based on value and durability: