Is your garage a little out of control? Many homeowners face this challenge. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to decluttering your garage, including where to take all the unwanted items.
Assessing the Clutter and Setting Goals
The first step is to assess all of the stuff. Forge a path and take stock of what you have. It’s time to be realistic about baby items that are no longer needed. Resist the urge to keep everything “just in case.” Ask yourself, “Does this really need to be kept?”
Deciding What to Do With Your Junk
The goal is to either donate or recycle most things, but there will likely still be some junk. Consider renting a dumpster for a few days; it can be more cost-effective than hiring a junk removal company and allows you to purge at your own pace, without hidden labor fees.
Handling Old Electronics
Old electronics can take up a lot of space. If you have old Mac Pros or other computers, transfer any data from working machines. Donate the working one after transferring all the data. Recycle the old, broken ones at Best Buy, which is a straightforward process.
Dealing with Paint
For water-based paints, you can often return them to most paint stores as long as the label is still on the can. Calling ahead isn’t necessary in most cases.
Donating Items
Be realistic about donation items. An unassembled chair from IKEA, for example, might be better suited for someone more handy. Go through any “maybe” piles from closets. If items haven’t been missed during a waiting period, donate them to Goodwill. This is also a great way to teach kids about helping others.
Where to Donate Baby Items
For nicer strollers and other baby items, consider donating to a baby-to-baby charity. Churches also often accept these items, or offer them to friends with younger children. A helpful tip is to have them pick up the items on the day of cleaning to ensure it actually happens.
Recycling
Recyclables can feel like finding a gift—unless there are too many to fit in your bin. In that case, pile them up and find a local recycling center. When visiting a recycling center, you’ll see individuals sorting through items. Separate items and put them in the labeled bins provided.
Tackling Husband Stuff
Dealing with a significant other’s belongings can be challenging. Offer moral support and a favorite beverage while they sort through their items. Make it a family affair by taking the kids out while they work.
Organizing What’s Left
After the clean out, put the items being kept into bins. Use these for things like costumes, holiday decorations, and sentimental items. The goal is to create a garage that is easy to walk through and perhaps even park cars in.
Enjoying the Results
Take a moment to admire the cleaned-out garage. It should feel much better now. If you’re in the same position, this guide provides tips on how to tackle your garage clean out and reclaim your space.
