While garages are typically the most versatile areas of any home, many of us still rely on them as an invaluable opportunity for more storage.
There are many unique considerations one has to keep in mind when it comes to creating storage in your garage: Is your car in there? Is it properly insulated? Do you have a standard garage door, and will that affect what and where you can store your items?
For anyone who hasn’t totally kitted out their garage, but still uses it as a storage solution, here are some of the best garage cabinets and garage organizing and shelving ideas to consider for your home:
1. Standard kitchen cabinets
Standard kitchen cabinets aren’t as durable or as rugged as heavy-duty cabinets specifically built for garages, but they’re both easier to find and more affordable. They can be purchased from anywhere from IKEA to listed for free as Craigslist. If you’re in the market for a kitchen remodel, too, you can also just move old kitchen cabinets from your kitchen to your garage. You can use them for tools, records, boxes and more.
Kitchen cabinets come in all shapes, finishes, and sizes, and most of them can be repurposed or fitted to almost any space.
2. Garage corner shelves
Garage corner shelves can be a great way to sneak some extra space into any garage, especially if you already are storing a lot of your belongings. They’re extremely simple to make as well. Typically, all you need is some plywood, super glue, screws and a level. They’re also a good alternative to expensive, ready-made shelving, but pre-assembled corner shelves can be a great way to maximize garage utility.
3. Overhead storage
Overhead storage is a great hack if you need to store a lot of bulky items, like boats, bikes, or boxes. Overhead garage storage comes ready-made, but you can also create your own rack with PVC pipe or wood. Some people go an extra step and hook boxes to their garage ceilings, adding a little bit of extra space for storing bits and bobs.
4. File cabinets
File cabinets can be repurposed and used to hold any heavy duty items, like gardening tools or even car parts. Instead of throwing away those old, unsightly cabinets, try fitting them so you can store a rake or a shovel. They can also be used to store tools, because they’re extremely durable. Depending on your needs, you may take away or add drawers. Some people even remove the tops completely, favoring them as bins instead of traditional cabinets.
5. Wall holders
It goes without saying that if you have a lot of tools, or even supplies like brooms or rakes, wall holders are necessary for garage organization. They’re not only an easy way to stay organized, but they also add an extra layer of safety. You’re able to quickly spot tools that you need, without having to leave it lying around.
6. Heavy duty garage racks
Heavy duty racks pivot a bit from the rest of this list, as they can get extremely pricey. However, if you’re going to be storing extremely heavy items like tires, cement, or dirt, they’re worth considering. When carefully researched, they’re a good investment. Just make sure that you’re going to get your dollars worth out of them… There’s no reason to get a heavy duty garage rack if all you’re going to be storing is paint, gardening tools, or bike gear. They’re also great for storing heavy boxes.
7. Plastic window planters
Plastic window planters can be repurposed to store cans of paints or oils. They’re a cheap and can be easily hung on any wall. They’re also great for smaller items like gardening tools, and add an extra level of organizing that shelving alone does.
8. Garage bookshelves
Shelving units can seriously increase what you’re able to store, especially when combined with calculated use of boxes and jars. Old bookshelves can be an affordable alternative to expensive garage shelving units. They can also be customized to store bikes, tools, or car parts.
Just make sure that whatever shelving unit you choose is durable enough to handle your needs. A bookshelf is great for storing old clothes, it’s not so good for storing cement or your spare tire. Don’t sacrifice utility and safety because you’re looking to get a more attractive price on something.
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