Garages often become cluttered with items that are no longer useful, leading to disorganization and wasted space.
Over time, we accumulate tools, supplies, and equipment that may have outlived their usefulness or are simply taking up room. Spring cleaning isn’t just for the inside of your home—it’s the perfect time to declutter the garage, too.
Here are 10 garage items you should toss today to free up valuable space and create a more organized, functional environment.
1. Old Paint Cans
Leftover paint cans are a common garage item that many people hold onto for years. Not only do old paints lose their effectiveness, but they also take up unnecessary space. If the paint is dried out or the can is rusted, it’s time to dispose of it. Be sure to check local guidelines for hazardous waste disposal if the paint contains toxic chemicals.
2. Expired Chemicals
Many garage spaces house a collection of cleaning supplies, garden chemicals, or automotive fluids. However, these products have expiration dates. Chemicals like weed killers, oils, and cleaners can become ineffective or even dangerous once past their prime. Check expiration dates and dispose of anything that’s expired or no longer functional.
3. Broken Tools
Tools are meant to help you get the job done, but if they’re broken, rusted, or missing key parts, they’re more of a hindrance than a help. Holding onto these tools takes up valuable space in your garage. Throw away or recycle any broken or damaged tools that you can’t repair or use effectively.
4. Old Tires
Old tires may seem like something you’ll use “someday,” but holding onto them for too long is just taking up space. Tires that are worn out, flat, or no longer usable need to be disposed of properly. Most tire shops accept used tires for recycling or proper disposal, so don’t let them accumulate in your garage.
5. Expired Medications
Garage cabinets often become a dumping ground for expired or unused medications. Keeping them around, especially in hot or humid conditions, can render them ineffective or even dangerous. Check your storage area for expired or unnecessary prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, and safely dispose of them according to local regulations.
6. Outdated Electronics
Old electronics such as radios, broken TVs, or outdated gadgets often find their way into the garage. These items take up space and are usually difficult or impossible to repair. Instead of storing them indefinitely, donate, recycle, or properly dispose of them at an electronics recycling center. They’re just gathering dust and clutter now.
7. Mismatched Hardware
If you’ve got a box full of screws, nails, nuts, bolts, and washers that don’t seem to match anything, it’s time to throw it out. Having a collection of mismatched hardware that you’ll never use only wastes space. Keep only the parts that are in good condition and properly organized for future use.
8. Old Gardening Tools
Over the years, gardening tools like shovels, rakes, and shears can become worn out or damaged. Tools with broken handles, rusted edges, or missing parts are no longer effective. If they can’t be easily repaired, it’s best to discard them and make space for new, functional gardening tools.
9. Unused Sporting Equipment
If you’ve got outdated or unused sporting equipment gathering dust in your garage, it’s time to let it go. Whether it’s old tennis rackets, expired hockey gear, or worn-out bicycles, if you haven’t used it in years, it’s just taking up space. Donate what’s still usable or recycle what can’t be salvaged.
10. Empty Boxes and Packaging
Many people keep boxes from electronics, appliances, or furniture “just in case,” but over time, these boxes just pile up. If the items are no longer in use, there’s no need to keep the packaging. Recycling or discarding empty boxes and packaging will help create a more organized and spacious garage.
