Garages often become cluttered spaces filled with items that no longer serve a purpose. Over time, it’s easy to let things pile up, leaving you with a storage area that isn’t functional. Identifying what’s just wasting space in your garage can help you reclaim that area for more useful purposes.
Taking a little time to assess your garage can reveal some surprising items that you might have forgotten about. From old hobbies to broken appliances, there are plenty of things taking up valuable real estate that could be put to better use.
1. Old Paint Cans
Old paint cans can clutter your garage more than you might think. They take up space and often contain products that you probably won’t use again.
If you have half-empty cans, consider disposing of them properly. Check if your local hazardous waste disposal facility takes them. Many places, like Under The Sink, have safe options for disposing of paints and other chemicals.
Clearing these cans can free up valuable storage space for items you genuinely use. Plus, it’s a simple step towards a more organized garage.
2. Broken Furniture
You probably have a few pieces of broken furniture cluttering up your garage. An old chair with a missing leg or a table with a cracked top can take up valuable space.
Instead of holding onto these items, consider letting them go. They’re unlikely to be fixed, and keeping them only adds to the mess.
If you don’t want to toss them, think about donating or recycling. Others might find a use for them, turning your junk into someone else’s treasure.
3. Outgrown Kids’ Toys
Your garage might be storing those toys your kids have outgrown. These items take up valuable space and can add clutter.
Consider sorting through the toys to identify ones no longer used. You can donate them or pass them on to friends with younger children.
Keeping only the toys your kids play with will help create a more organized space. It also makes room for things you actually need.
4. Expired Car Care Products
Take a look at your car care products. You might find old tire shines and quik detailers that have passed their prime. Most of these items have a shelf life of about two years.
Using expired products could lead to subpar results. What you thought was a good shine might end up dull and ineffective.
Check expiration dates, and don’t hesitate to toss what’s no longer useful. You’ll make space for new products that work better and keep your car looking fresh.
5. Worn-out Sports Equipment
Take a look at that old baseball glove or the broken tennis racket gathering dust. If it’s seen better days, it might be time to let go.
Worn-out sports equipment only takes up valuable space in your garage. You probably won’t use it again, and it’s not safe to play with anyway.
Consider donating or recycling what you can. You’ll free up room for gear that’s actually usable or new equipment you might want.
6. Old Newspapers and Magazines
Your garage might be hiding stacks of old newspapers and magazines. These items can take up a lot of space and gather dust over time.
Instead of letting them pile up, consider recycling or repurposing them. For example, you can use old newspapers for crafts, like making paper mache projects.
Keeping them around can also attract pests. It’s best to clear them out and make space for more useful items in your garage.
7. Unused Tools
Take a look in your garage. You might find rusty rakes, broken shovels, or tools you forgot you even had. If they’re damaged or just sitting there, it’s time to let them go.
Instead of holding onto them, consider donating or recycling. Invest in a few quality tools that you actually use. This will free up space and make gardening more enjoyable.
8. Broken Appliances
You’ve probably got a few broken appliances hanging out in your garage. Whether it’s a toaster that won’t toast or a blender that just won’t blend, these items only take up space.
Instead of holding onto them for “just in case,” consider tossing them out. They won’t magically fix themselves.
Make room for gadgets that actually work. Your garage will feel more organized, and you’ll avoid tripping over those obsolete items every time you walk in.
9. Mismatched Shoes
Mismatched shoes can clutter your garage without serving any purpose. Maybe you’ve collected a few pairs over time, but they’re taking up valuable space.
Consider donating them to local charities or thrift stores. Many organizations will take those lonely shoes off your hands. They might even find a new home with someone who needs them.
If you have a lot of singles, think about recycling or crafting. It’s a great way to reduce waste while getting creative.
10. Damaged Holiday Decorations
Have you checked your holiday decorations lately? If they’re damaged or broken, it might be time to let them go. Hanging lights with dead bulbs or ornaments that are chipped don’t really enhance your festive vibe.
Storing these items just takes up valuable space. Consider decluttering your garage by tossing anything that can’t be fixed or reused. It’ll make your garage feel cleaner and free up room for things that matter.
11. Leftover Building Materials
You might have leftover lumber, tiles, or bricks taking up space in your garage. While these materials can be handy for future projects, they often just collect dust.
If you haven’t used them in a while, consider donating or recycling them. Many organizations can use surplus building materials.
Storing more than you need can clutter your garage and make it harder to find other tools or items. Clear out what you don’t need, and keep your space organized!
12. Ripped or Torn Clothing
You might be holding onto those ripped or torn clothes thinking you’ll fix them someday. The truth is, they just take up space. If these items aren’t wearable, consider letting them go. They won’t serve a purpose hanging in your garage.
Alternatively, check if they’re salvageable for crafting projects or rags. If not, it’s time to recycle or donate them. Keeping your space tidy makes it easier to find what you really need.
