5 Common Garage Storage Mistakes and How To Avoid Them

If you are scared of opening your garage because it is a disaster, do not worry too much; there are many like you.

Sometimes, any attempt to get rid of this mess could complicate things leaving it worse. Even when you can get rid of some unwanted items in the garage to create space, the situation may repeat itself a few months later.

This could have been prevented if the common garage storage mistakes highlighted below had been avoided or tackled.

Storing a bike on the garage floor

Placing bicycles on the garage floor can be tempting as it is very easy. The negative repercussion of this is that the space they parked could be used for storing something else.

Freestanding your bikes expose them to the dangers of getting pushed and falling over while entering and exiting the garage.

A better option is to make use of your wall space. The bikes can be hung on the wall with sturdy hooks that permit placement both vertically and horizontally, depending on the design. You can learn more about wall-mounted overhead racks here: https://usaoverheadracks.com/.

Improper storage of hoses

Many people probably hate to coil up a hose and instead throw it in the garage scattered. It is understandable if you are guilty of this; you are probably too tired after working in the yard.

Storing your hose like this makes the garage looks untidy. The hose can also get damaged by tools other tools in the storage. This is without forgetting that you may trip over the hose.

The more straightforward fix is driving a nail on the garage wall to hang the hose once coiled. It may not look pretty, but it would do the job at the moment. Meanwhile, getting a hose hanger is a better option.

Hose hangers look more attractive and decorative for the garage.

Not being selective with items stored

The garage is not for storing just any item. If it is untidy at the moment, it is probably because you have too many items that could be safely stored elsewhere.

Some of the things not to store in the garage include:

• Paints

Cans of paint can get ruined by the garage environment. It is also recommended to store paints in a dry, cool place with a stable temperature, and the garage is not a good place to achieve this. Stash your paints in your basement instead.

• Carpets and clothes

Avoid storing carpets, rugs, and clothes in the garage. It is not well ventilated compared with other parts of your home, which is why such items are likely to get covered with mold and mildew when stored in the garage. Rodents can also choose their location as a haven.

• Old electrical appliances

Discard old appliances instead of storing them in the garage. You will save space and avoid the chances of unwanted creatures crawling into your home.

• Pet foods

Pet foods can be easily feasted upon by rats and other pests in the home. Avoid storing them in the garage, and if you must, use a well-sealed container, especially those made of metal.

• Books

The humidity of the garage is not friendly for books and photographs. Over time, the book’s pages curl over and harbor insects.

Store books, photographs, and magazines inside your home.

Unorganized yard tools

Placing your yard tools on the garage floor exposes you and your family to danger, and you can mistakenly step on them or hit your leg. This is without ignoring that using this storage style could result in the tools occupying more space than they should.

For a start, instead of unsafely leaning your ladders against the garage wall, they can be hung on the wall.

If you use the garage as a workshop, ensure all used tools are well-packed in a cabinet.

For people using space in their garage as a gym, ensure all used equipment is well packed after exercise.

Not maximizing garage spaces

Storing items in boxes and placing them on the garage floor is not recommended to maximize your garage space.

Construct cabinets and install wall organizers to house the items. They help keep the garage more organized and spacious.

Overhead or ceiling storage can be used to create additional space. Store heavy items and things you occasionally need in them.

Irregular cleaning habit

Decluttering and cleaning the garage should not be a seasonal thing. You can dedicate a specific day of the month to this activity if you are too busy to do it weekly.

Regular garage cleaning will help eliminate clutters early before they get out of hand.