Spring is the perfect time to tackle your house cleaning. But what about your garage? Add it to your list and take the time to transform it from a cluttered mess into a functional storage space. Whether you want to store seasonal items, create a workshop, or just make room for your car again, these garage spring cleaning tips will help you maximize space, organization, and efficiency.

Key Steps for Spring Cleaning Your Garage

Make a Plan 

Garage spring cleaning can quickly become overwhelming, so it’s important to create a plan before you even start cleaning. Decide where you want to start and how much you want to accomplish. Make sure you have appropriate help and space to do what you need. 

Declutter First

The first step in garage spring cleaning involves decluttering. Take everything out of the garage and sort it into three different different piles: keep, donate/sell, and toss. This is the time to be honest about what you still actually need in your garage. If something isn’t sentimental or collectible and hasn’t been touched or used in many years — this is the time to let it go. You may find it hard to get rid of stuff — but a clean garage will be worth letting go of clutter.

Clean From Top to Bottom

After a season of dirty ice and snow, dirty car tires, dead leaves and debris, and dirt, your garage could benefit from a good cleaning. To ensure a proper garage washing: 

• Start with the ceiling, removing cobwebs and dust 
• Clean the walls and any shelving, removing any more cobwebs, dust, and other debris
• Finish with the floors, sweeping up any dirt and dust 

If you want to thoroughly clean the floors, you could use a leaf blower to blow out all the dust and dirt and use a power washer to clean. If you don’t have a power washer, you could use a standard mop. Using laundry detergent can help remove tough stains. 

Use Vertical Space

Garage shelving, cabinets, pegboards, and hooks can free up valuable floor space in your garage. Installing these storage solutions will give you a place to put bins, tools, and other essentials without cluttering the ground.

Invest in Storage Solutions

Plastic bins can help you organize and store seasonal decorations, sports gear, and other miscellaneous items. Make sure to label each bin, so you can easily access what you need. For the best storage, use stackable storage units and cabinets to keep items neatly tucked away.

Create Zones

Organize your garage into sections based on use. Put gardening and yard tools in one area, sports equipment in another, and workshop tools in their own designated space. You should also rotate seasonal items by taking out what you need and storing away off-season decor and other items. When you know where everything is in your garage, it’s easier to keep it clean and find what you need. 

Utilize Overhead Storage

Ceiling-mounted racks can maximize the space in your garage and leave room on the floor for cars or other important equipment. Keep bulky items, such as holiday decorations, camping gear, or spare tires out of the way. Just be sure they’re securely and professionally installed to avoid any accidents.

Keep the Floor Clear

Whenever possible, avoid storing items directly on the floor of your garage. This will prevent clutter and minimize the risk of water damage from seasonal weather or an accidental leak. 

Maintain Regularly

Once your garage is clean and organized, set a goal to maintain it. Regular maintenance and a quick check-up every month can help prevent future clutter from piling up.

Other Things to Consider

• When garage spring cleaning, consider renting a dumpster if it’s been a while since you updated your garage or if it’s become the “catch-all” for clutter. This could make disposal of broken or trashed items easier. 

• Make sure to use appropriate cleaning products that are safe for your garage surfaces. You want to avoid causing any erosion or damage.

• Check the structure and door of your garage for any damage and schedule any needed repairs with a professional. 

• Open the garage door or any windows to air out your garage to get rid of any bad, old, or musty smells. 

Don’t Forget About Your Garage When Spring Cleaning

A well-organized garage makes daily life easier and your home more functional. Take advantage of spring cleaning season to revamp your storage space and enjoy a clutter-free garage, that you can park your car in,  for the rest of the year.