Creative Ways to Use Garage Shelving for More Than Storage

Garage Workshop

If you like tackling DIY projects or need space for home repairs, why not turn a corner of your garage into a workshop? Garage shelving is a great choice for organizing tools and materials, and it will make sure everything is within easy reach.

• Designate a Work Zone: Start by picking the best spot in your garage for your workshop. Ideally, it should be near an electrical outlet and have enough room for a workbench or table. Install sturdy garage shelving units along the wall to hold your power tools, hand tools, and supplies – keeping them off the floor and within easy access.
• Organize Tools and Materials: Use clear bins, labeled containers, and drawer organizers to keep smaller items, like screws, nails, and drill bits, sorted. Hang frequently used tools on slatwall mounted above your workbench, and use the shelves to store larger tools, like saws, drills, and sanders.
• Be Safe and Efficient: Make sure your space is well-lit and that your shelving units are securely anchored to the wall for safety. Consider adding a rubber mat on the floor for comfort while you work. With a well-organized garage workshop, you can dive into projects without wasting time searching for tools or materials.

Gardening Station

If you have a passion for gardening, your garage can become the perfect place to work on your green thumb. With a bit of planning, you can create a gardening station that keeps all your supplies in one location.

• Use Shelving for Garden Tools: Start by designating a set of shelves for your gardening tools. Use hooks and holders to keep items, like shovels, rakes, and hoes, neatly hung up and off the surfaces. Smaller hand tools can be stored in labeled bins or baskets on the shelves.
• Organize Pots, Soil, and Seeds: Dedicate a shelf or two to your pots, soil bags, and seed packets. Use stackable containers for soil and fertilizers, and keep your pots neatly nested. For seeds, a small drawer unit or a clear organizer with compartments can keep everything sorted by type and ready for planting season.
• Create a Potting Area: One of the shelves can be converted into a potting station, where you can work on planting and repotting. Place a shallow tray or mat on the shelf to catch any spills, and keep a small bucket or wastebasket nearby for discarded plant debris. This setup will help keep the space as mess-free as possible.

Crafting and Hobby Area

If you're into scrapbooking, painting, sewing, or any other creative hobby, garage shelving can help you set up a space to let your imagination run wild. With the right organization, your crafting area can be a great place to spend time.

• Organize Crafting Supplies: Start by sorting your crafting materials into categories. Use clear plastic bins or drawers to store items, like fabric, yarn, paints, and paper. Label each container, so you can easily find what you need. Consider using smaller shelves or cubbies for frequently used items, like scissors, glue, and markers; this will keep them at your fingertips. USA Today has additional tips on getting your crafts organized.
• Display Projects and Ideas: Reserve a section of your shelving for displaying ongoing projects. This could be a small bulletin board or a shelf where you keep materials for your current craft. Also, cut out photos, or make sketches or notes of what you want to work on in the future to help you stay motivated and inspired.
• Maximize Workspace: Add a fold-out table or a small desk in front of your shelving unit, so you have a designated area to work on your crafts. With everything organized and in its place, you'll find it much easier to get into your hobbies whenever the mood strikes.

Home Gym Storage

With more people working out at home, creating a designated area in your garage for a home gym has become more popular. Garage shelving can help you keep all your fitness gear organized – making it easier to stick to your workout routine.

• Store Weights and Equipment: Use heavy-duty shelving to store your dumbbells, kettlebells, and other weights. Keep them at a lower level for easy access and to prevent accidents. Resistance bands, jump ropes, and yoga mats can go in bins or baskets on the shelves to keep them neat and out of the way.
• Create a Workout Zone: Dedicate a portion of your garage to your workout area. Place shelves along the walls to hold your gear. Consider adding a wall-mounted rack or hooks for items, like boxing gloves, workout towels, and resistance bands. This setup keeps your workout essentials organized and provides plenty of space to move around during your exercise sessions.
• Enhance the Space: To make your garage gym more inviting, add a mirror on one wall, install rubber flooring, or set up a small sound system. With a well-organized and appealing workout space, you'll be more motivated to stick to your fitness goals.

Entertainment and Game Area

Why not turn part of your garage into an entertainment or game area? With garage shelving, you can create a space where family and friends can gather for fun activities, even on rainy days.

• Organize Games and Toys: Use garage shelving to store board games, card games, and other family-friendly activities. Clear bins or labeled baskets can hold smaller items, like puzzle pieces, game controllers, and playing cards. If you have outdoor toys, like balls or lawn games, keep them on lower shelves for easy access for your little ones.
• Set Up a Comfortable Space: Consider adding a few chairs, a small table, or a mini fridge to your entertainment area. You could also mount a TV on the wall and store your gaming consoles and movies on the shelves. This makes your garage a space that’s useful for both indoor and outdoor fun.
• Make It Inviting: To make your garage more welcoming, add personal touches, like posters, string lights, or a cozy rug. With everything organized and in its place, your garage can become a go-to spot for family game nights and weekend hangouts.

Seasonal Storage Solutions

Garage shelving can help you keep seasonal items organized and easy to find when you need them. This will work all year long as you move winter items into the house while you’re putting summer items out, and vice versa.

• Rotate Seasonal Items: Use your shelving to store items, like holiday decorations, camping gear, and winter sports equipment. Place out-of-season items on higher shelves, and rotate them down as the seasons change. This keeps your most-used items within easy reach and your less-used items safely stored until they're needed.
• Label and Categorize: Clearly label bins and boxes with the contents and season, so you can quickly find what you're looking for. Group similar items together, like holiday decorations or summer camping gear, to make it easier to find what you need.
• Maximize Vertical Space: Don't forget to use the full height of your garage. Install shelving units that reach all the way to the ceiling – using the upper shelves for items that you only need once or twice a year. This will help you store even more.

Additional Tips for Maximizing Garage Shelving

To make the most of your garage shelving, here are a few extra tips:

• Take Advantage of Vertical Space: Use the height of your garage by installing tall shelving units. This maximizes storage capacity without taking up too much floor space.
• Use Bins and Baskets: For smaller items, use bins and baskets to keep things organized and easy to find. Clear bins are especially helpful because they allow you to see what's inside.
• Ensure Safety: Always secure your shelving units to the wall to prevent tipping, and avoid overloading the shelves with too much weight. This keeps your garage safe and your belongings secure.

Conclusion

Your garage has the potential to be so much more than just a storage space. By using your garage shelving creatively, you can turn your garage into a workshop, a crafting area, a home gym, or even an entertainment zone. My team would love to help you transform your garage into the multifunctional space of your dreams. Give us a call to schedule your free consultation.

Source

• https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/reviewedcom/2020/02/28/10-brilliant-ways-organize-your-craft-supplies/111380270/