How To Organize Tools In A Garage?

A garage is a versatile space. It can be used as a workshop, a storage space, or even a place to park your car. 

But one thing that all garages have in common is that they can get cluttered and disorganized very easily. If you’re sick of tripping over tools and not being able to find what you need when you need it, then it’s time to get your garage organized. 

Here are some tips on how to organize tools in a garage so that you can make the most of this valuable space.

How to Organize Tools in a Garage: 16 Smart Tips

Your garage is a versatile space that can be used for storage, workshop, and parking your car. No matter how you plan to use your garage, keeping it well-organized will help you make the most of the space.

Here are 16 smart tips for organizing your garage – and below is a video tutorial with some more helpful tips if you’d rather watch than read!

1. Clean and Purge the Garage First 

Any organizing project is best started with a good cleaning. This is especially true when it comes to the garage. Begin by sweeping and mopping the floor, then move on to washing down all the surfaces. This will remove any build-up of dirt and grime, making it easier to see what you have to work with. 

Once everything is clean, it’s time to purge. Get rid of anything that you no longer need or use. This may be difficult, but it will make the task of organizing much easier in the long run. 

Once you have only the essential items left, you can begin to think about how best to arrange them. 

2. Take an Inventory of What You Have 

Take an inventory of what you have. Make a list of all the tools, equipment, and other items that are taking up space in your garage. Once you know what you have, you can start to figure out the best way to store everything. 

For example, if you have a lot of heavy items, it might make sense to invest in some heavy-duty shelves. Or, if you have a lot of small items, you might want to consider using bins or boxes to keep everything organized. 

By taking a little time to plan ahead, you can transform your garage from a cluttered mess into a well-organized space.

3. Set Up Zones 

One of the best ways to get your garage organized is to set up zones. This means designating areas of the garage for specific purposes. For example, you might have a zone for storing lawn and garden equipment, a zone for sports equipment, and a zone for holiday decor. 

By keeping similar items together, you can save time and energy when you’re looking for something specific. You may also want to consider installing shelves or cabinets in each zone to keep things tidy and off the floor. 

4. Hang Up Pegboards 

Pegboards can be hung on any spare wall, and they provide a place to store all your tools. The holes in the pegboard make it easy to hang up hammers and other larger tools, while small items like screws and nails can be placed in containers that can hang from the pegboard.

In addition, pegboards are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making them a great way to get your garage organized.

5. Use Storage Containers or Rollout Bins

When it comes to organizing tools, there are two storage options that are well worth considering – storage containers and rollout bins. Storage containers are great for storing larger items, such as power tools and gardening equipment.

They can be stacked on shelves or placed in cabinets, and they come in a variety of sizes to suit your needs. 

Rollout bins, on the other hand, are ideal for storing smaller items, such as screws, nails, and washers. They can be placed under workbenches or in cabinets, and they provide easy access to your supplies. 

6. Use Pallets to Organize Lawn Tools

One way to make the most of your garage space is to use pallets to organize your lawn tools. Pallets are sturdy and easy to find, and they can be repurposed into all kinds of storage solutions.

For example, you can use pallets to create shelves for rakes, shovels, and other bulky items. You can also use them to build a hanging system for garden hoses or extension cords. 

7. Add Magnetic Strips 

One way to help keep tools organized and within easy reach is to add magnetic strips to the walls. These strips provide a convenient place to store metal tools, and they can be placed at different heights to accommodate tall and short items.

In addition, magnetic strips help to keep dust and dirt off of tools, which can prolong their life and make them easier to use. 

8. Add Screwdriver Holders 

One way to maximize space and keep your tools within easy reach is to add screwdriver holders to the walls. These holders come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can choose the ones that best fit your needs. Plus, they’re relatively inexpensive and easy to install. 

9. Use PVC as a Tool Organizer 

One alternative way to get your garage organized is to use PVC as a tool organizer. PVC is lightweight and easy to work with, making it perfect for organizing small items.

Simply cut the PVC into lengths that will fit your tools, then use screws or adhesive hooks to attach the pieces to the wall. You can also add labels to each section so you can easily find what you need. 

10. Use Retractable Reels for Cords

One way to keep cords organized is to use retractable reels. These devices allow you to neatly wind up cords and keep them out of the way until you need them.

Retractable reels are easy to install and use, and they can make a big difference in the appearance of your garage. In addition, by keeping cords off the floor, retractable reels can also help to prevent trip hazards.

11. Install a Tool Storage System With Built-in Charging Capabilities 

One way to get your garage organized is to install a tool storage system with built-in charging capabilities. By having a place to put your tools that also charges them, you can be sure that your tools are always ready to go when you need them. 

In addition, built-in charging capabilities help to keep your tools organized and in one place, so you don’t have to go hunting for them every time you need to use them. Not only will this save you time, but it will also help to reduce stress and frustration. 

12. Try a Corner Tool Rack 

A corner tool rack is a great way to make the most of your space and keep your tools within easy reach. These racks come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can find one that fits your needs.

Most feature multiple shelves and hooks, which provide plenty of storage space for everything from power tools to gardening supplies. In addition, corner tool racks are designed to fit into the corner of your garage, so they won’t take up valuable floor space. 

13. Label Everything 

One of the key secrets to keeping any space organized is labeling everything. When it comes to organizing your garage, this means labeling your storage solutions as well as each individual tool.

This will help you quickly find what you’re looking for when you need it and will also help everyone else in the family know where things go when they’re putting them away. 

14. Store Seldom Used Tools in Stackable Clear Bins 

One way to get organized is to store seldom-used items in stackable clear bins. This way, you can easily see what’s inside and access it when you need it. And when the bins are not in use, they can be stacked on top of each other to save space.

15. Install Wire Shelves 

Wire shelves provide a sturdy and efficient way to store your tools, and they can be easily customized to fit your specific needs. Additionally, wire shelves are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making them a great option for any homeowner looking to get their garage in order. 

16. Use Concrete Forming Tubes to Store Long-Handled Tools 

Another effective method is to use concrete forming tubes to store long-handled tools. The tubes are inexpensive and easy to find at most hardware stores, and they can be cut to any desired length.

Simply drill a few holes in the bottom of the tube, insert the handles of the tools, and voila! Your long-handled tools will be securely stored and out of the way. 

Final Thoughts

A well-organized garage can be a lifesaver when it comes time to start on that home improvement project or just find your favorite pair of pliers.

By taking the time to sort your tools into categories and invest in quality storage solutions, you’ll be able to keep your garage organized and tidy for years to come. And don’t forget to label everything!