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As summer winds down and the back-to-school season ramps up, there’s no better time to tackle a garage cleanup than late August and early September. Organizing your garage before fall helps prepare your home for seasonal changes—think lawn tools making way for snow shovels—and ensures your space is functional, safe, and ready for the colder months ahead.

Whether your garage doubles as a workshop, storage space, or catch-all for household overflow, these tips will help you declutter and get organized before fall sets in.

1. Start with a Clean Sweep

Begin by removing as much as you can from your garage. Clearing everything out gives you a fresh perspective, allows you to deep clean the floor and corners, and helps you assess what stays, what goes, and what needs a new home.

Quick Tip: Use a sunny weekend day to spread items out on the driveway and sort them into keep, donate/sell, or toss piles.

2. Declutter with Purpose

It’s easy to accumulate broken tools, empty boxes, duplicate items, or long-forgotten equipment. Ask yourself: When was the last time I used this? If it’s been over a year—or you didn’t even remember you had it—it might be time to let it go.

Consider donating usable items to local charities or hosting a quick garage sale.

3. Create Zones Based on Function

Assign zones or sections of your garage based on activity or category, such as:

• Lawn and garden tools

• Sports equipment

• Automotive supplies

• Tools and hardware

• Seasonal decorations

Keeping similar items together makes everything easier to find—and easier to put away.

4. Use Vertical and Overhead Space

Maximize storage by thinking beyond floor space. Wall-mounted racks, pegboards, and ceiling storage systems free up room and help keep frequently used items within reach. Hooks, baskets, and shelving also go a long way in creating accessible and organized storage.

5. Label Everything

Once you’ve grouped and stored your items, add clear labels to bins, drawers, or shelves. This not only helps you find what you need but also encourages everyone in your household to return items to their proper place.

6. Prep for the Seasonal Shift

As you wrap up summer projects, begin shifting fall and winter gear toward the front of your garage. This includes:

• Rakes and leaf blowers

• Fall decorations

• Cold weather gear

• Snow shovels (yes—it’s never too early)

Store warm-weather tools and sports equipment toward the back or in overhead bins.

7. Do a Safety Check

While organizing, check for spills, trip hazards, or improperly stored chemicals. Ensure all sharp tools are stored securely, and that any flammable materials are in proper containers.

8. Make It a Routine

Now that your garage is clean and organized, schedule a quick check-in every couple of months to maintain it. A little maintenance along the way prevents major cleanouts later.

A Well-Organized Garage Makes Every Season Easier

Whether you’re gearing up for home improvement projects, fall yardwork, or winter prep, having a clean and organized garage can save you time, reduce stress, and even make room for new tools or hobbies. Take advantage of the transition between summer and fall to get your space in shape—you’ll thank yourself when the seasons change!