Finding storage for seasonal items can be a challenge for many homeowners. Possessions need to be kept safe, but out of the way. However, you also want to be able to easily find and retrieve these items when they are needed. All of your goals can be accomplished with just a little prior planning and organization.
You might want to recycle cardboard boxes to hold items. Use tape to seal them against dirt and insects. Prepare a brief list of the contents and tape a copy on at least two sides of the box. This makes it easier to identify what is inside. You do not need to list every item, but provide enough information that you will know which box holds the item you are seeking.
Consider purchasing plastic bins for storage. Use different colored bins that you will associate with the items within. For instance, you could use red ones for Christmas decorations, green ones for camping gear, or orange ones for Halloween costumes. You could also use clear bins so that you can see what they contain. Such methods eliminate the need to move and open several bins just to find the right one.
The vacuum seal bags work well for reducing the bulk of fabric items, such as blankets or coats. After placing your things inside, you use a vacuum cleaner to remove the air. This reduces the bulk of the items and keeps them safe within a sealed environment. Keep in mind, however, that while these reduce bulk, they do not reduce weight. Make sure that you do not place more in a bag than you can comfortably lift.
To increase storage space in the garage, consider placing shelves along one wall to hold boxes or bins. This not only makes it easier to remove just the one you need, but it protects boxes from being crushed from double stacking. You can purchase shelving units or make your own.
Hang bulky items whenever possible. Sturdy hooks placed in the wall studs of your garage increase storage by utilizing space that is normally wasted. Hang items such as tent bags, backpacks, or luggage. If desired, place a large, clear plastic bag over them first to add more protection while still keeping items visible.
The garage ceiling can often to find additional storage for seasonal items. Two strong hooks set at the proper spacing allow you to hang a bicycle out of the way. You can also construct a platform that is suspended from the ceiling and then decked with plywood. While it is not advisable to place heavy items on such a platform, you can use it for smaller, lightweight items. Be sure to place it out of your primary walkway, and consider the clearance for the garage door before choosing a location.
Aim at keeping all of your stored items where they are either visible or easy to identify. Try to avoid stacking containers for different seasons together. In other words, attempt to place all summer gear in one location and all holiday decor in another. This can save you a lot of time and energy when you are ready to break things out of storage.
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