For many families who are short on storage space, their garage becomes a catch-all when all other storage options, such as closets and pantries, have been filled. Many of us use our garages to store everything from seasonal clothing and old photos to yard and garden tools and sporting equipment. Unfortunately, the more stuff we delegate to this space the more likely it is to become disorganized and messy, making it difficult to even remember what we have stored or to find things when we need them. Renting a storage unit in Phoenix can help solve this dilemma, providing a convenient, cost effective way to protect and organize your belongings, while letting you use the garage for its intended purpose: as a clean, enclosed place to protect and park your car. Cleaning Out Your Garage According to This Old House, only thirty percent of us actually use our garage space for parking our cars. The rest of us use this valuable space in our homes as a supplement to overcrowded closets, attics, and sheds. One of the first steps in reclaiming this space often involves starting with other storage areas, placing valuable keepsakes and items you do not use on a regular basis in a storage unit in Phoenix, while throwing out anything you no longer need. Once you have created some space in your home and shed, its time to tackle the garage. The following provides some tips on what to keep where: In your pantry, keep bulk foods, paper products, and pet supplies, where they will be protected against mold and mildew; In your shed, keep yard tools and outdoor supplies, such as your lawn mower, gardening tools, and grilling supplies; In your garage, clear plenty of space for your car, and keep only those things you use regularly, such as bikes or other sporting equipment. Remaining items, such as off season clothing, holiday decorations, or documents such as old tax returns, should be placed in a Phoenix storage unit. Our units are secure, temperature controlled, and easily accessible, ensuring your belonging remain in good condition for when they are needed. Organizing Your Garage Considering both the price you paid per square foot for buying a home with garage space and the amount you likely paid for your vehicle, it makes good financial sense to use this space for its intended purpose. Your garage can free up existing room in your driveway when friends or family come to visit, while ensuring your car remains protected against theft or damage. To keep your garage area clear and to make the most of this space, the home organization pros at Martha Stewart recommend the following: Use shelving in key places to store automotive supplies; Install a pegboard to hang items you use regularly, such as brooms, screwdrivers, and hammers; Make use of tool boxes and containers to sort and store small supplies, such as nails, screws, and bolts; Make use of overhead space for items for larger, more bulky items, such as ladders and sports equipment. Phoenix Storage for You If you do not have a shed, using a Phoenix storage unit to keep your garage organized will allow space to designate an area for yard and garden supplies. Taking the time to clean and reorganize your garage with each change in season will ensure it stays neat and of maximum use to you throughout the year. US Storage Centers 4860 North 83rd Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85033 (866) 858-7031
