Welcome to Week 16 of our 52-Week Cleaning, Decluttering, and Organizing Challenge! This week, we’re tackling one of the most notoriously cluttered areas of any home—the garage. More specifically, we’re focusing on organizing seasonal items to make space more functional, accessible, and efficient.
Earlier this year in the challenge we did a cleaning of the garage. This week’s garage challenge tasks help you catch up!
Read Week 13’s blog post here: https://livingwithdana.com/2025/03/challenge-2025-week-5-garage-organize-tools-equipment/
From winter sleds to summer camping gear, the garage often becomes a catch-all for anything that doesn’t have a home. But with the right approach and a few expert tips, your garage can become an organized, stress-free zone.
Step 1: Store Away Off-Season Gear
Begin by identifying items that are not currently in use. This could include:
Winter gear: snow blowers, shovels, sleds, ice melt, skis
Summer gear: pool toys, sprinklers, fans, coolers, lawn furniture cushions
Expert Tip: Use weatherproof storage bins like these heavy-duty storage containers with lids to keep items protected. Stackable options save floor space and keep pests out. Store these bins in less-accessible areas since you won’t need them again for several months.
Step 2: Zone Your Garage for Easy Access
Create designated zones in your garage for categories such as:
- Bikes & scooters
- Camping gear
- Sports equipment
- Garden tools
- Holiday decor
Use vertical space—install wall-mounted racks like this adjustable wall organizer system or ceiling storage systems such as overhead garage storage racks for bulky items like kayaks, tents, or bicycles.
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Expert Advice: Pegboards like this all-in-one garage tool wall panel kit and utility hooks are game-changers for keeping tools and gear off the floor while still accessible.
[a d] Peg Board, 4 Pack Metal Pegboard Panels White & Black Pegboards Wall Organizer with 51 Pcs Hooks. Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/3GDK3xv
Step 3: Sweep and Clean the Garage Floor
Now that you’ve cleared some space, give your garage a solid clean:
- Sweep thoroughly to remove dirt, leaves, and dust.
- Use a degreaser like this professional-strength concrete cleaner for any oil or chemical stains.
- Check for signs of moisture, pests, or mold.
Pro Tip: If you haven’t already, consider investing in a garage floor mat like this durable oil-absorbing mat or a concrete sealant to reduce future wear and tear.
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Step 4: Label Everything
Once your bins and zones are set up, label all containers clearly. Use large, waterproof labels and bold lettering for easy reading.
Suggested labels include:
- “Camping – Tents & Sleeping Bags”
- “Winter – Snow Gear”
- “Sports – Baseball & Soccer”
- “Tools – Garden & Outdoor”
[a d] Waterproof Readjustable Organizing Sticker Set for Boxes and Bins (40). Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/4m0eiyQ
Expert Tip: Consider using a label maker like this compact handheld label printer or printable tags with icons to help children quickly identify where things go.
Bonus: Maintenance Made Simple
Don’t let all your hard work go to waste! Here’s how to keep your garage organized moving forward:
Quarterly Checks: Revisit your garage every 3 months to adjust bins, swap seasonal gear, and do a quick clean.
One-in, One-out Rule: When you bring in a new piece of equipment or gear, donate or discard something you no longer use.
Involve the Family: Assign zones or responsibilities to different family members to encourage upkeep.
This Week’s Challenge Recap:
Store away winter or summer gear
- Organize bikes, sports equipment, and camping gear
- Sweep garage floor and clean up grime
- Label bins for easy identification and access
With a few hours of focused effort, your garage can go from chaotic to clean—and stay that way all year round. Week 16 is all about reclaiming space and creating systems that support your lifestyle. Keep the momentum going—you’re doing amazing!
Up next: Week 17 of our 52-Week Cleaning, Decluttering, and Organizing Challenge! We will be diving into one of the hardest-working zones in your home: the kitchen—specifically your oven, stovetop, range hood, and small appliances.
If you missed any of the earlier challenges, be sure to check out the Challenge 2025 kick-off post, which lists all weekly challenges and links as they become available.
For your convenience, download free cleaning, organizing, and decluttering checklists to keep your progress on track:
BLOG POST with free checklists for each room
Master checklist for all 52 weeks:
Download the list here (click image):
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Have a wonderful day and happy cleaning!
