It’s a part of homeownership we all encounter at some point—cleaning and organizing the garage. We’ve got some tips to show you how to organize a messy garage as painlessly as possible.
\n\n\nEven the biggest garage cleanouts can be handled with relative ease if the proper plan of attack is put into place first. Read below to learn about some proven garage organization tips and tricks you can put to use.
\n\nWe'll discuss:
\n\nWhat do you want to accomplish with this cleanout?
\n\nAre you looking to completely gut out the garage, and start from scratch with a redesign and new storage systems?
\n\nMaybe you’re just looking to remove excess junk and/or organize the stuff you already have.
\n\nSpring cleaning? No matter the scale of the job, start by sitting down and spending a few minutes creating a plan of attack.
\n\nConsider these things when creating your plan:
\n\nRead the rest of the garage cleanout tips and tricks below before creating your garage organizational plan.
\n\nYou can use the information below to help formulate your plan of action.
\n\nRELATED: 8 Simple Tips for Decluttering Your House
\n\nThis is obviously an essential part of organizing a garage.
\n\nDisposing of trash, old items, boxes, used oil, and other wastes can really free up space inside a garage.
\n\n\n\n\nWhen going through items, ask yourself, 'Do I really need or use this?'
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If the answer is no, it may be time to part ways with this item.
\n\nAlternatively, put it in a long-term storage area (e.g., lease a storage unit).
\n\nFor cleanups involving more than 3 cubic yards of trash, junk, or debris, we recommend renting a roll-off dumpster.
\n\nA 10 yard bin would easily take care of the job. Some rental providers offer slightly smaller containers, as well.
\n\nThe national average cost of a 10 yard dumpster is $250 for a one-week rental.
\n\nTIP: 1 cubic yard is about the same volume as a standard 3 ft. x 3 ft. x 3 ft. kitchen stove. Use this as a visual reference when estimating your disposal needs.
\nRELATED: Guide to renting 'mini' dumpsters
\n\nA faster alternative to renting a dumpster is to hire a junk removal company to clean out the garage for you.
\n\nThis is a convenient solution for people who don’t mind spending a little more to get the job done quicker.
\n\nExpect to pay at least a couple hundred dollars (for a small garage) or more to have a junk removal company clean out the garage for you.
\n\nFor garage cleanouts involving a smaller amount of junk and debris disposal, you can get by without renting a dumpster.
\n\nOther ways of getting rid of junk in the garage:
\n\nIf the goal of this cleanup is to completely reorganize, install new shelving/cabinetry, or in any way renovate the garage, the next step is to completely empty out the garage.
\n\nRemove all items not attached to the garage. You may even wish to remove some items that are attached if you plan to replace them.
\n\nIt’s often best to start with an empty canvas.
\n\nGenerally speaking, there isn't usually a need to remove everything from the garage, although that’s something you’ll need to determine based on what you want to accomplish with this project.
\n\nOnce the garage is cleaned out, it’s time to put it back together—making sure it’s in an organized fashion.
\n\nKeep functionality in mind when organizing a garage. For example, don’t bury the air compressor behind bikes or underneath toys if it’s something you use often.
\n\n\n\n\nAccessibility is key. Make it easier to get to things you use frequently. It makes more sense to put things you only use occasionally in the harder to reach areas.
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You can really optimize the accessibility of items in your garage by strategically installing hooks, hangers, cabinets, overhead storage, and shelving.
\n\nThese storage solutions can help create additional floor space for easier storage of larger items, such as lawnmowers, snow blowers, bikes, chest freezers, etc.
\n\nTIP: Utilize vertical space (hooks, pegboards, etc.) and overhead storage systems to maximize the square footage and storage capacity in your garage.
\nMost hand-operated gardening tools can be hung on the wall using inexpensive hooks, hangers, or durable plastic hanging systems.
\n\nHave a large bin dedicated to sports equipment and outdoor toys (or one bin for each).
\n\nPurchase a ball storage system that you can hang on the wall.
\n\nThese are great for basketballs, footballs, dodge balls, etc. – smaller wall-hung ball storage systems are ideal for baseballs, hockey pucks, and tennis balls.
\n\nIf you use bikes frequently, position them on the garage floor near the opening for easy access without having to remove the car(s), lawn equipment, etc.
\n\nIf bikes are rarely used, or it’s during the winter months, hang the bikes using simple ceiling hangers you can get at any home improvement store.
\n\nA shoe rack or wall-hung shoe holder is great to organize shoes and boots in the garage.
\n\nShoe clutter is annoying and can become hazardous. (Ever walk into a dark garage only to twist your ankle on a stray shoe? Not fun.)
\n\nKeep tools together in a corner or dedicated work area in the garage.
\n\nIf you don’t have a workbench, consider installing one.
\n\nYou can store larger tools beneath the workbench and smaller tools on the wall or atop the bench.
\n\nThis includes chemicals, cleaners, automobile fluids, fuel, batteries, and other hazardous materials.
\n\nIt’s a very good idea to invest in a lockable hazardous materials storage cabinet.
\n\nWhile these flame-resistant metal cabinets can run several hundred to more than a thousand dollars, the price is well worth the investment.
\n\nThese cabinets last forever and make your garage a much safer place.
\n\nIt’s not ideal to use your garage as a long-term storage solution—attics, storage units, or outbuildings work better for this purpose—but if you must, be sure to keep everything contained.
\n\nRather than using cardboard boxes, use large plastic stackable containers with tightly closing lids.
\n\nCardboard will soak up water and other fluids in the event of a spill or flooding, while plastic containers stack easily and better protect the contents inside.
\n\nThese bins are available at most home improvement stores, Costco, and Amazon.
\n\nWhen you have the garage gutted out or near-empty, it’s a perfect time to add special touches that make it unique or increase functionality.
\n\nBelow are some garage storage ideas and finishing touches to help make your garage one-of-a-kind.
\n\nThere are several garage flooring options available.
\n\nDurable garage floor tiles are great if you use your garage as an auto repair or workshop space.
\n\nThese tiles are non-slip and easy to clean.
\n\nAnother option is epoxy flooring.
\n\nIt offers a great look similar to that in many auto repair shops, and it provides a more non-slip surface compared to bare concrete, plus it’s easy to clean.
\n\nHowever, it must be reapplied about every two years to maintain a clean, new appearance.
\n\nIt’s an easy job, but it does require you empty out the garage again.
\n\nGarage paint is a cost-efficient option that provides increased durability and a cleaner appearance compared to bare concrete.
\n\nYou can add a slip-resistant aggregate (similar to fine sand) to the paint to make the surface a bit more non-slip.
\n\nPainting the garage floor will need to be reapplied periodically to keep up its appearance.
\n\nGarage wall panels are great because they allow for hooks to be installed just about anywhere.
\n\nYou can customize the setup now and in the future as needed.
\n\nThere are several different types and manufacturers on the market, so it’s not difficult to find an option that suits most budgets.
\n\nMount storage cabinets on the walls strategically to improve the functionality of the garage.
\n\nPlan carefully, and be sure to take the end result into consideration.
\n\nFor example, don’t mount a cabinet in an area where it would block a walkway when vehicles are parked inside.
\n\nImprove the lighting of your garage using 4 ft. or 8 ft. energy-efficient fluorescent lights.
\n\nThese are great for hot or cold climates, and it helps provide daylight color lighting ideal for any type of garage setup.
\n\nAlternative lighting solutions include LED rope lighting, recessed lighting, puck lights, under-cabinet lighting, and custom light installations.
\n\nColored accent lighting is great for putting a unique spin on your garage, especially if you plan to trick it out as a bar or living space.
\n\nIt can also be useful for adding a soft glow to accent steps and other tripping hazards when the main lights are off.
\n\nLighting is an inexpensive garage upgrade that can significantly boost the functionality, safety, and appeal of garage interiors.
\n\nAdding overhead storage is an excellent way to boost the storage capacity of your garage without losing any square footage.
\n\nFind DIY plans online, purchase a kit at a home improvement store, or hire someone to do the work for you.
\n\nThe cost of adding overhead storage in a garage is generally inexpensive. The cost of wood is the most expensive part of the project.
\n\nThere are also slightly more expensive pre-fab units available made from aluminum or other durable materials.
\n\nWith a simple bolt-on unit, you can easily add more than 100 square feet of usable storage in your garage.
\n\nEver thought of converting your garage into a more livable space, such as a man cave, she shed, workshop, bar, or another fantasy garage setup?
\n\nI think we all have! If space and budget allow, consider a conversion. See some awesome examples of garage makeovers below.
\n\n\n\n\n\nMany have already been mentioned, including overhead storage, wall-mount units, and cabinetry.
\n\nThe storage solution ideal for your situation depends on your specific needs.
\n\nThat’s why the initial planning stage of garage cleanout and organization projects is so important.
\n\nAvoid adding storage just to add storage. If you don’t need it, don’t add it.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThere is such thing as too much storage. It’s common to have the tendency to fill storage areas with stuff—whether it’s stuff we need or not. That can then lead to clutter in the future.
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Today’s trend in garage design is clean and minimalistic; less is more.
\n\nAfter the garage is cleaned out, you can get a better assessment as to what storage solutions are necessary to complete the garage reorganization.
\n\nWall-mount cabinets are useful in just about any garage.
\n\nA combination of cabinetry, wall-mount hangers, ceiling-mount hooks, and overhead storage is an ideal setup for most garages.
\n\nPlan this out accordingly based on your budget and storage needs.
\n\nStop putting it off and get started on planning your garage cleanout project.
\n\nHometown can help in regards to disposal solutions.
\n\nWe are the nation’s #1 dumpster rental and junk removal service resource.
\n\nWe prescreen, check licenses, and publish reviews of disposal companies in cities and towns across the United States.
\n\nRead more:
\n\nOur comprehensive garage cleanout and organization guide offers strategies, tips, and tricks for achieving a clean and organized garage. Finally, achieve a clean, well-kept and organized garage using this guide to help get you started.
\r\n","changed":"2021-06-05T01:51:44+00:00"},"populars":[{"id":"cbdb3b53-9a28-5eae-8001-460da17f460c","title":"What Does the World's Most Sustainable City Look Like?","url":"/blog/the-worlds-most-sustainable-city","image":{"path":"/static/a0673f3f31324e7e8af0cf34ee0b47d3/masdar-city-master-plan-640x466.jpg","alt":"Masdar City sustainable design"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"8a088d18-16c4-5f32-8898-b75d5543d9fa","name":"Environment","slug":"Environment"},{"id":"8a556635-2a85-5e01-a170-d18bb873bb0e","name":"Sustainability","slug":"Sustainability"}],"content":"An artist's rendering of Masdar City
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Smack dab in the middle of the desert is the location of one of the world’s greenest cities. Masdar City is located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The city is actually still in the early stages of being developed, but several buildings are fully operational, including the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.
\r\n\r\nThe Masdar Institute of Science and Technology
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Masdar City addresses every sustainability issue you could ever think of:
\r\n\r\nSince the focus of Trash Talk is waste/trash/garbage, that’s the part of the city’s master plan we were most intrigued by. Phase 1 of Masdar City’s waste management plan will divert 50 percent of all waste away from landfills, or the equivalent of about 11,000 metric tons. The plan is to sort waste into three main streams: dry recyclables (i.e., cans and cardboard), wet recyclables (i.e., food scraps) and residuals (i.e., empty food containers). Dry recyclables will be shipped to the recycling center while wet recyclables will be composted and used for landscaping purposes. Other residual waste, including toxic waste, will be handled outside the city.
\r\n\r\nIs Masdar City the city of the future? It very well could be. However, it’s tough to say for sure until the city is fully developed and operational. This won’t happen until 2025 assuming everything stays on schedule. On paper, the city looks incredible and is amazingly eco-friendly. That said, there’s no way of knowing how accurate this will translate in real life. My best guess is that Masdar City succeeds in developing the most sustainable city in the world. However, it comes with a steep price – estimates put the price tag at around $18 to $19 billion.
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\r\nImages via: Masdar City Official Website
Smack dab in the middle of the desert is the location of one of the world’s greenest cities. Masdar City is located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The city is actually still in the early stages of being developed, but several buildings are fully operational, including the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.
\r\n","changed":"2023-09-05T17:34:24+00:00"},{"id":"6e771073-df3f-570b-b1c9-b393c5c0b6d8","title":"How to Rent a Dumpster","url":"/blog/how-to-rent-a-dumpster","image":{"path":"/static/3e130f08ca0469937b979b893479ca54/roll-off-dumpster.png","alt":""},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"79f88323-9203-564c-a126-747925fc2bca","name":"Roll Off Dumpster","slug":"Roll-Off-Dumpster"}],"content":"If this is your first time renting a dumpster, Hometown can help with a short overview on how to rent a dumpster. Learning a few of the basics can greatly simplify your dumpster rental experience.
\r\n\r\n\r\nThe cost of renting a dumpster varies widely based on your location. The national average cost of renting a 10 yard dumpster is $300, while the national average cost of renting a 40 cubic yard container is nearly $500 for one-weekek rental. What you pay depends primarily on landfill fees in your area, the size of the container you need, and the dumpster company you select. To get the best price on a dumpster, get quotes from multiple rental companies.
\r\n\r\nMost companies quote one flat rate fee for delivery, pickup, and disposal (though some add delivery charges separately). The rental rate is usually for a standard period of time (for example... up to 7 days) and includes a certain amount of weight (for example... up to 3 tons). If you exceed this weight allowance, you will be subject to overage fees typically ranging from $50 to $100 per ton that you go over.
\r\n\r\nWhen comparing dumpster rental prices between two companies:
\r\n\r\nExtra charges may apply if you need the roll off dumpster for longer than a provider's standard rental period. This is typically a per day fee (ie $5 or $10 per day), but some dumpster services will negotiate with you up front if you need it for slightly longer than their standard period.
\r\n\r\nPay particular attention to the amount of weight included in your price if you are disposing of heavy construction debris like bricks, cement, roofing shingles, or demolition debris. If you're renting a trash dumpster for cleaning out your home of miscellaneous household debris, you will typically not have to worry about 'over weight' fees because the debris is lighter.
\r\n\r\nLearn how to rent a dumpster and be free of your debris. Get information about costs to rent a dumpster, choosing container sizes, and expert tips. Save on your dumpster rental wtih Hometown!
\r\n","changed":"2023-09-05T17:31:11+00:00"},{"id":"e4330393-eacd-54f6-ba04-8ffcbda8728b","title":"Comparing the Cost of Junk Removal to Dumpster Rental","url":"/blog/comparing-the-cost-of-junk-removal-to-dumpster-rental","image":{"path":"/static/63661a10d8a316fe97c44935ca6333db/dumpster-rental-and-junk-removal-cost-comparison.png","alt":"dumpster rental and junk removal cost comparison"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"59e80e10-b42a-5876-8471-f7ca60fbc75e","name":"Dumpster Costs","slug":"Dumpster-Costs"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"}],"content":"When it comes to any sort of bulk waste or debris removal, your two best options are hiring a junk removal company or renting a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nBut how do you know which is the most cost-effective option for you?
\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\nCosts can vary greatly when renting a dumpster or hiring a junk hauler and are based on multiple factors.
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We'll go over:
\r\n\r\nA dumpster costs $250-$450 on average to rent, but as we've mentioned, prices can vary.
\r\n\r\nDumpsters are typically the most cost-effective option for medium to large projects or when you need to manage debris during an ongoing project.
\r\n\r\nA kitchen or bathroom renovation, house addition, demolition project, or large deck removal job are projects where a dumpster may be the more economical solution.
\r\n\r\nHaving a dumpster on-site for bigger projects allows you to fill it up at your convenience while keeping a clean, safe site.
\r\n\r\nBelow are a few real-world examples of dumpster rental costs around the country to help give you a general idea of what to expect.
\r\n\r\n| Dumpster Size | \r\n\t\t\tLocation | \r\n\t\t\tCost | \r\n\t\t
| 10 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tMarietta, GA | \r\n\t\t\t$275 | \r\n\t\t
| 10 yard roll-off dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tYonkers, NY | \r\n\t\t\t$300 | \r\n\t\t
| 15 yard roll-off dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tWorcester, MA | \r\n\t\t\t$350 | \r\n\t\t
| 30 yard debris box | \r\n\t\t\tLos Angeles, CA | \r\n\t\t\t$400 | \r\n\t\t
| 40 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tSpringfield, IL | \r\n\t\t\t$550 | \r\n\t\t
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Learn more about pricing:
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies charge a minimum amount for any junk removal, with the average around $75 to $100.
\r\n\r\nIf you have one or two items you’re getting rid of—like a TV, sofa, or mattress—you’ll probably be charged the minimum amount.
\r\n\r\nFor small cleanups, junk removal is typically the more cost-effective option.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company may remove a small garage-worth of items for $200 when it may cost you $250 to rent a 10 yard bin to do the loading yourself.
\r\n\r\nIn this case, junk removal is the cheaper (and less back-breaking) option.
\r\n\r\nBelow are a few real-world examples of junk removal costs around the country to help give you a general idea of what to expect.
\r\n\r\n| Junk Removal Description | \r\n\t\t\tLocation | \r\n\t\t\tCost | \r\n\t\t
| Refrigerator removal | \r\n\t\t\tManhattan Beach, CA | \r\n\t\t\t$165 | \r\n\t\t
| Removal of 2 TVs | \r\n\t\t\tOmaha, NE | \r\n\t\t\t$45 | \r\n\t\t
| Living room set removal (sectional couch, two china cabinets) | \r\n\t\t\tToms River, NJ | \r\n\t\t\t$169 | \r\n\t\t
| Storage unit cleanout | \r\n\t\t\tSandy, UT | \r\n\t\t\t$375 | \r\n\t\t
| Hoarding home cleanout | \r\n\t\t\tFranklin, MA | \r\n\t\t\t$1,500 | \r\n\t\t
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Remember: Every project is different, so calling at least two dumpster rental and two junk removal companies to compare pricing is the best way to determine the most economical debris removal solution.
\r\nDumpster rental and junk removal costs vary based on a number of factors, including the type and amount of debris, where you're located, the accessibility of your property, and who you hire.
\r\n\r\nYour exact project cost will depend on these factors, and the best way to get an accurate estimate for your rental or project is to reach out to multiple service providers in your area for a quote.
\r\n\r\nThis not only ensures you get the best price but also allows you to choose the best company for the job, not just the cheapest.
\r\n\r\nDo you live out in the country or far off the beaten path?
\r\n\r\nIf so, you can expect your dumpster rental or junk removal service to cost more due to the cost of travel incurred by the company.
\r\n\r\nCost of living and local disposal fees also play a large role in cost.
\r\n\r\nFor example, you’ll pay significantly more in New York City to rent a dumpster than you would in Memphis, TN based on the difference in cost of living.
\r\n\r\nYou'll also likely pay more for an apartment cleanout that requires hauling items up and down flights of stairs compared to the same size cleanout in the same zip code that is conveniently located on the first floor.
\r\n\r\nSome service providers—dumpster and junk removal—charge differently for household wastes vs. construction and demolition (C&D) debris.
\r\n\r\nC&D debris is often heavier, so it may end up costing more to haul away than general household trash.
\r\n\r\nThe heavier the load, the more you’ll pay.
\r\n\r\nFor junk removal, costs rise as the volume of junk increases.
\r\n\r\nA full truckload of junk, for example, costs more than a load taking up just half of the truck’s total capacity.
\r\n\r\nLikewise, if you exceed the weight limit of your dumpster rental you'll likely be hit with overage fees.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nThe two best ways to remove bulk waste are to either rent a dumpster or hire a junk removal company, but which option is the most cost-effective? Learn about the average costs associated with each service to determine which is the best option for your project.
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