In this article, we’ll show you how to optimize your closet and make the absolute most of your  bedroom. We’ll dive into clever closet ideas, smart organization tips and practical solutions that will help you create a bedroom that’s well-organized, functional, and actually relaxing to spend time in.

Understanding Your Storage Needs

Before you dive into reorganizing your closet, take a minute to really see what you’re working with. What sort of articles and items are actually taking up space? Do you have items in the closet that belong somewhere else? Getting honest about your current setup helps you spot the problem areas that are making your closet feel cramped or chaotic. Once you identify the real issues, you’ll be ready to create storage solutions that actually stick.

Assessing & Decluttering Your Wardrobe

Start by taking a quick inventory of what’s in your closet. Group similar items together – shirts with shirts, shoes with shoes, like accessories with like, etc. Seeing everything laid out like this gives you a clearer picture of how much space each category is taking up. Now comes the big step: decluttering. Go through your wardrobe piece by piece and ask yourself which articles you still enjoy wearing and wear regularly. If you’re hanging onto clothes that you no longer prefer or you haven’t worn in ages, it might be time to let them go. At this stage, the goal isn’t just to make more room in your closet, it’s to create one that will fully accommodate the wardrobe you truly want.

One of the best ways to declutter is the Three-Box Method. Grab three boxes (or make three piles) and pull everything out of your closet. Then sort each item into one of these categories:

• Keep: These are your go-to pieces, the ones that fit well and make you feel great.
• Donate/Sell: Items that are in good shape but no longer serve you.
• Store: Things you still need, but don’t use right now, like seasonal clothing or special-occasion outfits.

By the time you’re done, you’ll not only have a more streamlined and intentional wardrobe, you’ll also have a fresh start for organizing your closet in a way that really works for you.

Clever Design & Organization Hacks for Your Closet Space

Once your closet’s been cleared out, now start reimagining the space. Think beyond just the closet itself and look at your entire room as storage potential. With a few clever organization tricks and smart design ideas, you’ll be amazed at how much more you can fit without making it feel cluttered. These small-bedroom closet ideas and space-saving solutions will help you create a room that feels placid, bigger, and way more functional.

Optimizing Your Closet’s Interior

With thoughtful design choices and strategic organization, even the smallest closet can efficiently store your belongings. Check out these handy tips:

Closet Design Ideas

• Double hanging rods: Install a second rod below your main one for shorter items like shirts, skirts, and folded trousers.
• Over-the-door organizers: Use the back of your closet door to store shoes, scarves, belts, and other accessories in a hanging organizer.
• Pull-out drawers or bins: Instead of digging into the back of a deep shelf, consider installing pull-out drawers or using clear bins that you can easily slide out to see what’s inside.
• Shelf dividers: Clear acrylic or wire shelf dividers create neat, tidy stacks and keep things looking organized.

Closet Organization Strategies

Day after day, a well-organized closet saves you time and energy.  Here’s how to organize your closet like a pro:

• Group like items: Put all your shirts in one place, pants in another, etc. As a result, you’ll spare yourself the trouble of rummaging through your entire collection just to put together an outfit. Plus, this makes finding what you need super easy and gives you a quick snapshot of everything you own.
• Use labels or colour-coding: If you use storage bins, label them clearly. For hanging clothes, try organizing by colour for a visually pleasing and easy-to-navigate system.
• Rotate seasonally: Keep your most-used items front and center. Store off-season clothing in bins on a high shelf or in another location to free up prime closet space.
• Dedicated shoe storage: Instead of lying in a jumble on the floor, give your footwear a proper home with shoe racks, cubbies, or clear drop-front boxes. This protects your shoes and makes finding the right pair a lot easier. Image:

Leverage More Space in Your Bedroom

When your closet simply can’t hold another hanger, it’s time to start thinking about creating additional storage space. By making smart use of every corner of your bedroom, you’ll get way more storage than you thought possible, all while keeping your floor clutter-free and your room feeling spacious. Here are some strategies to help you accomplish this:

Wall-Mounted & Vertical Storage Solutions

• Wall-mounted clothing rods: Install a sturdy rod along an open wall. This creates a new place to hang your items, and you can add shelving above the rod for even more
• Pegboard system: Mount a pegboard on a wall, then add hooks and small shelves to create a versatile, adjustable system that you can use for hanging bags, hats, jewelry, and other articles.
• Adhesive hooks: For a quick alternative, stick adhesive hooks anywhere you need to, so you can have more space to hang clothing accessories.

Under-Bed & Overhead Storage

• Underbed bins & drawers: Utilize the area under your bed for storing extra bedding, off-season clothes, or shoes. It’s hidden storage at its best and unobtrusively keeps your main floor space clear.
• High shelving & loft storage: For things you use less frequently, consider installing shelves high on the wall, near the ceiling. This is perfect for storing luggage, seasonal decor, keepsakes, or any other items that you don’t need to access daily but want to keep safe and out of the way.

DIY Solutions for Budget-Friendly Organization

Don’t have the budget for elaborate storage systems? No problem! These creative, do-it-yourself bedroom closet ideas are both affordable and highly effective.

DIY Customization & Repurposing

• Build your own shelving: With some wood planks and metal brackets from a hardware store, you can create custom-sized shelving that fits your space perfectly.
• Repurpose furniture: An old ladder can lean against a wall to hang scarves or blankets. A vintage bookshelf can be turned into a fantastic shoe rack.
• Reuse older crates or baskets: Paint wooden crates and stack them to create rustic-chic cubbies for shoes or folded clothes. Transform baskets of all sizes into handy organizers and caddies. As a bonus, decorative or colourful baskets make a nice décor accent, too!

Smart & Affordable Hacks

• Tension rods: Add a tension rod between two walls or inside a nook for extra hanging space without drilling any holes. Perfect for scarves, belts, or even a mini-wardrobe containing tomorrow’s outfit.
• Utilizing discount stores & online marketplaces: While not quite DIY, don’t underestimate the power of discount stores, dollar stores, or online marketplaces to find budget-friendly storage accessories like bins, baskets, and hangers, along with other items you can affordably repurpose for storable uses.

Creative Solutions for Bedrooms Without Closets

If your bedroom has no closet, there are still plenty of stylish and practical ideas that can ensure you’ll have plenty of storage space.

Freestanding & Modular Wardrobe Systems

• Garment racks or freestanding wardrobes: Use a garment rack to display and organize your go-to outfits. For an enclosed storage solution, consider a freestanding armoire or wardrobe with doors for a more closet-like experience, as well as a more polished look.
• Exposed racks with coordinated hangers: Use matching hangers for a clean, boutique-like, and intentional look.
• Floating shelves: Install floating shelves above or alongside your rack for folded clothes, hats, or decor items like plants and picture frames. These sleek shelves add visual interest and practical storage without taking up floor space.
• Baskets and boxes: Instead of bulky dressers, use stackable, stylish baskets or fabric boxes to group articles like socks, undergarments, or sleepwear. This decorative touch keeps your room looking tidy and visually appealing, while tucking things out of sight.

Multi-Functional Furniture & Hidden Storage

• Storage beds: A bed with built-in drawers or a lift-up mattress compartment is a game-changer for storing extra bedding, off-season clothes, or shoes.
• Benches and ottomans: An ottoman or chest at the foot of the bed can hold blankets or bags, while a storage bench provides both seating and a place to hide clutter.
• Smart nightstands: Choose nightstands with drawers or shelving to keep your bedside essentials organized and out of the way.
• Cabinet furniture: Look for cabinets with both shelving and drawers that double as statement pieces. They provide ample storage while enhancing your room’s aesthetic.

Closet Ideas for Tiny Homes & Attic Rooms

Spaces like tiny homes and attic bedrooms demand extra-clever thinking when it comes to storage, so being able to maximize every square foot available becomes mission critical. Let’s put this into practice with some ideas for getting the closet space you need in smaller spaces:

• Foldable & collapsible solutions: Look for items that can be tucked away when not in use, like collapsible laundry hampers or foldable storage cubes.
• Hidden compartments: Seek out hidden compartments under stairs, in benches, or beneath the bed for seamless, integrated storage that keeps things out of sight.
• Prioritize vertical storage: Go for wall-mounted racks, hooks, and tall, narrow shelving units to increase the amount of usable floor space and keep it clear.
• Embrace sloped ceilings: For attic rooms, take advantage of the unique architecture by installing custom-built low cabinets or drawers that fit perfectly between the rafters or under the eaves.
• Accessible storage: Utilize pull-out bins or rolling baskets for accessible storage under sloped areas.
• Space-saving furniture: Always choose space saving furniture with dimensions that are proportionate to the room, so it won’t feel crowded or over-furnished for its size This ensures  that your space can express both maximum functionality and a pleasant, comfortable design.

When to Consider Self-Storage as an Extension of Your Home

Even the most organized small bedroom can only hold so much. Once you’ve maximized your closet and found clever ways to tuck things away, you might still be left with a bunch of “where-do-I-put-this?” items, like seasonal clothes, extra bedding, keepsakes, or gear you just don’t need every day. Worse, you might not have appropriate space to store these things elsewhere in the house, either. That’s when self-storage becomes the perfect extension of your home.

With a storage unit, you can move out the bulkier or less-used items and free up precious bedroom or living space, without having to permanently part with the things that still matter. Think of it as a second closet (just a little further down the road) that helps keep every room in your home feeling spacious and functional.

Why Self-Storage Makes Sense for Small Spaces

Using self-storage isn’t just about making room, it’s about making your living space work for you no matter the size or your situation. Here’s how it can transform the way you live:

• Reclaim your bedroom: Clear out the extras so your bedroom can actually feel like a place to relax, not just another storage zone in the house.
• Keep your belongings safe: You’ll want to keep your stuff in good hands to protect it against risks from damage, dust, and pests, so be sure to choose a storage facility that’s clean, well-maintained, and offers amenities like temperature control and essential security features.
• Enjoy total flexibility: Whether you’re living in a studio apartment, with roommates, or in a student dorm, you’ll have the freedom to rent exactly the amount of space you need, for as long as you need it. It’s an easy way to adapt your storage needs to your lifestyle as it changes.

Your Path to a Clutter-Free Closet Starts Here

Organizing a small bedroom closet doesn’t have to feel like a lost cause. With a little planning, some creative ideas, and a few smart organization hacks, you can turn even the tiniest space into something that’s highly functional with a lot of style.

And if you’ve done all that but still find yourself short on space, or just need a place for seasonal stuff or life’s overflow moments, then a self-storage unit can be the perfect backup plan. With smart space solutions both inside and outside your closet, your bedroom or small home will be well-organized and fully livable, letting you keep out both the clutter and the stress.

The post Small Bedroom Closet Ideas & Organization Tips appeared first on Public Storage Canada.

Because the prospect of downsizing can seem daunting, this guide will walk you through the essentials to help make the process more manageable – from understanding why it might be the right choice for you to practical steps for sorting your belongings and maximizing your new space.

What is Downsizing?

Downsizing is much more than simply reducing square footage, it means simplifying your life. It’s about transitioning into a home that better fits your current lifestyle needs, habits, and goals.

The process often involves paring down your belongings, letting go of excess, and creating an intentional space that’s more manageable. Bear in mind that downsizing isn’t the same as “downgrading.” Rather, it’s about designing a mode of living that reflects where you are now, one with less clutter, more freedom, and a greater quality of life.

Why People Downsize (and Why You Might, Too)

There are many reasons people choose to downsize, and each comes back to one common goal: creating a home that supports the life you want to live today.

Here are some of the most common motivations — and the benefits that come with them:

• A simpler life: A smaller home means less upkeep, fewer repairs, and more time to spend doing what you enjoy most.
• Financial freedom: Having smaller mortgage payments, reduced utilities or maintenance, and lower property taxes can free up funds for travel, hobbies, or long-term goals.
• Better lifestyle fit: As life evolves, so should your space. Downsizing allows you to align your home with your current priorities, whether that’s proximity to family, accessibility, or convenience.
• Sustainable living: Smaller homes require fewer resources, making downsizing a responsible and eco-friendly choice.
• Ease through life transitions: Major life changes like retirement, relocation, or health considerations, often makes getting a smaller, easier-to-manage home the right move.

Ultimately, downsizing isn’t about having less, it’s about living better. It’s a step toward greater balance, comfort, and freedom for the next chapter of your life.

What to Consider Before Downsizing

If you’ve lived in your current home for years, downsizing can seem overwhelming, and you might struggle in knowing where to start. By breaking down the assessment phase into smaller, practical steps, it will help enable the process to be easier to commit to and less stressful.

Step 1: Understand Your Needs

As a critical starting point, put some thought into your requirements for your new space. What do you actually need to live comfortably? Consider:

• How many bedrooms will you use?
• Will you need a dedicated workspace or hobby area?
• Do you plan to host guests frequently, or is a cozier setup enough?

Knowing your priorities will help you decide what to keep and what to let go of, in terms of furnishings and accessories. If possible, it’s always a good idea to get measurements or floor plans for your new home so you can realistically plan around how much space you’ll have.

Step 2: Set a Budget

Moving comes with costs, even when you’re downsizing. Should you need them, be sure to consider the costs of:

• Moving services: Whether you hire movers or rent a truck.
• Packing supplies: Boxes, tape, and protective materials.
• Storage units: For any items you’re not ready to part with but don’t have room for right now.

Step 3: Create a Timeline

Give yourself plenty of time to sort, pack, and prepare for the downsizing process. Trying to rush through things creates the risk of making poor decisions and will obviously lead to more stress, so to prevent this, it makes sense to have a timeline at hand. For simplification, tackle one room at a time, starting with areas that hold fewer sentimental items (like the bathroom or possibly the kitchen) before moving on to spaces like the attic or family room. Remember to buffer in more time to work with any area of the home where its contents hold significant emotional value, especially if you anticipate needing help in making a decision over certain items.

Step 4: Visualize Your New Space

Think about how your furniture and belongings could fit into your new home. This step helps you choose between what’s worth keeping and what won’t work in a smaller space. Oftentimes it can feel easier to let go of something when you realize there just won’t be any room for it.

Tips to Simplify Downsizing

When you take a thoughtful approach, downsizing can really be seen as an opportunity to simplify your life and create a space that will better support your needs and desired mode of living. Here are some tips on how to simplify downsizing while reducing stress:

How to Declutter Without the Stress

Decluttering is often the hardest part of downsizing, but it’s also the most important. The goal isn’t just to get rid of things, since decluttering also entails deciding what’s important and matters enough to transition with you to your new space.

• Sort items into categories using the “Keep, Donate, Sell, Toss” method to stay organized and simplify decision-making.
• Ask yourself key questions like whether you’ve used an item recently, if it serves a purpose in your new home, or if it brings you joy or holds meaningful memories.
• Start simple by decluttering more practical areas of the home, such as closets or garages, before moving on to spaces that have more valuable or sentimental items to go through.
• Digitize paperwork and photos to save physical space while still preserving important documents and cherished memories.

Amongst all the areas in your home, most people begin with decluttering the garage. As mentioned earlier, an area like the garage can be a helpful starting point, since it’s typically a space with less nostalgic attachment.

Better Manage Larger Items and Furniture

Downsizing often means dealing with large furnishings or furniture sets, so determining whether such items both physically and functionally fit in your new space is an all-important exercise.

• Measure everything – This should include furniture dimensions, doorways, hallways, staircases, and room sizes, so you can avoid surprises during the move to your new home
• Let go of bulky items – Traditional household furnishings are usually designed for family-sized homes, which means they are typically large in size. When downsizing, you’re likely to find that such items no longer serve a purpose or align with your new lifestyle
• Select multi-functional furniture – If you already have furniture pieces that are multipurpose, they’re ideal for a downsized space. Examples include storage ottomans, sofa beds, extendable tables, or beds with built-in storage, all of which maximize functionality in a smaller home, so be sure to prioritize these items for your move.

If you’re not yet ready to part with certain pieces, you might want to consider renting a self-storage unit for temporary storage, so these items will have somewhere safe to go during the downsizing process. This transition is also a good opportunity to repurpose or refurbish older furniture, ensuring that it’ll also be appropriate for your new space.

Simple Downsizing for Seniors

For older adults, downsizing often represents a significant life transition, such as retirement or relocating to a more accessible living space. When you reflect on your unique situation, it’s always important to remember that downsizing is an opportunity to simplify your surroundings and create a space that enhances your quality of life, especially when it comes with the right planning and support.

• Start early – i Give yourself plenty of time to sort through your belongings. Start by focusing on one room or category at a time, so you can avoid feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
• Ask for help – If things seem unmanageable, getting emotional support from family and friends can go a long way to help you stay on track. For complex moves, reach out to professional organizers or moving services to lighten the workload and reduce mental and physical stress.
• Prioritize accessibility – In your new home, greater accessibility can be achieved by removing hazards or obstacles, such as thick carpeting or narrow doorways. Position your furniture to create open space and pathways, while ensuring that shelving and cabinets are stable and installed at a safe, practical height for your needs.
• Approach sentimental items thoughtfully – Keepsakes, scrapbooks, photo albums, and other physical mementos can take up quite a bit of room. While the most meaningful items should be retained, you might need to scale down by passing along others to loved ones or preserving memories digitally to reduce clutter. Photos, letters, music albums, videos, and many other forms of media can all be readily digitized.
• Embrace multi-functional solutions – This enables you to make the most of a smaller space. Possible solutions include furniture with built-in storage, vertical shelving, and compact appliances, which can help maximize the functionality and living space in a downsized home.
• Take care of yourself – During the downsizing process, it’s important not to risk getting overwhelmed by taking on too much too fast. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to proceed at your own pace, celebrating progress as you go along. and seeking out emotional support when needed.

Making the Most of Your New Space

Downsizing is the perfect opportunity to create a home that feels comfortable, efficient, and distinctly your own. With a bit of planning and creativity, your smaller space can feel every bit as functional and welcoming as before, if not more so.

Here are some effective ways to make every square foot count:

• Maximize functional storage: Use your vertical space wisely with tall shelving, wall-mounted hooks, and closet organizers. Incorporate multi-purpose furniture with space-saving design, such as fold-out desks or benches with storage underneath, so you can maintain organization without overcrowding your rooms.
• Simplify with intention: Keep only the items you truly value or use regularly. Adopting a “less but better” approach – prioritizing quality over quantity – helps maintain balance and clarity in your home. A simple “one-in, one-out” rule can prevent clutter from building up again.
• Plan your layout strategically: Arrange furniture to create clear pathways and define functional zones for different activities, such as dining, working, or relaxing. As you settle in, continue refining your layout until it feels natural and supports your daily routines.
• Incorporate warm personal details: Thoughtful design touches go a long way in making a smaller home feel inviting. Consider layered lighting, greenery, , light color palettes, and meaningful artwork to create a bright, comfortable atmosphere that reflects your personality.

Over time, these approaches will help you maintain a home that’s not only organized and efficient, but also unmistakably yours. And if you find yourself holding onto a few sentimental pieces or seasonal items that don’t quite fit, using off-site storage can be a practical way to keep your home uncluttered, while still keeping things that matter close at hand.

How Self-Storage Can Help When Downsizing

If you’re struggling to part with certain items or simply don’t have room for everything in your new space, self-storage can be a lifesaver. It provides a secure, flexible solution for managing your belongings during and after the downsizing process. Here’s how self-storage could be helpful to you:

The Benefit of Using Self-Storage

Downsizing often means making tough decisions about what to keep and what to let go, but self-storage can complement your new smaller home  when storage space is limited. It provides a safe, convenient way to hold onto items that don’t fit with the new layout while still keeping them accessible. Maintain a clutter-free home by storing these types of items:

• Seasonal items
• Accessory furniture
• Sports gear & hobby supplies

By using self-storage strategically, you can simplify the downsizing process and continue to stay organized, no matter the size or configuration of your new home, while reducing the risk of renewed clutter compromising your living space.

Temporary vs. Long-Term Storage

. By offering solutions tailored to both short-term and long-term storage, one of the advantages of self-storage is its flexibility.

• Temporary Storage: During the transition to a smaller home, self-storage is useful for storing items that you’re still unsure of. This gives you the time to settle into your new space and properly evaluate what fits, which eliminates the pressure to get rid of things when you’re still undecided.
• Long-Term Storage: For items you don’t use daily but still want to keep, long-term storage is a good option. It allows you to free up valuable space in your home while ensuring your belongings are safe and always within reach whenever needed.

With self-storage, you’ll have the freedom to downsize at your own pace and find a storage unit size that suits your needs, all while continuing to enjoy a  clutter-free living space

Start Downsizing Today

Downsizing isn’t just about eliminating clutter to move into a smaller home — it’s about creating space for what truly matters to you. It’s an opportunity to simplify your surroundings, reduce stress, and embrace a mode of living that feels more intentional and sustainable. By planning carefully, decluttering thoughtfully, and using smart tools like self-storage, you can make the transition smoother and more rewarding.

At Public Storage Canada, we provide flexible, secure storage solutions to support you through every stage of your downsizing journey, whether you need temporary space during a move or a long-term home for lifestyle or seasonal extras that are critical to retain. With the right preparation and mindset, downsizing becomes more than a practical step, it’s a new beginning built around comfort, clarity, and freedom.

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The post How to Downsize Your Home appeared first on Public Storage Canada.

The Benefits of a Well-Organized Office

Getting organized isn’t just about aesthetics. A thoughtfully arranged workspace can go a long way to make your working day smoother, calmer, and more productive. Here are two major perks you’ll notice once everything in your office has its place:

1. Get More Done

Picture this: You reach for something and find it immediately – every time. When your workspace is organized, distractions drop, efficiency rises, and you stop wasting time hunting for the little things. A clear desk can help create an equally clear headspace by reducing visual noise and mental clutter. Your brain will thank you.

2. Stay Professional

Whether you’re working from home or in a shared office, the way your space looks says a lot. A tidy environment shows that you’re focused, dependable, and ready to get things done. If clients or colleagues visit your space, even briefly, your organized setup reinforces confidence and professionalism without you saying a word.

The Strategic Decluttering Plan

Before you buy new organizers or rearrange furniture, you’ll want to start by decluttering. Think of this step as clearing the runway so organizing becomes easier. By removing what you don’t need for your work environment, you’re systematically making room that better supports your workflow, instead of bogging you down.

1. Set Your Goals and a Realistic Timeline

Start by defining what you want your office to be. Is this your dedicated remote-work base? A creative studio? A focused business zone? Knowing its purpose helps you prioritize what belongs within arm’s reach, and what doesn’t.

And don’t try to do everything at once. Set aside manageable blocks of time: 30 minutes after lunch, an hour in the evening, or a weekend session. Small bursts of effort add up quickly.

2. Use the “Keep, Store, Toss” Method

This simple process helps you make decisions immediately and avoid second-guessing.

• Keep: The essentials you use every day or every week. Only the must-haves stay here.
• Store: Items you need occasionally, but not often, like extra supplies, archived documents, bulky equipment, or seasonal materials. These belong in a closet, a storage cabinet, or off-site storage.
• Toss / recycle / shred: Anything broken, outdated, or no longer useful.
• Donate: Items in good shape that may benefit someone else. Give them a second life.

3. Tackle One Zone at a Time

Trying to overhaul the whole room at once can feel overwhelming. Instead, break your office into zones: your desk, a drawer, a shelf, a corner. Focus on one area until you finish it, then move on. Momentum builds quickly once you land that first win.

Workplace Storage Solutions for Small & Home Offices

Smaller spaces demand smarter organization. With the right strategies, you can turn even the tiniest space into an efficient, comfortable environment you actually enjoy working in.

Once decluttering is done, it’s time to get strategic:

Use Vertical Storage

Walls are often unused space, so instead, turn them into helpful storage.

• Try wall-mounted shelves, pegboards, or hanging organizers to free up your floor.
• Stackable bins or modular units let you customize as your needs change.

Consider Compact Furniture with Built-In Storage

When space is limited, your furniture should multitask.

• Look for desks with built-in drawers, shelves, or hidden compartments.
• Multi-use pieces, like storage ottomans, printer stands with cabinets, or foldable desks, work especially well in small spaces.

Use Creative Under-Desk Storage

Don’t ignore the space that’s right beneath your desk:

• Rolling carts slide out when you need them and disappear when you don’t.
• Slim file cabinets or under-desk drawers give you extra storage without taking up valuable floor space.

Workplace Storage Solutions for Larger Offices

Even in larger offices, using smart storage hacks can ensure it stays as organized as possible. When you’re sharing your space with other people, it’s even more important to organize your workspace.

Maximizing Shared Storage Areas

Shared spaces only function well when everyone can both find and return items easily.

• Create clearly labeled communal zones for supplies and equipment.
• Colour-coding can simplify things even more, especially for different teams or project categories.

Filing Systems for Documents

Whether your workspace is paper-light or paper-heavy, you need a system that works.

• Keep physical documents sorted with a consistent filing structure. Make sure everyone who uses it knows how it works.
• Digitizing files where possible saves space and keeps information easier to access from anywhere.

Office Supplies Storage Solutions

Your supplies should be there to help keep your workflow going, not disrupt it. Here’s how to keep everything in order so you always know exactly where to look.

Group, Label, and Make it Visible

These three simple habits save you loads of time.

• Group similar items (pens, paper, electronics, cables).
• Label everything so each item has a clear home.
• Use transparent containers to instantly see what’s inside without opening every bin.

Smart Hacks for Everyday Essentials

You don’t need expensive tools to stay organized:

• Repurpose what you already have: jars, magazine holders, and shoeboxes, they all make great storage solutions.
• Use desk organizers to keep your most-used items within reach without letting them take over your workspace. Look for stackable styles that won’t hog the real estate of your desk surface.

Deciding to Use Self-Storage

Sometimes, even after a full declutter, your office could still feel maxed out. When you need more room without sacrificing the essentials, off-site storage can be a practical solution. Think of it as an extension of your workspace – secure and accessible, yet out of the way so you can get things done.

Self-storage can help when you need to:

• Keep overflow items from creeping into your everyday workspace.
• Store seasonal décor, event materials, or equipment used only occasionally.
• Archive documents more cost-effectively, especially if climate control is needed.
• Take advantage of bulk purchasing without drowning in supplies.
• Temporarily store items during renovation, relocation, or office transition.
• Free up space for new team members or equipment.
• Maintain a clean, distraction-free environment by keeping only the essentials in your main workspace.

Get Organized Today!

A well-organized office doesn’t just improve your workflow, it supports your overall mental clarity and productivity. With a clear plan, consistent decluttering habits, and smart storage choices, you can create a workspace that truly supports your goals.

Remember: it’s about progress, not perfection. Every small step you take makes a difference. And if you find you need a little extra room for the things you don’t use every day, flexible storage options with a range of sizes can help you bridge the gap and keep your office running smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are climate-controlled storage units necessary for office supplies or furniture?

How do I safely store electronics like printers or monitors?

How do I decide between on-site and off-site storage?

What size of storage unit works for a small office?

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The post Office Storage & Organization Solutions for Every Workspace appeared first on Public Storage Canada.

Whether you want room to park your car, to set up a workshop, or to just enjoy a well-organized, clutter-free zone, this guide has you covered as we walk you through some essential steps, smart strategies and storage ideas to help you get there.

Why Decluttering Your Garage Matters

Let’s be honest – the garage tends to become a catch-all for everything that doesn’t fit anywhere else. These are usually things like old tools, forgotten holiday decorations, leftover supplies, etc. Ultimately, they all pile up until you can barely move, let alone park your car. But taking the time to declutter your garage can make a huge difference. You’ll reduce stress, find what you need faster, and finally create a space that works for you instead of against you. Plus, being able to bring your car indoors again feels like a small luxury, especially when it’s raining or snowing.

But the benefits go beyond organization. Clearing out old or unused items can prevent accidents, eliminate fire hazards, and even save you money by stopping duplicate purchases of whatever you couldn’t find. As a bonus, if you’re planning to sell your home, a tidy, well-organized garage can boost your home’s appeal and value. Once the clutter is gone, you can reimagine your garage however you like — as a workshop, a home gym, or even an extension to your living space or home office. In the end, it’s not just about cleaning up; it’s about reclaiming one of the most useful spaces in your home.

Steps to Declutter Your Garage

To make decluttering your garage feel less overwhelming, let’s break it down into smaller, manageable steps. Here are some important tips to help you tackle the process with confidence:

 1. Set a Goal and Timeframe

Before diving into the chaos of your garage head-on start by defining clear goals for what you want to achieve. Are you clearing space to park your car? Creating a workshop or hobby area? Or are you just trying to regain control of the clutter? When you have a specific objective in mind, it will help keep you focused and motivated throughout the process.

Once you’ve identified your goal, decide on a realistic timeframe. It’s critical to block out time in your schedule to stay committed, whether it’s dedicating an entire weekend or taking care of smaller tasks over the course of several days. A clear plan and timeline will help you stay on track and generate steady progress.

Getting started can seem daunting, especially when you’re dealing with years’ worth of accumulated stuff. That’s where the 5-Second Rule comes in handy – this means taking five seconds to decide whether to keep, donate, or toss an item.  By ticking to this principle while staying focused on your goal, this will help you move through the decluttering process way more efficiently.

The 5-Second Rule for Decluttering

If you find yourself hesitating or overthinking what to keep and what to let go of, the 5-Second Rule is a game-changer! Every time you pick up an item, give yourself just five seconds to answer three key questions:

1. Is this item useful? Does it serve a practical purpose in your life right now?
2. Does it hold sentimental value? Is it something that genuinely brings you joy or holds meaningful memories?
3. Do I truly need it? Would your daily life be impacted if this item were gone?

If the answer to all three questions is “no,” then it’s time to let the item go. Whether that means donating it, recycling it, or tossing it in the trash, the goal is to move on quickly without second-guessing yourself. The key here is to avoid falling into the trap of overanalyzing or convincing yourself to keep things “just in case.”

Why the 5-Second Rule Works

The beauty of the 5-second rule is that it’s simple. By limiting the amount of time you spend deciding, you can avoid the emotional attachments and excuses that often slow down the decluttering process. It forces you to focus on the present value of an item rather than getting stuck in “what if” scenarios or nostalgia for things you don’t actually need.

This method also helps you build momentum. Instead of agonizing over every little decision, you’ll find yourself moving through your pile of stuff more efficiently. Naturally, as you begin to see progress, you’ll feel motivated to keep going.

2. Involve the Family

Decluttering doesn’t have to be a solo effort. Getting your whole family involved can make the process faster, more enjoyable and even educational. Assign tasks to each family member based on their abilities and interests. For example, your kids can sort through toys or sports equipment, while adults handle tools, larger items, or things that require heavy lifting.

Encourage everyone in your family to use the 5-Second Rule as they go through their assigned tasks. Point out that the key is to quickly decide whether an item is really needed, so if anyone hesitates for more than five seconds, it’s likely time to let that thing go.

Working together not only speeds up the process but also ensures that everyone involved will have input on what stays and what goes.

3. Empty the Garage Completely and Deep Clean

Transforming your garage into an organized space starts with a full reset. This involves two phases: a garage clean-out and a garage clean-up.

The Garage Clean-Out: Decluttering and Organizing

The clean-out phase is all about actively managing the clutter and making decisions about what items you should eliminate. Start by removing every single item from the garage, so you can clearly see what you have from a fresh perspective. As you go through your belongings, sort them into four main categories:

• Keep: Items you use regularly or have sentimental value.
• Donate/Sell: Items in good condition that you no longer need but someone else might find useful.
• Trash/Recycle: Broken or unusable items that should be responsibly thrown out.
• Store Elsewhere: Items that don’t belong in the garage (e.g., paperwork or keepsakes) and should be relocated to another part of your home for safer storage.

Be honest with yourself during this process. If you haven’t used something in years, it’s probably time to give it up.

The Garage Clean-Up: Physical Cleaning

Once your garage is empty, take the opportunity to deep clean the space itself. Begin by sweeping away dust, cobwebs, and debris from the floor and corners. Dust off shelves, wipe down counters, and clean any built-in storage cabinets. If the floor has stains or grime, power washing or scrubbing can help restore its condition.

By combining both the clean-out and clean-up steps, you’ll create a blank slate that’s ready for a complete transformation of your garage.

4. Sort and Organize Items by Category

Now that your garage is clean and ready for organization, it’s time to sort through your belongings and decide how they’ll fit back appropriately into the space. You can simplify this step by dividing the garage area into smaller zones, then focusing on one section at a time.  This way, you work on each section bit-by-bit, completing one zone before moving on to the next.

As you re-evaluate each item, use the 5-Second Rule one more time to determine whether it still deserves a place in your garage. This isn’t just about deciding what to keep – it’s about making sure everything in your garage has a logical place, so that the space is as functional as possible.

Once you’ve decided what to keep, group similar items together to create order. For example:

• Tools and hardware in one area.
• Sports equipment in another.
• Seasonal decorations in a third.

Use clear bins, boxes, or other storage solutions to store items and label them for easy identification, making them easier to retrieve whenever you want to use them.

When to Consider a Self-Storage Unit

Even after organizing your garage, you might realize you still have more belongings than you can comfortably fit, with nowhere else in the house to put them. If those items are still worth keeping, an off-site storage solution can be the perfect next step. That’s where a self-storage unit comes in handy. Instead of jamming up your newly organized space all over again, a storage unit offers a secure, accessible place to store the things you value without sacrificing the order you’ve finally achieved.

Because having extra space in a storage unit is a solid convenience, it’s especially useful during life transitions like moving, renovating, downsizing, or staging your home for sale. With flexible hours and ease of access, storage units enable your belongings to stay close at hand while keeping your home (and garage) clutter-free. It’s a simple way to maintain the progress you’ve made and to continue enjoying the satisfaction of having a truly organized space.

Maintaining an Organized Garage

Decluttering your garage is a great first step, but keeping it that way takes a bit of ongoing effort. With some simple planning and consistent upkeep, maintaining a clutter-free space becomes much easier than you’d think. Here are a few practical tips to help you stay on top of it:

Make Putting Things Back a Habit

To maintain a clean and organized garage, the key is making it easy to return items to their proper place. These tips will help jumpstart this habit:

• Label everything: Clearly label your shelves, bins, and storage zones so everyone in your household knows where things belong. This reduces confusion, making it easier to keep things tidy.
• Keep frequently-used items readily accessible: Store things that see regular use, like sports gear, household supplies, or tools, in easy-to-reach spots. Reserve higher shelves or less accessible areas for seasonal belongings or items with infrequent use.
• Use open storage solutions: Open racks, hooks, and pegboards let you grab what you need and put it back without having to fuss with lids, locks, or drawers.

Keep Your Garage Clean

Maintaining a clean garage is a heck of a lot easier once it’s well-organized. Now that your items have their own space within designated zones, you’ll be more readily able to focus on keeping those areas free of dirt and debris. Here are some tips to help maintain a pristine space:

• Tools: Wipe down tools regularly to remove dust or grease before storing them back in your toolbox or hanging them back up.
• Gardening & home maintenance supplies: Clean up any spilled soil or fertilizer and keep shelves and bins free of buildup. For liquids, wipe down containers to prevent residue, stains, and odours over time. Sports Gear: Clean gear like bikes, balls, and footwear after use to prevent mud or grime from accumulating in your storage area.

A clean environment not only makes your garage more functional, but it also helps protect your belongings from damage caused by dust, moisture, or pests.

Be Mindful of New Additions

Keeping your garage organized starts with being intentional about what you bring into it. Every new item has the potential to disrupt the organization you’ve worked hard to achieve, so it’s important to think twice before adding anything new. The 5-Second Rule once again can help guide your decision-making – if you can’t confidently justify why an item belongs in your garage within five seconds, it could be something you don’t truly need.

Declutter Your Garage Today!

Keeping your garage organized isn’t a one-time project – it’s an ongoing habit. With regular check-ins and a practical storage system in place, maintaining order becomes second nature. Once the clutter is gone, you’ll be surprised at how much easier things are when your garage stops being a source of stress and becomes a support for everyday living instead. And if you ever need a bit more room outside your home, self-storage can help keep that balance intact.

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Go digital to avoid clutter

You might be amazed at the amount of clutter that gets generated by paper and disc media. Unless you’ve got an incredible library and a bank of filing cabinets at your disposal, you might want to rethink hanging on to mass-market books that were only worth the one read, or any unnecessary paper documents. For music lovers, sometimes vinyl records can make great collectors’ items. But CDs? Usually not so much. And nowadays, the amount of MP3s, movies, and TV shows that can be downloaded or streamed is almost unlimited. As a result, hanging onto old CDs and DVDs (or worse, tapes!) might not make as much sense as it used to, at least not when it comes to saving space, a big part of home organization.

Decluttering tips:

• Start subscribing to digital editions of magazines and newsletters
• Save the trees and sign up for paperless bills and financial statements, if you haven’t already
• Books – forget buying cheap paperbacks! Use Kindle or Kobo as an more affordable alternative
• Convert CDs and movies to digital format and store them on a USB stick, external hard drive, or in the cloud.
• If you need to keep them as master copies, store original discs in paper sleeves or organizer binders to save space

Just say “no” to impulse shopping which contributes to your clutter

This is probably a weakness we all share, whether it’s shoes, handbags, gadgets, books, or fashion. And that’s okay – until it gets out of hand and leads to over-accumulation. You know you’re guilty when you buy something, use or wear it once, and never touch it again. Instead of suffering from buyer’s remorse, make a shopping list before you head to the mall, and stick to it. Hate writing things down? There’s plenty of handy “to-do” smartphone apps that will help you keep track. After all, home organization efforts won’t be successful, if you keep adding to the clutter as you’re decluttering.

Economizing tips:

• Before you purchase something, ask yourself if you really need it, or if it’s only a passing “want”
• Think about where you would actually keep an item, if in fact you decide to buy it
• As much as possible, only purchase those items that are important for maintaining your lifestyle/hobby/career, or for regular family use
• Resist the temptation buy things just because they’re on sale

Optimize your storage system

Here’s another activity that you’re going to have to tackle, if you want really good home organization results: making better use of existing storage space. And that means cleaning out closets and going through your drawers. You’ll need to check out what’s actually inside all those old boxes hanging around the house and garage. In the midst of projects like major home organization or downsizing, renovations, or starting a business, you might also have a self-storage unit which provides you with additional space. If so, make sure to visit the storage unit periodically, and eliminate items which no longer serve any useful purpose. Remember, a good storage system allows you to put important things out the way, yet still within reach. But, it should also maximize the available space in your home at the same time.

Organizing tips:

• Put up shelving or use a standing shelf unit to increase storage space
• Use labelled organizer bins and containers to keep track of your items
• Take advantage of space-savers that you can hang over a door or under your bed
• Ask yourself if you use every item in your home or business on a routine basis, or if you’d be better served by keeping it off-site in a self-storage unit
• Add “storage maintenance” to your list of important tasks or chores
• Make a regular decluttering schedule, i.e. monthly or quarterly, for each storage area inside your home, and elsewhere, whether it’s boxes, closets, garage, storage unit, etc.

This New Year, don’t get stuck making vague promises about “getting in shape” or travelling to an exotic locale. Instead, knuckle down on the immanently doable. Make this year the one where you resolve to become a home organization guru! You’ll find you won’t have to “escape” anymore to the mall/club/gym or the office, or resort to other excuses, to avoid dealing with the mess you leave behind in the house. By taking on good habits to manage clutter, you and your family can spend more quality time truly enjoying your home as it was meant to be!

(Editor’s note: This blog has been updated.)

Check out our specialty products to help you get organized.

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So how do you persuade them to help, and more specifically, how do you teach children to take more responsibility for their own mess? Well, first explain that you alone could spend one hour tidying up, or every person could contribute just fifteen minutes and complete the same amount of work. Ask them which sounds more fair. Then try to incorporate some fun along with this logic to doubly motivate them. You’ll hopefully see a much more productive family in no time.

Motivating Kids to Declutter and Organize

1. Set Up an Incentive Project.

Most kids love working on a project to earn money or other incentives. Plus, this experience could help them develop some real world skills such as cash handling, math, and communication. Involve them in every aspect of the decluttering and organization process. Allow them to have a say in which toys, items, or old clothes they want to give up and what will happen to their belongings after that. Some project ideas:

Hold a Yard Sale.

Take part in your community’s yard sale if there is one and allow the kids to help out. The thought of earning their own money by selling their stuff can be very exciting.

Go to a Consignment Shop.

Find a local consignment shop to sell their old clothes and let them keep a cut of the profits.

Sell Items Online.

If the children have more valuable items (musical instruments, game consoles, dolls) they no longer need, considering selling the stuff on eBay or another online store. Have them photograph the items, write a description, and help pack them up for shipping.

Donate the Items.

Donating the items to charity could teach a valuable lesson in helping others. Tell them that their toys and clothes will be sent to children who don’t have much. Some of their excess clutter could be very valuable to a child in need. Set up further incentive if needed. For example, for every ten toys they choose to donate, they can get one new toy to enjoy.

2. Complete Organization Projects.

There are certain things you can set up ahead of time that will make it easier and more fun for your children to keep up with the organization:

• Hang a basketball hoop over a trash can or laundry basket to make a game out of it
• Place two hampers (or a two-compartment hamper) in the bathroom to encourage them to sort light clothes from dark clothes
• Use containers for toys in every room for easier clean up time

Motivating Kids to Keep up with Daily Chores and Tidying Up

1. Create a fun playlist!

Choose four or five upbeat, fast paced songs to create a fifteen minute playlist. Everyone must tidy up and complete as many chores as possible until the music ends. The kids (and you!) will have fun jamming out to their favorite music while cleaning up. The house will look much better in no time.

2. Make it a Competition

If your family has a competitive side, use that to your advantage. Offer a new prize each week to the person that completes the most chores. Have a chart in the kitchen to keep track of the progress. Prize ideas will differ based on children’s ages and interests, but shouldn’t have to cost you a lot of money. Here are some options:

• 30 minutes extra video game or TV time
• Their favorite home cooked meal for dinner
• Choice of movie or game during next family night
• One iTunes song or app
• A friend can stay the night

3. Have Them Motivate Each Other

If your family is more cooperative than competitive, this idea will have them work together. You’ll still want to have a chart in the kitchen to track progress. Assign certain chores to each family member every week and a deadline to complete them. If every person can stay on task for a certain number of weeks, award them with a group incentive. For example, once the family reaches three weeks without missing any chores or complaining, they’ve earned a special dinner out. Or, once they have kept their rooms clean for a month they’ve earned a trip to the movies. This will have the kids working together and motivating each other to complete tasks on time and keep rooms looking tidy.

This content is courtesy of DAK Self Storage, Leesport PA. Visit DAK for more organization tips, self storage insights, and moving advice. Thank you for reading!

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• You find it easier to buy a new thing, instead of looking in the closet for the existing version;
• You’re building up piles of items around the house that theoretically belong in the closet, but there just isn’t room anymore;
• You’re using external wardrobes or clothing racks as a closet addition or (worse) a total replacement.

If this sounds familiar, you probably have a closet crisis on your hands. You may have spent months or years avoiding the issue, but as you’ve discovered, it only gets worse over time! To restore a healthy relationship with this all-important storage space, you’ll need an enlightened approach to closet maintenance. This means decluttering, moving things around, and more critically, optimizing the way you use the space. To help rehabilitate your closet, here are ten easy and affordable hacks that let you get things back on track.

1. Organizer baskets.

These come in all sizes, shapes, and colours, so you’re bound to find baskets that match your tastes, as well as fit nicely onto your shelves. If you get sturdy ones, you can stack them up like boxes.

2. Towel bars and hooks.

Although you normally wouldn’t associate this with a closet space, a towel bar is a great way to store scarves and neckties without wasting a hanger. You can use durable coat hooks to hang bags, head gear, and belts on the back of the closet door.

3. Extra hanger bar.

This is exactly what it sounds like – it’s an additional hanger bar that hangs from the original one, increasing the space available. This is a handy extension for shorter items like shirts, folded pants, or skirts.

4. Additional shelving.

If you have the room, mount an extra shelf or two above the hanger bar, or on the sides of the closet. This makes a good space to keep items neatly stored yet out of the way, and off the floor.

5. Shoe organizers.

Say goodbye to the ugly shoe jumble! A shoe organizer can be easily attached to the back of the closet door, so you can stack your shoes in neat pairs, without cluttering the interior.

6. Shelf dividers.

Get these to create unique storage spaces on your closet shelf. This helps you separate items and keeps piles neatly stacked, without spillage or collapsing.

7. Hanging organizers.

Made from cloth or plastic, a hanging organizer can be hung from the hanger bar. It will automatically give plenty of new cubbyholes to stash items you don’t want to hang, like sweaters, jeans, or extra household linens.

8. See-through containers.

When your organizer containers are transparent, it just makes it that much easier to find what you want at a glance. You can safely eliminate the hassle of opening each one and digging through it to find things. The big advantage here, like the baskets, is size variety and stackabilty.

9. Clean floor.

One of the worst closet failures is the cluttered floor. This not only makes it difficult to find what you want, but it actively discourages cleaning out the closet altogether. Not to mention that a pile of stuff sitting on the floor eventually becomes nothing but a big dust magnet!

10. Offsite storage.

Virtually every closet contains seasonal or seldom-used items that you really don’t need in the house all year round, anyway. Sometimes the best way to keep a closet neat and organized is to make enough room for the stuff you only use on a regular basis. For the rest, you can put it away offsite, like in your self-storage unit.

Once you’ve got the supplies to revamp the space, you’ll need to create a few new rules to keep things organized. For example, it makes sense to store everyday items at eye-level, and to put the rest on other closet shelves more out of sight. Get into the habit of folding or reboxing things to keep them tidy, and try colour-coding your items to find them easily at a glance. Avoid the temptation to store things on the floor again to make vacuuming a cinch moving forward.

In the end, you’ll congratulate yourself for creating a storage space that you can be proud of. Hey, you can even show it off to your friends, and then share the “secret” of how to become a closet-organizer guru (or just keep it to yourself and bask in the envy, instead). Either way, your physical closet will no longer be a skeleton in the proverbial one. Nope, nothing to see in there, except neat rows and piles and bins. As a cool bonus, you just might have the motivation to organize the rest of the house, now that you have a knack for it!

This blog article was reviewed and republished on Jul 24, 2024

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If you’re a newbie to the garage sale scene, this process might seem a bit taxing at first. You’re probably wondering things like where to start, or what you should do to make your event successful. So, to help guide you on the road to garage-sale good fortune, we’ve put together a checklist of 6 essential things you can do to bring off an awesome garage sale!

1. Encourage your friends and family to be involved

If you can get others participate, it not only brings more value to your event, it makes it easier to manage. Here’s why:

• The more people you can involve, the more items there are to sell
• You’ll have extra help with flyer distribution and event set-up
• Someone else is available to cover for you when you need a break
• Extra sets of eyes can help manage crowd control – kids, pets, potential thieves
• Friends and family could run co-sales of refreshments and treats at the event throughout the day

2. Prepare ahead

Most things don’t work out well when you leave them to the last minute, so here are some tasks you should do beforehand:

• Spread the word of your upcoming sale as much as possible
• Get the signs and fliers up for your garage sale at least one week in advance
• Pick an alternate rain date and post it up, too, just in case,
• Finish all your item tagging and organizing the night before

3. Post good signage and advertising

Make sure people know precisely when and where your sale is, and how to get there:

• Create signs that are highly visible and actually readable from a passing car
• Take advantage of Craigslist and other free publicity sites
• Leverage social media a week or two in advance
• Use good photos and catchy titles in your posts to attract interest

4. Take your merchandising seriously

From your visitor’s perspective, sloppy or haphazard organization can be off-putting. So think of your garage sale as a store:

• Make sure your items are clean and fully presentable
• Use tables and shelving to arrange attractive displays (no jumbled piles or boxes)
• Create accurate item labels and descriptions
• Hang clothing on hangers and organize it by size
• Items that you must sell “as-is” should be labelled as such

5. Set appropriate prices

People love a good bargain! When choosing your item pricing, try to be both realistic and customer-friendly:

• Aim towards selling items for 10% – 50% less than what you paid originally, or depending on current market value
• Use enticing deals like BOGO or discounts for multiple items
• Make sure all your items are clearly and accurately tagged with price displayed
• Use whole dollars for easier sale in case you or your visitors don’t have a lot of small change
• Start slashing prices near the end of the day to move more items
• Set up a “free” box for items you just want to get rid of

6. Be mindful of crowd control

You’ll have to keep an eye on things, and you never know how many people will show up. Here’s a few tips to make your garage sale safe for you and your visitors:

• Carry cash in a money belt so it’s portable (no cash box to watch over)
• Make sure to keep access to your home restricted to people you know well and trust
• Keep your phone charged and handy in case you or your visitors need outside assistance
• Create a sheltered or shady area with plenty of free water available, especially in a heat wave

To add to these pointers, you could always shop the competition. Check out some garage sales near you, and take notes of what you think works and what doesn’t. This way, you’ll get the opportunity to conceptualize how you’d like to plan your own sale.

Now, you’ve got all the basic readiness and know-how to pull off a fantastic garage sale! You’ll be able to eliminate some household clutter, and mingle more with your neighbours – and better yet, have some fun while doing it, too!

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One way we can help is giving you peace of mind about clearing your clutter – and hopefully your thoughts!  Having an efficient space at home – without piles of items that you aren’t currently using, but still need nonetheless – can help us all come closer to some sense of our own personal zen, hopefully!

There are lots of great ideas available as to how to clear your space and minimalize the clutter – donating unused items to charity, passing things you no longer use on to friends who may use them are among them.  However, we all have items that we don’t use all the time, but to which we still need access.  What about the boxes of paperwork in your home office?  Seasonal sports equipment, holiday decorations or gardening supplies?  How about your vacation items, like roof racks, luggage, and apparel for fairer climes?  And hopefully, in a few months (depending on where you live!), you can start storing boxes of winter toques, parkas and snow boots – for a little while, anyways!  When you start thinking of all the items you own, but to which you don’t need regular access year-round, it is amazing how much space can be created in the home, even the smallest. Open, clear space = open, clear mind?  That’s a good resolution!  Best wishes for a Happy 2017!

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Spring is a perfect time to clean the garage ̶ before it gets too hot, and before there are too many fun things to do in the summer. With a few simple organization ideas, tidying up your garage and keeping it neat and clean is not only possible, it’s very doable.

Here’s the plan…

Declutter

• Dedicate a full day or weekend, depending on garage size and amount of clutter
• Make spring cleaning the garage a family project. Include family, relatives or a few close friends. Many hands make light work.
• Go through every single item and sort into four piles – Keep, Donate, Sell or Trash.
• Having trouble letting go? Ask yourself when was the last time I used this item? Have I used it in the last year? Get rid of it if your answer is “no”.
• Do not keep items that you think you may use someday. Wouldn’t you rather have the space those items are taking up…right now?
• Having a hard time letting go of things you spent a lot of money on? The money was already spent! It’s best to let go now and make better spending decisions in the future.
• Recycle items you’ve decided to toss wherever possible.
• Pack up items to be donated in your car and drop them off at the nearest donation center. Do it now and don’t second guess.
• Set aside items you plan to sell at an upcoming yard sale, online, or local consignment stores. If you are planning a yard sale, schedule it now.
• Look into an off-site storage solution to accommodate the items that still belong in your life ̶ not in your garage wasting space

Organize What’s Left

Figure out how much space your car(s) will take and then work with what’s left by placing items in spaces based on their types and uses.

Frequently Used

Keep shopping bags and pet leashes within easy reach – perhaps on hooks by the door.

Items Used Together

Create zones for groups of items such as auto care, gardening, and sports equipment so that like items are stored together.

Bulky Items

Use the two back corners of the garage to store bulkier items such as the lawn mower or snow blower.

Rarely Used

Place items such as holiday decorations or snow tires on higher, sturdy shelving units or consider installing a ceiling storage system. Instead of displacing such items to another area of the house, consider storing them elsewhere via self-storage or a similar service.

Tools and Bicycles

Shovels, rakes and bicycles are best stored by hanging on the wall.

Keep It Tidy

Congratulations! You did it. The next step is to keep it that way. Keep the floor space as free as possible. Avoid temptation to dump unwanted belongings in your garage.

The most important step of all: Repeat this exercise at least once a year to purge what’s no longer wanted or needed.

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The post Declutter Your Garage – Spring Cleaning Tips appeared first on Public Storage Canada.