Get Ready. Get Set. Get Organized!

How to prep your garage for winter storage

For so many of us, organization and procrastination seem to go hand-in-hand. And when it comes to getting the garage in order to store yard care equipment during the off-season, it’s mighty tempting to skip that task with the intention of dealing with it next spring.

If this sounds familiar, consider this: Focus your efforts for one day now, and you can create a garage space that will be a joy to face next season, rather than a jumble. Here are some suggestions.

Storing small garden tools and supplies.

Step one: If you don’t already have one, install a shelving system in your garage. Not only will this expand your storage space and allow for more convenient access to your items, it will also help you keep your garage safe.

To protect your garden hand tools from moisture and prevent rusting, fill one or more plastic storage bins with sand mixed with some oil. Then, you can stand your tools inside, sharp side down, so they’re extra easy to identify. (Don’t forget to wash and dry your garden tools first!) Next, cover and label the bin with what’s inside, and place it on a lower shelf where it’s easy to get to.

Supplies that could be hazardous, such as pesticides and herbicides should be stored safely out of reach of children.  Also you may need to prevent chemicals from freezing, so make sure to read all chemical storage directions.  If you’re storing birdseed, a metal container placed above ground level works best to keep out unwanted critters.

Bonus tip: Organize your shelves so the items you use most are the most easily retrieved. Then, label the shelves to help make sure things are returned to the right place after they’re used.

Storing medium-sized yard care tools.

For tools like rakes, shovels and hoes, it’s important to keep them out of the way so people don’t trip over them. Sturdy hooks are great for hanging these items and getting them off the garage floor, while still keeping them within easy reach. (Again, clean off any debris before putting them away for the season.)

If you have extra floor space in your garage, another option for storing these tools is in a special bin that has slots where you can slip in yard tool handles to keep them organized and in one location. Look for these storage bins at garden supply stores and hardware stores.

Storing larger lawn care equipment.

For lawn care equipment like string trimmers and leaf blowers, wall hooks also work well to keep them off the ground and preserve precious floor space. You can also find racks made especially for trimmers online or at lawn care equipment stores.

For your lawnmower, the most important storage advice is to properly winterize it before you put it away. Doing so will save you potential headaches and possible delays in getting work started when the growing season returns. Find out how to winterize here. Then, all you need to do is pick a safe, dry area in your garage for your lawnmower’s winter home. You can cover it up to protect it from moisture and dust, too.

When you prepare in advance instead of procrastinating, you’ll be ready and set for your spring projects straight away, instead of wasting time searching through piles of tools and materials you need to get started. And next spring, you’ll be very glad you got organized.