Decluttering Your Garage: What To Keep, Donate, Or Toss

Garage decluttering isn’t just about tidying up – it’s about transforming a neglected, chaotic space into a functional extension of your home. Whether you’re looking to create room for your car, set up a dedicated workspace, or simply breathe new life into an area that’s been overrun with clutter, the process can be incredibly rewarding. 

Over the years, we all accumulate things we no longer need, and the garage is often the prime location for forgotten items. But the good news is, with a little effort and strategy, you can turn that cluttered mess into a well-organised haven that serves a purpose and enhances your home.

The Decluttering Process: A Step-By-Step Approach

I get it. Decluttering your garage can feel like an enormous task, and the thought of diving into it can be overwhelming. Trust me, I’ve been there. 

The sheer volume of things you’ve accumulated over the years, coupled with the sentimental value attached to some items, can make it hard to know where to start. But here’s the good news: breaking it down into manageable steps makes all the difference.

Let me take you through the approach that worked for me and how you can use the same strategy to transform your garage into a clean, organised space that actually works for you.

1. Set Aside Time For The Declutter Project

First off, don’t try to squeeze this into a half-hour slot in your weekend. I’ve made that mistake before, and believe me, you’ll only get frustrated. A successful declutter needs dedicated time. Whether it’s a whole weekend or a few afternoons spread out over the next couple of weeks, plan ahead.

For me, I broke it up into chunks: one weekend to empty the garage and sort the items, another to clean and organise. That way, I didn’t feel rushed and could really focus on each part of the process.

Suggested Timeline for Garage Decluttering:

Task	Time Estimate
Set aside time for sorting	1-2 hours
Empty the garage	2-3 hours
Sort, donate, and toss items	3-5 hours
Clean the garage	2-3 hours
Reorganise and store items	4-6 hours

2. Empty The Garage: A Clean Slate

Once you’ve scheduled the time, it’s time to get to work. Start by emptying out the garage entirely. Yes, I mean everything. I know it’s a big job, but trust me, it’s the best way to see exactly what you’re dealing with. Take everything out into the driveway, lawn, or a large empty space.

Here’s the thing – when you empty your garage, you get a clean slate. It’s a little like renovating a room, but instead, you’re just decluttering. Now, you can visually assess the space, look at how much room you really have, and figure out what’s essential and what’s just taking up space.

Pro Tip: While the garage is empty, this is the perfect opportunity to check for any damage that may have been hidden, like water damage, leaks, or pest issues.

3. Sort Ruthlessly: What To Keep, Donate, Or Toss

This step is where the magic happens – but it’s also where many people get stuck. The key here is ruthless sorting. Don’t allow yourself to second-guess every single item. That “maybe” pile will only grow and end up back in the garage.

As you begin sorting, divide everything into four categories:

• Keep: Items that are used regularly or are essential to tasks. These might include tools you use frequently, car maintenance supplies, or camping gear that you actually use.
• Donate: Items in good, usable condition that you no longer need. This could be old but usable sporting goods, gently used furniture, or things like kids’ toys that your little ones have outgrown. These donations not only help you clear space but also give back to the community.
• Sell: Items that still have value but require a bit of effort to sell. You might not want to deal with this, but it’s worth it for valuable items like bicycles, electronics, or even vintage tools. If you live in a neighbourhood where people regularly have garage sales, consider listing items online or holding a sale. Just don’t expect to make a fortune – most garage sale sellers report making under $300.
• Toss/Recycling: Items that are broken, expired, or have no real value. Think old paint cans, broken furniture, or random bits of scrap metal. If you can’t use it or donate it, then it’s time to dispose of it properly. Remember, recycling is key – don’t just throw everything in the trash. Make sure you dispose of e-waste and hazardous materials like chemicals or paint responsibly.

4. Be Decisive: Avoid Creating A “Maybe” Pile

The “maybe” pile – it’s the sneaky part of decluttering that causes hesitation and makes the process drag on. You know what I mean, right? The items you’re not sure about but can’t quite bring yourself to toss just yet. Trust me, these piles quickly add up and just end up back in your garage.

A simple rule I use is the 20/20 rule: If you haven’t used an item in over a year and it would cost less than $20 to replace, let it go. If you’re still on the fence, ask yourself, “When was the last time I used this?” and “Do I need this in my life moving forward?”

If you’re still stuck, call in a friend for a second opinion. Someone else can offer a different perspective and help you make those tough decisions.

5. Clean Thoroughly: Before You Start Organising

Once everything is sorted and the piles are dealt with, it’s time to give the garage a deep clean. You don’t want to store your carefully organised items in a dirty space, right?

I recommend starting with sweeping the floor and then vacuuming. If your garage has a concrete floor, consider hosing it down if it’s been a while. Check the walls and doors for dust or grime – those cobwebs might be hiding more than you think.

If you’re dealing with mould or dampness, take care to address the issue first. In some cases, you may need to install a dehumidifier or check for leaks to avoid future issues. Don’t forget to look for safety hazards such as sticking nails or sharp objects.

Common Items to Toss, Donate, or Keep

Item	Toss	Donate	Keep
Old Paint (expired)	Yes (especially oil-based)	No	No
Broken Tools	Yes (unless parts are salvageable)	No	Yes (if functional)
Sporting Goods (in good condition)	No	Yes	Yes (if used regularly)
Furniture (worn out)	Yes	Yes (if in good condition)	No
Camping Gear (unused)	No	Yes (if still usable)	Yes (if regularly used)
Christmas Decorations (damaged)	Yes	No	No
Old Clothes (outgrown or worn)	Yes	Yes (if wearable)	No

What To Toss (Dispose Of)

As I’ve learnt the hard way, there’s a lot of stuff in the garage that should simply go. Some of it’s broken, some of it’s expired, and some of it is just taking up space that could be better used for something else. And here’s the thing – throwing things away properly (or recycling them) is just as important as donating the good stuff.

When I first tackled my garage declutter, I came across piles of things that I hadn’t even noticed gathering dust. Paint cans that had long since dried up, half-used motor oils, and old tools that were just too far gone to keep. I was surprised at how much I could actually dispose of – and how much more space I had once it was gone.

But here’s the thing: not all of it can go straight into the trash. In Australia, we must be mindful of local regulations when it comes to disposing of certain items, especially hazardous materials. Here’s a breakdown of what you should toss, how to safely dispose of it, and what to keep an eye out for.

Expired Products: The Hidden Hazards

I’m sure you’ve got a few old cans of paint, motor oil, or pesticides sitting around that you’ve been meaning to deal with. Maybe it’s a half-empty bottle of brake fluid or a jar of expired fertiliser. These items are not just clutter – they can be hazardous to your health, the environment, and your home.

Here’s a checklist of expired products to dispose of:

Item	Why Toss It	Disposal Tips
Old Paint	Expired paint (especially oil-based) can dry out or become toxic.	Latex paint can be dried and disposed of with normal waste. Oil-based paints are hazardous and must be taken to a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility.
Pesticides and Herbicides	They lose potency over time or can be harmful if spilled.	Take to a local HHW drop-off or collection event.
Motor Oil	Old or expired motor oil can damage the environment and machinery.	Never pour it down the drain. Take it to a recycling facility that accepts used oil.
Antifreeze and Brake Fluid	Expired antifreeze is toxic and can cause damage to your car.	Most car repair shops accept old antifreeze and brake fluid for disposal.
Old Cleaning Products	Many cleaning chemicals can become less effective or even dangerous.	Dispose of them through HHW disposal programs.
Expired Gasoline	Old gasoline can deteriorate and cause engine problems or explosions.	Take it to a petrol station or recycling centre that accepts old fuel.

Broken Or Damaged Items: Say Goodbye To The Useless

It’s tempting to hold on to broken tools, old furniture, or even that exercise equipment that’s gathering dust in the corner. But really, how many times have you fixed that lawnmower or promised yourself you’d repair the cracked rake? If it’s broken beyond repair, it’s time to toss it.

Here are the types of broken or damaged items you should get rid of:

Item	Reason to Toss	Disposal Tip
Old Tools	If they’re beyond repair, they’re just taking up space.	Most old metal tools can be recycled. Take them to a scrap metal centre.
Old Furniture (damaged)	Broken furniture, especially wooden pieces, can attract pests.	If it’s broken and can’t be fixed, most councils will offer bulk waste pickup.
Exercise Equipment	If it’s collecting dust and you’re no longer using it, it’s time.	Donate if it’s in good condition. Otherwise, take it to a recycling centre or the dump.
Old Car Parts	If you have a car sitting in your garage with broken parts, it’s taking up space.	Contact a scrap yard to get rid of old car parts. Many will even pay you for them.

Unfinished Projects: The “Someday” Pile

We’ve all been there. You’ve started a DIY project with great intentions, but it’s been collecting dust for years. Whether it’s an unfinished bookshelf, a bike you’ve been meaning to restore, or that car you planned to fix up – if there’s no realistic plan to finish it, it’s time to let go. I know it’s tough, but you’ll feel so much better once that project is gone.

I had a similar scenario in my garage: a half-built coffee table that I started but never finished. It sat there for years, taking up space, until I finally decided to get rid of it. The relief was instant, and I was able to repurpose the wood for a new project that I actually finished!

Old Seasonal Decor: If It’s Broken, It’s Time To Let Go

Decorations for holidays can easily pile up, especially when you’re keeping old Christmas lights that no longer work or Easter decorations that are out of style. If it’s broken, faded, or no longer serving your aesthetic, it’s time to part ways.

I had a box of Christmas decorations that I held onto for way too long. Some of the lights no longer worked, and the baubles had broken over the years. I realised I wasn’t really attached to them anymore – they were just taking up valuable space. Once I let go, I found a new set of decorations that actually matched my style!

Excessive Packaging: A Magnet For Dust And Pests

Have you been storing boxes, plastic bottles, and packaging materials in your garage? It’s time to say goodbye to the excess. Old cardboard boxes can attract pests like mice and cockroaches, and they take up valuable space. Plus, they can be breeding grounds for mould.

I used to keep every packaging box I got, “just in case.” When I went through it, I realised that most of those boxes were never going to be useful again. I recycled what I could and disposed of the rest, and the garage felt so much cleaner.

Old Electronics (E-Waste): Handle With Care

You might have some old DVDs, CDs, or even obsolete electronics like a broken TV or ancient mobile phones sitting in your garage. These can’t just go in the trash. E-waste contains harmful materials that can harm the environment, so it’s important to dispose of it properly.

Many councils and local businesses offer free e-waste collection events, so be sure to check your local area for safe disposal options.

“I Might Need Them Someday” Items

We all have that one box in the garage that’s filled with random items “just in case.” Maybe it’s a pile of old scrap wood, bent nails, or broken tools that you swear you’ll use one day. But honestly, if you haven’t used it in over a year, it’s time to let go. I had a box filled with “useful” bits of scrap metal, wood, and other miscellaneous items. I can’t tell you how many times I promised myself I’d use them, but they just ended up gathering dust.

If you’ve got one of these piles in your garage, ask yourself: Will I ever use this? If not, it’s time to part ways.

What To Donate: Giving Your Garage A Purposeful Clean-Up

Decluttering is not just about tossing things out; it’s also about finding ways to help others. When I went through my garage, I realised that many of the items I was holding onto were in perfectly good condition. These weren’t things that needed to be thrown away – they just needed a new home. That’s where donation comes in.

Donating not only helps those in need, but it also frees up space in your garage and gives you a real sense of purpose. Plus, when you donate, you’re contributing to a greater cause – whether it’s helping local communities or supporting a charity that’s close to your heart.

Here’s how I approached the donation process, and how you can, too:

Common Garage Donation Items

You’d be surprised by how many items in your garage could be donated. Let’s break it down.

Item	Why Donate It	Where to Donate
Clothing and Shoes	If they’re still in good condition but no longer fit or are out of style.	The Salvation Army, Goodwill, Vinnies, or local charity shops.
Sporting Goods	Gently used gear can give someone else the opportunity to enjoy sports.	Local schools, community sports clubs, or Goodwill.
Furniture	Old furniture can be a blessing for someone in need of basics.	The Furniture Bank Network, Habitat for Humanity.
Books, Toys, and Games	Don’t let them sit collecting dust; donate them to spread joy.	Local libraries, schools, or children’s charities.
Vehicles	If you’re not using your car, donate it to support a good cause.	The Smith Family, Red Cross, or other vehicle donation programs.
Appliances (Working)	Newer, functional items that you’ve replaced or no longer need.	Charity organisations or community centres.
Household Goods	Plates, cups, pots, pans, and other kitchenware can be given a new life.	Goodwill, Salvation Army, or local shelters.

How Donations Make A Difference

I can’t stress enough how much of a difference a simple donation can make. When I donated a few old bikes to a local youth charity, the kids who received them were over the moon. They didn’t just get a bike; they got a sense of freedom, adventure, and the chance to get outside. That’s the power of giving.

Donations often fund community programs and charities, so when you donate, you’re directly supporting these vital services. For example, Habitat for Humanity uses donated furniture to help families furnish their homes, and the Salvation Army helps people struggling with addiction and poverty.

Some charities will even provide tax deductions for your donations. If you’re donating a vehicle, for instance, the charity will often give you a receipt that you can use to claim a deduction on your taxes. This can be a great bonus for those bigger items, like cars or large furniture.

Where To Donate: Finding The Right Charities

One of the first steps in donating is finding the right charity or organisation. While there are many options, it’s important to research and find ones that align with your values and are well-established. Here’s how I found the right places for my donations:

• The Salvation Army – Accepts clothing, furniture, household items, and vehicles. They offer convenient free pick-up services in most areas, which was a game-changer for me when I had to donate bulky items.
• Habitat for Humanity – Perfect for larger furniture and household items that are still in good condition. They also have a program that helps you donate directly to people in need.
• Goodwill – A popular option for clothing, shoes, books, and electronics. They often accept smaller household goods like kitchenware, too.
• Vinnies (St. Vincent de Paul Society) – They take most household items, including furniture, clothing, and even food. Plus, they offer pick-up services for large donations, so you don’t have to worry about transporting it yourself.
• AMVETS National Service Foundation – They accept clothing, shoes, household goods, and even vehicles. Plus, they do free pick-ups for larger donations.

How To Prepare Your Donations

Once you’ve decided where to donate, the next step is to get your items ready for donation. I used to just throw everything into garbage bags, but after doing some research, I learned the right way to prepare donations.

Here’s a simple checklist to get your donations ready:

1. Sort and Categorise: Before you pack up your items, group them into categories: clothing, furniture, electronics, etc. This will make it easier when you’re sorting through the donation pile and when charities are processing your items.
2. Check for Quality: Only donate items in good condition. If your clothes have rips or stains, they probably aren’t worth donating. Same goes for furniture – make sure it’s functional and clean. If it’s broken, consider tossing or recycling it.
3. Pack Smart: Use sturdy boxes or bags to pack your donations. For fragile items, like glassware or decor, use bubble wrap or newspaper to protect them during transport. If you have multiple items to donate, try to group them together in one accessible place so it’s easy for the pick-up or drop-off.
4. Label Your Items: For larger donations like furniture, it’s helpful to label them with a brief description – for example, “Sofa in good condition” or “Two lamps, working order.” This helps charity organisations sort and distribute your items more easily.
5. Schedule the Pick-Up: Many charities offer free pick-up services, especially for larger items like furniture or vehicles. Check with your local organisation to see if they offer this service.

Tax Deductions For Donated Items

As an extra perk, many charitable donations are tax-deductible, provided you’ve kept a record of your donations. When I donated a car to a local veteran’s charity, I received a receipt that allowed me to claim a tax deduction. It’s a win-win: I got rid of a vehicle I no longer used, and the charity could use the proceeds to fund their programs.

Tip: Always keep receipts and make a list of donated items. This will help ensure you’re getting the maximum possible deduction. Charitable donations are typically valued at fair market value, which can be found through online guides or by checking the prices of similar items.

What To Keep: Maximising Garage Storage With Essential Items

Deciding what to keep in your garage is one of the most important steps in the decluttering process. After all, the goal isn’t to have a completely empty garage – it’s about retaining the items that you use regularly or that are essential for your life and hobbies.

When I first decluttered my garage, I found it surprisingly easy to get rid of the junk. But when it came time to choose what to keep, I started to realise that I was attached to a lot of things I didn’t truly need. It’s easy to accumulate items that are “just in case” or “maybe I’ll need it one day”, – but the reality is, if you haven’t used it in the past year, you probably won’t use it moving forward.

Here’s how I approach the decision-making process when deciding what stays and what goes:

Frequently Used Tools And Equipment

Let’s start with the most obvious category: tools. A garage is a workshop for many, and the tools you use regularly are essential to keep. But how do you know which tools to store? If you use them every week or every month for maintenance or projects, they’re definitely worth keeping. Think about tools for car repairs, gardening, or everyday household repairs.

I remember holding on to an old power drill that I hadn’t used in years. It was gathering dust on the shelf, and I thought to myself, “I might need it someday.” But then, when I actually considered how many times I had borrowed my neighbour’s drill in the past two years, I realised it was time to let go.

Essential tools to keep:

• Gardening tools: Lawnmowers, pruners, rakes, and spades.
• Car maintenance tools: Wrenches, jacks, and screwdrivers.
• DIY project tools: Hammers, drills, tape measures, and power saws.
• Cleaning equipment: A vacuum cleaner, broom, mop, and pressure washer.

Tip: Store frequently used tools in easily accessible areas, such as open shelving, tool chests, or pegboards. This way, you can grab them quickly without digging through piles.

Seasonal Equipment And Sentimental Keepsakes

There are certain items that only get used once or twice a year, like Christmas decorations or camping gear. It’s tempting to toss them out, but if you use these items annually or they hold sentimental value, they’re worth keeping.

I once debated getting rid of some Christmas decorations I hadn’t used in years. But after thinking about the joy they brought during the holiday season, I decided to keep them and store them properly. The key here is seasonal items – things like your Christmas tree, camping gear, or holiday decorations can be kept, as long as they’re well-organised.

Examples of seasonal items to keep:

• Holiday Decorations: Christmas trees, lights, wreaths, and decorations.
• Camping Gear: Tents, sleeping bags, portable stoves, and other essentials.
• Sports Equipment: Snowboards, skis, surfboards, and other seasonal gear.

Tip: Consider using stackable storage bins or clear plastic boxes for seasonal items. Label them clearly with the contents and the season they belong to, so you can easily grab what you need when the time comes.

Essential Household And Car Maintenance Supplies

There are always things we need to store in the garage because they’re practical and essential for everyday life. Think of household supplies, like detergents or light bulbs, or car maintenance supplies, like oil, antifreeze, and air filters.

When I first started cleaning out my garage, I realised how many “just-in-case” items I had sitting around – like spare light bulbs, extra air filters, and cleaning products I rarely used. But once I streamlined and stored them neatly in boxes or on shelves, I could quickly access what I needed without all the extra clutter.

Essential supplies to keep:

• Cleaning Supplies: Detergents, rags, vacuum bags, sponges.
• Car Maintenance: Motor oil, antifreeze, oil filters, windshield wiper fluid.
• Home Repair Supplies: Nails, screws, adhesive, duct tape, and extra light bulbs.

Tip: Use cabinet storage or stacked bins with dividers for small items like cleaning supplies or tools. This keeps everything organised and easy to reach, so you’re not wasting time searching for things.

Sentimental Items (With Limits)

Let’s talk about sentimental items. Ah, this is where it gets tricky. Over the years, I’ve accumulated a stack of old family memorabilia, childhood toys, and random knick-knacks that I can’t quite part with. But, as I realised during my declutter, holding onto too many of these items can cause your garage to become a storage unit for things you’ll never see again.

The key to keeping sentimental items is moderation. Instead of storing dozens of boxes of memorabilia, keep only the most meaningful or useful ones, like a few family heirlooms or items that bring back fond memories. Display them or store them in a memory box so they’re not forgotten in the back of your garage.

Sentimental items to consider keeping:

• Family Heirlooms: Items passed down through generations.
• Photo Albums: Family albums or personal photos.
• Special Gifts or Collections: Items that hold significant meaning.

Tip: Keep sentimental items in decorative boxes or storage bins in a specific area of your garage, like a top shelf or a dedicated storage closet. If you’re unsure, take a photo of the item before parting with it – that way, you can preserve the memory without storing the physical object.

Decluttering your garage doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By breaking the task into manageable steps and focusing on what truly adds value to your life, you’ll be amazed at how much space and peace of mind you can create. 

From deciding what to keep, donate, or toss to implementing smart storage solutions, every small action adds up to a more organised, functional space. Not only will you regain valuable square footage, but you’ll also improve safety, protect your belongings, and even contribute to your community through donations. Embrace the process, and you’ll soon have a garage that works for you.