How To Create Storage In One Car Garage?

Organising a one-car garage might feel like a daunting task, especially when you’re working with limited space. But trust me, it’s not only possible – it’s incredibly rewarding. I’ve been there, struggling to fit everything from bikes and tools to seasonal decorations into a cramped garage, only to realise I was missing out on simple, effective storage solutions. 

Whether you’re looking to maximise storage in a small garage or simply organise the clutter, this guide will walk you through practical, budget-friendly solutions that will transform your garage into a space that’s not only functional but also inviting.

Declutter First: The Essential First Step In Organising Your Garage

When I first set out to organise my garage, I made the mistake of jumping straight into buying storage solutions. I was convinced that shelves and cabinets would magically solve all my problems. But when I took a step back and assessed the situation, I realised that the most crucial step in any garage overhaul is decluttering. It might sound obvious, but it’s often the hardest part.

I remember one particular Saturday – the kind where the weather’s perfect for a garage clean-up. I decided it was time. I cleared everything out of the garage and onto the driveway, carefully placing things on tarps and using plastic bins to keep them organised. It was a sight to behold: bikes, old tools, seasonal decorations, and boxes I hadn’t touched in years. You could barely walk through the place!

Step-by-Step Decluttering Process:

1. Clear Everything Out: Move everything from the garage to the driveway or onto tarps on your lawn.
2. Deep Clean the Garage: Vacuum, mop the floors, and wipe down shelves and surfaces.
3. Sort Items into Categories:
   • Essential – Items you use regularly (e.g., tools, gardening supplies).
   • Useful but not essential – Items you still need, but don’t require frequent access (e.g., holiday decorations).
   • Discard – Items that are broken, expired, or haven’t been used in over a year (e.g., old furniture, broken sporting equipment).

4. Donate/Sell Items: Consider donating or selling useful items you no longer need.

Decluttering Checklist

Task	Description
Pick the Right Day	Check the weather forecast for a sunny, mild weekend.
Clear Everything Out	Move all items to your driveway or a nearby tarp.
Clean the Garage	Vacuum, mop floors, and wipe down shelves and surfaces.
Sort Items into Categories	Divide your items into essential, useful, and discard piles.
Donate/Sell	Items in good condition can be donated or sold via Facebook Marketplace or local charity shops.
Set Up a Disposal Plan	Dispose of old or hazardous items, like paint cans, through your local council.

Sort Items Ruthlessly

After cleaning, it’s time to sort through everything you’ve pulled out. I used to struggle with this part, but over time, I’ve realised that being ruthless with my decisions is key to success. I made three piles:

1. Essential – Things I use often, like my tools or lawn mower.
2. Useful but not essential – These include things like camping gear or seasonal decorations I don’t need access to regularly but still want to keep.
3. Discard – Anything broken, expired, or items I haven’t used in a year (for instance, that old set of unused weights in the corner).

I can tell you, getting rid of items that I hadn’t used in forever felt so liberating. And don’t forget, those items that you no longer need but are still in good condition? Consider donating them. In my local community, I found that donating sporting equipment and gently used tools to local charities was not only environmentally friendly but also really rewarding.

Categorising and Discarding Items:

1. Essential Items – Things you use regularly or need for daily tasks.
   • Example: Lawn mower, toolbox, car cleaning supplies.
2. Useful but Not Essential – Things that come in handy but are used infrequently.
   • Example: Camping gear, out-of-season sports equipment.
3. Discard Pile – Broken, outdated, or unused items.
   • Example: Old electronics, broken furniture, expired paint cans.

Involve Your Family

This is a big one. I’ve found that when everyone has a say in how things are organised, it becomes a system that’s easier to maintain. In my household, the garage is a shared space – it’s not just my tools but the kids’ bikes, gardening gear, and occasionally, the car! So, I had a chat with my family and we agreed on a plan. That way, when things start getting messy again, everyone knows where things belong, and no one can point fingers!

Family Involvement Checklist:

Task	Description
Discuss the Organisational Plan	Have a conversation with all household members to agree on the storage plan.
Assign Specific Zones	Allocate areas for each family member’s items (e.g., kids’ bikes, sports gear).
Incorporate Family Preferences	Make sure everyone’s needs are considered in the organisational system.

Be Realistic With Time

Finally, a little advice: don’t expect it all to happen in one day. I was guilty of thinking I’d finish in a weekend, but in reality, this project took me a few days spread over a couple of weeks. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the scale of it all. But trust me, breaking it down into smaller tasks really helps. Even just 15 minutes a day can bring you closer to an organised garage.

Time Management Tips for Garage Organisation:

1. Break it Into Tasks – Don’t try to do everything at once. Focus on one section at a time.
   • Example: Day 1: Clear and clean the garage. Day 2: Sort and categorise items.
2. Set Time Limits – Aim for 15-30 minute sessions each day. Progress is still progress, no matter how small.
3. Avoid Overwhelm – Give yourself a break if you feel stressed. Organisation is a marathon, not a sprint!

Maximising Vertical Space For Better Storage Solutions

When it comes to organising a one-car garage, I’ve learned that vertical storage is an absolute game-changer. In my early attempts to tackle the space, I focused on floor space, trying to fit everything in neatly. But then it hit me: why not use the walls, corners, and even the ceiling? The key to transforming a cramped space into something functional lies in the ability to think up, not out.

Over time, I’ve become a huge advocate for utilising vertical space, and the impact it has made in my garage is substantial. I’ve seen many people struggle with the same issues I faced, but once they added vertical solutions, everything seemed to fall into place. Here’s how I approached it, and what you can do to do the same:

Using Wall Storage Systems

The walls in your garage are like untapped real estate, and here in Australia, where the weather can vary from sunny days to wet and windy, it’s especially important to keep things off the floor. Tools, bikes, and even the kids’ sporting gear can be stored vertically, and the best part? They’re always accessible. I learned this the hard way, trying to store things in bins on the floor, only to realise I was wasting precious space and making it harder to find what I needed.

Slatwall Vs Pegboard: Which Is Better?

I used to rely on the old-fashioned pegboard – but after some research and a bit of trial and error, I found that slatwall systems have several key advantages. Slatwall gives a much sleeker, more organised appearance compared to pegboard. It’s also more flexible: I can easily rearrange hooks, shelves, and baskets as needed. It’s heavy-duty, too, which means I can store heavier tools or garden equipment without worrying about them falling off the wall.

That said, pegboards are still a fantastic option, especially if you’re on a budget. They’re super affordable and can hold light to medium-weight tools. Just be sure to upgrade to metal hooks to ensure they last longer and withstand the wear and tear of garage life.

Ceiling Storage: The Hidden Treasure

The ceiling in your garage is often the last place people think of when it comes to storage, but let me tell you – that’s a missed opportunity. The first time I installed overhead storage racks above my car, I was amazed by how much space I gained. Now, I store seasonal items, old luggage, and bulky camping gear up there. These are the kinds of items I don’t need regularly, but they can take up a lot of floor space if not stored properly.

When installing overhead racks, you need to consider the weight capacity of your garage’s ceiling. For those living in areas like Sydney, where there are a lot of older homes, you’ll want to make sure the ceiling joists are strong enough to support the weight. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to consult a professional before installing heavy-duty systems.

Corner Shelving And Cabinets

The corners of your garage are often underutilised, but they offer an ideal location for shelving or corner cabinets. Think about it – you can install corner shelves for small items like garden supplies, power tools, and even cleaning products. I’ve found that corner shelves work well for things like sports gear (balls, helmets, and pads) and even small hardware bins. By adding a corner cabinet in one of these spaces, you can tuck away clutter like spray paints or cleaning supplies that you don’t use daily but still need to store safely.

Vertical Storage Tips:

1. Wall Storage

• Slatwall Systems: Flexible and durable, ideal for heavy tools.
• Pegboard: Budget-friendly and great for hanging smaller tools.

2. Overhead Storage

• Ceiling Racks: Use these for seasonal or bulky items like camping gear or old luggage.
• Motorised Platforms: A great choice for those who need to store heavier items that are hard to reach.

3. Corner Shelves & Cabinets

• Install shelving in the corner to use vertical space for smaller items or materials that need to be kept organised.
• Corner cabinets are perfect for storing cleaning products or things like paint cans that you want to keep out of sight but still easily accessible.

Local Expertise Tip: Secure Your Items from the Elements

If you’re in a humid region like Brisbane or Sydney, make sure to protect your items from moisture and rust. Overhead storage racks and wall-mounted systems will keep your items off the floor, but don’t forget to add rust-proof shelving or moisture-absorbing packets in cabinets. I found out the hard way that storing tools directly on the floor in a damp garage can lead to corrosion – now, I ensure all my tools are off the ground!

Quick Actionable Checklist for Vertical Storage

Task	Action
Install Slatwall Systems	Hang tools, bikes, and smaller items. Consider adjustable hooks for flexibility.
Add Overhead Racks	Store bulky or seasonal items like tyres, camping gear, and luggage.
Maximise Corner Spaces	Install shelves or cabinets in corners to store smaller items and cleaning supplies.
Add Hooks for Bikes	Use padded hooks to store bikes vertically. Ceiling-mounted hoists are great for infrequent use.
Use Metal Pegboard Hooks	For hanging tools or gardening supplies, opt for durable metal hooks.

Smart Storage Solutions For A One-Car Garage

Once you’ve tackled decluttering and maximising vertical space, it’s time to focus on the specific storage solutions that will make the best use of your garage’s limited footprint. Over the years, I’ve experimented with several options, and I can confidently say that combining storage systems is the best way to approach it. From custom cabinetry to wall-mounted hooks, here’s how to create a truly functional garage.

Garage Cabinets: A Must-Have For Organised Storage

Let’s start with garage cabinets. After I installed them in my own garage, I found that they became the backbone of my organisation system. Cabinets not only help you hide away clutter but also protect your items from dust, dirt, and moisture. This is particularly important if you’re storing anything valuable or susceptible to rusting, like tools or garden equipment.

In terms of customisation, a few features made a big difference for me:

• Pull-out shelves for easy access to items at the back.
• Locking mechanisms for storing hazardous chemicals safely away from kids.
• Task lighting is installed inside the cabinets to make finding tools in low light easy.

Types of Cabinets:

If you’re working with a smaller garage, shallow-depth cabinets (around 18 inches deep) will give you the best use of space without making things feel cramped. The last thing you want is to clutter up what little space you have left.

Pro Tip: If you’re located in areas like Melbourne or Tasmania, where moisture levels can be a concern, investing in rust-proof or powder-coated metal cabinets is a must. This prevents your cabinets from deteriorating over time due to damp conditions.

Wall Storage Systems: Slatwall Vs Pegboard

A year ago, I switched from a standard pegboard to a slatwall system, and the change was night and day. Both are excellent solutions for storing tools, gardening supplies, and other accessories, but slatwall comes with a few significant advantages:

• Durability: Slatwall is more durable than pegboard, handling heavy tools or larger items without warping or sagging.
• Flexibility: It’s much easier to adjust the layout on slatwall. I can swap out hooks, shelves, or baskets without needing new holes in the wall.
• Clean Look: Slatwall gives a more modern, sleek appearance, which is a huge plus if you prefer an organised, polished look in your garage.

Best for:

• Heavy-duty tools (e.g., power drills, hammers, screwdrivers).
• Garden equipment (e.g., hoses, shovels, rakes).
• Bikes (with the addition of slatwall hooks).

Pro Tip: If you’re after a budget-friendly option, a pegboard is still a solid choice. It’s cheaper and easier to install, plus it works great for hanging smaller items. Just ensure you use metal hooks instead of plastic for durability.

Shelving: A Flexible Storage Option

Shelving is one of the most versatile storage solutions in a one-car garage. In my case, installing wall-mounted shelves above my car’s hood was a game-changer. It’s easy to install, doesn’t take up much room, and holds everything from paint cans to camping gear.

Here’s how I made it work for me:

1. Tall Shelves at the Back: These shelves are perfect for storing things I don’t use often, like holiday decorations or spare tyres. By putting the largest and least-used items at the back, I save the front space for things like cleaning supplies and tools.
2. Clear, Stackable Bins: I use clear bins for visibility, making it easy to identify what’s inside without opening them. A label maker comes in handy here, especially if you’re storing small hardware or seasonal items.
3. Cubby Shelves: I’ve also added cubby-hole shelves for each family member’s gear. It keeps the garage tidy and means there’s a dedicated space for everything, from the kids’ scooters to my husband’s DIY tools.

Overhead Storage Racks: Ideal For Bulky Items

Overhead storage racks have made the biggest difference in terms of space optimisation. These racks are perfect for storing large, infrequently-used items like kayaks, roof racks, or seasonal decorations. The best part is that they’re usually out of the way, which frees up space for the car and everything else you need.

• Fixed Racks: These are sturdy and provide ample space for storing bulky items, such as tyres or camping gear.
• Motorised Platforms: For larger, heavier items, I’d recommend a motorised platform lift. This allows you to store heavier items in the rafters without a ladder, a godsend when it comes to safety and ease of access.

Organising Specific Items In A One-Car Garage

Once you’ve maximised your vertical storage and found the perfect shelving solutions, it’s time to think about the specifics: how to store individual items in a way that makes them easily accessible yet organised. Each item in your garage has its own storage needs, and tailoring your storage approach to these needs can make all the difference.

Through trial and error, I’ve learned that a garage isn’t just about storing tools and seasonal gear; it’s about creating custom solutions for items that often don’t fit neatly into boxes or shelves.

Bikes: Make Room For Two Wheels

Bikes are probably one of the most awkward items to store in a one-car garage. They take up a lot of space on the floor, are prone to tipping over, and often end up in the way. My turning point came when I decided to hang them up. Not only did this free up valuable floor space, but it also kept the bikes safe and protected from any potential damage.

Here’s how I organised mine:

1. Wall Hooks: I installed padded wall hooks to hang the bikes vertically along the wall. This way, they don’t take up any more space than necessary.
2. Ceiling Hoists: For the more infrequently used bikes, I opted for ceiling hoists. These are particularly great for storing kids’ bikes, which we only need on weekends.
3. Slatwall Bike Hooks: If you already have a slatwall system in place, you can easily purchase bike-specific hooks. These hooks are sturdy and can hold bikes securely while allowing you to adjust them to different heights depending on your needs.

Pro Tip: If you live in areas with high humidity, like Brisbane, consider investing in rust-resistant hooks or wall brackets to avoid corrosion, particularly if you’re storing bikes made from steel.

Tools: Keep Them Handy But Tidy

Tools are the heart and soul of a garage, and their storage can make or break the functionality of the space. I’ve learned that having tools easily accessible but also organised is the perfect balance for a one-car garage. For me, the pegboard system has been a lifesaver, though I’ve also upgraded to slatwall for a more permanent solution.

Here’s how I did it:

1. Pegboards: For light hand tools like hammers, screwdrivers, and tape measures, I used a pegboard on the wall. It allows me to see exactly what I need, when I need it, and keeps everything off the floor.
2. Tool Cabinets: For more expensive or power tools, I invested in lockable tool cabinets. These are especially important for storing drills, saws, or sandblasters securely.
3. Magnetic Strips: For smaller, metal tools like wrenches and pliers, I mounted a magnetic strip to the wall. This keeps them neat, visible, and easy to grab in a hurry.

Gardening Equipment: From Trowels To Trimmers

For years, my garden tools were scattered all over the garage floor, getting tangled with everything else. It wasn’t until I installed a wall-mounted rack system that I found the perfect solution. Garden tools tend to be long and awkwardly shaped, but hanging them vertically on a slatwall system cleared up a lot of space.

Here’s how I organised mine:

1. Long Tools: For items like shovels, rakes, and hoes, I used slatwall hooks. This kept them off the floor and allowed me to organise them by size and frequency of use.
2. Garden Tool Caddies: For smaller items like pruners, gloves, and fertiliser, I used plastic caddies or bins. These are stackable and allow me to easily take them out when I need them.
3. Rolling Carts: For tools I use regularly, like my lawn mower or weed whacker, I invested in a rolling garden cart. This allows me to keep everything in one place and roll it wherever I need it.

Pro Tip: If you’re in Western Australia, where the climate can be dry and dusty, consider storing gardening equipment in sealed containers or waterproof bags to keep it dust-free and in top condition.

Seasonal Items: Maximise That Overhead Space

If your garage, like mine, is small, then seasonal items (think Christmas decorations, winter clothing, or camping gear) are the perfect candidates for overhead storage. I used to pile these items in boxes and shove them in the back of the garage, but that meant they were out of sight, out of mind, and hard to access. Installing overhead racks freed up a huge amount of floor space.

Storage for Seasonal Items:

Item	Storage Solution	Ideal Location
Christmas Decorations	Stackable, clear plastic bins	Overhead racks or shelves
Camping Gear	Heavy-duty bins with dividers	Overhead or wall-mounted
Winter Clothing	Vacuum-sealed bags	Shelving or overhead bins
Holiday Lights	Storage reels or bins with dividers	Overhead storage or top shelves

Cleaning Supplies: Keep Everything In Reach

Cleaning supplies tend to take up valuable garage space, yet they’re essential for maintaining the garage itself. I kept mine in a tall cabinet near the entrance to the garage, where I could easily grab what I needed. For smaller cleaning items, like brooms and mops, I used wall hooks to hang them vertically.

Pro Tip for Tools in Hot Climates

If you live in northern Queensland or the Northern Territory, where temperatures can soar, consider insulated cabinets or tool covers for your power tools. The extreme heat can damage batteries and cause rust, so protecting your tools from the elements is crucial.

Checklist for Storing Specific Items

Item	Action	Location
Bikes	Hang vertically or use ceiling hoists	Walls or ceiling
Tools	Install a pegboard or tool cabinets	Wall or lockable cabinets
Garden Tools	Use slatwall hooks or caddies	Walls or rolling carts
Seasonal Items	Use clear bins for visibility and label them	Overhead racks or shelves
Cleaning Supplies	Store in tall cabinets or wall-mounted hooks	Near garage entrance

Enhancing Your Garage’s Functionality And Aesthetics

Once you’ve optimised your garage storage, it’s time to enhance the overall functionality and aesthetics of the space. A well-organised garage isn’t just about having everything in its place – it’s also about making it a comfortable, safe, and functional environment to work in. I’ve learned over the years that small upgrades to lighting, flooring, and safety can make a world of difference. Plus, they’ll increase the value of your home and make your garage a place you actually enjoy spending time in.

Lighting: See The Light

In my first garage overhaul, lighting was something I didn’t consider much until I found myself struggling to find tools on a cloudy afternoon. The garage lights were dim, and it made everything feel cluttered and harder to work with. After some trial and error, I finally upgraded to LED lights with adjustable settings. The difference was night and day!

Here’s what I did:

1. Bright LED Ceiling Lights: I replaced the old fluorescent bulbs with LED fixtures. These are energy-efficient and provide bright, even lighting, which is perfect for tasks like working on DIY projects or searching for a specific tool. In Australian homes, where power bills can be a concern, LED lights are a great investment.
2. Task Lighting: I installed under-cabinet lights and adjustable workbench lamps. These lights focus on specific areas, ensuring that I have enough light wherever I’m working.
3. Maximising Natural Light: If possible, adding windows or skylights will let in natural light during the day, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Just be sure to secure them with sturdy blinds or shutters to protect your garage from the intense Australian sun.

Flooring: The Base Of It All

The garage floor often gets overlooked, but a durable, clean floor makes a huge difference in the overall look and feel of the space. I spent years with a dull, cracked concrete floor before I realised the potential for a major improvement. Epoxy coatings and interlocking tiles are excellent options that provide extra durability, easy maintenance, and a sleek finish.

Here’s what I did to improve my garage floor:

1. Epoxy Coating: I applied a high-gloss epoxy coating to my garage floor, which not only looks great but also makes cleaning spills like oil or paint a breeze. The smooth surface reflects light, making the entire garage feel brighter.
2. Interlocking Tiles: If you prefer a more DIY-friendly option, interlocking rubber tiles are a great choice. They’re easy to install, provide cushioning, and are resistant to stains, oils, and moisture. Plus, they come in a range of colours and styles to suit your taste.

Safety: Creating A Safe Garage Environment

Over the years, I’ve learned that safety in the garage is just as important as organisation. I’ve had my fair share of minor injuries – a slipped wrench here, a stubbed toe there – but after some accidents and a couple of close calls, I realised I had to step up my safety game. Here’s what I did:

1. Fire Extinguisher: I keep a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible spot, especially important when you’re storing chemicals, gasoline, or power tools. Make sure it’s rated for all types of fires (A, B, and C).
2. First Aid Kit: A well-stocked first aid kit is a must. I keep mine on a shelf near the workbench, so it’s easy to grab if I need it.
3. Ventilation: Proper airflow is essential, especially if you’re working with chemicals, paints, or power tools. In Australia, some areas can get pretty hot, so I installed a ventilation fan to keep the air circulating, which helps reduce fumes and keeps the garage cooler.
4. Keep the Floor Clear: I’ve made it a habit to always keep the garage floor clear of clutter to avoid tripping hazards. In my case, I placed rubber mats where I tend to work on DIY projects to cushion my feet and prevent slipping.

Cleanliness: Easy-To-Access Cleaning Tools

To keep my garage clean and tidy, I set up a cleaning station with everything I need to maintain the space. This includes:

1. Heavy-duty soap and a broom for quick clean-ups.
2. Use a shop vac for larger messes, especially after working on DIY projects.
3. Rags and cleaning wipes for quick wipe-downs of surfaces.

I also made sure that these items were all stored in clear bins or cabinets, so they’re easily accessible. After all, an organised garage is only as good as its maintenance routine.

Maintaining a well-organised garage takes just as much effort as organising it in the first place. But with the right system in place, you’ll find that the maintenance becomes second nature. 

Set yourself up for success by breaking the task down into manageable steps, involving your family, and adapting your storage to your changing needs. Before long, your one-car garage will stay tidy, functional, and efficient—and you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.