Dont let your garage serve as a catchall for clutter.

Achieve a more organized space by donating or disposing of these unneeded items.

Unfortunately, the garage often serves as a dumping ground for items you don’t want to store elsewhere.

organized storage garage space

Credit: Paul Dyer

If you’re ready to reclaim your parking spot, it’s time tostart a garage cleanup project.

This organizing task can seem daunting, especially if you’ve put it off for a while.

Donate items in good working condition to a local recreation center or charitable organization that accepts sports equipment.

sports shelves storage bins

Credit: Paul Dyer

Otherwise, contact your local waste management authority for instructions on recycling or disposing of old tools and equipment.

A donation is typically the best option for getting rid of holiday decorations in good working condition.

It can also pose a fire hazard and a health risk for your family.

garage with cleaning supplies on carts

Credit: Adam Albright

Any paints or chemicals that have expired or lost their effectiveness should be disposed of immediately.

Instead, check local ordinances to learn thebest way to dispose of old paintor chemicals.

Be sure to wear gloves when handling hazardous waste.

Instead of letting that dresser or chair sit unused, be proactive about donating it orlisting it for sale.

Leftover Building Materials

It’s generally good practice to purchase extra project materialsto be prepared for mistakesor repairs.

For example, find creative ways to repurpose extra plywood, trim, or patio stones with another project.

Organizations such asHabitat for Humanityare always interested in building material donations if a DIY project isn’t your thing.

Items Awaiting Donation

The garage is a common depository for items you’ve purged from elsewhere in the house.

You’ll free up space and finally check that item off your to-do list.