Spring Clean-Up: Get Your Garage or Shed Ready for the Season

Spring has finally arrived! And if you're like me, especially living through the cold winters in the Northeast, chances are your garage or shed has become a bit of a chaotic storage zone. Holiday decorations, the snow blower, patio furniture, and planters might all be jumbled together, making it tough to find anything.

Now’s the perfect time—while the weather is still cool—to give your garage or shed a good clean-out and get organized. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Empty It Out

Yes, everything. Pull everything out of the garage or shed so you can see what you’re working with. It may feel like a big task, but you’ll thank yourself later.

2. Deep Clean the Space

If you can, hose down the entire area. If not, grab a shop vac or broom and start from the top down. Clear out cobwebs, dust, and anything left behind by critters. Wipe down shelves or sweep them clean. Consider replacing any worn rugs or mats to give your space a fresh, clean look.

3. Create Zones for Easy Organization

Group items by category: holiday decorations, gardening tools, camping gear, kids’ toys, etc. This makes it easier to find things later and helps prevent buying duplicates of items you forgot you already owned.

If something is buried so deep that you forgot you had it—or can’t easily access it—ask yourself: Do I really need this? If not, donate or toss it.  Amazon carries a variety of garage storage systems - I have included pictures of two below. You can also find garage storage systems at Lowe’s.

4. Check Chemicals and Supplies

Before putting back fertilizers, pesticides, or insecticides, check for expiration dates. This could also be the perfect time to switch to natural alternatives for weed and pest control. (Read “Natural Gardening Tips and Tricks” for natural remedies.)

5. Swap Out Seasonal Gear

Time to store away skis, snowboards, sleds, and winter toys, and bring out the lawn mower and summer toys. Do a quick maintenance check on both your lawn mower and snow blower so you're ready for both seasons. Organize your seasonal gear so it is ready to be used.  Ski/snow board rack sells on Amazon for about $90.

6. Prep Your Gardening and Patio Gear

Clean and organize gardening tools, and check patio furniture for wear and tear. A mobile garden tool rack—like the DAOUTIME Garden Organizer with Wheels (about $40 on Amazon)—can be a game changer.

7. Upgrade If You’re Using the Space for Living

If you're converting your garage into a seasonal living area, consider investing in cabinets or other storage systems to make it functional and inviting by hiding the gardening tools, sprays etc.  Consider putting down an indoor/outdoor rug to make the space inviting and add some fun lighting.

8. Sort Through Holiday Decorations

Now’s a great time to test lights, check for broken items, and donate anything you no longer use. Store everything in clear plastic totes so decorating later in the year is quick and easy.

9. Inspect and Store Camping Gear

Check tents, lanterns, and other gear to make sure it's ready to go. If you’ve got kayaks or canoes taking up too much space, invest in a tiered rack like the TPHUC Adjustable Kayak Storage Rack (around $160) or consider ceiling pulley systems to maximize vertical space.

10. Set Up a Tool Zone

Love working on cars or DIY projects? Organize your tools and consider adding a workbench or wall-mounted storage to keep everything efficient and easy to find.

11. Ready the Bikes and Scooters

Clean off bikes, scooters, and skateboards. Check tires, brakes, and other parts. If you’re running out of room, consider vertical storage—wall hooks, ceiling mounts, or freestanding racks can all help.

12. Tame the Kids’ Toy and Sports Equipment Explosion

Go through all the gear. Toss broken toys and donate what’s no longer used—like the old soccer goal, lacrosse stick, or tiny cleats. Group what they do use so it’s easy for them to clean up. Toy and sports gear racks come in all shapes and price points on Amazon.

13. Donate or Dispose of These Common Clutter Culprits:

• Faded, broken patio or garden furniture

• Damaged or rusted gardening tools

• Old paint (dispose of it properly based on your local regulations)

With a little effort now, you’ll create a clean, functional space you can enjoy all season long. And come winter? You’ll be glad you did.

These systems can be purchased from Amazon - each organizational component can be purchased separately.