Garages are often the unsung heroes of our homes—offering a versatile space that’s part storage, part workshop, part catch-all. But left unchecked, garages can also become cluttered wastelands, filled with items we no longer need, forgot we had, or don’t know where else to put. That’s where the great garage debate begins: What’s truly worth keeping in your garage, and what should be relocated, donated, or tossed?
Let’s settle the score with a closer look at what belongs in your garage—and what doesn’t.
Keep: Tools and Equipment
Your garage is the perfect spot to store hand tools, power tools, and garden equipment. These items are frequently used outdoors or for home repairs, making easy garage access ideal. Pegboards, shelving units, and tool chests help keep everything organized and easy to find. Just be sure to store power tools in a dry place to avoid rust or damage.
Examples to keep:
- Hammer, drill, screwdrivers, and saws
- Lawn mower, rakes, shovels, and hoses
- Extension cords, toolboxes, and utility knives
Keep: Seasonal Decor and Outdoor Gear
Holiday decorations and outdoor recreational items don’t need to take up space inside the home all year long. Garages provide a convenient spot to store these until they’re needed. Use labeled bins and clear containers to keep seasonal items organized and protected from dust or pests.
Examples to keep:
- Christmas lights, wreaths, and inflatable decor
- Camping gear, folding chairs, and beach umbrellas
- Sleds, skis, and sports equipment
Keep: Automotive Supplies
Given that your garage is designed to house your car, it makes sense to keep car-related items nearby. Fluids, spare tires, jumper cables, and detailing supplies should all have a designated place in your garage, ideally on shelves or in cabinets to avoid spills.
Examples to keep:
- Windshield washer fluid, oil, and coolant
- Tire inflator, jack, and lug wrench
- Car wax, microfiber cloths, and cleaning sprays
Maybe: Paint, Chemicals, and Cleaning Products
Storing paint and chemicals in the garage is common, but caution is needed. Many products can degrade or become dangerous if stored in extreme temperatures. If your garage is not temperature-controlled, consider moving sensitive materials indoors to a utility closet or basement.
Store only if:
- The garage maintains moderate temperatures
- Containers are sealed properly and stored on high shelves
- Chemicals are clearly labeled and separated from flammable items
Don’t Keep: Perishables or Paper Goods
It’s tempting to use the garage as overflow pantry space, but perishables and paper goods are a bad match for the garage. Temperature swings can cause food to spoil, and paper products like napkins, paper towels, and books can attract rodents or bugs. If you must store extras, consider an indoor closet or sealed plastic bins.
Avoid storing:
- Canned goods, flour, or pet food
- Paper towels, toilet paper, and napkins
- Books, photo albums, or important documents
Don’t Keep: Electronics and Appliances
Electronics don’t fare well in garages. Moisture, dust, and heat can damage wiring and internal components, even if the item is unplugged. Old TVs, computer parts, and unused appliances are better off donated or recycled if they’re no longer in use.
Avoid storing:
- Old computers, gaming consoles, or monitors
- Spare microwaves, mini-fridges, and other appliances
- Extension cords not rated for outdoor or garage use
Don’t Keep: Sentimental Items
Your garage is not the place for irreplaceable keepsakes. Photos, family heirlooms, and childhood mementos can warp, fade, or become damaged due to temperature fluctuations and moisture. These treasures deserve a climate-controlled space inside your home.
Better stored indoors:
- Photo albums, yearbooks, and letters
- Baby clothes, wedding dresses, or handmade quilts
- Collectibles, trophies, and artwork
Final Thoughts: Create a Purposeful Garage
A truly functional garage starts with a purposeful approach. Begin by evaluating what’s currently taking up space and ask yourself: Do I use this often? Is it safe and appropriate to store here? Would it be better placed elsewhere?
Keeping your garage organized means committing to regular decluttering, using clearly labeled bins or shelves, and creating designated zones for tools, automotive supplies, sports gear, and more. One of the most effective ways to elevate your space is by installing custom garage cabinets in Salt Lake City—these tailored solutions offer sleek storage that maximizes space while keeping everything in its place.
By understanding what deserves a spot in your garage—and what doesn’t—you can transform it from a cluttered overflow area into a streamlined, functional extension of your home.
Take a look around. Is it time for your own great garage debate?
