This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Calm Spaces Garage Makeover in Kentfield, CA

I recently finished a complete garage makeover, and in the process, I discovered some amazing products that I know I’ll use time and time again. Here are some of my favorite products to help you makeover your garage so it’s the envy of the block.

Shelving and Storage

My favorite shelving system is still Elfa from The Container Store. I’ve been using these systems since 2006 and their quality and versatility has yet to disappoint me. I love that the shelves are easy to reconfigure as your needs grow and change. If you’re in San Francisco or Atlanta and would like a custom system designed for your garage, give me a call!

GearWall by Gladiator offers slatwall versatility

Another option for garage wall systems is a slat wall system like Gladiator’s Gear Wall or Storewall. Slatwalls provide the most versatility and create an entire wall of storage possibilities. They can be costly, especially the more heavy-duty high-end products. The availability of products like hooks, bike racks, and cabinets depends on the manufacturer of the slatwall system. Some slatwalls are standardized and take universal attachments (such as the ones used in retail stores) while others use proprietary accessories.

Freestanding and Mobile Shelving

Shelving.com offers customizable wire shelving.

My favorite freestanding shelving is NSF certified wire shelving. I have this in my own basement and have designed custom solutions for many customers where wall-mounted shelving isn’t ideal. I design the shelving myself based on the depth, height, and shape my client needs, and then I order the components from Shelving.com. You can opt to have wheels on your unit so your shelves are versatile and mobile (I love this for the under-the-stairs area). They offer pre-made solutions as well if you don’t need customization. Assembly is relatively easy and tool-free (except for a rubber mallet).

Shelving on wheels is especially handy for deep spaces like under the stairs. I designed this 2-part wheeled solution for a client that needed to store extra tile, paint, and propane tanks.

Bins and Containers

Weathertight Totes from The Container Store

The first thing to remember about containers is when they match, the effect is more calming. Your eye focuses less on the differences between the containers and more on the overall system as a whole. I recommend my clients spend the extra money to have matching bins because the overall effect will be well worth it.

When deciding on containers, consider whether you want clear or opaque bins. The benefit of clear bins is you can see what’s inside. The benefit of opaque bins is a clean simplified look. It’s personal choice. Next, consider whether your bins need to be weathertight. If your garage tends to be damp or is poorly insulated, or if you’ll be storing any fabric or paper products, I recommend these weathertight totes from The Container Store. They come in many different sizes and are durable and function well. When you put paper or fabric items in a bin, add a desiccant packet to help absorb moisture and keep your items fresh. Also consider vacuum-sealing any clothing or bedding to prevent mold, mildew, or insect damage. I recommend Vac-Wel storage bags.

Sterilite Black Stacker Totes from The Container Store

If you don’t need weathertight bins, consider Sterilite Black Stacker Totes or Heavy Duty Stacking Garage Totes from The Container Store.

Labeling Systems

Your bins and shelves will need to be labeled so they are useful and accessible. Having matching labels will help give you that professional, streamlined, clean look.

The simplest option is to use index card pockets. They hold a basic index card and are easy to swap out when you need to repurpose a bin. You can hand-write on them, or use a label maker.

My favorite app-based bin labeling system is SmartLabels.

Another option is to use a QR code sticker that is tied to an inventory app on your smartphone. My favorite is SmartLabels and I’ve used this to set up several garage inventories and I really like it. The app is easy to use - simply take a photo of the QR code and catalog each item in the bin with photos and keywords. Then, when you need an item, simply search for it in the app and it will tell you what bin the item is in! Buy the labels here and download the app here.

Honorable Mentions

Here are some of my favorite one-off items that I use in garages time and time again:

This golf rack is a client favorite and the extra shelves hold balls, tees, and shoes.

This wall-mounted golf caddy by Gladiator is perfect for sloping floors, high curbs, or any other challenge for a floor-mounted golf bag storage system. It also works great for skis and snowboards!

These absolutely massive bags! My most recent client put 2 dining room chairs in one! They are great to protect extra large items.

This steel parts bin for nails, screws, and other little bits and bobs in the garage workshop.

This plastic parts bin has drawers of multiple sizes and can mount to the wall. My clients love it.

Want more? Visit my Amazon Storefront and browse my collection In the Garage. I’m constantly adding to this list, so you’ll always find something new and useful.

Those are my favorite garage organizing items! Go forth and organize that garage, reclaim your space, and maybe even (gasp!) park in it!?

Be calm. Be organized. Be you!

My Favorite Garage Organizers