Best Storage System For A Decluttered Garage
Ever since he was a child, Jason has loved repairing, building and creating things. Growing up, he spent all his free time carving intricate woodcraft pieces that soon caught the eye of neighbours and friends. Before he knew it, Jason turned his hobby into a job, earning an income from being his hometowns handyman. Many years have passed since then but Jason’s enthusiasm for woodwork remains the same. He can usually be found in his workshop, crafting furniture or restoring old treasures.
1. FLEXIMOUNTS Overhead Garage Storage Rack
Key Features
Adjustable height between 22-40 inches
105 cubic feet of storage space
Capable of a 600-pound load
Long ceiling brackets and robust vertical support
Constructed from heavy-duty cold-rolled steel
It can be a challenge trying to get organized, but this Overhead Storage Rack by FLEXIMOUNTS is a perfect option to help you tackle your mess and get the job done. Rather than stacking bins or boxes on the floor, potentially exposing them to water damage or more, store them overhead, freeing up more space within your garage. With a 22-40 inch ceiling drop down and up to 105 cubic feet of storage, you can rely on this system to protect and secure your tools, seasonal items, sports equipment and more. Designed with long ceiling brackets that attach to two studs, paired with six vertical posts, this system is safe and secure. In keeping with the safety of the design of the system, heavy duty cold-rolled steel has been used in manufacturing it, capable of storing up to 600 pounds worth of goods. Its overall dimensions are 96 x 48 x 40 inches and weighs 67.9 pounds.
2. AmazonBasics 4-Shelf Adjustable Storage Shelving Unit
Key Features
Adjustable shelves, allowing customizability of the height of shelves
Versatile can be used in kitchens, offices, dorm rooms
No tools required
Adjustable feet for uneven surfaces
350 pound capacity per shelf (four shelves)
Heavy-duty steel construction with chrome finish
For a smaller garage shelving storage, the AmazonBasics 4-Shelf Adjustable Storage Shelving Unit is ideal. This wire vertical shelving unit has four shelves, each capable of holding a load up to 350 pounds. The great thing about this wire shelving unit is that it is versatile and can be used in your kitchen, office setting, or anywhere else in your home where extra storage may be required! The adjustable height of each shelf means you can customize your system to meet your storage needs, best of all you won’t need any tools to do this either. The feet are also adjustable which means that, even on uneven surfaces, you can set up your shelves without fear of them toppling over. The heavy-duty steel construction makes it durable, while the chrome finish gives an attractive look. The product dimensions are 35.75 x 13.86 x 53.54 inches and it weighs 25.3 pounds.
3. Wall Control Galvanized Steel Pegboard Tool Organizer
Key Features
32 x 32 inch coverage
Heavy-duty galvanized steel finish
Accepts 1/4 inch pegs and wall control accessories
Includes hardware for assembly
10x stronger than plastic versions
Magnetized
Made in the USA
To neatly organize your tools and reduce clutter within your garage, this Wall Control Galvanized Steel Pegboard Tool Organizer is great for small spaces, as it maximizes the space you have by offering a wall-mounted storage system. With a high quality galvanized steel finish, this space-saving storage organizer is easy to install and is engineered for life. Accepting pegs 1/4 inch in size and offering 10 times the amount of strength, this wall control unit is much stronger than traditional plastic systems that deteriorate over time. Not only can you use traditional pegs, but also wall control slotted pegs that are ideal for mounting little organizing trays for screws, nails, and other bits you may have laying around your garage. The board is also magnetized, which is great for when you are working and need instructions to stay put while you are busy. The overall pegboard coverage is 32 x 32 inches, and the product dimensions are 33 x 16 x 4 inches; it weighs 17.36 pounds. This storage organizer comes with all of the tools necessary for assembly, as well as a 6-inch deep shelf assembly, three plastic bins with hangers, a screwdriver, and a hammer holder, as well as an assortment of hooks and brackets.
4. Ultrawall Garage Storage System
Key Features
12 piece kit with different hooks
Black powder-coated steel construction
800-pound capacity
Easy to install
Versatile use
For versatile use and compatible with a range of hook types, the Ultrawall Garage Storage System is a great, heavy-duty wall rack for organizing your garage items. The versatility of this organizer allows you to store much more than just your garage tools! You can also use it for your commercial items, garden supplies, or even sporting equipment. The black powder-coated steel makes it strong and durable, while also resistant to scratches and chipping; the rubber-coated sleeves (included) are also scratch-resistant. This rack can hold up to 800 pounds worth of tools or other items. The overall product dimensions are 24.5 x 8 x 5 inches and it weighs 11.33 pounds. A one year manufacturer’s warranty is also included.
5. 2x4basics Custom Work Bench and Shelving Storage System
Key Features
Can be set up as a workbench or shelving storage system
Customizable width and length
Includes 4x bench legs and 6x shelf links
Step by step instructions included
1,000 pound capacity per shelf
Includes a lifetime warranty
Ideal for creating a bespoke shelving storage system, workbench, or even a piece of garden furniture, the 2x4basics Custom Work Bench and Shelving Storage System allow you complete control. Lumber is not included, but 2×4 lumber is typically needed for most applications. All you will need to do is make 90-degree cuts, so there is no need for miters or angles. Assembly is straightforward, and the provided instructions will help guide you through each step, all you need is a powered screwdriver and a saw. You can customize the length or width of your storage system, up to 8 feet x 2 feet. Each of the shelves can hold up to 1,000 pounds. The kit includes 4 workbench legs and 6 shelf links. A lifetime warranty is also included.
6. Topeakmart 5-Tier Commercial Industrial Racking Garage Shelving Unit
Key Features
3 pack of 5-tier shelves
Heavy-duty galvanized steel, black powder-coated finish
Rust resistant
Easy to install
330 pound capacity per shelf
Adjustable shelf height
Protective rubber padding on the feet
If you need to create storage for garage goods like your tools, gardening supplies, and car parts, for example, the Topeakmart 5-Tier Commercial Industrial Racking Garage Shelving Unit offers up to five tiers with adjustable height to suit your needs. While this storage system is great for garage organization, it is versatile enough that you can use it in your kitchen, living area, or dorm room. Each shelf can hold a maximum load of 330 pounds. This is our best value pick as it includes three packs of shelving units, so you can truly get your home organized. Constructed from heavy-duty galvanized steel with a black powder-coated finish, it is strong, durable, and resistant to rust. The shelves themselves are made of 8mm thick E1 MDF. The rubber feet also protect your flooring and helps provide an additional layer of stabilization that prevents the rack from sliding on certain floor types. Each rack is easy to assemble – no bolts, screws or nuts are needed, although we would recommend a rubber mallet, which isn’t provided. Each rack measures in at 82.8 x 11.8 x 59.1 and weighs 33.07 pounds each.
7. LETMY Wall Mounted Broom Holder Garage Storage Rack
Key Features
Wall-mounted organizing system
Includes 5 strong grip holders and 6 hooks
Maximum weight capacity of 40 pounds
Spring-loaded to prevent items slipping
Easy to install, instructions included
Perfect for organizing your garage or kitchen, this budget pick by LETMY neatly allows you to hang a range of items. From brooms, mops to rakes and baseball bats, it can be hung on this wall-mounted organizer. The LETMY Wall Mounted Broom Holder Garage Storage Rack includes five strong holders that can hold anything with a diameter between 1.03-1.06 inches as well as six hooks that are foldable. The holders are equipped with double rubber in each slot and are spring-loaded to prevent any slippage or sliding while items are hung. The rack can hold a maximum capacity of 40 pounds, with each of the hooks holding 6 pounds each. Installation is also very straightforward; screws, anchors, and instructions are included to make the process a breeze.
8. VonHaus Wall Mounted Pegboard Hook Storage Bins Set
Key Features
44 piece storage system
Robust plastic construction
Includes various sized bins
Includes tool storage accessories
Easy to mount
Range of versatility
For the DIY lover or handyman (or woman!), the versatility of this wall-mounted pegboard hook storage organizer will satisfy all of your needs. Do you ever feel like you never have the perfect place for all of these odd bits and bobs in your garage? This 44 piece storage solution will give you the perfect storage options to store all of those knick-knacks you may have laying about! The VonHaus Wall Mounted Pegboard Hook Storage Bins Set features:
– Four large bins, 8.38 x 4.05 x 2.83 inches with a 2.2-pound capacity each
– Twelve medium bins, 6.41 x 4.05 x 2.83 inches with a 3.3-pound capacity each
– Twelve small bins, 4.60 x 4.05 x 2.79 inches with a 5-pound capacity each
– 14 tool storage accessories
– Remainder of 28 pound capacity for other various tools and items
The robust plastic construction of the pegboard and storage bins are durable and are impact resistant. The overall dimensions of this storage system is 8.66 x 18.9 x 21.26 inches and it weighs only 6.61 pounds.
9. UltraHD Tall Storage Cabinet
Key Features
Rolling tool cabinet
Steel construction with powder-coated framing
5x heavy duty wheels (2 are lockable)
4x adjustable height shelves
150 pound capacity per shelf
600-pound total capacity
If you need cabinet storage for garage, commercial or indoor use, this offering by UltraHD is perfect! The UltraHD Tall Storage Cabinet is constructed from steel with a powder-coated frame, this tall storage cabinet has adjustable shelves that make it easy to organize your tools. Each shelf offers a maximum capacity of 150 pounds, giving the overall cabinet system a 600-pound total capacity. The segmented doors provide for easy access, while the built-in wheels allow it to become a rolling tool cabinet if you need portability in your garage or commercial space while working. Out of the five heavy-duty wheels, two of them include locks so you need not worry about your cabinets rolling away if they are set up on an uneven surface. This system measures 18 x 36 x 72 inches.
10. Gladiator Ready-to-Assemble Modular GearBox
Key Features
Premium storage system for garage organization
High-quality construction and paint finish
30-pound capacity drawer, on a ball bearing system
45-pound shelf enclosed in 2 doors
Lockable doors
Included 10-year limited warranty
Our premium pick is the Gladiator Ready-to-Assemble Modular GearBox, which pairs durability with functionality. Made of heavy-duty steel, garage organizers like this one will withstand the test of time and are perfect for storing your tools and other items. The paint quality is superb, so you need not worry about it chipping or cracking over time. This storage system has pull-out drawers, which allows you to store up to 30 pounds, and a shelf that is capable of holding up to 45 pounds. The pull out drawer operates on a ball bearing system, so your drawer won’t be getting jammed or stuck, which can be such a pain. The shelf is enclosed behind two hinged doors which can be locked to keep your tools safe. The feet are adjustable in height, so they can be lifted so you can use the top of this storage system as a work top surface. Assembly is straightforward and can be done in hardly any time at all. The overall dimensions of this storage system for your garage are 18 x 28 x 31 inches and weigh 50 pounds. The 10-year limited warranty also speaks volumes of the quality of this product and is another reason we feel it is a premium pick for those wanting to organize their garage.
Features To Consider With Garage Storage Systems
Type
The type of storage system you need depends on what your storage requirements are within your garage! For light storage requirements, you may find cabinet storage options or wall-mounted options suitable, whereas major organizations may require an overhead system that can store far more than just tools and other knick-knacks. So, before settling on a system, consider what it is you will be wanting to store and organize. You can then consider whether you feel your needs are best suited to a ceiling-mounted, overhead system or a tall, cabinet-like system; you may even feel a short system with built-in shelves will do the job.
Size
The size of the storage system for your garage will depend again on what you need to store. For larger items like tools or sporting and garden equipment, you will want a heavy-duty system that is quite large. For bulkier items like bikes, large power tools, etc an overhead system may be ideal, depending on how often you will need to access your goods. Cans of paint and smaller tools, for example, don't take up as much space, so a smaller system will suffice.
Weight Capacity
The last thing you want is a disaster when it comes to storing your things and the system to collapse due to not being able to support the weight! This is an especially important consideration when thinking of ceiling-mounted systems, as it can pose a major injury hazard if it is overloaded and cannot handle the weight load. For units that have shelves, always check the individual shelf weight capacity; the same goes for hooks, always check their individual weight capacity before using them. Many people always refer to the overall weight capacity and end up damaging hooks or shelves as they fail to check the weight capacities of individual components.
Materials and Construction
The materials used in the construction of your storage system will help determine its durability and lifespan. Heavy-duty steel is typically one of the best materials to consider, especially for your garage, as it is rust-resistant; when powder coated with high-quality paint, it will also typically be resistant to chipping and scratching. You will commonly find that many wall-mounted units are made of plastic, so always ensure the plastic used is robust and ideally shatter-proof.
Ease of Assembly
Many garage storage systems are relatively easy to assemble, and many require very few tools, if any - the best systems will include all of the hardware you need. You will notice the easiest systems to assemble are those that are shelving units or cabinet style, whereas overhead systems require much more intricate assembly. Overhead systems generally require you to find the studs in your ceiling to attach the posts into place, stabilizing the entire system; this can be quite a lengthy process and must be very precise, so these kinds of assembly jobs can take quite a few hours, and may even require an extra pair of hands.
Safety
You and your family's safety should always be a key consideration! With storage systems, especially those that are mounted (whether on the wall or on the ceiling), run the risk of falling off, potentially causing injury. You will want to ensure your system is properly installed and not overloaded to avoid any safety issues. Stacked shelves and other cabinet style storage options may include wheels, if so, always look for those that have lockable wheels so they cannot roll away.
Garage Storage System FAQ
Q: Is overhead garage storage safe?
Yes! Overhead garage storage systems can definitely be safe, as long as they are installed correctly and the maximum weight is not exceeded. You should always ensure that your garage ceiling can handle the weight of the storage systems you intend to use. While you will commonly find that while overhead systems have a large maximum weight capacity, this does not mean your ceiling is capable of handling this too. A general rule of thumb is that assuming your garage has a floor above it, your ceiling can accommodate about 40 pounds per square foot of your garage. However, if there is no floor above it, the ceiling may only be capable of up to 10 pounds per square foot.
You will also need to consider what kind of ceiling you have in your garage, whether it consists of floor trusses, joists or ceiling trusses. Depending on the style of your ceiling, the weight it can support and its weak spots will vary. A structural engineer can help clear up any concerns you may have when considering an overhead garage storage system.
Q: What should not be stored in a garage?
Let's face it, we have all been guilty of just sticking things into our garage without giving it much thought, and vowing to ourselves we will sort it out later; however, later seems to never come! Whilst we are not chastising you about how often you organize your home, we are concerned as there are certain things that should NOT be stored in your garage. Let's take a quick look:
- Propane canisters: a leak or puncture could mean that propane is seeping into your garage and poses a major risk of explosion if there are any sparks (think along the lines of lighting a cigarette or carrying out home improvement work).
- Linens: this can be an invitation for city animals and other critters.
- Cardboard: this can be a breeding ground for a range of bugs, insects, and other pests, especially if your garage ever gets damp.
- Refrigerators: as garages can typically get quite warm, your fridge will need to work harder to keep your food cool, therefore you will notice your electric bills hike up in price!
- Food: many people who lack space in their pantry may store fresh and canned food in the garage, however, the uncontrolled heat that most garages face will spoil food (even canned!) and is an invitation for pests.