7 Tips to Store More in Your Garage. Bust the clutter in your garage by adding smart storage solutions.

Stash Your Trash

Place garbage and recycling bins at the garage end closest to the curb. Dragging the garbage to the curb will be simple with a large-wheeled cart.

Install a Bike Rack

Mount bicycles flush to a side wall to keep them out of the way. Cycling shops and home centers sell all sorts of bike racks; look for one that will keep the bikes close to the wall. An accessory rack is handy for bike helmets, in-line skates, or other paraphernalia.

Garden Workstation

For family gardeners, consider a work center like this one, which can be assembled from a store-bought system designed around wall-mounted grids and attachable modules. The deep drawer stores potting mix, while garden tools hang by hooks from the grid. The system attaches to garage-wall studs with 3-inch screws, and the work surface is rated to support up to 300 pounds.

Storage-Packed Walls

If your ceiling is tall, you should have plenty of room on the back wall for cubbyhole cabinetry and wall-hung wire racks.

-- Build plywood cubbies to span the wall; attach them to studs.
-- Add adjustable shelves to accommodate camping gear and other bulky items, while smaller stuff, such as seasonal knickknacks and holiday ornaments, can be packed in stackable containers.

Keep a Ladder Handy

To reach lofted storage, add a bunk-bed-style ladder. Install hooks on the top of the ladder that attach to a metal rail running along the front of the cabinets.

Compact Storage

Include a compact workshop in your garage by building a fold-down workbench that also incorporates tool storage and an overhead light.

Flexible Storage

The same grid-and-module storage system can be configured to organize everything from snow skis to long-handled tools. Most important, wall storage helps clear a path by lifting everything off the floor. If your storage needs change, the clips that hold rakes and shovels can be replaced by shelves, or even drawers.