Better utilization of garage ceiling space

Often in a garage I encourage clients to use the walls as storage for utility space.  This works very well for items that need to be accessed frequently, but can be near impossible if the garage is narrow and barely allows enough space for a vehicle to park.  In a case like this I like to recommend using the ceiling space in the garage if the height is tall enough.  This approach is ideal for long term storage and seasonal storage. 

Racks can be installed on the ceiling of a garage to hold bins and other large objects.  Typically ceiling storage is associated with skis and excess lumber, but it can also be an ideal spot for bulky items if basement or attic space is lacking or inaccessible. 

Here is an example:

Great Christmas products

Here are some of my favorite items and products that are sure to make Christmas time easier! 


Square Storage Box and Ornament Storage Trays

Storage Box Link

Large and Small Ornament Trays Link

You don’t need a fancy storage box for ornaments.  I love this clear bin because the contents are visible.  You don’t need to label the box!  I also like these storage trays because they have sides to prevent the ornaments from falling off the tray when you remove a layer from the storage bin!

Ribbon Box

Ribbon Box Link

No more fighting with roles of gift wrap ribbon!  This little box both stores and dispenses the ribbon so it does not get tangled or crushed.  


Foam Ornament Packing Envelopes

Ornament Envelope Link

I am one of those people who reuses the tissue paper an ornament came in to store it.  After a couple years the paper gets torn and the labels get crushed.  These packing envelopes are a great idea!  Keep your ornaments safe and organized.

Holiday Dinnerware Storage

Dinnerware Storage Link

The peek-a-boo window in these storage boxes sold me.  You do not have to label the box or even remove the lid to see the contents!  You can see the pattern and the inside through the large clear window.

Preparing for Christmas

Simplify your Christmas meal prep: Store your seasonal china and crystal in a cabinet separate from everyday dishes. You will always know where to find the entire set and also minimize the risk of your special sets getting damaged by day to day preparations. Do you have seasonal bakeware and servers? Store them all together but away from your regular cooking ware, too. Be creative, like a shelf in the basement. Why take up room in your cabinet with the turkey roaster you use once a year? Good product: China storage sets and cases available at ContainterStore.com. "Trim" decorating time: Create a "decorations zone" where you can conveniently store seasonal trappings. Sort by season (i.e. autumn, winter) or by holiday (July 4th, Thanksgiving). Each category can be kept in clear, labeled tubs with color-coded covers. Group trimmings that have similar functions or that are used in a particular part of your home, and utilize varying sized tubs. Good product: Light winders and ornament boxes at ContainerStore.com. Wrapping: Keep your wrapping supplies corralled in easy to transport paper towers. Some have compartments on top for scissors and tape. Bows and ribbons can be packed into small plastic storage boxes with handles. See through is best, or you can create an all in one caddy with a plastic tote to keep accessories together and roll out friendly.  Good product: Gift wrap organizer at ContainerStore.com. Card and gift giving: Assign a small space gift nook duty. A consistent home for gifts you purchase throughout the year will eliminate extra time spent trying to find a gift when it is time to give it. This will work great for people outside your home, but you'll need to be creative to stump the amateur sleuths in your home! Keep mailing lists and gift lifts in Word or Excel. They can be alphabetized easily, updated and transferred to mailing labels. Be sure to back it up regularly, and you can dedicate separate sheets to family and friends.