How To Organize a Shed

A cluttered shed can feel overwhelming, especially when it’s filled with toys, tools, and various household items. However, with the right approach and storage solutions, you can transform your chaotic shed into a well-organized space. In the video, This Old House carpenter, Nathan Gilbert, demonstrates effective shed organization techniques while helping a Texas homeowner tackle her garage clutter. Below, we’ve outlined how to organize a shed so you can finally get ahead of the mess.

Tools and Materials

You’ll need a few items to organize your shed, including:

• Drill driver
• Level
• Storage systems
• Stud finder
• Tape measure

Choosing the Right Storage System

A storage system that works for one family may not work for the next. You’ll want to choose a system that helps you maximize space and organization in your shed. Nathan recommends using a track system for its versatility and strength, but there are several options available. Using a combination of these solutions can provide a well-rounded approach to shed organization.

• Bins and containers can hold smaller items, and you can then store them on shelves to maximize space.
• Hooks and hangers keep items, such as garden tools, ladders, and sports equipment, off the floor. You can use bike hooks to store bicycles vertically, and you can add magnetic strips for small metal tools.
• Pegboards are perfect for modular organization, but they often can’t carry heavy loads.
• Rolling carts are ideal for mobile storage.
• Shelving units allow you to maximize vertical space, and you can adjust them to meet changing requirements. We recommend corrosion-resistant or rust-proof wire shelving for added durability, or you can opt for rivet shelving, which is sturdy and easy to assemble.
• Wall-mounted track systems have customizable configurations to suit your specific needs. They’re able to handle heavy loads, such as bikes or large tools.

How To Organize a Shed

These steps walk you through everything you’ll need to do to clean out your shed and organize it once and for all.

1. Clean and Empty the Shed

Start by removing all items from your shed to provide a blank canvas. This allows you to assess the available space and better plan your organization strategy. 

Once everything is out of the shed, sort through your belongings. Create separate piles for items to keep, donate, sell, or discard. You’ll also want to create separate piles for similar items. For example, keep your gardening tools in one pile and your sports gear in another.

2. Assess Your Storage Needs

Take stock of the items you plan to keep and consider their storage requirements. You’ll want to measure large items, such as bikes, lawn mowers, and ladders, and count the number of small tools and gardening supplies. Determine how much shelf space you’ll need for boxes and containers. 

By understanding what will be going back into the shed, you can better determine which storage systems will work best for your needs.

3. Locate Wall Studs

When you’ve chosen your storage system and cleaned out the shed, you need to locate wall studs so you can hang heavy items. Incorrectly placing the system can cause damage to the wall, your items, or the system itself.

Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs and mark the edges of each stud for accurate placement.

4. Mount the Track System

If you’re installing a wall-mounted track system, follow these steps:

1. Determine the desired height for your track.
2. Mark the wall at the appropriate height.
3. Hold the track against the wall and use a level to make sure it’s straight.
4. Secure the track to the wall studs using appropriate screws.
5. Test the track’s stability before adding attachments.

5. Add Shelves and Attachments

Once the main track is installed:

1. Attach shelf brackets to the track at desired intervals.
2. Place shelves onto the brackets.
3. Add hooks and other attachments to the track as needed.

6. Use a Labeling System

Create a labeling system to easily locate items in the future. You can label shelves or containers, use waterproof tags, or color-code for different categories. 

7. Keep Up the Effort

It’s easy to clutter up your shed or garage again. Maintaining your organized shed, though, can help you stay on top of the mess. Make plans to regularly declutter and remove unnecessary items. You’ll also want to make sure you’re returning anything you took out of the shed back to its designated spot.

Tips for Shed Organization

Different items present unique storage challenges. Here are some tips for organizing common shed contents:

• Garden tools: Use wall-mounted tool racks or pegboards for hand tools. Install hooks or brackets for long-handed tools, such as rakes or shovels. Store garden accessories in labeled containers.
• Hazardous materials: Store chemicals and paints in a locked cabinet and clearly label all items for safety.
• Power tools: Use a workbench or shelves for larger power tools while storing smaller power tools in their original cases or dedicated toolboxes. Keep batteries and chargers together in a designated area.
• Seasonal items: Use vacuumed-sealed bags for offseason clothing or bedding. Place items that are only needed annually on high shelves. Rotate seasonal decorations for easier access during the current season.
• Sports equipment: Use ball claw racks or mesh bags for balls. Install hooks or racks for bats, rackets, and golf clubs. Store smaller items, including gloves and protective gear, in labeled bins.

Our Conclusion

By utilizing wall-mounted track systems, shelving units, and smart storage solutions, you can maximize your shed’s potential and keep your belongings organized and easily accessible. However, keeping a shed organized is an ongoing process, but one that will pay off in the long run.

Tools