If you’re like many people, you probably have a load of junk just sitting in your backyard or garage. With the new year beginning, it might be time to clear out the clutter and start fresh. But where do you start? And what do you do with all of that junk in your backyard or garage?
Start Where It’s Easiest
Easier said than done, right? Well, chances are that you know what to do with SOMETHING that clutters your yard. Those yard tools go in the shed, plenty of things can (or at least, should) go into a trash pile, that extra wood from a past project can be recycled, and the rest can be neatly organized once you know what you have. Start with the items that you know exactly what you want to do with and see what’s left after that. Once you’ve taken care of the obvious objects, group similar items or things that are used for a common activity.
Now Your Junk is in Neat Piles. What Next?
You’ve separated out everything into like piles, thrown away the unnecessary pieces, and it’s now time to get it all organized. For the items that don’t go in the garage, shed, or backyard, put them where they need to be.
For the other items (that should already be in separate piles), the sports equipment, kids’ toys, yard tools, vehicle accessories, and other objects like those, think about the best way to keep them out of the way. Many people use large plastic bins in their garage to separate the items or even boxes mounted to the walls. If you don’t have a garage or carport, organize the items in an out-of-the-way place like a mud room to keep order. Create a system that ensures you remember to put the items back where they belong each time you use them.
What About That Pile of Trash?
Well, that depends on what you call trash. It could mean used paper products, one-time use items, or soiled products. You might also count trash as something you can’t use anymore like broken lamps or deflated sports balls. If you no longer want the item but it is still repairable or something that someone else might want, it could be something you can donate.
Your trash pile might include a few things that could be recycled like wood planks, stacks of paper, or plastic products. Take these to your local recycling center or arrange for them to be picked up.
Whether you’re cleaning out your garage or carport, or just organizing your backyard, take it one step at a time. Look at what you have and implement a system that helps you to store items and avoid clutter. Start the new year off right with a clean yard and all of your belongings organized.
