Outdoor Living 101

Well it finally seems as though winter is behind us and our neighbourhoods are coming back to life!  As summer approaches it is time to organize our outdoor storage spaces in preparation for the gardening and outdoor living season.

First - empty out the space completely!  As you empty out the space, sort the items.  Put all your gardening tools and supplies in one pile, all the kids' tools in another and seasonal items (e.g. skis, Christmas lights, Halloween decorations, etc.) in yet another.  Then sort each pile into 2 more piles - one pile for items that can go in a storage bin on a shelf and the other pile for items that can't.  This will help you figure out how to store everything.

Second - clean out the space. Brush away the cobwebs and sweep the floor.  If suitable we suggest putting down flooring suitable for a garage or shed - something that is durable and easy to clean. 

Third - install shelves and hooks.  More often than not our space is not big enough for all our stuff so you need to make use of all the surfaces.  Take a look at the piles you have created.  Consider how many storage bins you think you will need so you can determine how much shelving you will require and determine where in the space the shelves will go.  Next, look at the items that won't be stored in bins and determine the best way to store it.  Bikes can take up a lot of room but there are a lot of products on the market that provide different storage options to suit your space. See below for some interesting storage ideas.  Remember - don't forget about the overhead space - it is great for storing infrequently used or seasonal items.

 
 

Fourth - put the stuff away!!  This is the best part - the end is in sight and you can finally see the results of all your hard work.  Hang rakes, shovels, ladders and other large tools from hooks.  Finally fill your storage bins.  Remember - store like with like and don't cram items in.  Here are some ideas of items to store together:
•    Small gardening tools
•    Fertilizer and lawn seed
•    Kids' outdoor toys
•  Sports equipment - balls of all types, baseball gloves, tennis rackets, etc.  Larger items like skis or bikes will be better stored from hooks.
•    Christmas lights

If you have cushions for your outdoor furniture you may want to consider purchasing a storage bin that can go outside your garage or shed if your space can not accommodate everything.

Tips for storing your gardening tools:
• Be sure to wipe off any dirt. If tools are a bit rusted, wipe with sandpaper until it's removed.
• Store tools in a dry spot so they won't get wet and rust.
• To store tools permanently for the winter, fill a small plastic storage bin with sand and a bit of oil and stand garden tools inside. This protects them from rust and keeps them clean and sharp.

Get organized now so you can sit back and enjoy the summer!