Your garage is supposed to be a home for your car, but often our vehicles are the last thing that goes there. Many times, the garage becomes a catch-all for everything from bikes and tools to sporting equipment and random knickknacks you are unsure where else to put. No more! Dedicate time this spring to cleaning and decluttering your garage so it’s summer ready. Your car will thank you for it!

Step 1: Start by removing everything from your garage. You need to know what’s really in there. Categorize everything as you remove it. Then, create a trash, keep and donate pile. Contact your local hazardous waste/recycling center or landfill for advice on how to dispose of hazardous materials safely.

Step 2: Clean as you go, including washing the remnants of winter off the garage floor, dusting and sweeping away any cobwebs. When the garage is empty, cleaning is easier.

Step 3: Declutter. As you are putting items into categories, you inevitably will have items to toss. This is the time to focus only on keeping things you use or need. Don’t store items you haven’t used in more than a year. Donate any quality items instead!

If you find yourself with an unwanted or nonoperating vehicle that’s taking up space in your garage or driveway, consider donating it to Goodwill. Free towing is available, if needed.