If you're one of the many homeowners who can't park a car in their garage, you're not alone—and you're definitely not without hope. In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, Kathi Lipp sits down with returning guest Tenneil Register, who brings a unique perspective to garage organization from her experience managing inventory for an actual retail store.

Why the Garage Is So Hard to Tame

The garage tends to become a catch-all space because it's undefined. It's where things go when company is coming, when seasons change, or when we simply don't know what else to do with something. Unlike the rest of your home, there's no "garage inspector" coming to motivate a cleanup—so clutter piles up without any natural deadline.

A Professional Approach to Home Storage

Tenneil shares hard-won lessons from running a retail business, including how to think about garage contents in categories: seasonal items, repair tools, and backup supplies. This simple framework helps create logical zones that make finding (and putting away) items so much easier.

What "Done" Really Looks Like

Forget Pinterest-perfect matching bins. A well-organized garage is one where anyone can walk in and find what they need. The secret? Clear containers so you can see what's inside, simple labels (even handwritten ones count!), and contained categories that others can understand without explanation.

Key Takeaways

Use clear containers – If it's opaque, there's always the possibility the thing you're looking for might be in that box. Clear bins let you scan and move on.
Label everything – A 30-second scribble with a marker can completely change someone else's ability to use the space, including future you.
Work in small time chunks – The "big Saturday cleanout" leaves you too exhausted to actually organize. Small sessions are more sustainable and effective.
Create a "maybe" zone – Tape out a spot for items you can't decide on. By the end of your organizing session, you'll often be tired enough to let go of some maybes.
Make it a choice, not a consequence – Deciding intentionally that you need storage more than parking feels completely different than living with the result of accumulated mess.

Even improving your garage by just 20% this season will make a huge difference every time you go out there looking for something. Progress, not perfection, is the goal.