An average person's garage is a mess with cobwebs hanging from its ceiling and misplaced tools that you can't find when in need. About 92% of American homes have at least one car, but still, most homeowners have to park their cars on the street or driveway simply because the garage has no space. So, let's clean your garage mess with the help of 20 creative and practical ideas to organize one car steel garage and make the best use of every inch.

I. Using Vertical Space For The 1-Car Garage  

1. Slatwall Systems

You can install a dedicated slatwall on one side of your one car garage. These are sleek, visually appealing organization systems that use horizontal slats with flexible hooks, shelves, baskets, etc., which you can customize based on your storage needs. These can be reorganized if you need changes in the future. 

What To Store? You can store power tools like drill saws, extension cords, garden hoses, sports gear, etc. 

2. Classic Pegboards

These are perforated boards made using wood-based fiberboard, metal, or plastic, which have holes to allow hooks (colorful), shelves, and bins to be attached for storage. These usually come in 2x4, 4x4, and 4x8 sizes for holding small tools and large accessories. One of the benefits of a pegboard is that it keeps items highly visible and easy to access.

What To Store? Wrenches, pliers, paintbrushes, rolls of tape, spray bottles, grilling utensils, etc.

3 Wall-Mounted Cabinets

These are usually fully enclosed to protect items from dust & moisture and hide clutter for a clear and polished look. You can match these modular cabinets with your garage's aesthetics and function. For example, you can choose metal, wood, or plastic cabinets depending on the durability you are looking for.

What To Store? Motor oils, antifreeze, cleaning supplies, seasonal decor, camping gear, etc. 

4. Magnetic Tool Strips

It's an easy way to keep frequently used tools within reach, saving your drawer space and reducing clutter from bins. This frees up valuable space while keeping tools organized. 

What To Store? Anything metallic, such as screwdrivers, utility knives, measuring tape, kitchen-style scissors, etc. 

5. Wall-Mounted Sports Gear Organizer

You can opt for multi-tier shelving to store bins, equipment, and tools. Be sure to check the maximum weight the shelves can hold before buying. 

What To Store? Basketballs, football helmets, fishing rods, roller skates, biking helmets, etc.

6. DIY PVC Pipe Storage

It is ideal for organizing items with long handles, like rakes and shovels, in an upright position, so that it saves floor space. DIY PVC pipe is a simple and affordable way to store bulky items. 

What To Store? Rakes, shovels, brooms, pool skimmers, garden stakes, etc.

II. Using The Overhead Space Of A Single Car Garage

7. Ceiling Storage Bins

These are ideal for storing bulky and seasonal items that you use occasionally. These bins often slide off onto a metal track, which reduces the need for heavy lifting. Make sure to ask your metal car garage dealer about roof load capacity before installing any overhead racks, and have proper and equal weight distribution when storing items. 

What To Store? Holiday decor, camping items, old photo albums, extra household supplies (paper towels, bulk food storage, etc.)

8. Loft Storage Or Mini Attic

Residential metal single car garages can be as high as 20 ft. (depending on your lot size and local building code restrictions). You can add a partial mezzanine floor to your metal single car garage along a side wall to add a dedicated space for rarely used items or to create an office space. 

What To Store? Large suitcases, clothing, spare tires, kids' old toys, etc.

9. Lockable Pulley System For Lifting And Storing

These are highly efficient and easy to use, especially for heavy and large items, without taking up any floor space. A pulley system consists of a simple rope and a locking mechanism that allows for the smooth lifting and lowering of the shelf.

What To Store? Bicycles, kayaks, surfboards, ladders, plastic storage containers, seasonal gear, etc. 

III. Floor Level Storage Hacks For Tight Space In Garages

10. Rolling Storage Carts

You can invest in sturdy rolling tool chests and cabinets for mobility and maximize the use of floor space. These are generally available in various sizes, heights, and weight-bearing capacities, along with locking mechanisms. We suggest using drawer liners to prevent tools from shifting when moving the cart.

What To Store? Power drills, socket wrench sets, car detailing supplies, DIY repair kits, etc.

11. Workbenches With Built-In Storage | Foldable Desks

Opt for a dual-purpose workspace with drawers, shelves, or a cabinet underneath that offers both a sturdy work desk and extra storage. You can use metal, hardwood, or a composite surface that suits your needs. If you want a mini-workshop in your one car steel garage, opt for power strips and USB outlets on this workbench for easy tool access.  

What To Store? Paint cans, clamps, measuring tapes, instruments, small woodworking tools, etc.

12. Stackable Storage Bins

Choose durable and stackable bins that you can categorize to store different items. You can go ahead and label each bin or opt for transparent ones for quick content visibility. We suggest using heavy-duty bins to store automobile fluids or camping gear to prevent bins from crushing due to overload.  

What To Store? Holiday decor, sporting goods like soccer balls, tennis rackets, etc., and miscellaneous hardware, such as nuts, bolts, and nails.

13. Behind The Door Storage

You can find door-mounted organizers for walk-in doors on Amazon, eBay, or Ikea stores with hooks and small shelves to use every part of your one car metal garage. 

What To Store? Spray bottles, extension cords, hand tools, car maintenance products like tire inflators, microfiber cloths, etc.

14. Multi-Purpose Hooks

These hooks provide an easy way to store frequently used items while keeping the garage tidy. You can install these hooks horizontally along the wall, near the workbench, or the exit door, and opt for retractable hooks that can be folded when not in use.

What To Store? Garden hoses, ladders, rakes, extension cords, etc.

IV. Clever Storage Ideas For Nook And Cranny

15. Space Above The Hood

Installing shallow shelves or hanging organizers above a parked car's hood gives an efficient way to store smaller and frequently used items. 

What To Store? Car cleaning supplies, first-aid kits, jumper cables, portable air compressors, etc.

16. Corner Shelving 

These are the most underused areas in a one car prefab garage. You can use corner space by installing triangular shelving (tier or single) and keeping small items over it.

What To Store? Spray paint cans, extension cords, gardening gloves, small toolboxes, decorative license plates, etc. 

17. Hang Bike Racks

It is best to store bikes vertically to keep them out of the way while ensuring easy access. There are many designs, like hooks, shelves, etc., that you can find on Pinterest to enhance aesthetic appeal.  

What To Store? Road bikes, mountain bikes, kids' bikes, strollers, etc.

18. Foldable Car Door Protectors

A one car garage often has tight space, which can accidentally cause bumping car hoods or doors into the walls. To avoid this, you can install foam or rubber bumpers, which will cushion car doors from dings.

What To Install? DIY pool noodle bumpers, heavy-duty rubber pads, foldable cushioned panels, etc. 

19. Hidden Storage

Opt for built-in cabinets for a clean, streamlined look while keeping expensive items safe and out of sight. You can choose lockable cabinets for safety and storing hazardous chemicals.

What To Store? Spare car parts, seasonal items, camping equipment, emergency kits, extra household cleaning supplies, etc. 

20. Drop Down Storage

These are fold-down wall racks made using sturdy hinges to maintain weight capacity and durability that tuck away when not in use. 

What To Store? Gardening tools like rakes, shovels, etc., baseball bats, fishing rods, and car maintenance items like oil changing kits, tire inflators, etc.

Ready To Declutter Your One Car Garage? Implement These Ideas Today!

Implementing creative storage solutions for a one car prefab garage doesn't have to be rocket science. Using the clever space hacks we discussed, you can organize every inch of your garage. This will save a lot of time in the long run, make items easily accessible, and allow you to park your pickup truck. So, how would you like to store it? Do you have any storage ideas? Share with us.