The Top 40+ Best Garage Shelving Ideas – Home Storage Solutions
Don’t let the floor space in your garage to clutter up while the walls stay bare and unused. These garage shelving ideas help you answer the storage question.
If you’re like most homeowners, the garage is the default storage room in your home. Not sure where to put something? Into the garage, it goes. Sooner or later, the stuff starts to pile up, and now there’s no more room for your vehicle. That’s when it becomes time to consider installing garage shelving. Even if you aren’t at this stage of belongings overload, garage shelving can help you stay organized and create more usable space.
These garage shelving ideas will get you inspired to tackle this DIY project. So get ready to start your garage makeover and create more usable space.
1. Garage Organization Ideas
For some, a simple set of uniform shelves is all of the organization they need. But for most of us, we need something more comprehensive. This means using different types of organizational tools to create an entire storage system.
Source: @goldbarrgarages via Instagram
Source: @sortedspaces_design via Instagram
Source: @whambamorganized via Instagram
Source: @thego2girlsla via Instagram
Source: @lizhollemanorganizingsolutions via Instagram
Source: @fromgreatbeginnings via Instagram
Source: @a.dabbled.dwelling via Instagram
Source: @morethanneat via Instagram
Source: @systemsbysusie via Instagram
Consider using a combination of storage racks, shelves, pegboard or rails, and cabinets. You could also consider installing specialized racks, such as one for bicycles or sports equipment.
Another method of organization is to group your belongings by use. This means having separate areas for your gardening equipment, automotive tools, sports equipment, holiday decorations, and anything else. This keeps everything you’ll need for a particular project in one area and easily located.
For more room organization ideas, click here.
2. Garage Shelf Ideas
The traditional method of building storage shelves is wood. Its beauty and versatility make it an ideal choice. If you’re looking for a cheap DIY solution, you can use 2 x 4 planks and plywood or scrap wood to create multiple shelves. For something a bit more refined, you can use finished wood to build cabinets or specialized wall mounted tool holders.
Source: @rackingsolutions via Instagram
Source: @mindyourmess via Instagram
Source: @organize65 via Instagram
When working with wood, think about the humidity of where you live. The temperature and humidity levels in your garage can vary greatly throughout the year. That humidity can be harsh on lower quality wood building materials. Eventually, they can warp and rot. You can prevent this by using pressure-treated high-quality wood.
Don’t be afraid to leave the wood bare and embrace the rustic woodshop look. This is a natural aesthetic for a garage. If you don’t like this look, consider painting the wood. Just be sure to use a durable paint and not interior wall paint.
3. Garage Storage Rack Ideas
Storage racks are an easy way to create more garage storage space. You can choose to place a single rack or an entire wall system. You could even wrap it around the wall with a corner shelf and continue throughout the entire garage.
Source: @morethanneat via Instagram
Source: @istackliving via Instagram
Source: @robvankammen via Instagram
Your storage rack could be homemade out of wood, a kit that uses a metal frame and wood shelves, an entire metal system, or even PVC pipe.
One thing to keep in mind when building your storage racks, pay attention to where your garage door goes when it opens. You don’t want your shelves to interfere with the function of the door. You also don’t want the items you place on the shelves to get hung up in the door.
4. Garage Storage System Ideas
Before you start considering garage shelving, you should consider installing an entire storage system. A shelving system will be easier to install because the different pieces fit and work together. These systems make it easier to optimize the whole space.
Source: @tailoredlivingnhouston via Instagram
Source: @moderngaragefl via Instagram
Source: @charlotteneat via Instagram
When considering a garage storage shelving system, think about what you need to keep in the cabinets and drawers. If it’s tools, then you’ll want a more heavy-duty system. If you need to keep clothes, holiday decorations, and personal items, then plastic storage tubs or bins may work better.
Look for a system that comes in several individual units that build on each other. These modular units let you build a custom unit based on your storage needs and available floor space. Some kits are entirely metal, wood, or PVC. Others will use a combination of materials, such as combining wall cabinets with open shelving and pegboard.
5. Garage Workbench Ideas
If you love to tinker and work on projects in your garage, you need a dedicated place where you can leave your work. Not only will a workbench give you a personal space for your hobby but also helps you to stay organized. You can easily DIY a workbench out of 2×4 wood beams and a solid wood top. Another option is to purchase a storage system kit that comes with a workbench area built into it.
Source: @thegarageinteriordesigncompany via Instagram
Source: @prideltd via Instagram
Source: @whitewoodcompany via Instagram
Source: @wilee_woodworks via Instagram
When building your workbench for your garage workshop, consider how big you want it to be. For those who enjoy spending time in their garage and work often, you may want to dedicate more of your garage space to your workbench. If you only want a place to do some crafts and repairs, you may only need a workbench that’s a couple of feet wide.
Another thing to consider is if you want to sit at your workbench. If this is the case, then it needs to be open underneath. If not, you can have a cabinet or shelving under it.
6. Hanging and Ceiling Storage Ideas
Walk out to your garage and look up. You probably have unused space above your head that you never realized was even there. There are garage storage ideas that use this space to create easily accessible storage platforms. They sort of look like a floating garage shelf.
Source: @scottsdaleneat via Instagram
Source: @super_shelf_storage via Instagram
Source: @innovativegarages_indiana via Instagram
Source: @brent.s48 via Instagram
Source: @mygarage_sa via Instagram
Source: @mygarage_sa via Instagram
Source: @tailoredlivingnhouston via Instagram
To build your own overhead shelf, you’ll want to start with the placement. It must mount onto a supporting beam. Otherwise, the ceiling in your garage isn’t strong enough to support the shelf’s weight and whatever you put on it. The whole thing will come crashing down onto whatever is beneath it. Once you locate the appropriate beams, you can use this as a guide for where and how large you can build your shelf.
The next step is to decide what you’ll use to build your shelf. There are several kits available that will use metal tracks and flat grates. You can install them yourself relatively quickly. These systems are also buildable, so you can start with one small shelf and add to it as you need more space. When installing your shelf, think about how low the shelf will hang. There needs to be enough space above the shelf to be effective storage, but not hang too low that someone might hit their head or drive your car into it.
7. Metal Garage Shelves Ideas
Metal is a smart choice, and there are plenty of DIY garage storage ideas that use metal. The first step is to decide what you need to store and how much you need to organize. If you only have a few tools and small items, then you could have a rack that you hang on the wall and a shelving unit with drawers underneath it.
Source: @neatfreakoc via Instagram
Source: @toptheorderproject via Instagram
Source: @vancouverneat via Instagram
Source: @woodwaterwire via Instagram
The next step up would be to use a shelving track system similar to what’s used in closets. These are nice because the metal’s coating prevents corrosion. They look nice, are easy to install, and they’re fully customizable.
If this system isn’t heavy-duty enough, you need a metal rack system that stands on the ground instead of getting mounted on the wall. Some use industrial or commercial quality metal to create a frame. For more freedom, look for a unit that lets you choose the height of the shelves. It’s smart to look for one with legs to elevate your belongings off the floor.
8. Wall Mounted Garage Shelves Ideas
You don’t need a lot of garage floor space to create a lot of storage space in your garage. Go up with your garage organization and utilize the unused space on the garage walls. You could mount a single cabinet above your workbench for an easy to reach place to keep tools. Or you could dedicate entire wall space to installing a storage system with varying sizes of cabinets and drawers.
Source: @mygarage_sa via Instagram
Source: @mygarage_sa via Instagram
Source: @craftedorganizing via Instagram
Source: @mygarage_sa via Instagram
Source: @serenityathomedetroit via Instagram
Another smart option is to skip the racks and cabinets and install a slat wall. You can then use a variety of hooks to hang your tools and larger equipment on it. This makes it easy to customize how you’ll store your tools and gets the larger equipment off of the floor. You could hang your rack, shovel, broom, weed trimmer, ladder, hand truck, sporting equipment, or anything else that you can hang from a hook. You can also find baskets that will hang from your slat or pegboard wall. Then you can organize smaller items in the baskets.
For more shelving ideas, click here.
9. Wood Garage Shelves Ideas
The traditional method of building storage shelves is wood. Its beauty and versatility make it an ideal choice. If you’re looking for a cheap DIY solution, you can use 2 x 4 planks and plywood or scrap wood to create multiple shelves. For something a bit more refined, you can use finished wood to build cabinets or specialized wall mounted tool holders.
Source: @firefighterfix via Instagram
Source: @homeonportsmouth via Instagram
Source: @jolleydiy via Instagram
Source: @carolinesearshome via Instagram
When working with wood, think about the humidity of where you live. The temperature and humidity levels in your garage can vary greatly throughout the year. That humidity can be harsh on lower quality wood building materials. Eventually, they can warp and rot. You can prevent this by using pressure-treated high-quality wood.
Don’t be afraid to leave the wood bare and embrace the rustic woodshop look. This is a natural aesthetic for a garage. If you don’t like this look, consider painting the wood. Just be sure to use a durable paint and not interior wall paint.
Garage Shelving FAQs
What if I have a small garage that doesn’t have enough space for shelves or cabinets?
Try mounting a large sheet of pegboard or a rail system on the wall. You can then use hooks and baskets to organize your tools and belongings. These systems don’t require space to install and let you utilize the vertical space you do have by hanging tools on the wall instead of bunching them together on the floor.
Can I use DIY garage shelves?
Yes, you can! The easiest method is to buy a kit that already has the hardware and materials. But you can make a shelving system from scratch if you have woodworking or handyman experience. Remember to use durable materials and make the shelves secure enough to hold enough weight.
How long will my garage cabinets or shelves last?
If you use the right materials and install your shelves correctly, your cabinets or shelves should last for many years. To ensure your shelving system or shelves last, use durable materials. Then install them correctly and securely. Maintain your shelves by keeping them clean, clearing out dirt and cobwebs, and avoid moisture buildup.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
With cellphones so ubiquitous, your watch choice can be less about telling time and more about personal style. However, a watch is not ‘just’ a watch. For example, the vast majority are made for right-handed people, but a select few cater to the lefties among us. There is a wide range in functionality and size.
The wristwatch is also one of the few socially acceptable accessories for men, so why not have a small selection? If you’re not cashing a CEO’s paycheck just yet, here are the top 28 most handsome watches for men that retail for under $500.
Got a bigger budget? Then check out our guide to the best men’s watches under $1000 instead.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
1. Tommy Hilfiger Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
Check Price
If you like the feel of a pliable, non-metal band but aren’t comfortable with genuine leather, this watch comes equipped with a handsome synthetic band. At 46mm in diameter, this watch is perfect for men of smaller stature, as it will not overpower your hand or make it look like you’re wearing your father’s watch. With bold Arabic numerals, a stainless steel case, and classic styling, this watch is an outstanding choice for an everyday watch and the man on a budget.
2. Nordgreen Pioneer – Black Dial
Check Price
Get 15% off using the discount code NEXTL at checkout
Not everyone has an endless amount of cash to drop on a luxury timepiece. If you’re money-conscious but want something high-end, then why not consider the Nordgreen Pioneer.
An inspired take on a classic Chronograph, Nordgreen celebrates the Danish with what they call a timepiece “that captures the sustainable future.” Available in various dial colors from blue, black, and white. There’s even the choice of three case colors – gunmetal, silver, and rose gold. A perfect addition to the collection of any watch enthusiast.
3. Fossil Grant Brown Leather Watch
This lovely offering by Fossil features slim Roman numeral hour markers and delicate cut-out hands. The casing is stainless steel and is water-resistant to 165 feet, making it a great dive watch. The band is made of supple, soft calfskin leather and uses a buckle closure.
Of course, this timepiece also comes with the generous 11-year warranty and it’s own fun tin. This watch oozes class and is great for nearly every occasion in your life.
4. Citizen Sport Stainless Steel Men’s Watch With Brown Leather Band
If you don’t want to deal with changing out a battery in a digital watch, this watch is powered by either natural or indoor lighting. The mineral crystal face and stainless steel case make this watch water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for swimmers and snorkelers.
Handsome and utilitarian, this is a great watch for everyday wear. It’s one of the best watches for men who are always on the go.
5. Fossil Men’s Machine Chronograph Silicone Watch
Check Price
This watch was designed with the active man in mind. The knurled silicone band stands up to sweat and oils without issue, and the timepiece itself is water-resistant to 165 feet.
The patterned bezel and quality craftsmanship of the black dial is excellent, as is to be expected from a Fossil watch. It even comes in the iconic and collectible tin!
6. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Watch
Check Price
This men’s watch features Japanese quartz movement that charges itself indoors or out when exposed to light, making it a great choice for those who don’t want to change out the battery too often. The stitched canvas strap is soft against your skin and will wick away moisture, while the mineral crystal face stands up to the rigors of your everyday life.
Water-resistant to 330 feet, this dive watch is a classic and simple design you’ll be proud of for years to come.
7. Invicta Pro Diver Chronograph Men’s Watch
Check Price
Another gorgeous offering by Invicta, this watch features a bold design with a slightly nautical feel to it. It will look at home whether you’re wearing a business suit or are going for a dive of less than 660 feet. This piece is also covered by a one-year warranty as a matter of course. The luminosity feature and magnified date window make it a great choice if you work or play in low light.
If you want something that looks like a Tag Heuer but without the luxury watch brand price tag, this is a good option!
8. Casio Edifice Multi-Function Men’s Watch
Check Price
This watch has three sub-dials for 12 hour, 60 minute and 60-second displays, in addition to the standard time. It also features a fold-over, push-down clasp on the stainless strap, keeping it secure throughout your activities. If you’re looking for a classy timepiece that shrieks sophistication, this is a great choice.
9. Fossil Machine Three Hand Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
Check Price
This quality watch is a chameleon piece. It looks at home as a dress watch riding below the cuff of your best suit, and it also looks great paired with jeans and a t-shirt. Backed by Fossil’s 11-year warranty as a matter of course and beautifully crafted, this smoke-colored piece is guaranteed to become the go-to accessory for nearly every occasion.
10. MVMT Watches Black Face Men’s Watch
Check Price
If you like the look of a simple watch, this minimalist offering from MVMT is right up your alley. With just a plain black face, tick marks to denote the hours and a single date window, there is nothing overdone or extravagant about this design. The is understated and suited to the simple design. It’s definitely a classy, low-key piece for the budget-conscious.
11. Timex Weekender Watch
Check Price
If you’re looking for a fun watch to pair with casual outfits, this is a great option. The band is blue and yellow woven nylon, and the face features both civilian and military timekeeping. An Indiglo night light is also included. This watch is water-resistant to 99 feet, meaning it can withstand splashes of water or exposure to rain but you won’t want to submerge it.
12. PUMA Ultrasize Black Sport Men’s Watch
Check Price
Boasting a 50mm diameter, this piece is perfect for the large-framed man or one who likes to wear his accessories oversized. A true fashion statement, this sports watch comes in eight different colors schemes to match your favorite hues.
Do be aware, however, that the dial knob is configure for left-handed men!
13. Timex Easy Reader Men’s Watch
Check Price
Another dress watch designed with the older gentleman in mind, this watch features a white dial with generously sized numerals that do not appear comical to the casual observer.
It’s also an excellent choice if you take your contacts out at night and still want to be able to check the time. With classic lines and a simple white face, the watch would not be out of place at any casual gathering. It comes with Timex’s one-year warranty at no additional charge.
14. Fossil Nate Men’s Chronograph Watch
Check Price
For men who like a more gritty, industrial feel to their accessories, this Fossil watch is right on point. The bezel is gear-edged and the face is utilitarian black and gray. Water-resistant to 165 feet, this watch is a great choice if you like your adornments to be understated yet add visual interest.
It’s definitely a stand-out piece, for those who would take notice!
15. Timex Expedition Field Chronograph Men’s Watch
Check Price
Featuring an indigo night light, tachymeter, a date window and a buckle closure, this watch is perfect for men who like to work or play outdoors. It is also water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for snorkeling or swimming.
You won’t want to wear it for diving, however. With classic, black styling and a genuine crystal face, this is a timepiece that will stand the test of time in both form and function.
16. Seiko 5 Automatic Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
Check Price
This Seiko automatic watch has all the bells and whistles you need, but presents it all in a plain and strikingly attractive manner. It features a date window in either English or Spanish, sword-shaped hands, a sweeping second hand and a mineral dial window. This is a great option for the man on the go. The canvas strap can be removed and hand-washed if sweat or other odors become an issue.
This watch is not water-resistant, so you’ll only want to wear it when you won’t be popping by the pool for a swim!
17. Invicta Pro Diver Collection Silver-Tone Men’s Watch
Check Price
For those who prefer an all-metal timepiece, the stainless steel Invicta fits the bill nicely. It has a similar aesthetic to a Tag Heuer watch, but at a more affordable price. Equipped with a unilateral bezel and removable links, the band can be customized to fit your wrist perfectly. The face is flame fusion crystal and features a magnifier to highlight the date window.
It’s also water-resistant to 660 feet. If you’re looking for a gorgeous watch that stands up to an active lifestyle, this is an excellent choice.
18. Seiko Men’s Adventure-Solar Classic Casual Watch
Check Price
This Seiko watch derives its power from either natural or indoor light and can withstand water depths of up to 330 feet. The supple brown leather strap and timeless brushed steel give this piece an attractive look, and the alarm chronograph is easy to set.
If you’re looking for a watch that can serve as a backup for your wake-up call while traveling, stand up to the elements and look awesome, this casual wrist watch is a winner.
19. Nautica Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Blue Resin Band
Check Price
Featuring a plethora of options and a smart, snappy style, this a great casual watch with a eye-catching blue dial. The hardy resin band is adjustable, and the face is protected by a mineral window. Whether for work or play, this bold blue design is handsome and substantial on the wrist. It comes with Nautica’s five-year warranty at no additional charge.
20. Citizen Sport Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Black Leather Band
Check Price
The black, red and white face of this piece eschews the traditional two-tone color scheme so often employed in other watches, and the contrasting stitching on the band adds creative flair. It comes backed by Citizen’s five-year warranty and will compliment any casual outfit.
21. Alessi Tic15 Analog Display Analog Quartz Black Men’s Watch
Check Price
Another not-quite-round offering on our list, the curved square casing of this piece gives it instant visual appeal. Sleek and clean, this unfussy design will be a compliment to almost any occasion. It has quartz movement and is water-resistant to 99 feet, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
22. Invicta 1517 I Force Collection Watch
Check Price
Another on our list designed for left-handed men, this watch is something special. Water-resistant to 330 feet and featuring oversize stenciled numbers and a sub dial, this watch is great for any casual outfit. The cloth band is extremely durable and stands up to dirt, sweat and grime.
If you lead an active lifestyle, this watch will be right at home in your collection.
23. TRIWA Blue Steel Nevil Canvas Watch
Check Price
This watch comes in a whopping 14 color variations, all of them beautiful. You may decide to add more than one to your collection!
Designed in Sweden, this watch features Japanese quartz movement, a stainless steel casing and a strap made from Tärnsjö organic leather. TRIWA, which stands for Transforming the Industry of Watches, believes in the artistry of fine jewelry and it shows in their product.
24. Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance Watch
Check Price
Another fine dress watch from the makers of the Swiss Army knife, this watch is emblazoned with the internally recognized cross and shield emblem. It has no sub-dials, tachymeter or other add-ons to detract from its simple and appealing style.
This watch will be at home with all but the most formal of outfits and carries a two-year warranty.
25. Ingersoll Automatic Stainless Steel Bull Run Watch
Check Price
Again, Ingersoll remakes the classics and brings them into the present day. With a highly polished stainless steel casing, two sub-dials, a date aperture and arrow-shaped hands, this quartz watch is beautiful.
The band features contrasting stitching on the fine-grain leather, adding depth and detail to the workmanship. This watch will compliment any casual occasion and can be relied upon for years to come.
26. Tissot Quickster Chronograph Black Leather Men’s Watch
Check Price
Made with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and Swiss automatic movement, this watch is a smart and utilitarian choice. If you’re looking for a solid Swiss watch that isn’t flashy, this is an excellent option. It’s also guaranteed for two years.
27. Seiko Sport Solar Men’s Beige Watch
Check Price
Are you getting tired of squinting down at your watch or holding it closer and closer to your face? Don’t worry, we all get a bit nearsighted with age, especially over the age of 40.
If you’re not quite ready for reading glasses or a comically huge watch, this is a great choice from Seiko. The numerals, indices and luminous hands stand out in stark white against a black background, and the numerals are generous in size. It’s a perfect casual watch for the older gentleman.
28. Seiko Men’s 5 Watch Blue Canvas Band
Check Price
This simple and affordable watch has a clean, crisp aesthetic to it and doesn’t bog down its design with a ton of bells and whistles. It’s time and date, end of.
If you want a watch for casual wear, this Seiko is a shoo-in. The band is forgiving and comfortable against your wrist, and it’s blue color will likely compliment your existing wardrobe. The price is also extremely affordable.
29. Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Stainless Steel Watch With Brown Leather Band
Check Price
Featuring the Hilfiger logo at the three o’clock position, this wrist watch is a statement piece. It is a bright, shiny stainless steel work of art that you’ll be proud to wear at all but the most stuffy of workplaces. The calfskin leather band uses a buckle closure and the date window is beside the logo at three o’clock.
If you’re a fan of Tommy clothing, cologne or luggage, you can complete your look with this stunning accessory.
