If your garage has become a dumping ground for just about any and everything, making the decision to clean it out and organize it is half the battle. Once you’ve set your mind to the task, it’s important to come up with a plan so that you don’t become overwhelmed and give up before you even make a dent. The following tips, provided by The Container Store, will set you up for success when it comes to an uncluttered and organized garage.

Before you even step into the garage, it’s important to have a solid plan in place. Grab a piece of paper and write down your anticipated end date and work backward from there to set small goals regarding how much time you’ll invest each week/month, what areas need the most work as well as what you envision the space looking like when you’re done.

Once you have a plan in place, begin by separating everything into piles. Designate areas for the items you want to keep, things that should be thrown away and anything that can be donated. Be sure to set aside anything you plan on giving to friends, family and even neighbors.

Make sure everything has its own place, as this will help you keep the space organized down the road. It’s also important to store items in areas that are both easy to see and reach. This will prevent you from making a mess every time you go to get something. When it comes to seasonal items, store them out of the way since they won’t be needed on a regular basis.

You’re most likely going to need a variety of storage solutions—from shelving to hooks and even drawers—to ensure that everything is put away properly. Try putting items away by category so that when you go to find the hammer, you’ll be able to quickly find the nails, screwdriver and screws as well.