An updated Earth911 article highlights ways to declutter garages by reusing or recycling common items, addressing the fact that three out of four U.S. garages are too full for cars. The guide, originally published in 2017, was revised in October 2025 to include recent developments in paint recycling. It emphasizes proper disposal to reduce environmental harm and stress from clutter.
According to a UCLA-affiliated study cited in the Earth911 guide, three out of four garages in the U.S. cannot hold cars due to clutter, which can increase household stress. The article lists 12 common garage items and provides practical advice for reuse or recycling to free up space responsibly.
For hazardous materials like pesticides, herbicides, and paint, the guide stresses treatment as household hazardous waste (HHW). Expired pesticides should go to local HHW facilities or events, not down drains, as wastewater plants struggle to remove contaminants. Paint recycling has advanced via PaintCare, a nonprofit operating in 11 states including California, Colorado, and Washington. In 2024, it collected over 1 million gallons in Washington and nearly 400,000 gallons in Connecticut, with 82-86% of latex paint remixed into recycled-content paint and oil-based paint used as fuel. Many states now offer drop-off sites within 15 miles for all residents. Latex paint can be dried and landfilled if no recycling is available, but empty cans may be recyclable locally.
Automotive items are straightforward: motor oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, and brake fluid are accepted at auto shops or HHW facilities. Car batteries and tires go to stores like Batteries Plus Bulbs or tire shops, avoiding reuse projects that leach chemicals. Power tools, if functional, should be sold or donated; otherwise, batteries are recycled separately, and manufacturers may take back the rest.
Bicycles, outdoor gear, and tools can be donated to schools, Goodwill, or Salvation Army if usable. Bikes' metal frames go to scrap yards, while broken garden tools can be repaired or dismantled for metal recycling. Coolers, made of layered plastics, are hard to recycle and often must be trashed unless donated; Styrofoam ones have specific recyclers. Propane tanks require checking with scrap yards or retailers for safe disposal.
The guide recommends tools like Earth911's Recycling Search for local options, promoting reuse to extend item life and recycling to minimize waste.