🗃 Tote-ally Organized: DIY Storage Racks for Your Garage and/or Basement

We’ve made a little tweak this week!

Say hello to the new Maintenance Minute section, your go-to spot for quick, actionable tips to keep your home running like a well-oiled machine.

In this issue, our main article dives into DIY Tote Storage: Taming the Chaos One Bin at a Time, where we show you how to take control of your clutter with a simple, cost-effective project.

Plus, in the Q&A corner, we tackle an important safety question: Do smoke and carbon monoxide detectors expire? (Spoiler: They do, and you’ll want to check yours ASAP!)

Let’s get started and make your home a little safer, a little tidier, and a lot more enjoyable this week!

🛠 Maintenance Minute

Start your year with smart home habits

This week's 5-minute focus:

• Check your HVAC filter and mark your calendar for the next change. A clean filter not only improves air quality but can reduce your energy bills by up to 15%.

• Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (new year = fresh batteries)

• Inspect holiday light cords before storing them away

• Check your emergency kit supplies and update any expired items

Pro Tip: Take a few photos of your home's current condition, especially any problem areas you want to address this year. These "before" shots will help you track maintenance progress and can be valuable for insurance purposes.

DIY Tote Storage: Taming the Chaos One Bin at a Time

Let’s be honest, folks: tote bins are the unsung heroes of home organization. Whether they’re crammed with holiday decorations, sporting gear, or that mystery box of “important stuff” you swore you’d deal with someday, they’re everywhere.

The problem? They’re often stacked so precariously you’re playing a high-stakes game of Jenga every time you need something.

Well, I’ve got a solution for you that’s as practical as it is satisfying: a DIY tote storage rack. And trust me, this project is easier than finding your car keys when you’re running late.

The Plan: Borrowing Brilliance from Declassified Woodworks

First off, a shoutout to Declassified Woodworks for their brilliant design. For just $5, I snagged a simple, easy-to-follow plan that saved me hours of figuring it out myself. Best five bucks I’ve spent in a while—and I’ve spent five bucks on some questionable gas station coffee.

I was so impressed with the first rack I built for the garage that I decided to double down and make another one for my basement. That’s right—two racks, one plan, and a lot less chaos in my life.

They also have different plans for different configurations and bins (Commander, Greenmade, Member’s mark & HDX). I went with the HDX bins form Home Depot.

Link to Declassified Woodworks

The Materials

Here’s what you’ll need:

NOTE: A detailed list of materials comes with the plan

• Wood: 2x4s are your best friend for this project. They’re sturdy, affordable, and forgiving if you make a mistake (and who doesn’t?).

• Plywood: 4×8 sheet of OSB

• Screws: 2-1/2 inch screws, About 208 should do the trick.

• Brackets: To stabilize the unit

• Bins: For storage

The Tools

• Screwdriver: Bonus points if you’ve got a drill that isn’t on its last legs.

  • A cordless impact and drill make this so much easier and faster

• Measuring Tape & Pencil: Precision is key unless you want wobbly shelves.

• Saw: A miter saw is ideal, but a handsaw works if you’re feeling retro.

  • a skill saw for cutting the plywood is a bonus.

• Level: Because no one likes a storage rack that leans like the Tower of Pisa.

The Build:

Follow the Step-by-Step Instructions that come with the plan

1. Measure Twice, Cut Once
   Start by cutting your wood to size. You’ll need vertical supports and horizontal shelves tailored to your totes. Follow the plan cut list exactly.

2. Assemble the Frame
   Build the vertical supports and attach horizontal crossbars to create a sturdy frame. Remember to use the spacer blocks to make building it easy and consistent.

3. Secure the Shelves
   Attach the L-brackets to the corners This is where you’ll want to double-check everything with your level. Trust me, the 30 seconds it takes to check beats the hours of frustration from a tilted shelf.

4. Anchor It
   If your storage rack is going in the garage or basement, consider anchoring it to the wall. Safety first, folks—especially if you’re stacking heavy totes.

Budget Friendly

Here’s the best part: this project won’t break the bank. I spent less for materials, totes (storage containers), and the plan from Declassified Woodworks than the cost of a pre-made rack. You see why this DIY route is a no-brainer.

Why Build Two?

Here’s the deal: my garage was screaming for a storage solution, and this rack delivered. But then I realized my basement storage was just as chaotic. With the same plan, I built a second rack tailored to fit that space.

Now I’ve got all my totes neatly organized, whether they’re holding holiday decorations, tools, or seasonal gear. Plus, building the second rack was even faster since I already had the process down pat.

Pro Tips for Success

• Label Your Totes: While you’re at it, take a few minutes to label those bins. Future you will thank you.

• Test the Weight: Before fully loading it up, test the rack’s sturdiness with a few bins to ensure it’s rock solid.

• Customize the Design: Need a taller rack for the garage or a shorter one for the basement? Adjust the height to fit your space perfectly.

  • Note: Declassified has plans for 3×5 to 7×5 configurations

• Involve the Family: This is a great project to tackle with a buddy or your kids. Just make sure the power tools stay in responsible hands.

The Result

A tote storage rack isn’t just about tidying up; it’s about reclaiming your space. Whether it’s in your garage, basement, or attic, this project makes accessing your stuff a breeze.

With two racks now holding the fort in my garage and basement, I’ve not only decluttered but also made life so much easier. No more digging through piles or toppling stacks—it’s all right where I need it.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab those tools, download the plan from Declassified Woodworks, and get to work. Your totes—and your sanity—will thank you.

Link to Declassified Woodworks

Q&A - Do Smoke and Carbon Monoxide detectors expire?

Yes, smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors do expire! These life-saving devices are not "set it and forget it" items, so it’s important to keep an eye on their lifespan.

Smoke Detectors:

• Lifespan: Most smoke detectors need to be replaced every 8–10 years. This applies to both battery-powered and hardwired units.

• Why They Expire: Over time, the internal sensors degrade and become less effective at detecting smoke, even if the alarm seems to work during tests.

• How to Check: Look for a sticker or printed date on the back or side of the detector. If it’s over 10 years old or you can’t find a date, replace it to be safe.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors:

• Lifespan: CO detectors typically last 5–7 years, depending on the model. Some newer models may last up to 10 years.

• Why They Expire: CO sensors lose their ability to detect carbon monoxide accurately over time.

• How to Check: Check the back of the unit for a manufacture or expiration date. Many newer models will also chirp or flash a warning light when they reach the end of their life.

Combination Smoke/CO Detectors:

• These units usually have a 7–10 year lifespan, but always verify with the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Pro Tips for Maintenance:

1. Regular Testing: Test your alarms monthly by pressing the test button.

2. Replace Batteries: Change batteries at least once a year (unless it’s a 10-year sealed battery model).

3. Clean Them: Dust and debris can affect sensors. Gently vacuum or wipe the detectors every few months.

4. Interconnect for Safety: If possible, use interconnected alarms so when one goes off, they all go off.

Don’t gamble with safety. If your detectors are nearing or past their expiration date, replace them promptly. A small investment now can save lives later. Think of it as a “homeowner’s maintenance must!”