10 ways to store tools

[Jason]

It’s easier to get projects done when your tools are organised and easily accessible. You can save time searching for the right tool and maintain a clutter-free workspace.

From installing pegboards to building cabinets, Bunnings Workshop members have shared many effective tool storage solutions. Check out some examples below for inspiration, and let us know if you need a hand with your own project.

1. Install a pegboard

Pegboards allow you to display and store tools easily while maximising storage space. In her garage storage makeover, Lauren (@lcooksey88) used Pinnacle pegboards to mount tools.

Find more clever ways to store tools in Top 10 most popular garage or shed projects.

2. Use organisers

Compartment organisers are ideal for storing smaller tools like screws, nails, and driver bits. Workshop member @fhk56 used them to store fasteners and fixings, neatly arranging the organisers in custom D.I.Y. timber cabinets.

Check out more tool storage solutions.

3. Add drawers

Tool trolleys or chests are great for organising hand tool collections like spanner sets and chisels, with drawers making it easy to find what you need quickly and easily. While building a mobile CNC router workbench, @Seaton added drawers for extra storage.

You can also add drawer dividers to help find items quickly and easily. Have a look at How to build drawer dividers by Carl (@CSParnell) for step-by-step instructions.

4. Build cabinets

Cabinets provide plenty of storage for items of different sizes. Community member @Arcc's power tool cabinet provides loads of storage and a mobile workspace.

Don’t miss 8 inspiring cabinet projects for more ideas.

6. Make a mobile tool stand

Mobile stands are an effective way to access and store frequently used tools. A fflip-top mobile tool stand by Hazel (@hazesnow) saves space by pivoting between two tools.

The Bunnings team shares more tips in 7 handy tool storage ideas.

7. Add shelves

Shelves add extra storage space to arrange and store your tools. Jess (@prettyliving) made custom heavy-duty brackets for floating timber shelves in her garage workbench and shelving project.

Have a look at 10 ways to use a floating shelf for more inspiration.

7. Build a workbench

A clever workbench design can provide a great space for working and storing your tools. While building a workshop in his garage, Lee (@RatBoy) included a multi-tier workbench made from structural plywood.

Experienced Bunnings Workshop member Rob (@Peggers) shared a simple step-by-step guide How to build a workbench with full list of tools and materials. 

8. Install hangers and hooks

Hangers and hooks maximise vertical space and keep tools off the ground or work surfaces. Mark (@Remarka6le) used Pinnacle hooks to hang sawhorses in his D.I.Y. shed workbench makeover.

Get more creative ideas for your space with Top 10 most popular storage projects.

9. Build a drill station

A drill station can help organise your drills while keeping them charged. @Wayne's popular D.I.Y. drill charging station incorporates holders for drills, charger and bits.

Our guide How to build a drill charging station by resident Bunnings D.I.Y. expert Mitch (@MitchellMc) contains step-by-step instructions for building your own. 

10. Use a tool bag, chest, trolley or cabinet

No time to build your own? No worries, Bunnings has a huge range of storage cabinets, tool chests and trolleys, while the humble tool bag is portable and has plenty of pockets to hold everything you need. 

Have a look at 8 ways to store your tools securely.

How to store tools

The Bunnings team has shared more helpful guides about storing tools, including How to make a small-tool holder and How to build a pegboard tool holder.  

To maximise storage in your garage or shed, also check out Rob’s guide How to build garage storage featuring step-by-step instructions.

The Bunnings Workshop community can help if you need more assistance with storing your tools. Don’t hesitate to ask a question.

[Giving_It_a_Go]

Garage & Shed.

What do you suggest on how to set up storage for tools & work bench etc .. in a carport?  Eg. Lockable doors, chains etc ?

[EricL]

Hello @Giving_It_a_Go 

Can you please tell us more about your carport, is it totally open and exposed to viewing from the outside? Do you have a shed near the carport? This would a good place to store some of the tools such as the outdoor broom, blower's, rakes and lawn mowers. The other tools such as cordless tools, wired power tools, drop saws and ratchet sets are such a large investment that losing them would be devastating. 

I propose finding another place to store your tools for the meantime until you have the budget to have your carport closed off or have a properly built shed that is very secure.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.   

Eric

[Dave-1]

Evening @Giving_It_a_Go 

Well thats an interesting question, Probarlly before id put my toes in the water Id hope for a photo of your area you are asking about?

Apart from that id suggest a purpose built timber work trolley, something you can push inside your house as a carport is not where id leave anything No matter how good the area is. Anything left outside even locked away is asking for trouble as it just screams "There is something inside me" 😕

Dave

[Giving_It_a_Go]

Thanks Eric & Dave.  My property is gated all around.  You cannot see carport from the street.  It's very hidden.  I was thinking of building lockable cabinets bolted on wall from IKEA. I have to put storage in carport.  I have no other place to put storage on property.  I was also looking at storage on roof & sides. 

I appreciate your suggestions.

Thanks