It’s great to have power tools around the house whenever you need to assemble or repair something.
The problem is that some people don’t know how to store power tools properly. With how expensive they can be, keeping them in proper tool storage is only fitting.
If you don’t take care of your tools, it may result in equipment malfunction or total damage due to rust.
Today, we want to help you with some power tool storage ideas to keep your investments organized.
Things To Do Before Storing Tools
Power tools require regular maintenance to prevent corrosion, which can damage essential parts of your equipment.
That said, you must check your tools before storing them to ensure they will work the next time you need them.
Here are some maintenance tips you must follow before storing them properly:
1. Check the batteries.
Batteries are the life of power tools, so make it a habit to check for leaks or damage and replace them as needed.
Also, you can clean the batteries using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Power tools use different battery types, each one following specific charging and discharging procedures.
Nickel-cadmium (NiCd) and nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries require a regular discharge.
On the contrary, lithium-ion (Li-Ion) cells do not have a specific charging process, as long as you leave them with a 50% battery charge before storing.
Ensure you have read the owner’s manual to know how to care for the batteries.
2. Clean them after every use.
Every time you use your tools, they accumulate debris, dust, and moisture that can cause them to malfunction later on.
Cleaning these power tools with a rag or any old fabric after every use is best to prevent damage.
3. Dispose of defective tools.
Make it a part of your maintenance to check on your equipment regularly. Power tools are electrical devices with complex features.
Before storing them, you will want to inspect the tools thoroughly for any damages, such as signs of wear and tear on the electrical cord.
If it is not working, ask a professional to fix it. If it’s beyond repair, you can dispose of the defective pieces.
Throwing away broken and unusable tools will help clear up your workspace.
4. Lubricate the tools from time to time.
Your power tools need regular lubrication to prevent corrosion and keep the parts moving accordingly.
Check your tool’s user manual for the suitable lubricant for your device and which part needs lubricating.
5. Remove rust as soon as you see growth.
As soon as you see signs of rusting on your tool, remove it immediately to prevent it from spreading to other parts of the device.
Corrosion can spread quickly and may cause structural damage to the tool, or some parts may fail and freeze up.
How To Store Power Tools?
Whether you have smaller or larger power tools, it is highly recommended you keep them organized.
Every power tool user has a way of storing equipment. Some prefer to keep them in a tool chest, while others use their original packaging.
We will help you find the perfect solution for your storage space concerns, especially if you have limited floor space.
1. Pick a suitable storage space.
Your main goal for choosing a dedicated space for your power tools is to minimize damage due to exposure to the elements.
Choose a spot where your tools are protected from the elements while reducing potential hazards to everyone in your home.
Check out the following considerations as you choose a space for your tools:
- It is best if you can find a climate-controlled room. Avoid spaces with high humidity; find an area with less heat and sunlight exposure instead.
- Pick a location with low foot traffic so that no one gets injured if they accidentally knock or trip over tools or cords.
- The basement is an ideal place for occasionally-used power tools. You can store your automotive power tools in the garage.
- Build a tool shed if you have the space to spare outside.
2. Invest in a power tool storage rack.
There is a wide range of power tool storage racks like the JULINE Power Tool Organizer that you can mount on your garage wall or workshop without taking up floor space.
You can also choose a cordless drill storage rack to keep everything in one place while also doubling as a charging station.
Having a designated docking or charging area for your power tools makes it easier to keep them charged and ready to go.
However, these tool shelf models are only ideal for those with a few pieces of power tools to organize.
3. Hang your power tools.
If you are looking for a more budget-friendly storage solution for your equipment, hanging tools is an intelligent way.
Firstly, get a pegboard for backing and frame in several wood pieces, so you can easily hang your tools on the wall using peg hooks and bins.
The pegboard bins are perfect for holding drill bits, accessories, and other small items.
You can also make storage pockets for other narrow paraphernalia, attaching them with a drywall screw.
Moreover, hanging your power tools protect them against ground moisture and keeps them away from the floor, preventing accidental tripping.
Hanging your power tools in a convenient spot keeps them safe and easy to access.
4. Get a power tool storage cabinet.
Another excellent power tool storage solution is a dedicated cabinet. You can repurpose an old one or buy a new one.
Alternatively, you can build a new cabinet with storage cubbies based on your specifications.
A few lockable storage drawers are also a good idea when building your tool cabinet to safeguard other essential tools or parts.
You can store other things besides your power tools in a customized cabinet, preventing a jumble of power cords.
Cabinet doors protect your tools from being exposed to the elements while keeping them organized and secure.
5. Use the original box or packaging.
As mentioned earlier, it is best to put your tools back in their original boxes than have them lying around.
Some boxes are made of plastic and have internal support for securing and protecting the device, making them the perfect storage.
If you don’t use your power tools regularly, keeping them safely in their original packaging is best.
6. Store inside clear plastic containers.
Clear plastic boxes are excellent options if you are looking for versatile storage solutions for your power tools.
They are more durable than cardboard boxes; most come with lids, protecting the equipment from dust and debris.
In addition to protecting your tools from accidental spills, they are stackable and make it easier to find your tools.
You can even choose different shapes and sizes and separate smaller accessories from the primary power tool, making it easier to locate what you need.
However, they are not as durable as heavy-duty toolboxes designed to protect your equipment.
7. Use circular saw luggage.
You can use old bowling ball bags as portable luggage for your circular saw. It can easily slide in and out of the opening.
The bag also offers space for spare blades and small accessories like a blade-changing wrench and rip guide.
Transporting the saw to another job site or location in a repurposed bag is a cost-effective storage option. Moreover, these plastic boxes help protect your devices from accidental spills.
8. Keep them in toolboxes.
Toolboxes are also perfect for keeping your tools tidy. To ensure their safety, you can put silica gels inside to help absorb excess moisture.
You can also use a heavy-duty toolbox liner made of non-slip rubber to protect your tools from rusting.
Effective Power Tool Storage Ideas
It will help if you begin with a comprehensive plan to learn how to store power tools effectively. Once you have executed your plan, you must follow it to keep your tools organized.
By investing in suitable organizers, you will be able to secure your power tools and enhance your storage system.
