If you don’t have a rail or don’t want them, try to bundle loose wrenches in an old rag or a small sack for your portable box. At least they’ll all be in the same place and won’t be rattling around loudly.
Hang some pegboard in your workshop and hang either hooks, for easy-to-hang tools, or hang little baskets for things like screws and other smaller items. Keep them visible, but out of the way on the board. [5] X Research source You could also look into a slat wall system to hang up your tools. [6] X Expert Source Robert RybarskiOrganizational Specialist Expert Interview. 31 January 2020.
Alternatively, save old milk jugs, coffee cans, and other little containers for keeping screws and other fasteners in. Make sure you mark them clearly. If you keep them small enough, you can even pop them into your portable box when you need them for a job. [7] X Research source
Use a rag to wipe oil and grime off of tools, then place them in their assigned places. You don’t have to scrub them, but cleaning them up a bit will keep your tools from rusting and losing life.
If you’ve got an especially cluttered or greasy toolbox, it’s usually a good idea to lay down some kind of barrier so you won’t make a mess. Some old cardboard works fine, or a tarp if you can spare it. It’s usually best to do it outside in the yard or on the driveway, rather than on the kitchen table.
If you’re using acetone to clean up your tools, make sure you’re in a well-ventilated area and take frequent breaks to make sure you’re not getting lightheaded.
Hang onto things you can identify, if you want to. If you’re struggling with a big hoard of little fasteners and other bits, though, it might be a good idea to start clearing things out. Good rule of thumb: if you can’t identify it, put it in the garbage.
Use a small primary toolbox that’s easy to manage. It’s better to get a smaller unit to start with and then add as you acquire more tools. You don’t need a massive tool chest that you could live in that’s going to sit around half-empty. Buy a larger drawer-style toolbox to store your bigger tools and inessential items securely. Choose one that comes with a tray on top for bits, screws, and other items. This is a handy place to put these small items when you are working on a project so they aren’t lost.
