TOOL TIPS: 6 Ways to Declutter Your Workshop
Spring has finally sprung and with it will come a slew of home improvement and DIY projects. But before you get started, you might want to consider doing some spring cleaning around your workshop. Below are six tips for decluttering your space.
Take Inventory
How you organize your tools is largely related to how much you have. The first thing you should do before you even begin organizing your space is to take inventory of everything. Lay out your tools, bits, parts, and other accessories. This will give you an idea of what you are working with and you may even find tools you no longer need or are using – and can therefore be sold in a garage sale or donated to organizations like Habitat for Humanity.
Categorize Everything
Once you see what you are working with, start creating categories for your tools. This can be by type of tool (hand tools, power tools, cutting tool, etc.), seasonal usage, or how frequent you use them. There doesn’t have to be any rhyme or reason, as long as it makes sense to you. Having these categories and using them to determine where you will store everything will ensure you are able to find things when you need them.
Create Storage Solutions High and Low
Chances are if you have a lot of tools, you also have the space to use them. One of the most common ways to store power tools is in bins or containers below a workbench or a tabletop. Buying containers that can seal might be a good idea, because they’ll protect your power tools from water or any other hazard that could potentially damage them. For the same reason, it’s also a good idea to store them off of the ground. Depending on how high the ceiling in your workspace is, you might also consider installing hooks to hang tools from – just make sure the hooks are strong enough to support the weight of whatever you’re hanging on them.
If You Build It…
Maybe you want to turn your decluttering project into a craft project too? Consider finding old cupboards and drawers from second-hand shops (or even from junkyards) to repurpose as storage cabinets. You could also try building a storage cabinet or simply a shelf from scratch. This is relatively inexpensive and may be a better option as you get to customize your storage to your needs. Waferboard is cheap and works great for this type of project.
Make Your Accessories Accessible
Sometimes it’s the little things that are the hardest to store – namely the various tool bits, accessories, hardware and fasteners you may have. Investing in a good multi-drawer storage cabinet will be extremely helpful in keeping your separate bits and pieces coordinated and easy to find. Don’t forget to label the drawers for even easier access.
Keep It Clean
Perhaps the most important tip to declutter your workshop is to just simply keep it clean. Now that you have storage space for your tools, use it and put your tools away after you’re done using them. Be sure to wipe surfaces of debris (including wood or metal shavings, which could cause injuries) and give the floor a good sweep regularly. You’ll be surprised how a little spick and span goes a long way in keeping your workshop clean and clutter free.
Sources include LifeHacker.com