Organizing Your Tools: The Comprehensive Guide

If you've ever used a shoe because you couldn't find a hammer, then you feel the pain of disorganized tools.

The secret to tool organization is accessibility. If the tool is hard to find or to put away, then everything will get messy again. Instead of organizing tools by function, think about how often you use them. The tools you use most often should be the easiest to retrieve and the fastest to put away.

Assess Your Current Tool Collection

Before you start organizing your tools, it's essential to know what you have in your collection. Take an inventory of all your tools in order to decide which tools you will keep. This way, you're not making homes for tools you don't need.

Take an inventory of your tools. Don't make homes for tools you don't need.

At this step, categorize tools by function. Have three hammers? Put them in the hammer pile. Are there twenty-two kinds of screwdrivers? Put them in the screwdriver pile. Each power tool is its own pile unless you have duplicates.

Categorize your tools by their function. Find and eliminate duplicates.

When you're done, make a commitment to get rid of the excess. Make three more piles: Sell, Donate, and Trash. Follow through. Get rid of the tools you don't need. Keeping duplicates just takes up valuable storage space. Overstuffed storage makes it difficult to find the tools you need.

Sell, donate, or trash tools you don't need.

Choose the Right Tool Storage Solution

The next step is to choose the right storage solution for your tools. Tool storage options include tool chests, tool cabinets, pegboards, wall cabinets, shelves, carts, workbenches, wall racks, wall hooks, and magnetic tool holders.

Tool chests are large, sturdy boxes with multiple drawers for organizing and storing tools. They are often made of tough plastic and they provide portable space for hand and power tools.

Similar to tool chests, tool cabinets feature multiple drawers for tool storage. Tool cabinets tend to be large and heavy-duty, and are usually designed for industrial use.

Pegboards are wall-mounted panels with evenly spaced holes. They're made from metal or fiberboard. You can hang hooks and pegs through the holes to store and display your tools. Pegboards are versatile and allow for easy organization and accessibility.

Wall-mounted cabinets provide storage space for tools. They come with shelves or adjustable racks and are available in various sizes and configurations.

Shelving units are freestanding or wall-mounted structures with multiple shelves. Adjustable shelf units allow you to move the shelves up or down to adjust for the height of what you're storing. You can use shelves to store tools and toolboxes.

Workbenches serve as both a workspace and tool storage solution. They typically include drawers, cabinets, or shelves beneath the work surface for storing tools within easy reach.

Rolling tool carts are mobile storage units that allow you to move your tools around the garage as needed. Rolling tool carts usually feature drawers, trays, or shelves for organization.

Wall-mounted racks and hooks allow you to hang tools such as shovels, rakes, brooms, and ladders. They help keep the floor area clear by using vertical space.

Tool racks and organizers are designed for specific tool sizes and shapes such as wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, and drills. Specialized storage options help keep tools neatly arranged and easily accessible. Examples include storage options from Rubbermaid, Gladiator, and Proslat. You put “slatwalls” or tracks on the wall, and then attach specialized hooks for carrying your tools, meaning you never need to pound a nail or screw in another hook. My favorites are in my articles here:

• The Best Garage Slatwall Storage System (Gladiator Review)
• A Complete Guide to the Rubbermaid FastTrack Storage System
• What Can I Store On a Proslat Wall System? (with Pictures)

Magnetic tool holders are magnetic strips or bars that you attach to walls or cabinets allowing you to store metal tools by simply sticking them to the magnetic surface.

 When making your decision, consider the following factors.

• the size of the tool collection
• the available space
• your budget for tools storage

Tool Collection Size

The number of tools you have will determine the size of the storage solution you need. You'll need larger containers for bigger collections (yet another reason to get rid of duplicates). For large tool collections, you will probably acquire multiple tool storage solutions.

Available Space

Decide where you'll put your new storage solutions for your tools.

Do you have a workbench, for example, where you always use certain tools? You might add drawers to your workbench, or get a container for those tools you want right in that space.

Next, consider where you will put cabinets, pegboards, toolboxes, and plastic containers.

Think about the floor, furniture, wall, and ceiling as target storage locations.

Remember that the floor is a storage space of last resort. Anything on the floor becomes something you need to work around, and that gets annoying.

The floor is the storage option of last resort.

Tool Storage Budget

This is kind of obvious, but it needs to be on the table. Make a list of your storage solution choices, along with their prices.

The reason for this is not just to buy what you can afford.

You might find that a cabinet that seems expensive is more cost-effective than several toolboxes you store on shelves, for example.

The best way to compare solutions is to know what the total price is going to be, rather than the price of each piece.

Maximize Your Storage Space

At every storage spot, there are multiple options for storing tools. If you are a car mechanic, you could consider using the garage floor for a rolling cabinet or workbench. That's the only time I think anyone should use the floor for a storage solution.

You can put shelves, hooks, pegboards, or cabinets on the garage wall.

You can put hanging shelves and hook storage on the garage ceiling.

Maximize these spaces, thinking about access to each storage solution before finalizing the plan.

Can you reach the ceiling storage if you install a cabinet underneath?

Will a wheeled cabinet be easy to push out of the way? Or will that just put it in the way somewhere else?

Maximizing your storage space is crucial to ensuring your tools are organized and easily accessible.

Garage Ceiling Tool Storage Options

Catalog the entire solution from ceiling to wall to floor. Starting at the ceiling, choose from these garage storage options:

1. Overhead storage racks (ceiling-mounted shelves)
2. Pulley system racks
3. Hooks and hangers
4. Elevated platforms

Ceiling Rack Storage Options

A garage overhead ceiling rack is a storage solution that is suspended from the ceiling of a garage, typically made of metal or heavy-duty plastic. It provides a platform for organizing and storing large or bulky items, such as sporting equipment, boxes, containers, and tools that would otherwise consume valuable floor space.

The rack is usually mounted to the ceiling joists using brackets and hardware and is designed to be sturdy and secure. The platform can range in size, from small and compact to large and expansive, and can be customized to fit the specific storage needs of the garage. Some models come with adjustable shelves or compartments that can be rearranged to accommodate different items.

Because it involves the ceiling, there are two important points to keep in mind

1. Will anyone be underneath the storage who will get hurt if the storage fails? Failing wall and floor storage will probably not damage anyone or anything. Failing garage ceiling storage can kill someone.
2. Will the ceiling hold the weight of your ceiling storage and its contents? How much weight can you hang from a garage ceiling, anyway See my article How Much Weight Can I Hang From My Garage Ceiling?

Some overhead racks also feature a locking mechanism, which allows the user to secure items in place and prevent them from falling or shifting during movement. To ensure safety, it is important to make sure that the rack is properly installed and can support the weight of the items being stored. Additionally, it is advisable to regularly inspect the hardware and brackets to ensure that the rack remains secure and stable.

Use an overhead rack for items you do not need every day.

You might store these types of tools in an overhead rack:

• Ladders
• Power equipment – Use to store lawnmowers in the winter, and snow blowers in the summer
• Lawn and garden equipment – Use to store rakes in the winter, and shovels in the summer
• Containers – large containers and storage bins
• Long tools – rakes, brooms, and shovels
• Bulky items – tarps and drop cloths
• Power tools that are not frequently used

Popular garage ceiling storage brands include:

• Gladiator (see my article The Best Garage Slatwall Storage System (Gladiator Review))
• NewAge
• Husky
• SafeRacks
• Rubbermaid (see my article A Complete Guide to the Rubbermaid FastTrack Storage System)
• Ultrawall
• HyLoft
• FLEXIMOUNTS (see my article 10 Overhead Garage Storage Rack Features to Consider Before Buying)
• MonsterRax
• Arrow

Elevated Platform Tool Storage Options

A storage pulley system has a platform suspended from the ceiling.

A garage pulley system is similar to an overhead ceiling rack, with one major difference. The pulley platform lowers to the floor for easier access. You use ropes and pulleys to lift items above the garage floor. You raise and lower the platform using a hand crank or a motorized pulley.

The platform attaches to cables and a pulley mechanism installed in the garage ceiling joists. You pull the cable to lift the platform and let go to lower the platform. The lifted platform allows you to store items off the garage floor. Regularly inspect the ropes, pulleys, and brackets to ensure that the system remains secure and stable.

A pulley system's cables will lock to avoid accidental lowering. To avoid accidents, it's crucial to install the pulley according to directions, using a complete set of solid hardware. Never overload a pulley system over its weight capacity.

You might store these types of tools in a pulley system rack:

• Ladders
• Power equipment – Use to store lawnmowers in the winter, and snow blowers in the summer
• Containers – large containers and storage bins
• Long tools – rakes, brooms, and shovels
• Bulky items – tarps and drop cloths
• Power tools that are not frequently used

Popular pulley brands include:

• SafeRacks
• Ultrawall
• FLEXIMOUNTS
• HyLoft
• Gladiator
• NewAge
• Husky
• Arrow
• MonsterRax
• Rubbermaid

Tool Storage Using Garage Ceiling Hooks and Hangers

Garage storage ceiling hooks and hangers are a simple and cost-effective solution for storing items in a garage. They consist of hooks or hangers that are mounted on the ceiling of a garage, allowing items to be suspended from the ceiling.

Ceiling hooks and hangers can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, and rubber. Some hooks and hangers are designed to be adjustable, allowing the user to change the height at which items are suspended.

Garage storage ceiling hooks and hangers are a convenient and space-saving solution for storing items in a garage. They are also relatively inexpensive and can be easily installed without the need for professional assistance.

Proper installation is essential to avoid accidents. Do not store more than the weight capacity of the hook or hanger.

Items you might store using garage ceiling hangers and hooks include:

• Ladders
• Hoses and electrical cords
• Less frequently used power tools
• Long items – rakes and shovels

Popular garage ceiling hook and hanger brands include:

• SafeRacks
• Ultrawall
• FLEXIMOUNTS
• HyLoft
• Gladiator
• NewAge
• Husky
• Arrow
• Monkey Bars
• Rubbermaid

Garage Wall Tool Storage Options

Tool storage solutions that install on the garage wall include:

1. Shelves
2. Cabinets
3. Hooks and Hangers
4. Pegboards
5. Magnetic tool holders
6. Slatwall systems
7. Rail systems

Garage Shelf Tool Storage

Garage wall shelving is a popular tool storage solution that provides a convenient place to store a variety of items in a garage. The shelves are installed on the walls of a garage, freeing up floor space and allowing items to be stored in an organized and easily accessible manner.

Wall shelves come in a variety of sizes and materials, including metal, plastic, and wood. They can be fixed or adjustable, allowing the user to customize the storage space to meet their specific needs. Consider the weight capacity of the shelves. For safety, you can bolt the shelves to the wall.

These are the types of shelves you can install on a garage wall:

• Wall-mounted shelves – These shelves are attached directly to the wall, freeing up floor space and allowing items to be stored in an organized and easily accessible manner. Wall-mounted shelves come in a variety of sizes and materials, including metal, plastic, and wood.
• Freestanding shelves – These shelves stand on their own, without being attached to the wall. They are ideal for storing items that are not frequently used, as they can be moved around as needed. Freestanding shelves come in a variety of sizes and materials, and some have wheels for easy mobility.
• Adjustable shelves – These shelves have adjustable heights, allowing the user to customize the storage space to meet their specific needs. This type of shelving is ideal for storing items of varying sizes, such as power tools and automotive parts.
• Metal shelving – This type of shelving is strong and durable, making it ideal for storing heavy items. Metal shelves are available in a variety of sizes and finishes, and some have additional features, such as hooks or baskets, for even more storage options.
• Wooden shelves – Wooden shelves are an attractive and functional storage solution for a garage. They come in a variety of finishes and can be painted or stained to match the décor of the garage.

Use garage shelves to store:

• Hand tools – hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers
• Power tools – drills, saws, and sanders
• Garden tools – rakes, hoes, shovels, and pruning shears
• Automotive tools – jacks, tire irons, and oil filters
• Workshop tools – vises, clamps, and measuring tapes
• Painting supplies – paint brushes, rollers, and trays
• Cleaning supplies – brooms, mops, and cleaning solutions
• Safety equipment – hard hats, work gloves, and goggles
• Hardware supplies – nails, screws, and bolts
• Electrical supplies – extension cords, electrical tape, and fuses

Garage Cabinet Tool Storage

Garage cabinets are a popular tool storage solution. They cost more than garage shelves, but add the convenience of closed storage. This protects tools from car exhaust, dust, dirt, and bugs. Some cabinets also come with additional features, such as drawers, shelves, and hooks, for even more storage options.

There are several options available, including:

• Metal cabinets – Metal cabinets are strong, durable, and ideal for storing heavy items. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes, and some have locking mechanisms for added security.
• Wooden cabinets – Wooden cabinets are an attractive and functional storage solution for a garage. They come in a variety of finishes and can be painted or stained to match the décor of the garage.
• Laminate cabinets – Laminate cabinets offer a durable and attractive option for garage storage. They are available in a variety of colors and finishes and are easy to clean and maintain.
• Wall-mounted cabinets – Wall-mounted cabinets are attached directly to the wall, freeing up floor space and allowing items to be stored in an organized and easily accessible manner. Wall-mounted cabinets come in a variety of sizes and materials, including metal, plastic, and wood.
• Freestanding cabinets – Freestanding cabinets stand on their own, without being attached to the wall. They are ideal for storing items that are not frequently used, as they can be moved around as needed. Freestanding cabinets come in a variety of sizes and materials, and some have wheels for easy mobility.
• Base cabinets – Base cabinets sit on the floor and provide storage space for items that are not frequently used. They are available in a variety of sizes and materials, and some have wheels for easy mobility.

When choosing garage cabinets, it's important to consider the weight capacity of the shelves and make sure they are securely attached to the wall or floor. Organize the items inside the cabinets to make them easily accessible. Prevent items from falling out when shifting other items around.

For more in-depth info on cabinets, read our These NewAge Garage Cabinets Will Make You Feel Like a Confident Homeowner and the Garage Cabinet Guide.

Tools to store in garage cabinets include:

• Any tool that needs protection from car exhaust and dust
• Power tools – drills, saws, and sanders
• Hand tools – screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers
• Garden tools – shovels, rakes, hoes, shovels, and pruning shears
• Automotive tools – jacks, lug wrenches, tire irons, and oil filters
• Workshop tools – vises, clamps, and measuring tapes
• Painting supplies – paint cans, paint brushes, rollers, and trays
• Cleaning supplies – brooms, mops, and cleaning solutions
• Safety equipment – hard hats, work gloves, and goggles
• Hardware supplies – nails, screws, and bolts
• Electrical supplies – circuit testers, wire cutters, extension cords, electrical tape, and fuses
• Woodworking tools – saws, chisels, planers

Wall Hook and Hanger Garage Tool Storage

Garage wall hooks and hangers are a simple and efficient way to store tools. The advantage is easy accessibility of your tools. The disadvantage is that hooks and hangers expose the tools to the garage's environment. Tools might get dirty from car exhaust and dust.

While you can install hooks and hangers in any wall, consider first whether you are installing in drywall or a stud. Drywall supports much less weight than wall studs because drywall is similar to paper, while wall studs are solid wood. The amount of weight the hook supports will depend on the screw length and material quality. Use drywall hooks for up to 10 lbs. of hand and power tools. Or, install all hooks in wall studies for more reliable safety.

It is important to always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and guidelines for weight capacity and installation and to ensure that the hook is securely attached to the wall to prevent it from falling. If you have heavy tools or equipment to store, it is recommended to install the hooks into a stud or use a more heavy-duty storage solution, such as a wall-mounted cabinet or shelving unit.

These are the types of garage wall hooks and hangers to consider:

• Screw-in hooks – Screw-in hooks are the simplest type of wall hook and can be used to hang a wide variety of tools. They can be screwed directly into the wall and are ideal for hanging lighter tools, such as hammers and screwdrivers.
• Magnetic hooks – Magnetic hooks use strong magnets to hold tools in place. They can be attached to metal surfaces such as metal cabinets or tool chests, or they can be attached to the wall using screws.
• Pegboard hooks – Pegboard hooks are designed to be used with pegboard panels and are ideal for organizing a large number of tools. The hooks fit into the holes in the pegboard and can be easily moved and rearranged as needed.
• Slatwall hooks – Slatwall hooks are similar to pegboard hooks but are designed to be used with slatwall panels. They fit into slots in the slatwall and can be easily moved and rearranged.
• Rail and hook systems – Rail and hook systems are a more advanced type of wall hook. They consist of a rail that is mounted to the wall, with hooks that can be attached to the rail at any location. These systems are ideal for organizing a large number of tools and can be expanded by adding additional hooks or rails.

Wall hooks and hangers are a great way to keep tools organized and easily accessible. By hanging tools on the wall, you free up floor space and prevent tools from becoming lost or buried under other items. Some hooks and hangers are also adjustable, allowing you to change their position to accommodate different-sized tools.

Tools to store on garage wall hooks and hangers include:

• Ladders
• Power equipment – lawn edgers and power drills
• Lawn and garden tools – shovels, rakes, and hoes

Tool Storage on Garage Wall Pegboards

Garage pegboards are particle or metal boards with evenly spaced holes for hanging hooks. Mount the board to a garage wall, and hang tools from the hooks in the holes. In Some companies make specialized hooks for their boards, so don't assume that any hook will fit your pegboard.

Pegboards are efficient and flexible, allowing you to store many tools in a small space.

Pegboards are typically made of metal, such as steel or aluminum, or of a hard particleboard material. Metal pegboards are more durable and long-lasting, but they are also more expensive. Particleboard pegboards are a cost-effective alternative that are also lightweight and easy to install.

The holes in a pegboard are usually spaced on a standard grid, which allows for easy placement of hooks and accessories. The standard spacing is 1 inch between holes, although some pegboards may have different hole spacing.

You might also want to read our article: Do fiber pegboards contain dangerous chemicals? Find out here.

Pegboard hooks come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Some hooks are designed to hold specific types of tools, while others can be used to hang a wide range of items. There are also accessories available, such as baskets and shelves, that can be used to increase the storage capacity of the pegboard.

Mount the pegboard using screws or nails. Mount directly on the garage wall studs if the tools' total weight will equal more than ten lb.

Pegboards are highly customizable, and users can add and rearrange hooks and accessories as needed. This makes it easy to create a storage solution that is tailored to your specific needs and tools.

Store these types of tools on a garage wall pegboard:

• Hand tools – Screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, wrenches
• Power tools – Corded and cordless drill drivers, impact drivers, circular saws, and other power tools
• Garden tools – Rakes, hoes, shovels, and other garden tools
• Automotive tools – Sockets, ratchets, wrenches, pliers, and other automotive tools
• Painting tools – Paintbrushes, rollers, trays, and other painting tools

Tool Storage on Magnetic Tool Holders

A magnetic tool holder mounts on the garage wall. It contains magnets to attract magnetic tools and to hold them in place. Magnetic tool holders are usually made of steel. You can mount a magnetic tool holder on a garage cabinet door, too. Mount the holder using adhesive strips or screws.

Some magnetic tool holders often come with adjustable magnets. This allows you to concentrate the magnets in one area for heavier items.

Use a magnetic tool holder to store magnetic:

• screwdrivers
• wrenches
• pliers
• other hand tools

One advantage of magnetic tool holders is that they allow you to easily see and access your tools. You simply need to place the tool near the holder, and it will be held securely in place. This makes it easy to find and grab the tool you need, even if you have limited space in your garage or workshop.

Another advantage of magnetic tool holders is that they help keep your tools organized. By hanging your tools on the holders, you can see at a glance what you have and where it is stored, making it easier to find and access the tools you need when you need them.

Tool Storage Using a Garage Slatwall

A garage slatwall system consists of panels with horizontal grooves, or “slats,” that are mounted on the wall. The slats allow you to hang a variety of hooks, baskets, and other storage accessories, so you can customize the system to meet your specific storage needs.

Slatwall systems are typically made of vinyl or other durable materials that can withstand the weight of heavy tools. You can cut the panels of most slatwall solutions to create a narrower solution.

One of the main benefits of a garage slatwall system is its versatility. The slats provide a variety of options for hanging and organizing your tools, so you can choose the configuration that works best for you. For example, you can hang hooks to store hand tools; baskets to store small parts and hardware; and shelves to store power drills.

Another advantage of a garage slatwall system is its ease of use. Once the panels are mounted on the wall, you can quickly and easily add or remove hooks and accessories as your storage needs change. This makes it easy to keep your tools organized and within reach, even as your collection grows.

Storage solutions are usually proprietary, meaning that one wall's hooks will not fit in another brand's wall. So when shopping for a slatwall, consider the accessories you get before buying.

Installation is simple but often awkward. Larger walls are eight feet wide by four feet high. It's almost impossible for one person to handle an installation of this size wall by oneself.

Hang these types of tools on a garage slatwall:

• Hand tools: hammers, pliers, screwdrivers, wrenches, ratchets, etc.
• Power tools: drills, saws, sanders, impact drivers, etc.
• Garden tools: rakes, hoes, shovels, pruning shears, etc.
• Measuring tools: tape measures, rulers, levels, squares, etc.
• Automotive tools: socket sets, oil filter wrenches, jack stands, etc.
• Paint supplies: paint brushes, rollers, trays, etc.
• Workshop supplies: clamps, vices, workbench lights, etc.
• Storage containers: toolboxes, parts bins, etc.
• Safety gear: goggles, ear protection, dust masks, etc.

Popular garage slatwall brands include:

• Gladiator
• Proslat
• Flow Wall
• Ulti-MATE Garage
• Rubbermaid FastTrack
• NewAge Products
• HyLoft
• Triton Products
• StoreWALL
• SafeRacks

Also, you might want to view my articles: The Best Garage Slatwall Storage System (Gladiator Review),  and What Can I Store On a Proslat Wall System? (with Pictures) (they open in new browser windows)

Tool Storage Using Garage Rail Systems

Garage rail systems are similar to slatwalls, but are easier to install because they're much smaller. A garage rail storage system is a modular storage solution that utilizes vertical rails mounted to the wall to hold horizontal rails and storage accessories.

The rails are typically made of aluminum or steel and are installed horizontally along the wall at predetermined intervals. The accessories, such as hooks, baskets, shelves, and bins, can be easily hung from the rails, allowing for a customized and flexible storage solution.

Rail system hardware and hooks are usually proprietary, so look at the accessories of a system before buying.

One of the benefits of a garage rail storage system is that it allows for the efficient use of wall space. Rather than having to store items on the floor or on shelves that take up valuable square footage, items can be hung vertically on the wall, freeing up floor space for other uses. Additionally, because the accessories can be easily repositioned, the storage system can be reconfigured as needs change.

Another advantage of a garage rail storage system is that it is easily adaptable to accommodate a wide variety of items. For example, hooks can be used to hang ladders, and garden tools, while baskets can be used to store smaller items like gloves, and safety glasses. Use bins to store screws, nails, and bolts. Use shelves for paint cans and cleaning products.

Some garage rail storage systems also incorporate built-in lighting and power outlets, allowing for convenient and efficient use of the space. For example, a workbench light can be hung above a workbench, and power tools can be plugged into outlets located near the work area.

Consider storing these types of tools on a garage rail system:

• Ladders
• Hoses and electrical cords
• Less frequently used power tools
• Long items – brooms, rakes, and shovels

Popular brands of garage rail systems include:

• Gladiator
• Husky
• Rubbermaid
• NewAge
• FastTrack
• Keter
• Stanley
• Monorail
• Ulti-MATE
• ClosetMaid

Our favorite rail system is the Rubbermaid. Learn more here: A Complete Guide to the Rubbermaid FastTrack Storage System