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Every time we take on a home improvement project, we need a different tool. And for many people, disorganization leads to frustration when they know they have a particular tool, but just can’t find it. Often, this results in buying the tool again. Eventually, you accumulate so many tools that the disorganization problem only becomes worse.
Organizing the tool chest is a simple project that could save you a lot of time and frustration in the long run. With an organized tool chest, you’ll know where everything is and you’ll be able to find tools at ease. A simple project will no longer involve searching through items and ultimately going to the store to buy something you know you already have.
If your tool chest could use some organization, it’s probably time to set aside some time to organize it. Before you do, consider these helpful tips.
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Start by taking everything out of the tool chest. It’s easier to sort and organize everything if you’re starting from scratch. Having an empty tool chest as your jumping off point will allow you to really evaluate the space inside and how to best compartmentalize it. |
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With your pile of tools that has been taken out of the chest, start breaking it down into piles by starting with a keep pile and a throw away pile. There are likely going to be some items that are duplicates that you no longer need, or there will be tools that are broken. Discard them! They are only contributing to the problem. |
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With the pile of tools you’re going to keep, organize them into logical piles. Perhaps you’ll keep all the screwdrivers together and all of the hammers together. Perhaps you’ll organize it by project. Whatever makes sense to you is the way to go. You want reaching for the tools to be instinctual, so follow your instincts! |
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It’s a good idea to line the drawers of the tool chest with non-slip rubber matting or a heavy-duty magnet. The magnet helps keep metal tools in place, and the rubber matting keeps flat tools from rolling. |
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Tool chests have a variety of drawer sizes and shapes. Put tools in them where they fit while still keeping them organized. Smaller items can go in shallower drawers; bigger items should go in deeper drawers. For very small items that you don’t want to necessarily get mixed in with one another, jars are a good idea. Nails, screws, nuts, and bolts can all be kept in small jars, saving you the trouble of having to sift through all of your tiny metals to find one screw when you need it. |
By following these simple tips, you will be on track to having a clean, safe, and organized tool chest. Projects will become easier, and frustration will not be part of your next project.
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