Hammer? Screwdriver? Screws? Can you find them when you need them? The secret to having what you need at your fingertips is keeping your everyday tools and hardware visible and easy to access.
Step 1: Take Inventory, Discard, and Donate
The first step in organizing your tools and hardware is to take inventory of what you have. Get everything out of your drawers and toolbox and get rid of duplicates or tools you don’t need. It’s pretty common for someone to accumulate multiple sets of screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches. And whether you’ve loaned tools out that never got returned, or you simply don’t have a good drill, you’ll also probably discover you’re missing a few essential tools.
Step 2: Group Like Tools Together
Next, sort the tools and hardware you are keeping into groups. Put all the different sizes of wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, hammers, etc., together. For hardware like screws and nails, sort by size and type and put in a jar or dish until you decide what type of container you want to use.
Step 3: Store Tools on the Wall
Utility boards are a vast improvement over traditional pegboards and they are an ideal solution for keeping everyday tools and hardware visible and accessible.
Step 4: Organize Hardware
Organize hardware like screws, nails, bolts, nuts, and washers in containers that are clear, labeled, and easy to access. Jars, sectioned bins, and magnetic containers are all good options.
Step 5: Create a Workstation
Make it easy to complete projects and simple repairs by creating a workstation near your tools and hardware.