Some people are just naturally tidy I guess, but many of the workshops I’ve seen (including my own) could do with better organized power tool storage. It makes things easier to find, it’s safer (especially if there are kids around), and you’ll be more productive because things are always where they should be.
Getting used to using your power tool storage instead of leaving things on the bench (or the floor) may take a while but I reckon it’s worth it. So let’s dive in. First I’m going to look at a few general power tool storage ideas that might be useful to you. Then I have some actual examples of DIY power tool storage racks, and shop-bought alternatives.
Wall-Mounted Tool Storage
- Pegboards: These are a classic choice and offer endless customization options. If your power tool has a belt loop you can use a hook off the board, or you can add a shelf. I’ve also seen a couple of racks designed to hold power drills. However, it’s probably fair to say that pegboards are usually better for hand tools and bins for components.
- Slatwall (or tool panels): These are similar to pegboards but usually have a more robust design. You can buy or make all kinds of power tool holders that can slot into slatwalls, but of course you need to have a good bit of space for the slatwall in the first place.
- Cabinets: Wall-mounted cabinets provide enclosed storage for protecting tools from dust and damage, and come in all shapes and sizes. The drawback I found is that they never seem to be quite the right size or shape!
Freestanding Tool Storage Options
- Tool Chests, Carts, and Boxes: A lot of these have wheels so you can have handy portable storage for your power tools and accessories. Models with organizers and dividers offer maximum versatility. The only drawback if you have a modest-sized workshop is the floor space they need.
- Workbench with Storage: You can combine functionality with power tool storage by opting for a workbench with drawers, shelves, or cabinets. I’ve seen quite a few interesting ideas online if you want to make your own, particularly flip-over versions. These have a plain worktop on one side, but a miter saw, router, belt sander, or whatever fitted to the other.
Any old box or bin can be used for power tools storage but it usually ends up a bit of a mess. If tools aren’t properly organized it’s a nuisance instead of a benefit. When that happens you just won’t use it, and everything ends up cluttered on the bench like before.
My personal preference is for wall-mounted power tool storage because I can instantly see what I want and grab it. Same with putting it away. It’s quick and easy. In the next section you’ll see examples of DIY units that you can make in a few hours, and that don’t have to cost a lot of money. I’ve also chosen a few off-the-shelf (excuse the pun) alternatives.
DIY Ideas for Power Tool Storage
It will come as no surprise that the internet is awash with ideas for DIY storage for power tools. Most are made of plywood which is inexpensive, and easy to work with. Add some glue, and nails (or screws), and away you go.
I could have spent hours going down one rabbit hole after another but I think YouTube is usually best because mostly you get a description of how the thing was made, not just a picture. I found one from Plywoodworking that shows a lot of versatility and a neat way to use plumbing pipe.
I also found one on Reddit from someone who goes by RandomNashville (pictured top right). A similar idea, looks nice and smart, but a bit more straightforward. There aren’t any instructions but it shouldn’t be too difficult to work out how it goes together.
Store-Bought Power Tool Storage
Most of the power tool storage ideas you’ll see on Amazon and other online retailers are based on wire frames. These have an advantage over DIY power tool racks in that they shouldn’t gather a lot of dust. They’ll also likely be lighter than plywood (and possibly cheaper if you don’t already have the material lying around).
The Havedawn Power Tool Organizer is under fifteen bucks and is the cheapest power tool storage I came across. It has side rails and tails that tilt up to stop things falling off. It does need a bit of self-assembly but it’s only a few nuts and bolts. Wall anchors for mounting are also included.
The WellMall Heavy Duty Power Tool Organizer is a similar idea but as the name suggests, it’s a bit more sturdy. You can see the thickness of the wire and the size of the welds in the photos. This one comes fully assembled and although it costs a bit more it’s still a little under thirty bucks. If you’ve only got a few power tools to store it’s a good option but the Havedawn has more space.
My third pick combines power tool storage with charging which I think is a great idea. There’s also space for drill bits, pliers, screwdrivers or whatever, and a couple of hooks for other tools. It’s modular so more can be added if necessary. To use the charging station it does need to be plugged into a standard electrical outlet, although it could plug into an extension, or be hardwired by someone with the necessary skills. The CCCEI Modular Power Tool Organizer with Charging Station is $69.99 and does offer a lot of convenience.
So what do you think? Is there something here that will help with power tool storage in your shop? Maybe you’ve got your own solution, or seen something better. By all means drop me a line and let me know!
