How to Store Tools in an Apartment

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Do you have stacks of tools taking up valuable space in your apartment? Not to worry—there are lots of clever ways you can organize, sort, and store your work tools without cluttering your living space.

Here are 12 easy ways to store all of your tools in your apartment.

1

Pegboard

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/21\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/21\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-1.jpg\/aid12415784-v4-728px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Screw a pegboard panel or 2 onto the back and sides of your closet, if there’s enough space. Then, stick curved J-hooks into the individual pegboard holes. Hang up all your favorite tools on these hooks—this way, it’s super easy to find and grab whichever tool you need. [1]
    2. Advertisement
2

Toolbox

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c3\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c3\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-2.jpg\/aid12415784-v4-728px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Find an open space in your home where you can sort your tools into different piles. Place your most-used tools in a toolbox for easy access. Then, slip the toolbox into a nearby closet. [2]
    • Some toolboxes come with small, plastic organizers that are great for sorting screws, washers, bolts, and other small items.
    • Measure, cut out, and place a section of non-slip rug mat in your toolbox shelves to keep your tools from jostling and rolling around. [3]
3

Under-Bed Storage

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-3.jpg\/aid12415784-v4-728px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    While usually recommended for pillows and blankets, under-the-bed storage bins can be used for just about anything. [4] Fill the container with any tools that are taking up space in your home. Then, slide the basin under your bed until later! [5]
    • Label each basin so you don’t forget what’s inside.
    2. Advertisement
4

Adhesive Hooks

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b6\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b6\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-4.jpg\/aid12415784-v4-728px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Some people like to organize their bathroom hairstyling tools on adhesive hooks. [6] Test out this handy storage trick with your own tools! Find a section of open space in your home—this might be an empty wall, the inside of a cabinet or something else altogether. Follow the packaging instructions and arrange multiple hooks in rows or columns along your wall—this way, you’ll make the most of your space. Then, hang a lightweight tool on the hook, like a wrench or a pair of scissors.
    • Look for tools that have an opening drilled along the bottom—these will be easiest to hang up.
    • Double-check the weight limits on the hook before hanging anything up. Some hooks can hold up to 15 lb (6.8 kg) of weight, while others can’t hold quite as much.
5

Plastic Tub

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-5.jpg\/aid12415784-v4-728px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Sort your tools into different groupings—you might put hammers and screwdrivers together, or group the tools that you use most frequently. [7] Transfer each pile into a differently labeled plastic bin. Then, slide and stack the bins into a closet for easy storage! [8]
    • If you have a lot of large tools, invest in larger plastic tubs.
    2. Advertisement
6

Luggage

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/51\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/51\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-6.jpg\/aid12415784-v4-728px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Have any empty duffels or totes lying around? Place your heavier tools in these bags for quick, easy storage. Then, tuck the luggage into a closet for easy access. [9]
    • For example, you might fit a circular saw into an old bowling ball duffel bag.
7

Mason Jars

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/dc\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/dc\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-7.jpg\/aid12415784-v4-728px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Find a drawer that you don’t use very much. Place the bottom end of several mason jars along the back edge of this drawer. Then, arrange the jars so they’re flush against one another. At this point, sort and organize your tools into each jar. [10]
    • You don’t need to glue the jars in place—just open the drawer gently when you grab your tools.
    • This hack is officially recommended for kitchen tools but can work well for any type of thin, narrow tool, like a ruler or screwdriver.
    2. Advertisement
8

Door Rack

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-8.jpg\/aid12415784-v4-728px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Hang up the rack over the top of any door in your apartment. If needed, secure the rack to your door with extra hardware, so it doesn’t shift or fall. Hang up your tools on the hooks and/shelves of the rack, which gives you easy access whenever you need them.
    • You can find over-the-door racks online, or at most home goods stores.
9

Belt Rack

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-9.jpg\/aid12415784-v4-728px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Screw a belt rack onto a wall in your apartment. Then, hang up individual tools from each hook on your belt rack. [11]
    • This is a great way to organize wrenches from largest to smallest.
    2. Advertisement
10

Corner Tool Rack

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-10.jpg\/aid12415784-v4-728px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    These racks are angled and designed to fit along the edge of 2 walls without taking up too much space. Look around your home for any open corner space where this type of rack might fit. Place your tools in this storage rack, and slide it into the open corner for quick, easy access. [12]
    • This is a great way to store longer tools, like shovels, brooms, and hoes.
11

Closet or Cupboard

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1f\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1f\/Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-11.jpg\/aid12415784-v4-728px-Store-Tools-in-an-Apartment-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Take a look at what’s in your closet right now—can you rearrange or move your belongings to make some extra space? [13] Similarly, see if you can dedicate a shelf or cupboard of kitchen space to some of your tools.
    • For instance, you might store a pipe cutter, chisel, and hand drill in your kitchen cupboard, and keep your larger tools, like a jigsaw, drill, or sander, in your closet.
    • You could also use multi-functional furniture, like a coffee table with drawers, to keep your tools. [14]
    2. Advertisement
12

DIY Organizer

PDF download Download Article
  1. Create a mini organizer with foam balls and a dowel. Drill a hole down the center of multiple foam balls with a 5 ⁄ 8  in (1.6 cm) drill bit. Then, mount a 5 ⁄ 8  in (1.6 cm) dowel onto a wooden bracket so it stays put. Slide and glue the pre-drilled foam balls onto the dowel—this creates an organizer “tree” of sorts for your tools. Once the glue dries and cures, stick small tools, like drill bits, screwdrivers, and Allen wrenches directly into the foam. Place this organizer on any open surface in your home, where you can easily grab what you need. [15]
    • A construction adhesive works best with this project. Double-check the drying and curing time before sticking any objects in the foam balls.

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How can I add more storage to my small apartment?
    Karen Parziale
    Home Stager & Interior Designer
    Karen Parziale is a Home Stager, Home Organizer, and the Founder of The Real Estate Staging Studio based in Hoboken, New Jersey. Karen has over 15 years of home staging and decorating experience and has staged over 5,000 homes. She specializes in project management, space planning, material selections, and builder, architect, and client relationships.
    Karen Parziale
    Home Stager & Interior Designer
    Expert Answer
    Try thinking outside of the box with your storage options. There's lots of multi-functional furniture on the market right now, like a coffee table with a pull-out drawer. Underbed storage is another handy option.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 1 Helpful 0
  • Question
    What's the best way to organize tools in a small apartment?
    Karen Parziale
    Home Stager & Interior Designer
    Karen Parziale is a Home Stager, Home Organizer, and the Founder of The Real Estate Staging Studio based in Hoboken, New Jersey. Karen has over 15 years of home staging and decorating experience and has staged over 5,000 homes. She specializes in project management, space planning, material selections, and builder, architect, and client relationships.
    Karen Parziale
    Home Stager & Interior Designer
    Expert Answer
    Unless you have a ton of really bulky, heavy tools, you probably don't need a dedicated tool box. I would just find a dedicated drawer and use dividers to keep the tools organized. That's a good functional solution if you're short on space!
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 5 Helpful 0
  • Question
    What's wrong with just using a tool box?
    Karen Parziale
    Home Stager & Interior Designer
    Karen Parziale is a Home Stager, Home Organizer, and the Founder of The Real Estate Staging Studio based in Hoboken, New Jersey. Karen has over 15 years of home staging and decorating experience and has staged over 5,000 homes. She specializes in project management, space planning, material selections, and builder, architect, and client relationships.
    Karen Parziale
    Home Stager & Interior Designer
    Expert Answer
    There's nothing wrong with using a tool box. They're just kind of bulky, and they can be super bulky, which isn't ideal if you're short on space.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 2 Helpful 2
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • If you’re willing to splurge a little bit, a tool bucket organizer is a compact, handy way to store lots of small tools in one place. [16]
        Thanks
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Build Garage Shelving
      How to
      Store Rope
      The Best Ways to Store Crumbl Cookies (& How Long They Stay Good For)
      How to Store Your Kombucha Scoby
      How to Safely Store Your Important Documents at Home
      How to
      Size Your Comic Books for Proper Storage
      How to
      Organize a Chest Freezer
      How to
      Store Plywood in a Garage
      The Best Ways to Store & Keep Flaxseed Fresh
      How to
      Store Luggage in a Garage
      How to
      Store Posters
      How to
      Store Headphones
      How to Safely Store Methanol and Prevent Fires
      How to
      Store Christmas Lights
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=TSWRCGrLn3E&t=1m40s
      2. ↑ https://ashleyjoyorfe.com/organize-tools/
      3. ↑ https://www.postandcourier.com/uncategorized/eight-tips-for-storing-your-tools/article_48345b87-0983-5278-ae6b-c88ccbcdd9c0.html
      4. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/organizing/g31192716/under-bed-storage-ideas/
      5. ↑ Karen Parziale. Home Stager & Interior Designer. Expert Interview. 30 June 2021.
      6. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/bathroom/storage/storage-solutions/hacks-to-make-the-most-of-your-tiny-bathroom/
      7. ↑ Karen Parziale. Home Stager & Interior Designer. Expert Interview. 30 June 2021.
      8. ↑ https://www.livingletterhome.com/tool-organization-solution-when-you-dont-have-a-garage/
      9. ↑ https://www.postandcourier.com/uncategorized/eight-tips-for-storing-your-tools/article_48345b87-0983-5278-ae6b-c88ccbcdd9c0.html
      1. ↑ https://www.thekitchn.com/11-smart-ways-to-organize-your-cooking-utensils-248374
      2. ↑ https://www.postandcourier.com/uncategorized/eight-tips-for-storing-your-tools/article_48345b87-0983-5278-ae6b-c88ccbcdd9c0.html
      3. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/organize-your-garden-gear-with-11-crucial-buys-48818
      4. ↑ https://www.livingletterhome.com/tool-organization-solution-when-you-dont-have-a-garage/
      5. ↑ Karen Parziale. Home Stager & Interior Designer. Expert Interview. 30 June 2021.
      6. ↑ https://www.postandcourier.com/uncategorized/eight-tips-for-storing-your-tools/article_48345b87-0983-5278-ae6b-c88ccbcdd9c0.html
      7. ↑ https://www.livingletterhome.com/tool-organization-solution-when-you-dont-have-a-garage/

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 25,108 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement