Tool Storage Ideas and Hacks for a Functional Space

Tools all over the place? Let’s fix that with these tool storage ideas! They’re simple, clever, and easy to put to use in your shed, garage, or anywhere tools tend to pile up. Ready?

20 Tool Storage Ideas

We kicked things off with our guide to garage garden ideas, and we’re not stopping there. After all, the more organisation hacks, the better—see below:

1. A toolbox set works every time

Go for a toolbox set with multiple sizes that lets you sort tools by size or type. Even better if you can find a stackable one to save space. Larger tools can go in the bottom box, and smaller ones up top. Store them in a corner or near your workbench for easy access.

2. DIY power tool holder

A simple power tool holder made from spare wood pieces can give your power tools a proper home after use. The idea is to create a wall-mounted docking station. Add slots for drills, impact drivers, and other tools, plus a small shelf or two for batteries and chargers.

Mount it somewhere you’ll need them most with access to a plug socket, and voila!

3. PVC pipe rack

Store long-handled tools like rakes, spades, or screwdrivers using PVC pipes. Cut the pipe into angled sections to create slots, then attach them to a shelf or directly onto a wall. You can add them to an existing shelving unit or set up a simple wall rack if needed.

4. Hammer storage bracket

You can never have enough hammers, but when you run out of room to store them, clutter is sure to follow. A wall bracket is a simple fix.

Try a strip of wood or metal with evenly spaced notches or hooks to hang each hammer by the handle. Fix it above your workbench or along a shed wall to free up drawer space.

If you’re working with limited indoor space, a tool storage shed offers the ideal outdoor solution for keeping tools safe, dry, and easy to access.

5. Mason jars

This is one of our favourite creative tool storage ideas. Great for storing nails, screws, and other small items! Go with clear or plastic jars so whatever you store is visible. Screw the lids into the underside of a shelf, then twist the jars on and off as needed.

6. Pergboard wall

Install one on a free wall and add hooks, shelves, or small bins to hold tools, utensils, or everyday items. Move things around based on what you use most to free up drawer or counter space.

7. French cleat wall

French cleats use angled wooden strips to hang shelves or tool holders. Attach one strip to the wall and another to the item you want to hang—the 45-degree angle locks them in place. Rearrange or expand your setup anytime!

8. Magnetic strips

Keep clutter off your worktop or desk with magnetic strips. Stick a few to a wall or the side of a cabinet, perfect if it’s metal-made, so they don’t slide off. These strips also work in your kitchen for knives or in your workshop for scissors and pins.

For non-metal items, fasten clean soup cans underneath the strip. This gives you storage for pencils, brushes, or other small bits you use often.

9. Put them in the box

We’re not just talking about ordinary boxes here, but a hard-wearing storage box like this. You get lots of space with the 500L size, and it’s tough enough to stay outdoors all year. It’s great for storing garden tools, cushions, sports gear, or any household items.

10. Metal tub hose holder

Garden hoses are a must-have in many UK gardens—but if they’re left lying around, they can become a tripping hazard. You could repurpose a metal tub or bucket as a hose holder. Put it up on a wall or fence, then loop the hose around it to keep it out of the way.

11. Clamp rack

If you use clamps often, don’t let them pile up in drawers or on the floor. Build a rack to line up your clamps by size to make it easier to grab the right one when you’re in the middle of a project. Place it near your main work area so everything is within arm’s reach.

12. Mobile workbench

A mobile workbench gives you a sturdy surface and storage that moves with you. Look for one with built-in drawers or shelves, with lockable wheels to shift it around. Or you can do it yourself if you have the materials on hand, like plywood or timber boards and caster wheels.

13. Make use of the cabinet edges

The ends of garden cabinets or shelves can be turned into useful storage areas. Attach a narrow rack, magnetic strip, or set of small hooks to hold screwdrivers and other small tools. You can also screw on a shallow shelf for small containers or jars.

For a compact solution in tight outdoor spaces, a garden cabinet can offer clever storage for tools while doubling as a worktop or shelf unit.

14. Pallet storage cubby

This tool storage idea is perfect to keep your garden keys, gloves, brushes, or chargers. Cut the pallet into sections and add dividers to create compartments. Then it set it against a wall, behind a door, or near an entryway.

15. Garden tool storage rack

Garden tools often end up in piles or propped against walls, but not if you have a rack that keeps them upright. You can find designs with room for long-handled tools, such as rakes and spades, as well as a few smaller ones. Then again, you can take the DIY route and customise it to suit your needs!

16. Tool apron storage

A tool apron can double as wall or door storage, too. Sew in pockets of different sizes to fit small tools and brushes. Easy peasy! Wear it whenever you’re working on a small project, then hang it back up when done.

17. Open tote storage

Carrying tools around is easier when everything is in one open bag or container. The more internal dividers or pockets, the better. Keep it by the door, under your bench, or on a shelf, ready to grab for quick jobs.

18. Old eyeglass case

Don’t toss out old eyeglass cases if you have them! They make an excellent storage for drill bits, wall plugs, batteries, or sewing needles.

Hard cases are best, and their compact size are easy to line up in drawers, stack in toolboxes, or store in cubbies. Add labels to the outside so you know what’s inside at a glance.

19. Flip-through storage rack

Think of this like a hanging file system but for tools. Create a frame that holds several pegboard panels side by side with hinges. This design allows you to flip through them to find what you need. Use one panel for hand tools, another for craft supplies, and so on.

20. Trolley tool storage

Keep your tools in a wheeled trolley with separate compartments. Detachable trays are smart, making it easy to carry only what you need to the job, whether it’s a few hand tools or a full set. A good set of wheels and a strong handle also go a long way, especially if you’re moving across different areas.

We hope our tool ideas will give you the inspiration you need and organise your space for good. With the right setup, tackling those long-overdue to-dos becomes much easier.

Browse our range of garden storage if you’re looking to expand your setup.

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