How to Use Tool Boxes

Organize your toolbox to keep items handy.

Toolboxes are an effective means of storage for a variety of objects, not just tools. They are not limited to use in a garage. Toolboxes serve to organize and store objects. The choices aren't limited to the bulky, metal boxes of the past. You can make a toolbox part of your decor while still using it for a functional purpose. With proper care, toolboxes can last decades or longer, changing function as the need arises.

Things You'll Need

• Tool box
• Tool box organizer
• Decorations (optional)
• Lock (optional)
• Oil
• Polish

Instructions

1. Choose a toolbox to match your decor or in a favorite color. Toolboxes come in a variety of shapes, styles and materials from rectangular metal boxes to wooden chests. Colors include fire engine red, pastel hues and earth tones. Toolboxes with clear compartments allow you to see the contents of the box before opening it.

2. Assign a purpose to your toolbox. While many people use toolboxes to store tools, they can also stow gardening utensils, cooking utensils, craft supplies or pet grooming tools, to name a few possibilities.

3. Organize the contents of your toolbox. Toolboxes come with built-in compartments and partitions to ensure supplies are easily identifiable and within reach. Separate toolbox organizers are also available to add extra storage space for smaller items.

4. Store your toolbox in a convenient location. Keep a toolbox containing barbecue tools near your grill. If it's full of toys, keep it in the child's bedroom or play area.

5. Customize your toolbox. Embellish it with paint and a stencil or attach stickers to the outside of the box. Line the tool compartments with decorative scrapbooking paper or shelf liners.

6. Add a lock if you are using a toolbox to store valuable items, or items that might be dangerous for children to access.

7. Perform routine maintenance on your toolbox. Wipe away any dust or debris after use. Oil the hinges on metal toolboxes when they start to creak or show signs of age.

Tips & Warnings

• Think outside the box. Some toolboxes have additional bars or handles on the outside that you can use as additional storage. Tuck gardening gloves under the handle of a toolbox filled with trowels and other garden supplies, for example.

References

• National Museum of American History: Tool Chests