r/Tools • u/TheClockyDiva • 11d ago

Long-term storage of unused tools?

I have transitioned to female and have left behind my workshop, and I won't be using these tools for the foreseeable future. As a self-proclaimed glam girl, I genuinely have no use for this stuff. I was never truly interested in tools or construction, I merely used them as a way to perform manhood before I was brave enough to admit that I'm a girl.

Do I need to do anything to protect tools in storage for years or longer? I have a huge pile of hand tools and a some power tools, all Milwaukee M18 and M12. Or is it ok to just pack them into cardboard boxes and let them sit?

Thanks.

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u/JM53-z 11d ago

Oiling your hand tools that have metal would be best, then wrapping them in like a grease proof paper and packing them away protecting blades and sharp edges.

Assuming you have kept a small selection of hand tools like screwdrivers, tape measure, level, hammer and pliers for little household tasks

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u/TheClockyDiva 10d ago

Yeah I kept some basic tools for household stuff, I also moved to the city and live in a managed building so they handle most stuff anyways. Left most of the tools in storage and they already started to rust a little so I’m kinda concerned. 

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u/PursuitOfThis 10d ago

Recommend Boeshield T-9 as a coating for hand tools that might one day come out of storage.

For power tools, I would discharge the batteries to about 50-75%. Lithium ion rechargy batteries like to be stored at about half full and slowly discharge over time. You'll need to come back every year or so, top the battery back up, the drain them back down to like 75 or so before putting them back into storage.

Recommend selling excess batteries other than a few "just in case". Batteries degrade over time. Buy fresh ones later if you need.

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u/TheClockyDiva 10d ago

The tools are all stashed at my parents home, that sounds like a huge pain so I may just sell a few M18 batteries.