Tool chests and cabinets are no longer only in the territory of professional mechanics. Thanks to improvements in manufacturing and technology, professional quality tools and tool storage is more affordable than ever. This market doesn’t appear to be slowing down–worldwide demand for hand tools, the fundamental building block of any tool set, saw a 6.1% year-on-year growth in 2025 according to Future Market Insights. Tool cabinets provide a well organized and durable tool storage area that keeps tools dry, easy to access, and safe from damage.

Mechanics and DIY enthusiasts carefully curate their tools and equipment, and their investment can last a lifetime with proper care. One hazard that is always lurking in the confines of the mechanics shop is rust–whether you are working in a professional shop, pole barn or even detached garage, these spaces are usually unconditioned, sometimes dirty, and even wet or damp. Mechanics know that rust on tools can render them unsightly at best, or inoperable at worst. Rust can be prevented with proper care.

Keep The Area Dry

It’s inevitable that moisture will find its way into most garage spaces. Leaky roofs, and permeable foundations and floors are top culprits. Moisture also finds its way into spaces by way of vehicles during snowy or wet seasons. It’s important to manage the moisture level. Options to dry out shop areas include brooms, floor drying fans and wet-dry vacs. Using heat is effective but costly, so it’s not recommended in most cases. Dehumidifiers can help inside a garage space but are widely regarded as wasteful because most garages are too exposed to the outside air by way of the garage door. Generally speaking, garages’ humidity level tends to follow the outside air, so periods of wet weather mean high humidity in the garage.

Zerust Toolbox Drawer Liners

However, all hope is not lost. Tools are fairly resilient to some amount of humidity. For an additional layer of protection inside your tool chest, try our VCI infused toolbox drawer liners. Zerust toolbox drawer liners come in the most common depths for tool cabinets or chest, 12”, 18”, and 22.5”. Each roll covers between 2-4 drawers depending on the width of the toolbox. Simply measure the inside length and width of the drawer, and cut each roll to fit. We offer a mesh or a solid liner. In general, the mesh liner is good for lighter weight tools and the solid liner is great for heavier tools such as hammers and large wrenches.

Zerust drawer liners aren’t just great for toolbox drawers. You can use them anywhere else that a drawer or shelf liner is necessary–cabinet drawers, storage boxes, shelves and even in truck boxes. Our liners offer rust protection for up to 5 years! After 5 years, while the VCI rust inhibitor may be depleted, the liners still work great as a drawer liner.

Regular Cleaning

Wipe down your tools after use, especially if working in wet conditions or if your tools are exposed to grease, oils, or automotive fluids. Use a light lubricating oil occasionally to displace water and keep tools working well. Apply a few drops or a light spray and clean up any excess oil with a rag or paper towel. Inspect your tools and remove any sign of corrosion if possible.

Zerust Offers More than Toolbox Liners

Adding silica desiccant packs to toolbox drawers or enclosed parts bins is a good idea, and for even more protection in small confined spaces such as small parts bins, try our plastabs, or vapor capsules which provide VCI rust prevention in small confined spaces. For parts storage, our VCI poly bags can help to keep parts in storage rust free. If you have questions about how to best prevent tool rust, contact us or call (330) 405-1965.

Additional Resources:

Hand Tools Market Growth – Trends & Forecast 2025 to 2035, January 2025, Future Market Insights Inc.

More Blog Entries:

All DIY Auto Mechanics Need a Tool Box Drawer Liner to Prevent Rust, May 15, 2024, Zerust Rust Prevention Blog