Keeping your woodworking shop clean isn’t just about looks — it’s about efficiency, safety, and making your time in the shop more enjoyable.
Here are five tips that have made the biggest difference for me:
Begin every project with a tidy workspace and end the day by clearing the bench. It’s easier to work when tools are where they belong.
Even a small shop vac connected to your tools will drastically cut down on dust. Your lungs (and future self) will thank you.
Wall racks, pegboards, and shelves keep things off the floor and within easy reach.
Separate scraps by size and type so you can actually use them later instead of tossing everything in a random pile.
Once a week, dedicate a bit of time to sweeping, vacuuming, and putting away anything that’s wandered from its spot.
A cleaner shop not only makes your woodworking more pleasant, it also means you’ll spend less time searching for tools and more time building something great.
A clean woodworking shop isn’t just about appearance — it boosts efficiency, safety, and overall enjoyment. This article shares five simple habits to keep your workspace organized, from starting and ending each day with a tidy bench to using dust collection, maximizing vertical storage, organizing scrap wood, and committing to a weekly deep clean. The result? Less time searching for tools and more time creating.