How to Put Metal Thing in Filing Cabinet

Putting metal things in a filing cabinet may seem straightforward, but there are some best practices to follow for organizing your files and items efficiently. Proper filing helps keep important documents and objects secure while making them easy to find when needed. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about putting metal things in a filing cabinet.

Selecting the Right Filing Cabinet

The first step is choosing the right filing cabinet for your needs. Here are some factors to consider:

Cabinet Size

• Measure the space where the cabinet will go and the size of items you need to store. Standard cabinet widths are 15″, 18″, 21″, 24″, 30″, 36″. Common depths are 25″ or 28″.
• Leave room for drawers to open fully without hitting walls or blocking walkways.
• For larger metal items, look for legal- or letter-size full height cabinets (52″–56″ high).

Drawer Configuration

• File drawers are typically shallow and optimized for hanging folders.
• Box drawers are deeper for storing bulkier items.
• Lateral file cabinets have wider drawers that open on full extension slides, allowing easy access.

Material

• Steel is the most common and economical. It resists rust and fire better than wood.
• Sturdy wood laminates provide an attractive look for home offices.
• Fireproof metal cabinets protect crucial documents.

Locking System

• A key lock provides basic security and privacy.
• Electronic locks offer keypad or biometric access.
• If keeping sensitive items, get a cabinet with high-security locks.

Weight Capacity

• Check the weight limits for each drawer to ensure it can handle heavy items. Typical capacity is 75-100 lbs.

Additional Features

• Rollers allow moving cabinets easily. Wheels work well on hard floors.
• Suspended drawers have hanging rails for organizing folders.
• Some cabinets have built-in alarm systems for security.

Prepping the Filing Cabinet

Once you’ve selected the right filing cabinet, do some prep work before putting in metal things:

Clean Drawers

Remove any dirt, debris or manufacturing oils using a mild detergent and water. Fully dry drawers afterwards.

Install Drawer Liners (Optional)

Liner paper or non-slip mats can help stabilize contents and make cleaning easier.

Lubricate Slides

Wipe down drawer slides with a dry cloth, then apply a thin lubricant like silicone spray. Avoid oil-based lubes that can attract dirt.

Adjust Glides

Extend leveling glides on the cabinet bottom fully for stability. Adjust until the cabinet is level.

Install Casters (Optional)

Caster wheels provide mobility. Insert casters into the threaded holes at the cabinet base.

Secure to Wall (If Needed)

Use provided hardware or purchase brackets to anchor tall file cabinets to studs for safety.

Organizing Metal Items in Drawers

When putting metal objects into filing cabinet drawers, utilize these organizing best practices:

Categorize Items

Group similar metal things together in drawers or sections – tools with tools, parts with parts, etc.

Maximize Vertical Space

Use vertical dividers or shelves to efficiently store metal pieces of different heights.

Label Clearly

Attach labels on drawer fronts and individual shelves/bins so items are easy to identify and return.

Avoid Overloading

Distribute weight evenly across drawers and rails. Don’t exceed weight limits.

Pad Delicate Surfaces

Line surfaces with foam, felt or other soft materials to prevent scratches and dents.

Separate Pointed/Sharp Edges

Wrap points and edges or store them in protective cases to prevent injury.

Consider Humidity/Moisture

Some metals can corrode, so store in a climate-controlled space if possible. Use desiccants or oils for rust prevention.

Don’t Overstuff Drawers

Leave some open space for easy access to items. Disorder and cramming can damage contents.

Best Practices for Specific Metal Items

Certain types of metal objects have particular storage requirements for filing cabinets:

Tools

• Insert heavy tools like hammers and wrenches handle-down for visibility and security.
• Use foam tool organizers or magnetic strips to hold items neatly in place.
• Wrap sharp cutting edges with protective guards or foam.

Hardware

• Sort screws, nuts, bolts, nails into labeled compartments or small bags.
• Standing divider trays allow tidy vertical storage.
• Hang frequently used items like wrenches on rails.

Jewelry Making Supplies

• Store beads, clasps, pins, wires, findings in small stackable containers.
• Felt-lined drawers prevent scratches on delicate metals.
• Vertical partitions keep long chains untangled.

Office Supplies

• Stand letter openers, scissors and staplers upright in drawers.
• Position pens, clips and thumbtacks tips-up in dividers.
• Use hanging file folders for paper storage.

Craft Supplies

• Keep metal embellishments like charms, ribbons, beads in clearly sorted bins.
• Insert corner guards on sharp metal artwork supplies.
• Store flattened metal tins vertically like file folders.

Auto Parts

• Wrap oily parts in protective cloth or slip into sealable plastic bags.
• Position heavy engine components on reinforced cabinet bottoms.
• Insert cylindrical items like exhaust pipes upright using securing rods.

Maintaining Your Filing Cabinet

Regular maintenance keeps your filing cabinet and its contents protected:

• Wipe down exterior/interior surfaces occasionally with a soft cloth and mild cleaner.
• Tighten any loose screws, nuts or bolts on the cabinet frame.
• Lubricate slides and tighten/adjust as needed if drawers become stiff.
• Check that cabinet remains level. Readjust glides if needed.
• Ensure safety anchors to walls or floors are secure.
• Watch for signs of rust or corrosion on metal items and address immediately.
• Periodically inspect contents and re-organize as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Putting Metal Things in Filing Cabinets

What size filing cabinet do I need for metal objects?

For medium items, a 2-3 drawer letter- or legal-size lateral cabinet offers ample storage. For larger metal pieces, look for full height (50-56”) multi-drawer cabinets. Make sure the weight capacity meets your needs.

How can I organize my filing cabinet for optimal use?

Categorize contents by type/use into groups for easy access. Label clearly. Maximize vertical space with shelves and dividers. Avoid overloading drawers. Leave some open room for maneuvering items.

What’s the best way to store hardware like screws or bolts?

Use small compartment boxes or bags to neatly sort hardware. Label each container. Standing divider trays allow upright storage to maximize drawer space.

Should I lubricate the drawer slides?

Yes, occasionally lubricate slides with a small amount of silicone spray. Avoid grease/oil that can attract dirt. Lubrication helps slides glide smoothly and extends their life.

How can I prevent metal items from getting scratched or damaged?

Use felt, foam or other soft lining materials in drawers. Wrap delicate edges or sharp points with protective padding. Separate items that could contact and scratch each other.

What’s the proper way to anchor a filing cabinet to the wall?

Use provided wall mounting hardware or purchase securing brackets. Attach to wall studs, not just drywall. Ensure top and bottom attach firmly to prevent tipping. Follow manufacturer instructions.

How often should I clean my filing cabinet?

Clean cabinet interiors and exteriors occasionally with a soft cloth and mild detergent, then dry completely. Lubricate slides and tighten fittings every few months. Check for rust or damage periodically.

Can I put all my metal items in one big drawer?

It’s better to categorize into groups and distribute weight evenly across multiple drawers. Overloading one drawer stresses the rails, makes organizing difficult, and can damage contents.

How do I prevent rust on metal objects in the filing cabinet?

Try to store in a climate-controlled, dehumidified room. Use corrosion-inhibiting oils/coatings where applicable. Put desiccant packs in drawers to absorb moisture. Wrap items in anti-rust cloth or bags.

What should I do if a drawer becomes stuck or jammed?

Avoid forcing stuck drawers which can damage slides. Try lubricating tracks. Inspect for obstructions. Files may need reorganizing to redistribute weight. If issues persist, contact a cabinet repair service.

Key Takeaways on Putting Metal Things in Filing Cabinets

• Select a quality cabinet suited for the size, weight and type of metal items.
• Properly clean, lubricate and level the cabinet before use.
• Categorize items and utilize dividers, shelves and bins to neatly organize contents.
• Avoid overloading drawers and distribute weight evenly.
• Pad sharp edges and fragile surfaces. Consider environmental factors like humidity.
• Label clearly for easy identification. Leave room for accessing and removing items.
• Maintain the cabinet and contents regularly. Address any issues immediately.

With smart prep work and organizing best practices, filing cabinets can securely store all types of important metal objects, tools, parts and other items while keeping them conveniently accessible. Just remember the cabinet’s capabilities and limitations, contents’ special handling needs, and general principles of efficient storage space utilization. With this comprehensive guide’s advice, you can confidently tackle putting any metal thing in a filing cabinet!