Craftsman Non-Slip Drawer Liner Roll

As a longtime tool enthusiast, maintaining an organized and well-protected tool chest is paramount. The Craftsman Non-Slip Drawer Liner Roll (CMST82692) promises to keep tools in place, minimize scratches, and help prevent rust by wicking away moisture. After putting it to the test, I have some insights to share.

Initial Impressions

Upon unwrapping the roll, the material feels sturdy yet flexible. The non-slip foam has a texture that seems capable of gripping tools effectively without being abrasive. The liner measures 22-1/8 inches wide and 85-1/2 inches long, which theoretically should accommodate several drawers in a standard tool chest. However, as I began to cut and install the liner, some practical issues surfaced.

Installation Experience

Cutting the liner to fit various drawer sizes was straightforward. Using a straight edge and a sharp utility knife, I achieved clean cuts that fit neatly into the drawers. However, the liner does maintain a bit of its curl out of the package, which initially made it slightly challenging to lay flat. This issue resolved itself once the drawers were loaded with tools, as the weight helped the liner settle.

One significant concern is the discrepancy in the advertised coverage. While the packaging suggests that one roll can line up to eight drawers in a standard 26-inch wide tool chest, this calculation doesn't align with the actual dimensions. For instance, a drawer depth of 12 inches would require eight cuts from the roll, totaling 96 inches, which is longer than the 85.5 inches provided. This miscalculation means you might need more rolls than expected, adding to the overall cost.

Performance and Durability

Once installed, the liner performed admirably in keeping tools in place. The non-slip surface effectively prevents tools from sliding around, even when opening and closing drawers with some force. This feature is especially beneficial for maintaining an organized tool chest where every tool has its designated spot.

The foam material is soft enough to protect tools from scratches yet durable enough to withstand the weight of heavy items. Over time, I noticed that the liner remained intact with minimal signs of wear. However, in some cases, the foam can become sticky, particularly in environments with high humidity or temperature fluctuations. This stickiness can cause bits of the liner to adhere to certain metal tools, which is something to be mindful of.

Value for Money

The Craftsman liner is priced at around $20.98 per roll, which can add up if you need multiple rolls to cover your entire tool chest. While the liner offers good protection and organization, the cost can be a drawback, especially considering the coverage issue. For those on a tighter budget or requiring extensive coverage, exploring other options like the Kobalt liner might be worthwhile. The Kobalt alternative is often cited as thicker and more durable, providing better value for similar pricing.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Non-Slip Surface: Effectively keeps tools in place, preventing them from sliding around in drawers.
- Protective Foam: Cushions tools, minimizing scratches and potential damage.
- Easy to Cut and Install: Straightforward installation process with clean cuts using a sharp utility knife.
- Moisture-Wicking: Helps prevent rust by wicking away moisture, an essential feature for tool longevity.

Cons:
- Coverage Discrepancy: The actual coverage per roll is less than advertised, leading to potential additional costs.
- Initial Curl: The liner maintains a curl out of the package, requiring some effort to flatten.
- Stickiness: In certain conditions, the foam can become sticky, causing bits of the liner to adhere to metal tools.
- Price: Higher cost compared to some alternatives that offer similar or better durability.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Craftsman Non-Slip Drawer Liner Roll offers a reliable solution for organizing and protecting your tools. It excels in keeping tools stationary and reducing the risk of scratches and rust. However, the coverage discrepancy and potential stickiness are notable drawbacks that could impact your overall satisfaction.

Would I recommend this liner? Yes, but with reservations. If you are already invested in Craftsman products and value brand consistency, this liner is a solid choice. It performs well in its primary function and is easy to install. However, if cost and coverage are your primary concerns, you might want to explore other options like the Kobalt liner, which offers similar features with potentially better value.

Ultimately, the Craftsman liner is a good addition to any tool chest, provided you account for the need for additional rolls and the potential for stickiness in certain conditions. With these considerations in mind, it can be a worthwhile investment for maintaining an organized and well-protected tool collection.