Couple Uses Home Depot Bins To Create Simple Blackstone Storage

Just like a grill needs storage for assorted tools and accessories, a Blackstone griddle could also do with some storage solutions. The middle rack or shelf on some units provides a minimal amount of options, but one couple is attracting attention on social media for a simple and affordable DIY that can revolutionize that below-griddle space. On Facebook Reels, a Blackstone owner named Kendall Azevedo showed how her husband attached two pullout drawers to the unit with only household tools and a few Home Depot buys. Remove the middle shelf and flip it upside down, then attach two soft-close drawer slides using a power drill (standard drill bits should suffice to cut through the shelf). Screw the corresponding drawer slide pieces to the tops of two plastic storage tubs, lids removed, then reinstall the upside-down shelf and slide in your brand new griddle drawers.

There are some things to note about this hack. Griddles vary in size and design, as do plastic storage tubs and drawer slides; be sure to take all appropriate measurements before buying anything. Some models may fit a drawer or drawers of different sizes. Be aware that any modifications (obviously) exclude altered parts from the warranty, and may affect future warranty claims. If backyard pests are a problem, this design will not keep them out. But one cosmetic issue can be tackled. 

Kendall Azevedo's DIY drawer plan leaves exposed screws on top of the shelf, which they covered with the bins' lids. But a piece of custom cut sheet metal welded to fit the space — after safely removing the Blackstone's propane tank — would look sleeker. This would bring your build much closer to a grill (or griddle) cabinet to revolutionize tool organization, but without spending hundreds of dollars. Home Depot sells but does not cut sheet metal, but a metal supply store may do both. 

Some of the best hacks for small kitchen cabinets also work for maximizing these big drawers. Items stored within should be organized as efficiently as possible. Consider dividing the space with organizers (though you may not find an off-the-shelf solution that would fit, as large plastic tubs don't typically have kitchen drawer dimensions). But, as Azevedo showed on Facebook, some large grill tools can do well in an undivided drawer.

Should you go the route of dividing your DIY drawers, though, follow the parchment paper hack for dividing drawers. Use a flat piece to map out the available space in your drawers, and take it to a home and kitchen store to shop for dividers that might fit. Or, with the right saws at home, take the paper back to Home Depot and get plywood sheeting to finish cutting yourself.