The Ryobi Stowaway Folding Workbench Boosts Garage/Shop Storage Space
If you have a garage or workshop on the smaller side, chances are you’ve gone through some creative methods to save space while maintaining shop functionality. The Ryobi Stowaway Folding Workbench (STM408) is aiming to make your life easier with a convenient folding design that tucks away. I’m walking you through my experience with this workbench to show you how it can maximize the space in your garage or work area.
Ryobi Stowaway Folding Workbench Overview
- Model: Ryobi STM408
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Surface area: 44 x 22 inches
- Solid wood work surface
- 5-inch storage shelf
- Locking security pin
- One-handed auto lock
- Soft-close stowaway
While Ryobi is known primarily for its line of power tools and outdoor power equipment, the brand has recently begun expanding into the storage and workstation market. I got my hands on the STM408 Stowaway Folding Workbench and installed it on the back wall of my garage. I loved how it collapsed against the wall, but could be opened up to give me a counter-height table for projects and repairs.
The big draw with this workbench is in the name: it folds down to stow away when it’s not being used, maximizing the space in your work area. This is particularly useful in smaller garages and shops, letting you tuck it away so your parked car fits easily into the space.
When lifted and folded out, the bench features a 44 x 22-inch solid-wood work surface. A one-handed auto-lock functionality lets you easily open the workbench, even if you’re carrying tools or materials. A provided security pin prevents it from accidentally collapsing—even if you somehow manage to trigger one or both of the release handles. When you stow it away, a 5-inch portion of the bench acts as a storage shelf to keep essentials within reach. This might be my favorite feature.
Additionally, a seemingly small detail that I really appreciate is the soft-close stowaway function. Instead of slamming shut when you disengage the lock, this workbench has a soft-close feature that ensures a quiet, controlled closure with no additional support needed.
Installing the Ryobi Folding Workbench
It took just under 30 minutes to install the Ryobi Folding Workbench. I only needed a drill/driver (I used an impact driver), a two-foot level, a screwdriver, a pencil, and a stud finder. The first step is attaching the brackets to the short 5-inch portion of the workbench. Pay attention to their orientation—the flanges and screws go toward the inside.
Marking where the studs were, I measured up from the ground based on the height I wanted for the top of the workbench. As I mentioned, I was looking for more of a counter-height solution than a desk. Ryobi makes it easy to install this system as it only requires four holes—and the first hole is the critical one.
After finding the location of the topmost hole, I pre-drilled into the stud and then drove the included lag bolt into it, leaving it proud about 1/8-inch. This allowed me to utilize the keyhole mount of the bracket to support one side of the shelf.
Next, using my 2-foot level to make sure I was straight, I marked the top hole on the opposite side. I then predrilled that hole and hung the shelf from the top two bolts. The final step involved simply verifying my level, pre-drilling the remaining two holes, and then installing those bolts and tightening everything up.
Final Thoughts
At $99 and with how easy the installation went, I’d recommend the Ryobi Stowaway Folding Workbench to any homeowner with a garage. The addition of a usable counter is a boon for automotive and household projects, and the build quality is fantastic for the price. Ryobi could have made this table cheaper, thinner, and without the soft-close function. Instead, they developed a very functional and well-thought-out product that should last for many years. Go pick one up—you won’t regret it!
Ryobi Stowaway Folding Workbench Price
This workbench retails for $99.98 at The Home Depot, including all necessary hardware for installation. Ryobi even backs your purchase with a limited lifetime warranty.
