Picture this: You’ve just finished designing and decorating your patio space, and everything is in place.
The furniture is comfortable yet stylish, the fire pit is cozy and inviting, and the grill is ready for meals any time of day.
It’s a beautiful image, right?
The reality of your backyard paradise, however, is often spoiled by clutter —
— the little items like yard work tools, kids’ toys, and patio accessories that detract from your enjoyment of the outdoor sanctuary you’ve designed.
That’s why we always recommend finding the right outdoor storage to complement your patio, backyard, pool, or fire pit. It’s the perfect way to keep everything properly organized, and maintain the exact feel of escape that outdoor spaces make possible.
In this article, you’ll get an inside look at our process for deciding on the best outdoor storage solutions for any budget —
—from high-class hardwoods to inexpensive resin molding that doubles as seating.
If you’re still wondering what makes one outdoor storage solution better than another, read through our helpful buyer’s guide to acquaint yourself with everything you need to know to make an informed decision. Read on to find out more!
How to Choose the Best Outdoor Storage
When considering outdoor storage for your home, you should take the following topics into account:
Who Needs Outdoor Storage?
In short, anyone who has a backyard, patio, pool, or fire pit will eventually need outdoor storage because If you have valuable equipment like outdoor lanterns, lawn mowers, yard canopies, or even fire logs, then a storage is a serious consideration. As you continue to accumulate all the necessary tools and accessories to make your outdoor life more enjoyable, they can start to disrupt the nature-meets-home feel of your outdoor space. The best outdoor storage solutions will help you stay in charge of your space and prevent unsightly messes.
What to Look for In Outdoor Storage Solutions
Four things make the difference between the perfect outdoor storage for your needs, or a product that will only lead to disappointment:
- Solid construction is essential, no matter what material your outdoor storage container is made from. We look for heavy-duty design especially at the hinges and corners, where inferior products will fall apart first.
- Weatherproof coatings or materials are a must for outdoor storage solutions, as these will to protect your outdoor garden equipment along with whatever items you have stored in them safe and unharmed.
- Appropriately sized storage solutions will vary from person to person. Ask yourself what you plan on storing in them, and then purchase something one size up — you’ll always end up with more things to store later.
- Attractive storage solutions cost little more than their unattractive cousins, and are always worth spending a few extra dollars on.
Types of Outdoor Storage Containers
Available in a wide range of sizes and configurations, outdoor storage containers can be broadly classified by the type of material they are made out of. Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of each material in more detail:
- Wood storage containers are often naturally weather resistant, heavy duty, and aesthetically pleasing. They can be more difficult to move and reposition though, and are more expensive than containers made of other materials.
- Wicker storage solutions are lightweight, naturally weather resistant, and quite handily double as seating. They’re significantly less durable than wood or plastic outdoor storage solutions, though, and can be easily damaged by children or pets.
- Plastic containers are the most common type available, and often the cheapest. Unless they’re hardened with resin, they can be prone to sun fading, cracking, or breaking at articulation points.
Top 9 Best Outdoor Storage (2021 Reviews)
1. Best Overall – Leisure Season Medium Wood Storage Shed
Pros:
- HUGE STORAGE SPACE FOR ALL YOUR OUTDOOR GOODS
- DIVIDED INTO STORAGE AREAS FOR SMALL, MEDIUM, AND LARGE ITEMS
- BUILT-IN HOOKS MAKE IT EASY TO STORE HANGING OBJECTS
- DURABLE AND WEATHER-RESISTANT CYPRESS WOOD CONSTRUCTION
- TONGUE AND GROOVE JOINING IS BUILT TO LAST FOR DECADES
Cons:
- TOOLS REQUIRED (BUT NOT INCLUDED) FOR ASSEMBLY
Specifications:
- Made from decay-resistant Cypress wood
- Two shelves on one side for holding tools and accessories
- Open storage on the other side for larger items
- Integrated hooks for hanging items
- Tongue and groove construction
- Medium brown stain and a protective coating finish
- Measures 59 W x 31 D x 65 H inches
- Weighs 110 pounds
As far as outdoor storage goes, there are two main options to take: You can choose something that’s fast and cheap, or go for a more thoughtfully designed and built option that’s made to last.
In our experience, the extra cash spent on attractive, durable outdoor storage options will pay for itself quite quickly by actually protecting your stored items from weather damage.
Perhaps no other outdoor storage solution we tested does so better than the Leisure Season Medium Wood Storage Shed.
It’s perfectly sized for patio and yard equipment and accessories, with plenty of divided storage compartments to keep everything neat and tidy.
Made from naturally weather-resistant hardwoods and built with hand-crafted joinery, it’s a beautiful storage solution that will last for generations. We strongly recommend it for use with any backyard or patio.
2. Best Value – Keter Java 230 Gallon Resin Deck Box
Pros:
- INCREDIBLY LARGE STORAGE SPACE IS TOP-LOADED, WIDE, AND DEEP
- HEAVY-DUTY RESIN IS TOUGH AND DURABLE
- MOST STORAGE SPACE FOR THE MONEY OF ANY ITEM WE REVIEWED
- COMPLETELY WEATHER-RESISTANT, AND EXTREMELY EASY TO CLEAN
- LOCKING LID CAN ALSO SUPPORT UP TO 100 POUNDS ON TOP
- 2-YEAR WARRANTY PROTECTS YOUR INVESTMENT FROM ACCIDENTAL DAMAGE
Cons:
- FULL ASSEMBLY REQUIRED
Specifications:
- Polypropylene resin construction
- 230 gallon storage capacity
- Lockable lid
- 100 pound weight capacity on top of lid
- Water-, weather-, uv-, and mildew-resistant
- 2-year limited warranty
- Measures 33.85 H x 57.5 W x 32.67 D inches
If you’re on a tight budget, you may be tempted by the glut of low-cost plastic outdoor storage containers. While these might do in a pinch, there’s a better option: Polypropylene resin, a plastic polymer that’s designed to look better, last longer, and be completely weatherproof.
Keter’s amazingly spacious 230-gallon “Java” deck box is made from hard-cast resin, and is specifically built to withstand the toughest outdoor use possible. Easily able to double as bench seating, it’s a versatile and attractive option for anyone with less cash to spare for their outdoor storage solutions.
Add in a 2-year warranty to protect your investment on this resin deck box, and it’s easy to see why we consider it to be the best value-priced purchase for outdoor goods.
3. Premium Choice – Anderson Teak Camrose Teak Patio Storage Box
Pros:
- NATURALLY WEATHER-, MOLD-, MILDEW-, AND FADE-RESISTANT
- ECOLOGICALLY SUSTAINABLE TEAK IS A STURDY AND INCREDIBLY ATTRACTIVE WOOD
- BUILT TO LAST FOR GENERATIONS WITH MORTISE AND TENON JOINERY
- FINE SANDED DETAILS MEANS NO SPLINTERS OR ROUGH SPOTS
- KEEPS STORED ITEMS FROM GROWING MOLD DUE TO ITS VENTILATED SIDES
Cons:
- QUITE EXPENSIVE
- NOT THE LARGEST STORAGE OPTION
Specifications:
- Made of top grade kiln-dried teak wood
- Plantation grown teak is eco-friendly and sustainably harvested
- Mortise and tenon joinery
- Fine sanded finish
- Measures 31 W x 26 D x 28 H
- Ventilated sides
- Weighs 70 pounds
Teak wood has long been regarded favorably for its difficult-to-find combination of elegance and durability. Naturally containing a higher oil content than most other hardwoods, it’s resistant to just about anything you can find in nature besides fire. Left to age, it matures to a beautiful silvery-gray color over the course of a decade.
The “Camrose” teak patio storage box from Anderson Teak is made entirely of this legendary wood, hand-harvested from a plantation that grows each tree sustainably. Its hand-crafted mortise and tenon joints require no screws or nails, and will naturally become tighter and more durable over time.
Possessing a finely sanded finish, we think this box is certainly worth every bit of its rather large cost.
4. Best Medium Storage Box – Leisure Season Wood Outdoor Deck Storage Box
Pros:
- VERSATILE STORAGE BOX DOUBLES AS EXTRA PATIO SEATING
- CYPRESS WOOD CONSTRUCTION IS NATURALLY WEATHER-RESISTANT AND WON’T DECAY EASILY
- VERY REASONABLY PRICED
- BUILT TO LAST A LIFETIME WITH TONGUE AND GROOVE JOINTS
- LIGHTWEIGHT, YET WITH A GENEROUSLY SIZED STORAGE AREA
Cons:
- ASSEMBLY REQUIRED
- NO SIZING OPTIONS AVAILABLE
Specifications:
- Storage box and seating option
- Cypress wood construction
- Stained and finished with a protective coating
- Tongue and groove joinery
- Measures 50 W x 22 D x 24 H
- Weighs 40 pounds
A smaller and more reasonably priced option from the same manufacturer as our top pick, this outdoor storage box from Leisure Season features the same cypress wood construction that made its larger shed our favorite storage solution.
For anyone who loved the looks of that storage shed, but doesn’t need quite so much space or a hefty price tag — their wood outdoor deck storage box is a fantastic alternative. It’s built with the same hand-crafted care and attention to detail, meaning that it’s a long-lasting solution to your patio storage needs.
5. Best Hardwood Storage Box – Royal Teak Collection Cushion Storage Box
Pros:
- WIDE STORAGE CONTAINER DOUBLES AS BENCH-STYLE PATIO SEATING
- HEAVY-DUTY AND DURABLE TEAK CONSTRUCTION IS NATURALLY WEATHER-RESISTANT AND WON’T ROT
- PLASTIC LINED INTERIOR HELPS TO KEEP YOUR STORED GOODS SAFE AND DRY
- DESIGNED TO LAST A LIFETIME DUE TO MORTISE AND TENON JOINTS
Cons:
- ON THE EXPENSIVE SIDE
- ASSEMBLY CAN BE TRICKY DUE TO THE WEIGHT OF INDIVIDUAL PIECES
Specifications:
- Made of naturally weather-resistant teak
- Plantation-harvested teak is eco-friendly and sustainable
- Storage doubles as bench seating
- Interior plastic liner
- Handcrafted mortise and tenon joinery
- Stainless steel hardware
- Measures 21.5 W x 53 D x 25 H inches
- Weighs 70 pounds
The virtues of natural teak hardwood are many — and this well-appointed storage box is made entirely from a sustainably harvested source of the weather-resistant material. Designed to double as bench seating, it’s a versatile piece of outdoor storage equipment that’s sure to add a classy touch to any backyard or patio.
An interior plastic liner doubles the naturally protective nature of the teak wood construction for this storage box, making it a completely waterproof option for all your most precious outdoor goods. We love the handmade mortise and tenon joints that lend extra strength and durability, making this a storage option that’s destined to last a lifetime in your backyard.
6. Best for Trash Bins – Leisure Season Horizontal Refuge Wood Storage Shed
Pros:
- PERFECT SOLUTION FOR KEEPING YOUR GARBAGE AND RECYCLING CANS AWAY FROM ANIMALS
- FLOORLESS DESIGN MAKES IT EASY TO ROLL BINS IN AND OUT
- SNOW AND ICE BUILD-UP ARE PREVENTED DUE TO THE CURVED LID DESIGN
- NATURALLY WEATHER- AND DECAY-RESISTANT CYPRESS WOOD CONSTRUCTION
- SEALED WITH AN EXTRA PROTECTIVE COATING FOR ALL-WEATHER ENDURANCE
Cons:
- BOTTOMLESS DESIGN MEANS IT’S ONLY USEFUL FOR GARBAGE BINS
- ASSEMBLY WILL REQUIRE A FRIEND’S HELP
Specifications:
- Cypress wood construction
- Locking doors
- Floorless design
- Curved lid
- Designed to hold trash and recycling bins
- Measures 62 W x 34 D x 48 H inches
- Weighs 90 pounds
Made specifically to protect your garbage and recycling bins from wind, rain, and curious animals, the Leisure Season Horizontal Refuge Wood Storage Shed is a fantastically well-made piece of outdoor storage furniture that’s sure to let you rest easy at night. Make your trash and recycling collection fast and convenient by adding one to your yard.
The hardwood construction lends extra durability to the Leisure Season’s locking doors, while a floorless design and curved lid make it easy to move your garbage and recycling bins in and out.
In short, there’s no better option available for keeping your refuse bins safe and sound — but we don’t recommend this as an outdoor storage solution for anything else.
7. Best Lightweight Outdoor Storage Solution – Noble House Multibrown Wicker Danica Wing Outdoor Storage Bench
Pros:
- EXTREMELY LIGHTWEIGHT, AND INCLUDES HANDLES FOR EASY TRANSPORT
- PROVIDES STORAGE AND SEATING FOR YOUR PATIO
- WICKER CONSTRUCTION IS NATURALLY WEATHER-RESISTANT
- SLEEK AND CONTEMPORARY DESIGN LOOKS GREAT ON ANY PATIO
Cons:
- LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIAL IS PRONE TO DAMAGE FROM ANIMALS AND CHILDREN
- ON THE EXPENSIVE SIDE
Specifications:
- All-natural wicker construction
- Doubles as a bench and storage box
- 170 pound weight capacity on top of hinged lid
- Can accommodate a 40 L x 17 W cushion
- Measures 17.25 H x 42.5 W x 17.75 D inches
- Weighs 18 pounds
Wicker has long been a popular option for outdoor and patio furniture due to its reasonable cost and easy portability. Wrought Studio has brought both of these qualities together to great effect in its “Quinto”, a lightweight wicker storage box that also doubles as bench seating.
The hand-woven wicker construction of this bench seating storage box makes it an attractive option for your patio that’s also very easy to move and reposition. Exceptionally lightweight, we recommend it most for families that do not have kids or pets; while it is naturally weather-resistant, wicker is also prone to damage from rough handling.
8. Best Metal Outdoor Storage Box – Telescope Casual MGP/Aluminum Patio Storage Box
Pros:
- FRAME MADE OF POWDER-COATED ALUMINUM IS DURABLE, RUST-RESISTANT, AND LIGHTWEIGHT
- MARINE GRADE POLYMER BODY IS ULTRA-DURABLE AND 100% WATERPROOF
- MOST HEAVY-DUTY OUTDOOR STORAGE OPTION OF ANY THAT WE TESTED
- SLIDING DOORS OPEN FROM BOTH SIDES FOR EASY ACCESS
- BIG BENCH-STYLE TOP IS PERFECT FOR DOUBLING AS AN EXTRA DINING TABLE
Cons:
- QUITE EXPENSIVE
Specifications:
- Built of Marine Grade Polymer, composed of recycled materials
- Completely waterproof, and won’t peel, rust, or crack
- Powder coated aluminum frame
- Available in six different finishes
- Measures 65 W x 25 D x 40 H inches
- Weighs 168 pounds
Absolutely massive and completely waterproof, this patio storage box from Telescope Casual is made from a marine grade polymer built on a powder-coated aluminum frame — a potent combination for maximum durability and weather resistance. If you have valuable equipment that needs to be stored in the safest way possible, this premium-priced storage box is your best option.
Sliding doors provide easy access to anything you have stored in the Telescope Casual storage box, with full-sized doors on both sides for ease of use. Large and tall enough to be used as a bar or extra dining table top, we recommend it for people who need to store large items outdoors with the knowledge that they’ll be completely protected from the weather.
9. Best Small Outdoor Storage Box – Oxford Garden Natural Shorea Divot Box
Pros:
- ASSEMBLY IS FAST AND EASY THANKS TO THE SOLID WOODEN DOWEL DESIGN
- LINER AND LID KEEP CONTENTS SAFE FROM RAIN
- NATURALLY WEATHER-RESISTANT SHOREA WOOD CONSTRUCTION
- MORTISE AND TENON JOINTS WILL MAKE IT LAST A LIFETIME
Cons:
- ON THE EXPENSIVE SIDE
- QUITE SMALL
Specifications:
- Natural shorea wood construction
- Comes with a removable liner and lid
- Mortise and tenon joinery
- Quick assembly with wooden dowels
- Removable, elevated bottom
- Measures 15 W x 15 D x 15 H inches
- Weighs 28 pounds
If your outdoor storage needs trend more towards small toys and patio accessories, choosing an oversized box will only prove to be an eyesore on your patio design. In this case, consider the natural shorea wood outdoor storage box from Oxford Garden — a beautiful, compact, and weather-resistant storage solution that’s hand-crafted with an obsessive attention to detail.
Shorea is a naturally weather-resistant hardwood that also does a fine job of avoiding rot and decay. Featuring a design centered on wooden dowels and mortise and tenon joinery, this bespoke outdoor storage solution is as attractive as it is long-lasting.
While it may be quite expensive in comparison to larger storage solutions, the elegance and durability of this box from Oxford Garden speak to its hand-crafted quality.
Final Verdict
Offering a near-perfect combination of looks, size, and reasonable cost, the Leisure Season Medium Wood Storage Shed definitely receives our top recommendation for outdoor storage. It’s rugged enough to withstand any weather, and its traditional hardwood design is a refreshing change from so many easily-faded plastic options on the market.
For maximum storage at minimum pricing, however, you can’t go wrong with the Keter Java 230 Gallon Resin Deck Box. Far more durable than the usual plastic solutions, this injection-molded resin box can easily double as seating for guests at a party. It’s a great catch-all solution to the random accumulations on your patio.
Which outdoor storage solution do you think will look best on your patio? No matter which style of outdoor storage you choose, we hope it makes your backyard a more welcoming refuge from your daily life.
How to Choose the Best Outdoor Storage
When considering outdoor storage for your home, you should take the following topics into account:
Who Needs Outdoor Storage?
In short, anyone who has a backyard, patio, pool, or fire pit will eventually need outdoor storage because If you have valuable equipment like outdoor lanterns, lawn mowers, yard canopies, or even fire logs, then a storage is a serious consideration. As you continue to accumulate all the necessary tools and accessories to make your outdoor life more enjoyable, they can start to disrupt the nature-meets-home feel of your outdoor space. The best outdoor storage solutions will help you stay in charge of your space and prevent unsightly messes.
What to Look for In Outdoor Storage Solutions
Four things make the difference between the perfect outdoor storage for your needs, or a product that will only lead to disappointment:
- Solid construction is essential, no matter what material your outdoor storage container is made from. We look for heavy-duty design especially at the hinges and corners, where inferior products will fall apart first.
- Weatherproof coatings or materials are a must for outdoor storage solutions, as these will to protect your outdoor garden equipment along with whatever items you have stored in them safe and unharmed.
- Appropriately sized storage solutions will vary from person to person. Ask yourself what you plan on storing in them, and then purchase something one size up — you’ll always end up with more things to store later.
- Attractive storage solutions cost little more than their unattractive cousins, and are always worth spending a few extra dollars on.
Types of Outdoor Storage Containers
Available in a wide range of sizes and configurations, outdoor storage containers can be broadly classified by the type of material they are made out of. Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of each material in more detail:
- Wood storage containers are often naturally weather resistant, heavy duty, and aesthetically pleasing. They can be more difficult to move and reposition though, and are more expensive than containers made of other materials.
- Wicker storage solutions are lightweight, naturally weather resistant, and quite handily double as seating. They’re significantly less durable than wood or plastic outdoor storage solutions, though, and can be easily damaged by children or pets.
- Plastic containers are the most common type available, and often the cheapest. Unless they’re hardened with resin, they can be prone to sun fading, cracking, or breaking at articulation points.
CEO
Shahid Maqsood is an experienced writer and journalist with 10+ years in the industry. He is the CEO and founder of TheWisy, where he writes daily articles covering topics like books, business, news, sports, and more. Shahid holds an MBA from Virtual University of Pakistan and a Master's in Mass Communications. He is based in Faisalabad, Pakistan. His work spans multiple platforms like dosttrusty.com and newsbreak.com,Quellpress.com , airriflehunting, and bruitly.com showcasing his versatility and depth. Shahid's insightful articles reflect his expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness, making him a respected and reliable voice in digital content creation. His contributions engage and inform readers, embodying professionalism and passion in every piece.