We researched dozens of outdoor storage solutions, rating them on sturdiness, capacity, and versatility. All of our top picks, including a large storage shed and a small deck box, are made of quality materials, can hold various tools, and are built to last. Here are the best outdoor storage solutions for any yard. This shed has a lockable sliding door with a 55-1/2 inch doorway, and its interior peak is just under 6-1/2 feet, allowing most people to walk inside comfortably. The shed’s galvanized steel construction is able to withstand wind and snow, and its pitched roof helps ensure precipitation runs off, preventing standing water and leaks. The unit comes with a foundation kit that you can use to install plywood floors (wood not included), and while assembling the shed is time-consuming, it’s a worthwhile purchase, especially considering the reasonable price. This deck box comes in two neutral finishes, and its exterior is both UV- and water-resistant, so you can place it just about anywhere in your yard. The interior of the box has a 120-gallon capacity, and the whole unit has a faux-wood appearance that’s classic and stylish. Its lid has a soft-close mechanism that will prevent any smashed fingers, and you can even use this deck box as a bench, as it can support up to 800 pounds! The Suncast Hose Hideaway includes two stakes for you to secure it in place, but its unique swiveling base allows it to turn in any direction for easy reeling with less effort. The reel can accommodate up to 225 feet of 5/8-inch hose, and the unit’s patented “Easylink” system provides a secure connection between the hose reel and your garden hose. This storage bench is 33 x 45 x 24 inches, and the storage section is 38 inches wide and just over 20 inches deep. The unit is made from solid cedar wood in a weather-resistant finish, and it features a full back, wide arms, and louvered panel sides on the base. The bench can support up to 400 pounds, and it gets top marks from reviewers, as well. Just keep in mind that the storage compartment isn’t water-tight, so it won’t keep your supplies from getting wet if it’s exposed to the weather. This vertical tool shed has double doors that you can lock if desired, and the whole resin unit is leak-, dent-, and weather-proof. It has a slanted roof to direct water away from the unit, and you can purchase separate adapters that allow you to add shelving, pegboards, and other organizational aspects inside. Overall, the Big Max Shed is perfect for storing shovels, rakes, and gardening tools, and the price is reasonable for such a well-built unit. The beige cabinet features a hydraulic top that opens effortlessly, and the lid is slightly crowned to allow water to run off. The unit has a handle on one side and wheels on the other to increase its portability, but the whole thing weighs more than 100 pounds, so this isn’t a storage chest that you’ll want to be moving around frequently. This shed is 52 x 80 x 57-1/2 inches, and it’s designed to sit below a 6-foot fence line—essential for anyone who is part of a homeowner’s association. It offers 98 cubic feet of storage space, and the all-weather resin construction is water-resistant to keep your tools dry. It typically takes a few hours to build this shed, according to buyers, but most agree it’s worth the effort, as the unit is a great spot to store yard equipment and other items that might be clogging up your garage.
Permitted Size
For large walkable storage units such as a full shed, make sure that its size complies with the rules set by your homeowner’s association, or find out if you need to apply for a municipal permit.
Water-Resistance
To keep your stored items dry and protected from the elements, the unit needs to be waterproof. In addition to the material being waterproof, a slanted or leak-proof roof also helps keep things dry inside.
Assembly
If the storage unit requires assembly, make sure it is something you can handle. Carefully read the assembly instructions that are part of the product description, which also lists the tools needed for the assembly, such as safety glasses, gloves, the type of screwdriver, and drill.
Lockability
A lockable unit not only prevents your stored items from theft, but also keeps items out of the reach of children. Some units have a built-in lock and others are lockable but the lock must be purchased separately.
Why Trust The Spruce
This article was written by Camryn Rabideau, a freelance writer and expert on all things home. She’s used several styles of laundry baskets throughout her life, but her all-time favorite is still the Sterilite Ultra Laundry Basket, thanks to its lightweight yet durable construction. Her cat is also a big fan of these baskets, and he frequently sits inside them whenever he gets the chance. Additional reporting was done by Nadia Hassani, a writer and master gardener with over 20 years of experience.
