Do you feel like your outdoor space might be on the cozier side? After all, outdoor storage space isn’t one-size-fits-all. When compared to indoor solutions — like built-ins, closets, cubbies, and cabinets — back or front yard organization tools can be molded to fit your exact needs and lifestyle.
Since yard storage can look different from home to home, many homeowners might find that both freeing and frustrating. What does that mean, you ask? Outdoor storage means being a bit creative and solution-oriented.
Whether your free yard space includes a small plot of land, stone or concrete patio, or something in-between, or mixed zones (i.e., a pool and yard combo), there are storage options that can work for any new home.
Check out our storage solutions for small-sized yards.
1. Tool Shed
A tool shed is classic and an easy go-to when looking to safely store maintenance supplies, yard tools and furniture, garden gear, and more. Plus, sheds in various sizes and styles are available on the market. So it’s ultra-easy for any homeowner to find an option that fits seamlessly into a tight space.
Shopping Options: Mcombo Outdoor Storage Cabinet ($400); Homespark Vertical Storage Shed ($534); Rubbermaid Storage Shed ($509)
2. Storage Bench
Really tight on square footage? Look for a weather-safe bench—or two—with built-in storage. A storage bench can easily hold planters, string lights, cushions, and torches for backyard entertaining. Plus, this furniture piece also doubles as seating.
Shopping Options: Sunvivi Outdoor Storage Box ($140); HTTH Storage Bench ($129); Keter Solana Bench ($180)
3. Sideboard
Getting creative with storage is advantageous. Repurpose a sideboard to hold yard items, plus this flat surface can easily transform into a food station or bar cart for outdoor gatherings. (Note: If you’re repurposing indoor furniture, make sure to weatherproof the item or cover it when not in use).
Shopping Options: Maison Arts Buffet ($240); Walker-Edison Kitchen Sideboard ($255); Nathan James Sideboard ($216)
4. Garden Hose Holder
Small storage accessories keep a backyard clutter-free. Aside from obvious solutions like bins and sheds, mixing in smaller accessories can optimize organization in the yard. A garden hose holder maintains accessibility and keeps long hoses and cords at bay.
Shopping Options: Artigarden Garden Hose Holder ($35); Go For Wild Garden Hose Holder ($42); Yangshuo Garden Hose Holder ($17)
5. Outdoor Planters
Sure, outdoor planters are perfect for lush greens and blooms. But large planters—wood-paneled or metal—can be secret organization tools, too.
Shopping Options: Pure Garden Lattice Planter ($25); Best Choice Wooden Barrel Planters ($78, set of 3); Mayne Fairfield Patio Planter ($96)
6. Carts
Carts are mobile, giving them a dual purpose. They can hold plants, tools, and even entertaining supplies. As a bonus, look for a collapsible cart, and it’ll take up even less space when not in use.
Shopping Options: Pipshell Rolling Utility Cart ($37); Hantop Collapsible Utility Cart ($60); Kingrack Utility Cart With Pegboard ($60)
7. Hanging Racks
Whether added to an existing shed or inside the garage, hanging racks keep tools tucked away neatly.
Shopping Options: Innovatex Tool Rack ($14); Moohoo Adjustable Rack ($24); Incly Tool Storage System ($54)
8. Weatherproof Bins
Weatherproof bins can make additional storage in a snap. And since they keep moisture and hot or cold air out, any regularly used items will be safe from the elements.
Shopping Options: Iris Weathertight Storage Bins ($76); Iris Heavy Duty Bins ($66); Sterilite Wheeled Storage Bin ($66)
9. Wood Pallets
Wood pallets can be repurposed for new uses since they can be DIYed into planters, benches, crates, shelves, and even more.
Shopping Options: Jifram Storage Pad ($36); Darla Studio Wooden Pallet ($24); Jifram Recycled Pallet ($81)
10. Planter Carts
Similar to utility carts and outdoor planters, these carts are mobile (thanks to wheels) and can traditionally hold greenery and foliage or transform into bar carts and food service stations. They can also store recreational items like pool toys or yard games.
Shopping Options: Foyuee Planter Box ($80); FXW Garden Bed ($60); Aivituvin Garden Bed ($100)
Stephanie Valente is a Content Director and Editor in Brooklyn, NY. She’s previously held writing and social media positions at Barkbox, Men’s Journal, and currently works at a full-service advertising agency. She’s a self-confessed home and design enthusiast. Stephanie is an award-winning poet and fiction writer. When she’s offline, you can find her taking a yoga class, running, hanging out with her rescue dog Pepper. Find her on stephanievalente.com.
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