Garden storage ideas – 10 practical ways to keep your backyard organized

Does your garden, shed or front yard frequently turn into the family dumping ground? Then there’s no time like the present to get neat, tidy and organized with these practical – and stylish – garden storage ideas. 

Garden storage ideas

We've rounded up the best storage ideas for gardens to help you hide away your tools, old toys, outdoor furniture – and pots and planters – with ease.

1. Take inspiration from indoors

Good garden storage should be a priority when it comes to planning garden ideas – no one wants a cluttered and unusable backyard. 

With the garden coming under increasing pressure to perform a variety of social roles, such as alfresco dining, relaxing and entertaining, a good layout and adequate garden storage are more important than ever. 

Simple garden shed ideas or 'man caves' might conjure up visions of being creaky, cold and damp, but – with the right materials – you can turn it into your unloved unit into a fully-functional she shed that is a powerhouse of creativity – and, comes equipped with just the right amount shelving, work station and plenty of pegs.

2. Invest in a shed for storage

Every garden should have a shed for storage. You can opt for high-end design when choosing a shed, ending up with something akin to a Swiss chalet or woodland log cabin, but boil things down, and most of us are really only after a secure weather-proof storage space for all out tools and sundries. Bear this in mind and a new shed needn’t cost you the earth.

If your shed has to fit into a small garden space, opt for a slim design (good for positioning next to a garden wall or incorporating into garden fence ideas).

3. Build an entertainment area with hidden storage

Garden designers and architects say there’s been an increased appetite to build spaces in gardens that are used as a hybrid for entertaining and garden storage, linked back to a heightened awareness of the benefits of being outside for health and wellbeing. 

Converting outbuildings into party barns with hidden storage, exercise areas, pool houses and spas, is a big trend says Ben Holland of HollandGreen Architecture. 

4. Set up shelving within a potting shed

Garden storage ideas – whether open shelving or hidden within a potting shed or she shed – are a great option if you are the owner of an impressive container garden, or are a keen gardener who appreciates having tools and outdoor essentials close at hand. 

5. Install open shelving

Not everything needs to be hidden away when it comes to garden storage. In fact, decorative storage solutions can make a huge difference to the look and feel of your backyard. 

A cluster of simple floating shelves works particularly well in a shed or garden room. They add an element of interest that draws the eye, all while helping to keep floor space clear and tidy.

It’s best to mount open shelving just above eye level and within easy reach if you intend for the shelves to hold regularly used items, such as gloves, secateurs, and watering cans. 

6. Provide storage for logs

If you have an outdoor fireplace, log-burning brazier or firepit then chances are that you will need to find a place to store firewood. 

If you need to create shelter, a simple timber pergola or overhang will provide dappled shelter from the elements. Alternatively, look for a clever roof system with louvres similar to those on plantation shutters, which can be opened and closed.

7. Provide lockable garden storage for valuable items

If valuable garden space is limited but you need to store bulkier or expensive items – from lawnmowers and garden tools to children’s play equipment and bikes – opt for a mid-sized solution, such as a garden lock-up unit that can be sited at the side of the house, front garden or in a backyard. 

8. Get creative with a work station

A garden storage shed shouldn't be just for storing away tools and pots. Use your shed to create a space to indulge in a joyous activity. 

Head to the shed and potter away with a desk for planting seedlings ready for all your container gardening ideas. A potting bench is an essential, providing all the garden storage you need to keep up with the growing season. 

9. Pitch a place for outdoor furniture

Is your garden groaning under all the outdoor furniture you’ve accumulated over the years? Then a roomy, weather-resistant garden shed packed full of storage essentials could be just what you need.   

Decluttering expert Marie Kondo recommends storing like with like, so keep everything of a type together – for example, bikes in one place and garden tools and containers all together. Every category should have a designated home to make it easier to find. 

10. Smarten up with a compact potting bench

If you love propagating plants, then smart garden storage ideas like these are delightful features to have in any backyard – big or small. 

Its rustic look would complement all manner of country garden ideas. And, there's enough space to keep everything you need within arm's reach when potting up seedlings or taking cuttings. If you have the space, complete the look with a matching drawer unit to keep any extra garden tools, labels and twine handy.