Waterproof garden storage boxes to protect outdoor gear

Safeguard your garden tools, furniture, pet food and more from the elements.

garden-storage-boxes

by Natalie Knowles |
Updated

A waterproof garden storage box is a year-round solution to keeping tools and outdoor accessories dry. When looking for garden storage ideas it's natural to think of sheds, but a weather-resistant container is an affordable alternative, especially if you're short on space.

An outdoor trunk is designed to store and protect various garden items and equipment. They are typically made from durable materials such as plastic or resin, and have a lockable lid or doors to prevent moisture from damaging the contents. It's a versatile space; use it as a coal bunker or place to store fire wood. A garden storage box is also ideal for keeping outdoor furniture cushions when sofas and seats are not in use. If you receive lots of deliveries but you're never in, a secure outdoor box is a perfect place for the postman to put parcels. Not to mention, you can also find extra large garden storage boxes that are tailor-made to store wheelie bins.

Best waterproof garden storage boxes at a glance:

When it comes to garden storage, it's good to think outside the box. Not everyone has space for a full-size shed or summer house, that's when a waterproof garden storage box can be a space-saving alternative. These useful containers vary in size, design, materials and features, allowing you to choose one that suits your specific needs. Look for containers that are made from water-resistant materials. Also, ensure the box has a tight-fitting lid to keep moisture out and that the box is a durable construction with no cracks. Some containers will have locks for added security, wheels or rollers for manoeuvrability, and vents to prevent mould.

It's a multifunctional storage solution – in the summer holidays it's a place to stash the kid's toys so the lawn isn't a dumping ground for Nerf guns. In winter, use a garden storage box to store outdoor Christmas lights – saving a trip up to the attic. Designed to withstand outdoor conditions, these storage boxes can protect potting soil and seeds, BBQ grilling accessories and pond or pool cleaning chemicals. It helps extend the lifespan of your belongings and keep your outdoor space organised and clutter-free.

Best waterproof garden storage boxes

Best waterproof garden storage box

Keter Marvel+ Garden Furniture Storage BoxKeter
Price: £83.69
Alternative retailers
Walmart$20.99View offer

Protects outdoor items from moisture and keep them well-preserved with the Keter Marvel+ Garden Furniture Storage Box. It's a multi-purpose addition to your patio, offering both storage and seating. With a 270-litre capacity, it can hold your items and support two adults on its lid with a maximum weight capacity of 220 kilograms.

Crafted from durable, weather-resistant resin, it's low-maintenance, provides ventilation and stays dry. Built-in handles and wheels simplify mobility, while quick assembly (five minutes, no extra tools) and a lockable design enhance security.

Pros

  • Wheels for portability to move around your outside space
  • Fade-resistant decorative wood panel-style finishing

Cons

  • Lock clasps are a little fiddly
Dimensions:116.7 x 44.7 x 57cm
Material:‎Plastic
Capacity: ‎270L
  • Made from 65% recycled resin
  • Weatherproof

Best extra-large waterproof garden storage box

Lifetime 60186 Heavy-Duty Outdoor Storage Deck Box Lifetime
Price: £151.49
Alternative retailers
Wayfair$165.94View offer
Tractor Supply$219.99View offer

Store patio cushions, sports equipment and long garden tools in the Lifetime 60186 Heavy-Duty Outdoor Storage Deck Box. Its sides are rigid due to being made from high-density polyethylene. Lifetime claims that this storage box will not crack, chip or peel.

It has a hinged lid that opens to a 90-degree angle. Also, the lid can be secured with a padlock. This is a slightly deeper box than others, with a 439-litre capacity. In addition, Lifetime offer a large range of sizes so you can coordinate several boxes for different purposes around your garden.

Pros

  • All-weather resistant and easy to wipe clean
  • Heavy duty construction with a generous capacity

Cons

  • Requires a drill for assembly
Dimensions:127.9 x 64 x 67.2cm
Material:High density polyethylene (HDPE)
Capacity:439L
  • Available in a large range of sizes

Best waterproof garden storage box with cushion

YITAHOME Garden Storage BoxYITAHOME

Pet food, camping gear and outdoor furniture covers are preserved in this attractive YITAHOME Garden Storage Box. This is a thoughtfully-designed deck box that provides generous storage space for bulky outdoor cushions, gardening tools, and pool equipment.

The cushion provides extra comfort when using this outdoor chest as a seat. The cover is removable and water-repellent. The lid is on a child-friendly hydraulic hinge so it won't slam shut with a surprise. It's constructed from highly durable, waterproof poly resin that's heavy duty and won't fade or rust.

Pros

  • Easy to assemble with a lockable lid
  • Ergonomic side handles for easy lifting

Cons

  • Some reviews comment the lid was damaged on arrival
Dimensions:L122 x W55 x H64cm
Material:Resin
Capacity:380L
  • Available in Light Brown, Dark Grey, Brown and Black
  • Range of sizes and shapes available
  • Weight capacity is 200kg

Best small garden storage box

Duramax Cedargrain DuraboxDuramax
Price: £102.35

Your garden gnome's secret stash is safe with the Duramax Cedargrain Durabox. Durable and long-lasting, this backyard storage box, with its 270-litre capacity and UV-resistant PP plastic resin construction, fulfils all your storage needs.

The elegant wood-effect is strong, attractive and resistant to fading. Made of heavy-duty, weather-resistant polypropylene, it features a woodgrain finish, a hinged flat lid, and ergonomic side handles for portability.

Pros

  • Useful rollers in the base for portability
  • Elegant, yet weatherproof and UV-resistant

Cons

  • Only a 270-litre capacity
Dimensions: ‎116.5 x 45 x 56cm
Material:Plastic
Capacity:270L
  • Also available in brown
  • Maximium weight capacity is 200kg

Best garden storage box and bench

You'll be lichen this Keter Eden Bench to keep your garden gear dry and it makes for an attractive seat for two. This weather-resistant garden bench storage box serves as both seating for two adults and a 265-litre capacity storage unit for patio accessories and cushions.

Its attractive, traditional bench looks and wood-style finish enhances outdoor aesthetics, while the lock provides added peace of mind, keeping your items secure, dry and well-ventilated. As an added bonus, this is made from 60 per cent recycled resin.

Pros

  • A multifunctional two-in-one design to save space
  • Attractive, two-tone wood-panelled design

Cons

  • Tricky to assemble
Dimensions:H84 x W140 x D60cm
Material:Plastic
Capacity:265L
  • Made from 60% recycled resin
  • 100% recyclable

Best outdoor storage box for a balcony

Keter City Resin Deck BoxKeter
Price: £40.87
Alternative retailers
Overstock$43.21View offer

Ideal for a city balcony or small courtyard garden, the Keter City Resin Deck Box is a waterproof solution for storing cushions, yoga mats, and sun-bathing pillows. Declutter your outdoor space and use it as an attractive side table or extra seat.

The ventilated interior keeps your items dry and safe from mould. This is made from weather-resistant resin that won't rust, peel, dent, or warp and the interior is protected from UV rays, rain, snow, and moisture. This promises quick and simple assembly with no extra tools required.

Pros

  • Wood-effect, low maintenance resin construction
  • Weather-resistant finish and secure interior

Cons

  • This is not a lockable option
Dimensions: ‎58.98 x 54.99 x 8.79cm
Material:Resin
Capacity:30L
  • Padlock compatible
  • Built-in handles

Best mini outdoor storage shed

Out of sight is out of mind with the Keter Store-It Out Midi Outdoor Garden Storage Shed. Ideal for wheelie bin storage, the sloped threshold on the floor makes it effortless to wheel bins in and out. Store BBQ equipment, garden tools or two 120-litre wheelie bins.

It has elegant wood-effect sides and a heavy-duty floor with built-in support for shelving (shelf not included). Easy to assemble and lockable for security, it's perfect for storing various indoor and outdoor items, from garden equipment to furniture, barbecues, and DIY tools.

Pros

  • Zero maintenance, durable materials
  • Large capacity can hide two standard wheelie bins

Cons

  • Shelving is not included
Dimensions:L130 x W74 x H110cm
Material:Plastic
Capacity:880L
  • Safe and secure
  • Easy to assemble
  • Weather-resistant

Best wooden garden storage box

Store rakes, hoes, rackets and balls in the beautiful Deuba Wooden Garden Storage Box With Lid. Bear in mind this is not a totally waterproof option, but the Acacia hardwood is aesthetically pleasing and can be treated with water-resistant stain. The wood is pre-oiled and an inner tarpaulin protects items that are inside from moisture.

Stylish, durable and relatively low-maintenance, the DEUBA wooden cushion box is a high-quality garden storage solution. It's perfect for storing seat cushions, pillows, garden tools and toys helping you keep your outdoor space organised and free from clutter. No more stumbling over toys and tools.

Pros

  • Good ventilation with inner tarpaulin included
  • Natural material made from acacia hardwood

Cons

  • Will weather over time and need maintenance
Dimensions:L117 x D50 x H59cm
Material:Acacia hardwood
Capacity:250L
  • Treat wood with a little oil and a soft cloth from time-to-time

Best metal garden storage box

Gardebruk Metal Cushion Box Gardebruk

Need somewhere to store perishable supplies, such as dog kibble or bird seed? The Gardebruk Metal Cushion Box is water-resistant, durable, stable and weather-resistant, with an extra-large lid for rain protection. The addition of gas pressure springs ensures easy and quick opening.

This lockable chest comes with two keys and a reinforced base plate for added stability and protection. Made from galvanized sheet steel, it's ideal for protecting your seat cushions, garden accessories, and outdoor supplies from the elements.

Pros

  • Extra high feet to keep the base dry and provide ventilation
  • Reinforced base plate for excellent stability

Cons

  • It's more grey than white
Dimensions:L120 x W62 x H63cm
Material:Power coated, galvanised sheet steel
Capacity:360L
  • Lid opens on two gas pressure springs
  • Lockable and includes two keys
  • Lid is oversize for even better protection from rain

How we chose the best waterproof garden storage boxes

All of these waterproof garden storage boxes have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered the size, capacity, and build quality in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching waterproof garden storage boxes to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about. And with help from Modern Gardens Magazine, Garden News and Garden Answers, we share expert gardening knowledge to help you get the most from your product.

FAQs

What can I store in my garden storage box?

You can store various items in a garden storage box, including garden tools, cushions, outdoor furniture covers, gardening supplies, BBQ accessories, pool chemicals, sports equipment, pet supplies, camping gear, and seasonal decorations. Moreover, it helps keep these items organised, dry and protected from the elements.
In addition, here are some other items that can be kept in a waterproof garden storage container:
• Lawn mower and gardening equipment
• Birdseed
• Outdoor games and toys
• Parasols and outdoor lighting
• Gardening clothes, gloves and hats
• Spare pots and planters
• Firewood and firepit accessories
• Bike helmets and cycling gear
• Fishing gear and tackle
• Outdoor party accessories

What should I consider when buying waterproof garden storage boxes?

When buying a waterproof garden storage box, ensure it suits your storage needs and complements your outdoor space. Also, it needs to provide adequate protection against weather and security for your items.
As well as the cost, factors to be considered include:
Size and capacity: Ensure it's spacious enough for your storage needs, but not too large for your space.
Durability of material: Choose weather-resistant materials like plastic or resin to withstand frost in winter and strong UV rays in the summer.
Locking mechanism: It's wise to have a box with a secure locking system to protect your belongings.
Aesthetics: Consider a design that complements your outdoor décor, such as rattan-effect weave.
Ventilation: Some models include ventilation to prevent mould and mildew growth inside.
Position: Consider the proximity to your house when placing items for easy access. Items used less frequently can be positioned further away from your home. B&Q advise: if your garden is prone to flooding, place your storage in the driest area possible and ensure it's on a level surface.

What to read next

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Natalie Knowles is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Modern Gardens, specialising in garden trends. When she's not flexing her mow-how, Natalie is a successful artist and illustrator.

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