5 Easy Storage Upgrades for Your Shed and Outdoor Space

No matter how big your shed or backyard is, it somehow never feels like there’s quite enough room for everything. Sheds often become a dumping ground for everything you can’t fit anywhere else and before long you can’t find your tools & there’s no room to fit anything else inside. And it’s often no better in the garden where the kids’ toys get spread to every corner of the lawn & the gardening gear starts to clutter your patio area. 

The good news? A few clever upgrades can make a huge difference to both your shed and your outdoor spaces. Use these simple / low-cost tips to help you reclaim your shed and reduce clutter outside. 

Let’s dive into five practical (and surprisingly easy) ideas to get your outdoor space sorted.

1. Install Wall-Mounted Tool Racks

One of the quickest ways to create order in your shed is to take things off the floor and put them onto the wall.

Wall-mounted tool racks, pegboards, or vertical hooks are ideal for hanging rakes, spades, brooms, hoses, and more. Not only does it free up valuable floor space, but it also makes tools easier to access when you need them (and easier to put back when you’re done).

You can purchase purpose-built racks or make your own with some timber offcuts and mounting brackets.  Either way, vertical storage is a game changer for small spaces.

2. Add Outdoor Storage Boxes for Versatility

If your outdoor gear tends to spill out beyond the shed an outdoor storage box can keep everything under control while still being within reach. Use them to keep sunbed cushions, pool equipment, kids toys, gardening gear and everything in between dry and out of sight. 

Look for a weatherproof design that blends in with your space and suits your needs. Some even double as bench seating, making them perfect for patios or decks.

A well-placed outdoor storage box adds structure to your yard and stops everyday items from getting lost, sun-damaged or soggy in a sudden downpour. They’re ideal for families or anyone who wants a tidy, usable garden without the fuss.

3. Use Clear Containers and Labels

Inside your shed, the humble storage tub can go a long way especially when combined with a decent labelling system.

Opt for clear tubs where possible so you can see what’s inside without pulling everything apart. Then, label them clearly based on function (e.g. “Irrigation”, “Paint Supplies”, “Camping Gear”) and store similar items together on open shelving.

It might sound simple, but this kind of visibility saves time and frustration especially when you’re mid-project and trying to remember where you last saw that hose connector or extension lead.

Pro tip: Stackable tubs with latching lids are especially useful for keeping out pests and moisture.

4. Get Smart with Overhead Storage

Most sheds have one underused area: the ceiling.

Installing overhead racks or a loft-style shelf is an excellent way to store lightweight, less frequently used items including tarps, fold-out chairs, or camping gear. If your shed has exposed rafters, you might even be able to slide items between the joists without much extra hardware.

Be mindful of weight limits and always install overhead storage securely, especially in older or prefabricated sheds.

And if your garden has a covered patio or carport, you can often apply the same principles there too. Just make sure it’s all weather-resistant and safely anchored.

5. Upgrade to Multi-Purpose Furniture

Not every storage solution has to look like one. In outdoor spaces where you entertain, multi-purpose furniture can serve a dual role. Think benches with built-in storage, planter boxes with hidden compartments, or coffee tables that open up to reveal tool space.

These are particularly handy in smaller yards or apartment courtyards where space is at a premium. Instead of cluttering the area with more “stuff”, you’re simply making the existing space work harder.

Keep materials in mind too. Go for hardwood, composite timber, or UV-resistant plastic for the best weather durability and longevity.

A Few Bonus Tips

• Think seasonally: Rotate items based on the time of year. Store pool toys away in winter and bring out the firewood and outdoor heaters.
• Use vertical garden walls: Perfect for storing herbs and small tools while also looking great.
• Declutter regularly: A quick clean-out every few months goes a long way in keeping your space functional.

Your shed and backyard don’t have to be a dumping ground. With a few simple upgrades, they can become highly functional, easy-to-navigate spaces that make outdoor living more enjoyable year-round.

Whether it’s adding a few hooks, a clever storage box, or repurposing furniture with hidden compartments, it’s all about working smarter with the space you have.

So before you start dreaming about a bigger shed or second storage unit, try one or two of these ideas and you might be surprised by how much space you already have.