Nobody likes a cluttered garden and so when it comes to items like lawnmowers, wheelbarrows and children's toys, you're going to need somewhere to store everything. From garden sheds and greenhouses to storage chests and benches, there's a suitable storage solution for everyone and our helpful guide below has the low-down on each type.

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Things to Consider: Garden Storage

Buying storage for the garden is not something to rush into. Before deciding on which type you'll go for, consider the following factors:

Building Restrictions

Local council regulations may cause restrictions on the size of shed that you can build, so make sure to double check before buying. It might seem unlikely but it's better to be safe than sorry.

What Do You Want to Store?

Think about what you're likely to be storing and consider the size of storage you'll need. Garden sheds are perfect for storing your bike, lawnmower and children's garden toys, while storage benches are better for smaller items.

Garden Size

Keep in mind the scope of your garden and be realistic about the size of garden storage that will look best. Large summerhouse sheds might be the dream, but they'll make most gardens look overcramped.

Budget

The vast range of garden storage options on the market can make it easy to overspend. Before choosing a style, decide on a budget and stick to it.

Need Help With Installation?

Certain storage options have complex installation instructions and often require more than one pair of hands. If you're buying a large shed, think about whether you'll likely have anyone at hand to help and if not, stick to smaller and more straight-forward pieces like small storettes and storage benches.

Garden Storage Types

From racks and shelves to sheds, storage chests and greenhouses, there's a wide range of outdoor storage options on the market. Can't decide which one's best for you? We've got the low-down on the different types you'll come across:

Functional Sheds

A much-loved garden classic, sheds come in a wide range of different sizes and therefore vary in terms of what they're best for storing. Smaller and more functional styles are ideal for potting plants and storing everyday garden equipment, as well as carrying out general garden DIY duties. Many styles have windows but some come without any, which is a good thing to look out for if you want to store valuables and keep them out of sight.

Tip: Looking to use your shed during winter? Choose a shed with windows to let natural light filter through, allowing you to work during the darker months.

Recreational Sheds

If your garden size allows, you might want to make way for a summerhouse or log cabin-style shed. Providing additional storage space for garden furniture that's not in use during winter, summerhouses can be used as an office or studio or simply just a place to relax in and watch your children play during summer.

Tip: If you plan to keep electricals or valuable furniture in your summerhouse, keeping it waterproof is essential. Try to build your summerhouse on a concrete slab to protect it against the ground's dampness and regularly apply a commercial sealer to the roof, outside and inside. Pay extra attention to the corners, where leaks tend to come through first.

Greenhouses

From large lockable walk-ins to cold frame styles ideal for small planters, there's a wide range of different greenhouses available. Perfect for dedicated gardeners, they keep the growing season going throughout the year and can transform a simple hobby into a full-time profession. Greenhouses are generally available in three different materials: wood, aluminium and steel.Tip! Aim to leave a minimum of 2 feet of access space around the greenhouse to allow for easy cleaning and repairs.

Tip: Not sure which greenhouse fits your needs? Our greenhouse buying guide should help you out.

Racks and Shelves

Ideal for keeping essential tools at hand, racks and shelves are easy storage solutions to add to your garage or shed. Certain free-standing styles can also be used for aesthetic purposes in the garden, proving the perfect platform to showcase your favourite colourful plantings. Often pre-built, the compact shape of racks and shelves usually allows for quick and easy installation.

Tip! Place larger and heavier items on the bottom shelf for easy reach, keeping at least 50cm of space between that and the shelf above. Other shelves should have at least 30cm of space between them.

Compost Bins

Compost bins provide an ethical method of disposing organic waste such as leaves, leftover food, rotten fruit, and dead plants. Described as nature's way of recycling, composting transforms unwanted natural rubbish into valuable humus-like substance with the process becoming increasingly popular as everyone's environmental awareness improves.

Tip: Store your compost bin on wet soil to allow for microbes and insects to gain better access to the rotting material. Wet soil will also improve drainage (an essential in composting).

Storage Benches

Ideal for storing gardening tools, plant pots and even outdoor cushions and blankets, storage benches are the perfect storage option if you have limited garden space and don't require much storage facility. Garden storage benches are most commonly made from wood or plastic.

Tip: Bring more function to your storage bench by choosing a shaded arbour bench. As well as providing a suitable storage solution and somewhere to sit, it'll keep you cool in the heat during summer.