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Outdoor storage boxes can be tremendously useful for a wide variety of purposes. It can be much more convenient to have a deck box within reach for outdoor items—think tablecloths, toys, sports equipment, small tools, outdoor extension cords, and pool products, to name a few—rather than having to lug them in and out of the house or shed each time you finish using them. In addition, a heavy-duty deck storage box can provide additional seating when you have guests in your backyard. Another great benefit to picking the best outdoor storage box is that they can be used to store patio furniture cushions when not in use, preserving upholstery life spans potentially by years and keeping them clean and dry in between uses. After all, you don’t want your guests to sit on cushions soiled by birds, rain, pollen, or other outdoor issues. The best outdoor storage box models are out there, but you must know what to look for. Luckily, you’ve got us and this guide.

How we chose the best outdoor storage boxes

We sorted through 50 of the top-rated outdoor storage boxes to select these top five. Between all the products, we compared prices, materials, capacity, brand, and reviews to find those that stood out from the pack. We also looked at critical reviews and user recommendations and conducted heavy research to narrow down our choices.

The best outdoor storage boxes: Reviews & Recommendations

Our picks range from functional storage boxes that double as benches to storage tents that fit tight spaces, as no two storage needs are the same. These final picks are built to last through any inclement weather and keep your goods safe and secure all year long.

Best overall: Suncast Resin Wicker Patio Outdoor Storage Container

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Why it made the cut: This large capacity pick can hold any variety of yard toys, patio cushions, or gardening tools—and will outlast inclement weather.

Specs

  • Material: Resin
  • Dimensions: 50 x 25.2 x 25.2 inches
  • Capacity: 99 gallons

Pros

  • Durable to weather
  • Large capacity
  • Warp-resistant

Cons

  • Assembly can be challenging

This large deck storage box has a rounded top that’s less likely than others to warp in the heat (a common problem with outdoor storage boxes), so the cover stays put solidly and keeps contents dry. It has a hinged top and space for a lock (though the lock isn’t included) and measures 50 inches x 25.5 inches x 25.5 inches. The dark brown wicker design has many matching pieces, so you can also buy the brand’s outdoor garbage bin, dining chairs or benches, hose reel, or other variations of storage boxes if you want your decor to match.

Best bench: Keter Solana 70 Gallon Storage Bench

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Why it made the cut: This pick allows you to save space while providing seating—and is durable enough to sit outside all year long.

Specs

  • Material: Resin
  • Dimensions: 23.4 x 54.6 32.8 inches
  • Capacity: 70 gallon

Pros

  • Bench included
  • Affordable price
  • Easy assembly

Cons

  • No lateral supports on the middle of the bench

This outdoor storage bench is no slouch: It holds 70 gallons, which can translate to barbeque tools, gardening hand tools, cushions, sports equipment, or many other items. It’s made of resin with a wood-grain appearance and comes in two color combinations. You can add a cushion to the outdoor storage bench seat to make it more comfortable, and there’s a place for a lock.

Best shed: Rubbermaid Resin Weather Resistant Outdoor Storage Shed

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Why it made the cut: If you’re looking for a no-frills pick with great capacity, this shed-style option can store larger items year-round.

Specs

  • Material: Resin, plastic
  • Dimensions: 89.75 x 45 x 20.25 inches
  • Capacity: N/A

Pros

  • Large capacity
  • Weather resistant
  • Double-walled construction

Cons

  • May warp over time

Snow shovels, garden shovels, rakes, hoes, weed trimmers, and similar tools are generally too big to fit into deck boxes—not to mention that they don’t store well piled up horizontally. At 7 feet by 7 feet, this type of outdoor storage shed is tall enough to hang them on hooks underneath the sandalwood/onyx roof so they don’t get damaged or rusty and are always easy to reach. You can also add shelving.

Best for bikes: The YardStash IV Outdoor Storage Shed Tent

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Why it made the cut: While this pick might be built like a tent, its heavyweight fabric seals out water and weather, making it a great place to store bikes or gardening supplies even in winter conditions.

Specs

  • Material: Vinyl
  • Dimensions: 74 x 32 x 68 inches
  • Capacity: Two adult bikes

Pros

  • Easy to move
  • Affordable option
  • Space-saving

Cons

  • May require two people to set up

If you’re looking for outdoor bike storage you can set up, take down, and move around easily, this heavy-duty vinyl tent may be your thing: it’s ready without tools in 10 minutes and is made to hold two adult bikes with some room left over. It’s meant to be fully waterproof and pest-proof, and you can use this outdoor bike storage all four seasons (the roof is made to deflect snow and rain).

Best for patios and decks: Rubbermaid Medium Resin Outdoor Storage Deck Box

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Why it made the cut: Maintain plenty of space in your outdoor spaces with this small storage box.

Specs

  • Material: Resin
  • Dimensions: 33.49 x 27.5 x 25.5 inches
  • Capacity: 74 gallons

Pros

  • Durable resin
  • Sturdy
  • Easy assembly

Cons

  • Not weatherproof

If you’re short on space on your deck or patio, this small storage bin packs a big punch. It holds 74 gallons and its durable resin won’t fade, rust, or, rot. Overlapped joints keep water out so items inside stay dry, but it’s not completely weatherproof—try to keep it under a roof. You can assemble it using tools you already have in your toolbox, and a flat, textured lid doubles as an end table or an extra seat. It’s perfect for storing patio cushions, gardening tools, pool accessories, and anything else you need to stow.

Best steel: Arrow Spacemaker Espresso Galvanized Steel Storage Deck Box

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Why it made the cut: The galvanized steel is durable and long-lasting.

Specs

  • Material: Galvanized steel
  • Dimensions: 26.13 x 52.25 x 26.13 inches
  • Capacity: 134.5 gallons

Pros

  • Lockable
  • Pneumatic lifts
  • Easy to assemble

Cons

  • Reviews note alignment issues during assembly

The Arrow Spacemaker Deck Box is attractive, versatile, and perfect if you’re looking for a classy poolside or outdoor patio container. It’s perfect for all seasons and has a mighty 134 gallons of storage space. Hot-dipped galvanized steel helps it stand up against corrosion and extreme weather conditions and keeps insects out. The deck box steel panels are UV resistant and will not fade. The built-in corrugated floor keeps items dry. Your stored items remain secure with the integrated security hasp that fits most combination locks and padlocks. A pneumatic lift supports controlling the opening and closing of the lid so won’t close on your hands or fingers. You can assemble it yourself in just 30 minutes. However, some reviews note that not everything aligns perfectly, leading to some unevenness.

Best budget: Keter Marvel Plus Resin Outdoor Storage Box

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Why it made the cut: It is a great option for slimmer, lower storage.

Specs

  • Material: Resin
  • Dimensions: 17.4 x 45.9 x 22.2 inches
  • Capacity: 71 gallons

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • Sleek design
  • Easy assembly

Cons

  • Not as durable as other options

When you’re looking for a budget outdoor storage box, you’re not going to get some of the durability or special features of the higher-end ones: this one has no hydraulics or strap to help open and close the lid, and some reviewers describe it as more flimsy. But overall, it’s still a bargain for a large (71-gallon capacity) storage box that’s simple to assemble. Dark brown and plastic, it matches many other brands’ outdoor products and also provides limited seating.

What to consider when shopping for the best outdoor storage boxes

As great as an outdoor storage bin can be, it’s not always without problems. One common issue is in assembly: resin patio storage boxes often snap together in a certain way, and if you assemble the pieces incorrectly, it can be very difficult to separate them again without causing irreparable damage (this is also not generally covered under manufacturer warranties). If you have any doubts at all about any included assembly instructions, be sure you check the manufacturer’s website or YouTube for an instructional video or call the manufacturer for more specific advice. Trying to take apart pieces that have been snapped together can break connections or crack or weaken the plastic. Here are other things you should look out for when choosing an outdoor storage box:

Weather

Another concern is wind: If you don’t use some kind of lock or carabiner to keep a patio storage box closed, heavy wind can not only lift the top and expose the contents to the weather, but it may even rip the top off its hinges, which can also be an irreparable problem. Be sure to choose a storage box that you can close securely so it won’t fall apart in the first storm of the season. A lock is also a necessity if you’re storing any kind of valuable equipment, like bikes or snowblowers, or you may become an easy target for thieves in the area.

Warping

Some patio storage boxes and storage sheds have problems with roof warping. If a roof warps upwards at the ends, it can leave gaps that aren’t just unsightly and leave the items inside unprotected from moisture and bugs. Even without a warped roof, though, most outdoor storage bins are not entirely bugproof. Most are made to be waterproof or at least water-resistant, but any sort of ventilation or gap between the lid and bottom, or under or between the doors, could be enough for a variety of critters from carpenter ants to spiders. If this is an issue, you might want to use a deterrent, such as boric acid or diatomaceous earth sprinkled around the outdoor storage box, or move the box to a spot that’s away from foliage and less likely to attract bugs.

Bins vs. sheds vs. benches

Outdoor storage bins are great not only for typical backyard items, but also for other items that you might store in the front or side of your house: trash bins, recycling bins, bicycles, a snowblower, large tools (such as shovels and rakes), holiday lawn decorations, scooters, and so on. 

There are specialized outdoor storage sheds sized just right for all kinds of purposes—ones that are wide and mid-height meant specifically as outdoor bike storage, and others that are tall and narrow for full-size tools. You can often attach tall storage units to the outside walls of your house.

While most well-made storage boxes like this aren’t inexpensive, they can make your life easier and protect your investments. Bike storage sheds and trash storage sheds are meant to be easy to wheel in and out of, so the front doors swing open rather than just the tops opening like deck storage boxes. You may also use a storage tent with vinyl sides rather than a plastic or wood outdoor storage container. There are also outdoor storage benches designed with seating in mind.

FAQs

Q: What’s the best way to store outdoor cushions?

Before storing your outdoor cushions for the winter, or between uses, ensure they’re clean and entirely dry. Depending on the material, you may need to simply wipe the cushions down with a rag and some dish soap, or you may be able to spray with vinegar and water or bleach solution to remove any mildew or stains. Never put cushions away while they’re damp, or they will develop mold and mildew. Once dry, you can put them in a waterproof deck storage box or outdoor storage shed. You may want to include mothballs or other pest repellents to prevent bugs from nesting inside the safe haven of your outdoor storage container and ruining your cushions. Moths, ants, stink bugs, and many other types of nuisance bugs love hiding out in cushions—and some can eat right through just about any kind of material.

Q: What is the largest deck box?

Keter’s XXL deck storage container is the largest deck box we’ve found: It holds up to 230 gallons, with dimensions of 32.7 inches x 33.8 inches x 57.8 inches. It has a lockable top and piston opening mechanism.

Q: Are Keter storage boxes waterproof?

Keter calls their outdoor storage boxes “water-resistant,” but users rarely report any problem with water coming through. You can also buy a cover for your outdoor storage box if you have any concerns about water.

Final thoughts on the best outdoor storage boxes

You’ll have to assess your storage needs to figure out the best outdoor storage box (or boxes) for your yard: measure any cushions to make sure you’re getting a big enough outdoor storage bin, and put together anything else you’re looking to store so you can get a better idea of the dimensions you’ll need. From there, it’s a matter of deciding what kind of look you like, how handy you are in putting things together, and what kind of budget you have. The best outdoor storage box should last you many years. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.