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The cold months can be harsh not only on your garden but also on your storage. Your current one might not keep up, or maybe you need more if you’re short on space.
Below, we share some winter garden storage ideas you can count on, not just for this season but year-round.
Best Winter Garden Storage Units for Winter-Proof Protection
You need storage that protects your belongings from moisture, frost, and the cold. These are the options that get the job done:
Sheds as long-term winter (and all-season) garden storage
(Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons)
A shed is still the go-to for garden storage, but the material it’s made of can make a difference. Let’s start with the classic wooden shed known for its natural insulating properties. This gives it the edge over metal and plastic materials, especially in winter.
The catch is that timber alone may not suffice—enter shed insulation. With that sorted, you’ll have storage that doesn’t get too cold in winter or too hot in summer.
Next is a metal shed. It has the advantage of being lighter than wood. Not to mention being structurally fine in frost and snow, and it’s also low-maintenance. But to better withstand the cold, ventilation is crucial to keep condensation at bay.
One fitting example is the BillyOh Ranger. This apex metal shed comes with gable vents above its double sliding doors. Even better, it includes a foundation kit that keeps the shed off the wet ground—a.k.a. the ‘warm feet’ your storage needs to handle the season, without you having to build it.
A plastic shed also has a good reputation. It doesn’t need painting, won’t rot, and resists dampness – a common problem in winter when it’s in contact with moisture.
However, it can get very cold inside. If this is your current shed and getting a new one isn’t possible, it’s best to cover the walls and back with bubble wrap. Don’t block the vents near the roof for airflow, and leave gaps at the top or sides if lining the walls or shelves.
A garden shed can handle winter storage better with the right setup. Insulation and vents, to name a few, ensure your items inside are not sitting in the cold and damp. Come spring, the shed is still ready to go, season after season.
Click the button below for options. Our range comes in a variety of materials, sizes, and add-ons to suit your needs.
Storage boxes and benches for smaller winter items
Not every garden needs a full-sized shed, and sometimes you only need a storage box or bench. Both alternatives are perfect for small spaces or for items you want easy access to.
Plastic is the best material for these winter storage units. It’s lightweight, so you can move or reposition it as needed. What’s more, it can be stacked to save up floor space, depending on the size. But there are larger sizes too for more stuff to store.
Take a look at our Durabox 416L Storage Box. On top of its generous room for your things, it comes in a sleek grey with a woodgrain finish. Strong and secure, it can even double as a bench for additional outdoor seating.
Browse our selection for more designs available:
Meanwhile, a storage bench is much like the box version, except it’s for actual sitting with a secret stash underneath for storage. Both will look amazing in patios that you can also prepare for the winter and make the most out of the season.
We have more tips for you below:
DIY winter garden storage to try
Got any old furniture or materials lying around your shed that you could repurpose? This could be an old cupboard or wardrobe, a bench, or some crates. To give you ideas:
- Wardrobes or cupboards: Don’t leave them sitting around collecting dust. Add a few shelves or use stackable boxes to maximise storage space inside. Line the base with waterproof mats, and this makes a great home for pots, plant accessories, and more.
- Crates: Stack them, line them, or attach a few small hooks. You can hang gloves, hand tools, seed packets, or other lightweight items. Mix and match sizes or stack a few at different heights to make the most of a small corner. Stacking ensures everything stays off the cold, wet ground.
- Benches with hollow space: These are a clever double-duty option. You get a seat when you need it, but underneath, there’s a hidden storage space ready for winter essentials. Take inspiration from the product mentioned above! Use old boxes or baskets inside to keep patio cushions, kids’ toys, or your pet’s stuff safe from frost.
Tips: Seal the surfaces with outdoor paint or varnish for weather protection. Leave small gaps or use breathable covers to prevent condensation.
With a few simple changes, that old furniture of yours can pull double duty as storage.
Cold frames as a winter storage unit for plants
Plants can also benefit from winter storage, especially those frost-sensitive or young seedlings. Cue cold frames, a low-cost but effective alternative to a full greenhouse.
One can be made using old window frames, leftover timber, or a crate with a clear lid. Raise it a bit off the ground with bricks or paving slabs to free the plants from moisture issues. Fleece is also handy on colder nights; think of it as their blanket – or bubble wrap for extra insulation.
Get the full step-by-step guide here:
A How-To Guide on Building a Cold Frame
Round-up
Winter storage can be simple if you plan ahead. A shed, box, or DIY setup can keep tools, furniture, and plants safe. Utilise shelves, hooks, or even ladders and trellises to maximise your space. Protect delicate plants in a cold frame and cover anything that could get damp.
We hope this list of the best winter garden storage ideas helps you keep your belongings well-protected! And if you need more tips, read this next: How To Prepare and Protect Your Garden In Winter
