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Cold months can be tough on items left out in your garden, and that’s where you need to look at the best options for winter garden storage. Whether it’s tools, cushions, furniture, or something else, keep reading to explore the best ways to store your garden items.
Winter Garden Storage Ideas You Can Put to Work
From sheds to boxes and smart DIY setups for outdoor items as well as plants, here are some of your options:
Invest in the best winter garden storage units
A shed never disappoints when talking about practical garden storage. One made from timber has a real advantage if you need to keep items from getting too cold, as wood offers some naturally insulating properties (though it will not stay as warm as a house).
A large shed or a garage is the go-to for large, bulky items like furniture. If your furniture doesn’t fold down, some disassembly may be required for it to fit alongside all your usual stored items.
Metal sheds and plastic sheds are also great options for simple, reliable storage over winter. Both resist rain, snow, and damp. They’re quick to assemble, too.
Note: Our range of garden storage comes in kits that are easy to install yourself.
Alternatively, go for a storage box or bench
Not every item needs a shed, and sometimes a storage box or bench is all you need. A stackable box is enough for storing smaller items like pots, gloves, or garden hand tools.
Material options are mostly the same as with sheds, but the most common types are metal and plastic. For reference, take a look at the BillyOh Boxer Metal Storage Box and Duramax Plastic Storage Box.
DIY with repurposed items or furniture
You don’t always need to buy a new shed or box to store your items over winter. Good examples are old wardrobes, crates, or cupboards, which can all be turned into storage.
For instance, add shelves inside a cupboard for pots and line crates with waterproof mats. You can also attach hooks or small racks to hold tools, hang bags for seeds or gloves, or use stackable boxes inside.
You’ll want to take some steps to make these items outdoor-appropriate. Use exterior paint or sealant. Add feet underneath to protect them from the wet ground. Internal moisture can be an issue if you don’t give them some ventilation.
Tip: If you spot any openings, cover them with breathable fabric or lids to keep frost and damp at bay.
Get creative with storage layouts
Keep it simple and use the space you have to its fullest. Shelves, hooks, and hanging baskets lift items off the floor and keep them out of the wet.
Ladders, trellises, and large pots can double as winter storage too. Lean a ladder against a wall to hold hanging baskets, pots, or tools. Add hooks to a trellis for gloves or watering cans—perfect for corners you won’t be using much this season.
This way, you get more out of your small patio and keep the area tidy, so nothing ends up buried in the snow.
Cold frame storage for plants and seedlings
Cold frames can also be a lifesaver for delicate plants in winter, not just in spring. Place frost-sensitive pots, small planters, or young shrubs inside. They work thanks to the clear lid that lets in sunlight while keeping the air inside warmer than outside.
If temperatures drop, add a layer of fleece or bubble wrap for extra protection. Doing so, your plants stay safe and ready to thrive once the season turns.
Here’s a guide on how to build a cold frame if you need one.
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 these winter garden storage ideas help you keep your belongings well-protected! And if you need more tips, read this next: How To Prepare and Protect Your Garden In Winter
