By the end of May, my wife was begging me to clean out the garage. With a new baby in the house, we were juggling our kids' car seats, strollers and toys. Everything was scattered about and nothing fit.
Why You Need Outdoor Storage Benches for Small Patios
I didn't have time to build indoor storage, but I did have a small patio. A visit to a home center inspired me. A storage bench there caught my eye; it was the perfect size for our patio - providing much-needed storage without taking over the space.
The only hurdle was the price tag - over $1,000 - wasn't a problem because I knew I could build my own version, and in just a day. Building your own outdoor storage bench is an easy DIY woodworking project that doesn't require power tools. You can customize the size, shape and design of your bench to perfectly fit your patio, porch - deck or garden.
When shopping for outdoor furniture, buyers want pieces that are stylish, functional and comfortable. Storage benches deliver on all three counts, which explains their popularity. What's not to love about a prop-style bench that adds style to your outdoor living space while providing extra seating and bonus storage?
Benches are one of the most versatile forms of outdoor furniture. Whether you want to add a bit of greenery with a planter bench or find a place to stash garden tools with a storage bench, there's a style to suit your needs. If you're working with a small porch - patio or backyard, pay attention to scale and look for outdoor storage benches that won't overwhelm the space. Here are three things to consider when searching for the perfect small-space outdoor storage bench.
Look for Versatile Designs That Work With Your Space
Buyers can choose from a range of outdoor storage benches in various designs, from traditional to contemporary. In smaller spaces, less-cluttered lines and clean designs tend to work best. But you don't have to forgo personality for practicality. Weigh your options carefully, and you'll find a small outdoor storage bench that speaks to your personal sense of style.
A good example of a versatile outdoor storage bench that fits nicely on small patios is our favorite bench from our guide to the best outdoor benches - the Keter Solana 70-Gallon Outdoor Storage Bench. The rectangular design features a roomy storage compartment for garden tools or coolers, and there are drainage holes in the base to allow water to flow out. This polypropylene storage bench is weather-resistant, so you don't have to worry about stormy weather. It also comes in four colors - black, cocoa brown, peacock blue and barn red - to fit nicely with any color scheme.
Check for Locks and Choose a Heavyweight Material
One of the biggest storage-related frustrations? Keeping tools and accessories organized. A storage bench helps with that - provided it locks. Look for latches or locks on the seat to ensure that contents stay safe inside. In addition to a locking mechanism, consider the type of material used to make the bench. Wrought iron and aluminum are popular choices for their durability and longevity.
Though not as common, you can also find storage benches made with cast aluminum. This outdoor storage bench from Suncast, for example, has a powder-coated aluminum frame - which prevents rusting and corrosion. Aluminum is also lightweight, making it easy to move around the patio. This particular bench weighs just 17 pounds.
Consider How Much Storage You Really Need
Before buying a storage bench for your small patio, porch or backyard, determine exactly how much storage you really need. Some outdoor storage benches feature large compartments that can hold garden tools, coolers and even trash cans. Others have room for smaller items like gardening gloves - spray bottles and bags of grass seed.
As the name suggests, it offers 70 gallons of storage space. If you prefer a more modest-sized storage compartment, check out another low-cost option, the Suncast Elements 15-Gallon Outdoor Storage Bench. Even though this polyethylene storage bench only offers 15 gallons of room, it's perfect for organizing smaller gardening supplies like hoses - sprayers and clippers.
Realistic Tips for Using Outdoor Storage Benches in Small Spaces
There's no shortage of storage benches available online, at home centers and big-box retailers. But not every outdoor storage bench is right for every porch, patio and yard. When shopping for a storage bench to fit a small space, think about the size, style and material.
As long as you measure your space - check for locking mechanisms and choose the right amount of storage, a new outdoor storage bench will help keep your outdoor space organized. In small spaces, less-cluttered lines and clean designs tend to work best, but you can find a small outdoor storage bench that speaks to your personal sense of style. Weigh your options carefully, and you'll find the perfect fit.
