Whether you want to store your children’s pool toys, garage tools, or other items, an outdoor storage box is a handy investment. Typically made of durable, water-resistant materials, they withstand rain and other conditions while keeping your possessions safe and secure. But, with so many available, choosing an outdoor storage box can be overwhelming. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of the best outdoor storage boxes that will break down the pros, the cons, and any standout features to help you make a well-informed purchase. The Rubbermaid Outdoor Storage Box wins the top prize on our list, and the other options follow closely behind.
Our Top Picks For Outdoor Storage Boxes
The Best Outdoor Storage Boxes
Best Overall
Well-designed and spacious, the Rubbermaid Outdoor Storage Box is perfect for your pool and garden area. First, because it’s made of durable, weather-resistant material that won’t fade, rot, or rust easily, you’ll get years of use out of it. Plus, it features a modern lid design that keeps water out and your toys, tools, or decor dry. And, to take its durability further, the double-wall construction provides this box with extra strength and even longer-lasting protection for the items stored inside. Aside from its durability, this outdoor storage box comes in two capacities — 74 and 134 gallons — making it ideal for storing garden tools, sporting equipment, and more. You can also use the top of the box as extra seating for your guests! Versatile, spacious, and surprisingly resilient, this product has everything that I look for in an outdoor storage box, which is why it’s the best on our list.
Pros
- Comes in charcoal and gray colors
- Available in two spacious sizes
- Durable, water and UV-resistant build
- Double-wall design provides additional security
Cons
- Assembly instructions could be better
Most Waterproof
The YardStash Outdoor Storage Box perfectly organizes your outdoor space and keeps your belongings safe. Crafted from a durable vinyl tarp, this storage box can withstand any weather nature throws its way. It’s sealed seams, and strong metal poles add another layer of protection against the elements. The best part? Its quick and easy 15-minute assembly makes it so simple to set up and take down anytime or anywhere. Plus, with dimensions of 60″ x 25″ x 28″, you can maximize your storage without taking up too much space. With its waterproof lid, splash-proof mesh vent, adjustable straps and buckles, and lightweight and portable design, this storage box will quickly become your go-to solution for all outdoor storage needs. Keep patio furniture, cushions, garden tools, and anything else you need tucked away from the rain and the sun.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Good, large size
- High-quality product
Cons
- May be difficult to set up
Most Stylish
If you, like me, love a stylish wood aesthetic, the Keter Outdoor Storage Box may tick all the right boxes. This box is expensive, but its wood-look design offers a rustic touch that’s sure to go well with the rest of your outdoor space’s furniture and decor. Even better, it has a generous 150-gallon storage capacity that can easily store your furniture cushions, pool accessories, and more. What’s more, the box is made of PP (polypropylene), which is weather-resistant, doesn’t peel, and won’t decay like natural wood. Simply put, you’ll be able to enjoy the charming look of wood without any of its irritating drawbacks. Along with its durability, this box keeps your belongings well-ventilated and dry, so you can rest assured about their condition and safety. So, if you’re looking for a reliable outdoor storage box that doesn’t compromise on aesthetics, you’ve found your match.
Pros
- Rustic wood-look design
- Large, 150-gallon storage capacity
- Well-ventilated to keep its contents dry
- Easy to open and close
Cons
- A little expensive
- May be missing assembly instructions
Most Compact
If you’re on the hunt for something a little bit more affordable and compact, this multipurpose Suncast Outdoor Storage Box is a perfect choice. Although it is comparatively smaller than other options, it doesn’t take up much space on your patio while also featuring a pretty lightweight, easy-to-move design. Additionally, it boasts a durable resin construction that can withstand regular wear and tear and keeps your stored belongings safe. As the cherry on top, assembly is relatively minimal and doesn’t take too long, so you’ll be able to use your new outdoor storage box in no time.
Pros
- Available in one, two, and four-packs
- Lightweight and portable
- Designed for all-weather use
- Quick, easy construction
Cons
- Smaller capacity than others
Lockable Design
Worried that your outdoor belongings may get stolen? Well, then it’s time to invest in the YITAHOME Outdoor Storage Box. Featuring a lockable design, this box is made to keep your possessions safe and secure. Additionally, it’s made of a high-quality polyresin material that doesn’t fade or rust easily, adding to both its security and sturdiness. In terms of how the box performs, its design is all-around quite convenient and functional; the lid smoothly opens and closes, while the ergonomic handles make it easy for you to carry the box around as needed. And, since it’s available in five subtle colors, you’re sure to find the perfect match for your porch, patio, or yard.
Pros
- Available in 32 and 100-gallon options
- Comes in five colors
- Lockable design for more security
- Functional design with handles
Cons
- Assembly can be tough
Best Value
Getting good value for your money is important for any type of product, and that includes outdoor storage boxes as well. Luckily, the Toomax Outdoor Storage Box is the perfect example of good value. With a spacious 90-gallon capacity and a fade, peel, and weather-resistant build, this box is a heavy-duty product that surely won’t disappoint — especially at such a reasonable price point! Along with being very durable, this outdoor storage box is also strong enough to hold up to 450 pounds at a time, making it a great seating solution for when you’re out of chairs or have too many guests.
Pros
- Good quality at an affordable price
- Also works as a makeshift seat
- Fade, peel, and weather-resistant design
- Lid has space for a lock
Cons
- Hinges are poorly made
Outdoor Storage Boxes: A Complete Buyer’s Guide
Whether you love to garden or have a ton of pool accessories, chances are you need a handy storage solution for your porch, patio, or yard. Thankfully, that’s exactly what outdoor storage boxes are made for. These sturdy, reliable boxes are the perfect place to store all of your outdoor essentials both safely and conveniently. That said, with so many different features to consider, it can be hard to find a product that really fits your specific needs. So, to help you out a little bit, we’ve put together this comprehensive buying guide with everything that you’ll need to know about outdoor storage boxes. Let’s take a look!
What To Look For When Selecting an Outdoor Storage Box
Material
Having an outdoor storage box means that you will be exposing it to different external elements, including heat, rain, mold, and wind. If you want the box to survive against these factors, you need to ensure it’s made with strong materials. For instance, polyresin is an excellent material for combatting external weather conditions because it won’t peel or fade easily and also keeps the box’s contents dry. Other outdoor storage boxes are made of materials like wood which, although it is a durable and strong material, often swells or gets discolored in water if it’s lower quality. Overall, if you want to get more use out of your storage box for longer, be sure to evaluate the pros and cons of the material used before purchasing.
Design
Your storage box’s design is also an essential factor, especially when you’re placing it outdoors. Most boxes come with lockable lids, meaning their contents are even more secure than they would be otherwise. Additionally, certain boxes also have an excellent ventilation system to keep the items inside dry, which is especially useful in wet or humid conditions.
When thinking about your outdoor storage box’s design, also consider its construction and the lid mechanism. For example, some box lids lack quality hinges, so opening or closing them can become a hassle. Also, don’t forget to evaluate the exterior. A good outdoor storage box blends well with the rest of the furniture or decor and can even be used as an additional seating option.
Capacity
Before buying a box, ask yourself about the internal capacity you expect it to have. A low internal capacity means you can’t store many items at a time, while a large internal capacity is perfect for holding all your tools, children’s pool toys, and furniture cushions. Similarly, if you want to use the box as a seating option, always check its weight capacity. After all, you don’t want it to break after putting it under more pressure than it can bear.
Size
As with many products, an outdoor storage box’s size is a crucial consideration. I’d recommend investing in a well-balanced box that doesn’t look too big or too small on your patio, porch, or yard — this helps ensure that the box fits well and doesn’t take up unnecessary space. While a really big outdoor storage box may seem like a wise purchase initially, you may not feel that way if it makes your deck feel cramped and claustrophobic.
Other features
Lid
You’ll definitely want to think about an outdoor storage box’s lid before making a purchase. After all, a lid is what keeps your possessions secure and protected from rain, sunlight, and even potential thieves. Go for a secure, well-fitting lid that effectively keeps the elements out and your items in. Some lids are also lockable, which can be a good option if you’re looking for even more security.
Hinges
While you may not think about them all that often, an outdoor storage box’s hinges are pretty important. You’ll want to look for durable hinges that both open and close smoothly for a more convenient, less tedious experience. It might not seem significant at first, but trust me when I say that you’ll get tired of finicking with difficult-to-use hinges very quickly.
Handles
If portability is a concern for you, you should keep an eye out for handles. Many boxes feature built-in handles that make it easy to move them from one spot to another, making for more versatile use.
Color and design
When you’re considering an addition to your outdoor space, you mustn’t neglect its appearance. The wrong color or style can completely throw your porch, patio, or yard’s entire aesthetic out of whack, and you definitely don’t want that. So, make sure to go for an outdoor storage box with a design that matches your existing decor well. Many boxes come in multiple colors, too, meaning you have a ton of choices when it comes to aesthetics.
People Also Ask
Should I invest in a waterproof outdoor storage box?
It's always a good idea to look for a durable, waterproof outdoor storage box that can stand up to all kinds of weather conditions. This way, you can ensure that the box's contents won't get drenched with rain or snow. Also, make sure that the lid perfectly fits the box’s top to prevent water from coming in.
Can I waterproof a outdoor storage box myself?
Yes, you can use marine varnish to waterproof your storage box on your own. Here's how: Sand the box properly before thinning the varnish and applying its first coat. Let the coat dry first, then sand the marine varnish. Make sure you apply at least three coats of the varnish before giving it the time to cure properly.
How do I keep my outdoor storage box clean?
One way to keep your outdoor storage box clean is to keep it covered at all times using a plastic sheet. If that’s not possible, dust it with a cloth every morning and keep it dry. You can use a cleaner and a bristle brush to keep the box's lid, body, and base in perfect condition.
What's the best material for an outdoor storage box?
While outdoor storage boxes come in a plethora of materials, plastic and resin products are probably the ideal choice. This is because plastic and resin are durable, lightweight, and water-resistant, making them great materials for outdoor use. While wood and wicker are popular choices because of their attractive appearance, they're not nearly as easy to maintain over time.
Are sheds different from outdoor storage boxes?
Yes, they are. The primary differences between sheds and storage boxes are not their function, however, but really their size and design. For example, a shed is typically a more permanent fixture in one's backyard that is meant to store larger tools and items, such as lawnmowers, folding chairs and tables, bicycles, and more. On the other hand, an outdoor storage box is a less permanent, more compact storage solution that's designed for smaller items like hoses, pots, tools, and so on.
