When you click on any of the affiliate links within the article, I may receive a small commission from qualifying purchases at NO cost to you.
I appreciate your support!
Your quick solution to outside clutter– An Outdoor Storage box!
If you're like most people, you've got a lot of junk cool stuff outside.
And if you're like said people, you don't have enough room for ALL that stuff.
That's where outdoor storage boxes come in (also known as ‘deck boxes’).
These handy containers are perfect for storing all your miscellaneous outdoor gear - from cushions and grilling supplies to gardening tools and sports equipment.
Not only do outdoor storage boxes keep your yard looking neat and tidy, but they also protect your belongings from the elements. No more soggy cushions or rusty tools!
But with so many options out there, how the heck are you supposed to know which one to get??
And what are some things you should know before you buy one???
Well my friend, I’ve done the research so you don't have to 
.
Below you’ll find some of the best outdoor storage boxes, guaranteed to keep your stuff safe and organized.
Plus, every single recommendation listed has a reasonable price tag (from around $30 to under $250 bucks).
It annoys me whenever a blog post lists items with ridiculously high prices. Not here!
So, sit back, and box away those worries 
.
Let’s dive into finding the perfect outdoor storage solution for your needs.
"But, I’m short on time and can’t read this entire awesome article right now..."
I completely understand!
Here are the top outdoor deck storage boxes to check out:
Best Outdoor Storage Boxes Overall - Quick Picks
(Check out the rest of the recommendations below.)
The 4 Main Types of Outdoor Storage Boxes
- Plastic Storage Boxes
- Resin Storage Boxes
- Wood Storage Boxes
- Metal Storage Boxes
Advantages and Disadvantages of Plastic Storage Boxes
Advantages and Disadvantages of Resin Storage Boxes
QUICK NOTE: Most of the outdoor boxes in the market will be a mix of (mainly) Resin and Plastic. This is to ensure that the box can handle being outdoors. A storage box made of just basic plastic would be weak and NOT be able to withstand the outdoors.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Wood Storage Boxes
Advantages and Disadvantages of Metal Storage Boxes
How were ALL these recommended (deck) storage boxes selected??
I’m SO glad you asked!
Here was my criteria and requirements:
If a product didn’t make the cut, then it was dropped before being mentioned below.
Also, please note the difference between waterproof and water-resistant (explained below, here).
Most outdoor storage deck boxes are NOT ‘waterproof’; Only water-resistant.
If you’d like to learn how to make a water-resistant storage box into a more ‘waterproof’ one, here’s a quick article I put together on the process.
Best Waterproof Outdoor Storage Boxes
So here’s the deal…
Unfortunately, all the typical outdoor deck storage boxes I’ve come across are NOT truly waterproof.
They just don’t have the proper seals and latches to make them watertight.
Plus, most will have air gaps on their sides due to how they’re meant to be assembled.
However, not all hope is lost!
Below are 2 viable storage containers that can still make great deck boxes, while also being waterproof!
Although, they are not specifically designed to remain outdoors (they have no UV coating).
If they’re kept mostly in a shady area, they’ll hold up decently.
Husky 20-gal Waterproof Storage Container
Our Brief Review:
The Husky 20-Gal Professional Duty Waterproof Storage Container is an excellent storage solution for anyone who needs to keep their belongings safe and organized. Its waterproof design ensures that your items remain dry and protected from moisture, making it perfect for outdoor storage or harsh environments.
The container's hinged lid provides easy access to your items while keeping them secure and in place, so you can transport them without worrying about anything falling out. The lid is also transparent, so you can see what’s inside your container without opening it (in case you forget!)
Its large 20-gallon capacity and stackable design allow you to store a wide range of items while maximizing storage capacity and saving space.
Its rugged construction, waterproof design, and secure hinged lid provide unbeatable protection for your valuable items. Whether you're a homeowner, contractor, or outdoor enthusiast, the Husky Storage Container with Hinged Lid is a great choice.
Quick Features:
Website
Rating
REVIEWER COUNT
IRIS USA 82 Quart Heavy Duty Utility Storage Bin
Our Brief Review:
The IRIS 82 Qt Remington Weather Tight Store-It-All Storage Bin is a must-have for anyone who wants to keep their belongings safe, secure, and organized.
This storage container is built to withstand tough conditions and provide unbeatable protection for your valuable items.
One of the standout features of this storage container is its weather-tight design. It keeps your items safe and dry from rain, snow, and other harsh weather conditions, making it ideal for outdoor storage.
The reinforced lid also provides additional security, keeping your items safe and secure.
With its large 82-quart (20.5 gals) capacity, this storage container is perfect for storing a wide range of items, including camping gear, sports equipment, tools, and personal belongings.
The durable construction and stackable design allow you to save space while maximizing storage capacity.
Whether you need to store your belongings in a garage, basement, or outdoor area, this storage bin is a perfect choice. And, due to its non-transparent lid, it’ll hold up against the sun better than the Husky mentioned above.
Quick Features:
Website
Rating
REVIEWER COUNT
Best Water-resistant Outdoor Storage Boxes (70 to ~150 gals)
Best Small-Sized Outdoor Storage Boxes (20 to 60 gals)
Best Large-Sized Outdoor Storage Boxes (Over 160+ gals)
Best Budget Boxes (All under $60)
Best Alternative: Waterproof Deck Box Covers
Deck box covers are like superhero capes for your outdoor storage boxes.
They protect your precious belongings from villainous weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and UV rays.
Made from tough stuff like polyester and vinyl, these covers fit snugly over your deck box to keep it safe from dirt, debris, rain, and dust.
Additionally, deck box covers are available in various sizes, styles, and colors, allowing you to choose a cover that matches your deck box's style and complements your outdoor décor.
Overall, deck box covers are a cost-effective way to extend the life of your outdoor storage boxes, keeping them clean, dry, and in good condition for years to come.
NOTE: Take measurements of the storage box beforehand so you can purchase a deck box cover that’ll fit it the best.
The 9 Outdoor Box Features to Consider
When it comes to choosing the best outdoor storage box, here are the key factors to keep in mind:
1.) Size and Capacity
Think about what you need to store and how much space it will require.
Consider the dimensions and storage capacity of the box to ensure it will accommodate your needs.
You don't want to end up with a box that's too small to fit all your outdoor gear, but you also don't want to take up more space than you need.
2.) Material
The material of the storage box will determine its durability and resistance to weather and other outdoor elements.
Look for boxes made of sturdy materials like resin if being placed directly under the sun and potential rain.
Or perhaps something sturdier like Metal or Wood (with water resistance) if the box is still somewhat covered.
3.) Water Resistance Level
Since the box will be exposed to the elements, it's important to choose one that’s either water-resistant or waterproof to protect your items from damage.
Boxes that come with tight-fitting lids and seals will keep rain, dust, and moisture out, so your items stay clean and dry.
NOTE: Waterproof and water-resistant are two terms often used when describing products that encounter water. However, they’re 2 very different terms!
Waterproof means that a product is impervious to water, meaning that no water can penetrate it. This means it can be fully submerged in water without any water entering the product.
On the other hand, water-resistant means that a product can resist the penetration of water to some degree, but not completely. A water-resistant product will be able to resist water to a certain extent but will eventually succumb to the water if exposed to it for an extended period or if it is fully submerged.
To be fully waterproof they would require a gasket seal on the lid to create a tight seal, some latches to close the lid tightly, and no air gaps anywhere on the body.
Also, a truly waterproof item will have an IP rating; You can learn about that here.
4.) Security
If you plan to store valuable or expensive items, consider a box with a locking mechanism to keep them secure.
Some boxes also have reinforced walls or floors for added protection.
5.) Durability
Outdoor storage boxes can take a beating from the weather, so choose one that is built to last.
Look for boxes with UV-resistant materials and reinforced hinges.
6.) Style and Aesthetics
Outdoor storage boxes come in a variety of styles, so choose one that complements your outdoor décor and/or landscape design.
Going for a more “nature-ish” look? Then you’ll probably want a box made from wood.
Are you more “rough and tough”? Metal will probably be the winner.
Don’t really care? Then a nice Resin or Plastic one will work
7.) Mobility
If you plan to move the box around frequently, consider one with wheels or handles for easy transportation.
8.) Price
Outdoor storage boxes range in price from budget-friendly to high-end.
Consider your budget and choose a box that meets your needs without breaking the bank. (Which, I've laid out some great options for you above!)
9.) Warranty
Make sure to check the warranty of the storage box to ensure you're covered in case of any defects or issues.
A product with a longer warranty and easy access to customer support is typically a good sign that it’ll be high-quality.
FAQ - Commonly Asked Questions
Q: "What is the best material for an outdoor storage box?"
A: Plastic and resin are the most popular materials for outdoor storage boxes.
Resin is a type of plastic but it’s not your generic plastic; Simply put, resin is a thermoplastic that happens to be extremely resilient and versatile.
However, both are weather-resistant, durable, and easy to clean.
Metal storage boxes are also an option but can rust over time (unless it’s stainless steel).
If you prefer a natural look, consider a wooden storage box made from cedar or teak.
Cedar is very resistant to rot and termites due to its natural resins. This allows the wood to last for many years without any maintenance or treatment.
Out of all of these, I would say that resin is the most durable because it's weather-resistant to fading, rusting, warping, rotting, insects, and fire.
Q: "Do deck boxes keep things dry?"
A: Yes, most deck boxes are designed to keep your items dry!
Almost all upper lids of these outdoor boxes are designed to allow the water to run off easily; Therefore, reducing the chance of water getting inside from the top.
Some boxes even have built-in ventilation to prevent mold and mildew.
Q: "What is the best wood for outdoor storage boxes?"
A: Cedar and teak are the best woods for outdoor storage boxes.
They are naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insects.
Cedar also has a pleasant aroma and is lightweight, while teak is heavier and has a more elegant look.
Q: "What can I put in my storage boxes to prevent mold?"
A: To prevent mold and mildew, place a moisture-absorbing product like silica gel or charcoal inside your storage box.
I personally use and prefer, silica gel packs since charcoal can be messy.
If your storage box is inside a shed or garage (or even attic), you can also use a dehumidifier or a fan to circulate the air and reduce humidity.
Q: "Can a deck box stay out in winter?"
A: Yes, most can stay out in winter.
However, it's best to store them in a covered area or use a waterproof or water-resistant cover to protect them a bit more from snow and ice.
Make sure to remove any excess water or snow from the lid before opening the box to prevent water from rushing inside.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts (TL;DR)
Congratulations!
You've made it to the end of our exciting storage box journey.
And yes, grasshopper, you can now consider yourself an expert on these different boxes.
We've covered a lot of ground, but hopefully, you're feeling more informed about the different ones available to you.
These boxes come in a wide range of sizes, styles, and materials, making it convenient to find the best outdoor storage box for your needs and budget. Whether you need a box to store gardening tools, outdoor toys, or cushions and pillows, I’m sure you’ll find one in this article that will perfectly suit your needs.
I’d recommend starting with a budget option if you’re not ready to fully commit to a larger-sized one.
Make sure to also have a small lock handy so you can lock the lid and keep your stuff a bit more secure.
Now go forth, my friend, and conquer your outdoor storage needs with confidence and a big ol’ smile on your face.
Happy storing!
Let me know if there was anything else I missed. And feel free to reach out with any questions or comments.
Otherwise, I’ll catch you in the next one.
Take care!