9 Smart Yard and Gardening Tool Storage Ideas

Keeping your yard and garden tools organized can be a challenge. Between shovels, rakes, pruning shears, hoses and everything else, things can easily get messy. But with the right storage solutions, you can keep your tools tidy and make them easy to access when needed. Here are 9 smart ideas for yard and garden tool storage.

Utilize Your Garage

The garage is an obvious place to store larger yard tools and equipment. Install shelving units, racks, cabinets or a workbench to neatly organize everything.

Shelving

Free standing, modular storage units with adjustable shelves are great for fitting odd-shaped tools. Opt for heavy-duty steel shelving that can handle the weight of loaded shelves.
For pegboard storage, mount sheets of perforated hardboard to the wall. Then use hooks, baskets and holders to arrange tools on the board. This allows you to customize the storage to fit what you need.
Wire shelving is another good garage storage option. The open design allows you to easily see and access everything. Wire units come in various sizes and can be fitted to your space.

Racks

Vertical tool racks mount to the wall to efficiently store long-handled tools like rakes, shovels and brooms. Choose a style with spaced slots or pegs to neatly stand tools upright.
Hose reels keep hoses neatly coiled and off the floor. Mounted hose reels range from simple circular racks to encased reels with automatic hose winders.
Ladder racks securely store extension and step ladders horizontally on the wall to save floor space. look for a ladder rack with protective ladder hooks to prevent damage.

Cabinets

Tool storage cabinets organize messy supplies like fertilizers, soils and chemicals. Cabinets contain the dust and protect the contents fromUV damage.
Look for cabinets with drawers, shelves and hooks to hold a variety of tools and accessories. Label drawers to keep everything organized.
For small hand tools, mounted wall cabinets get them up off work surfaces but still within easy reach. Use clear-front cabinets to easily see the contents.

Workbenches

Sturdy, fixed workbenches are ideal for gardening tasks like potting plants. Opt for a style with built-in storage like shelves, cabinets and pegboards.
For portable use, utility work tables or rolling carts can also provide work space and storage. Folding utility tables are useful for setting up temporary work areas.
Look for workbenches with smooth, easily cleaned surfaces. Metal, wood and plastic are common durable workbench materials.

Make Use of Wall Space

Take advantage of vertical wall space to store hand tools and accessories right where you need them. Mounted racks, hooks and shelves on garage or shed walls keep frequently used items organized yet accessible.

Tool Racks

Shallow shelves, like ladder hooks, hold small containers of garden supplies. Stagger shelves to fit more items.
Slatwall panels securely hold hooks, baskets and shelves to customize your storage. This modular system makes it easy to rearrange when needed.
Rail-mounted tool holders slide along a horizontal bar for flexible positioning. Hang often-used tools like pruners on the rails within easy reach.

Pegboards

Perforated pegboards accept a variety of hooks and brackets for versatile storage options. Use them to hold small tools, gloves and other gear.
Combine pegboard storage with shelves above or below to make the most of wall space. You can mount pegboard sheets directly to studs or use slotted panels.

Wall Shelves

Open wall-mounted shelves provide storage for small pots, spray bottles and other supplies. Position shelves at convenient heights for access.
Enclosed wall cabinets with doors keep contents tidy but still allow you to see what’s inside. They’re great for protecting chemicals and cleaners.
Floating grid panels create open cubbies for stowing hand tools and pots. The grids come in materials like powder-coated metal, durable plastics and sustainable bamboo.

Get Organized With Storage Containers

Clear plastic bins, buckets and boxes allow you to neatly corral gardening supplies while keeping them visible. Storage containers are also easy to carry and stack.

Plastic Totes

Clear stacking storage totes are available in many sizes to accommodate everything from seeds to tools. Lids keep out dust and moisture.
Look for crates and chests designed specifically to organize tools and outdoor gear. The durable cases often include moveable dividers.
Sealable plastic buckets keep fertilizers and soils fresh. Gamma-seal lids provide a tight, watertight seal but remove for easy access.

Tool Caddies

Plastic tool caddies or totes with multiple compartments organize small hand tools like pruners, scissors and trowels. Carry caddies easily around the yard.
Look for tool caddies with handles or shoulder straps for convenient mobility. Some even have wheels for easy transport.
Metal toolboxes like fishing tackle and first aid boxes work well for organizing supplies. Select sizes to fit your needs.

Hanging Baskets

Plastic hanging baskets mount on walls to provide storage for hand tools and gloves. Opt for ventilated baskets to allow contents to dry out.
Baskets with grommets or slots easily slide onto wall-mounted rails or standards. This makes it easy to reposition baskets when needed.
Stackable mesh hanging baskets save space while keeping tools visible. Use them in sheds, on fences or under shelving.

Keep Tools Handy With Outdoor Storage

Outdoor storage solutions located right in the garden make tools readily available when tending to your yard and beds. Protect supplies from weather and the elements.

Garden Sheds

Pre-built or custom sheds provide lots of storage space for all your yard tools and equipment. Choose a shed style and size to suit your needs.
Tool racks, shelves, pegboards and cabinets outfit the interior to neatly organize everything. Make sure to have adequate ventilation.
Locate sheds close to outdoor electrical outlets so you can plug in and recharge electric tools. Provide adequate lighting inside and out.

Storage Benches

Benches with lift-top seats or removable tops conceal interior storage for tools, pots and accessories. They provide seating as well as storage.
Look for all-weather benches made of durable materials like resin, recycled plastic or naturally rot-resistant woods. Avoid metal to prevent rusting.
Built-in cold frames on benches let you start seedlings early. The insulating lids protect your plants from cold snaps.

Deck/Patio Storage

Freestanding deck or patio storage boxes provide weather-resistant outdoor storage. Look for lockable styles to secure hazardous chemicals.
Cabinet-style resin deck boxes keep tools and supplies out of the elements but easily accessible. Find styles sized to fit your space.
For a compact option, hang wall-mounted deck storage boxes. Mount them under the eaves or on privacy fences near beds.

Repurpose Everyday Items For Storage

Before buying new products, look for ways to repurpose common household items to wrangle your garden gear. A little creativity converts odds and ends into practical storage solutions.

Buckets & Pails

Sturdy 5-gallon buckets organize long-handled tools like shovels and rakes. Add tool sleeves to protect from scratches.
Plastic pails or buckets can contain soils, fertilizers and amendments. Gamma seal lids make contents easy to access.
Recycled plastic liter soda bottles threaded onto closet dowels create hanging storage for small hand tools.

Crates

Plastic milk crates provide inexpensive storage cubes for pots, gloves and tools. Stack them up or use indoors or out.
Make a custom cage for awkward yard tools like hedge shears using plastic or wire fencing and crates. Zip tie fencing to crates.
Collapsible fabric cubes instantaneously turn crates into attractive covered bins. Use them to conceal unsightly supplies.

Carts

Folding utility carts and wagons ferry tools, dirt bags, pots and other gear around the yard. Look for heavy-duty styles with big wheels.
Add storage baskets, hooks or buckets to carts to make rolling organizers. Bungee cords and ties keep loose items secure.
Salvaged wheeled carts like old luggage racks or rolling shop seats can be repurposed for yard storage and transport.

Create Custom Tool Racks

For the ultimate in customization, build your own DIY racks to perfectly fit your storage needs and style. Make use of scrap lumber and found materials.

Board & Dowel Racks

Small scraps of lumber securely hold long-handled tools when screwed or nailed to walls studs. Place dowels in the board to separate tools.
Use salvaged wood,Weathered barn siding and recycled pallets make charming vintage-style tool racks for indoors or covered porches.
Paint or stencil racks to coordinate with your decor. Add hooks for hanging hand tools and baskets for ancillary supplies.

Ladder Racks

Old wooden ladders screwed to garage or shed walls instantly become racksfor rakes,brooms and hoses. Hang hooks from the steps.
Salvaged metal ladder hooks hold smaller garden tools. Screw the hooks evenly along a scrap board anchored securely to studs.
Make tiered storage from two old wooden ladders joined together with dowels and scrap boards. Great for narrow spaces.

Grid Racks

Affix right-angle brackets in rows to securely hold long tools vertically. Stagger bracket heights for better fit.
Interlocking wire grid panels fastened to walls create open diamond-shaped slots for handles. Easy to adjust as needed.
Welded metal slot grids offer incredibly sturdy and customizable storage. Use them horizontally, vertically or hang them.

Protect Your Investment With Proper Tool Storage

Caring for your yard and garden takes a significant investment in quality tools and equipment. Protect those investments and extend their life by providing proper storage. These smart solutions keep all your tools handy, secure and damage-free so they’re ready when it’s time again to maintain your outdoor oasis.

Frequently Asked Questions about Yard and Garden Tool Storage

Storing tools properly not only keeps them organized but also protects them so they last longer. Here are answers to some common questions about choosing the right storage methods.

What are the benefits of proper tool storage?

Storing tools correctly provides many advantages:

Protects tools from damage from moisture, UV light, chemicals, etc. This extends their lifespan.
Reduces rust and corrosion that can render tools unusable. Storing tools up off damp floors is key.
Keeps tools clean, sharp and maintained for best performance.
Prevents damage from chipping, breaking, cracking handles, etc.
Allows access to tools when needed. Not having to hunt saves time and frustration.
Reduces clutter and creates neat, tidy spaces. Everything has a designated spot.
Ensures safety by securing any hazardous tools properly.

Where should yard and garden tools be stored?

The main options are:

Garage – Take advantage of walls, shelves, cabinets and workbenches. Store chemicals safely away from children.
Garden shed – Nearby storage keeps tools handy for yard work. Ventilate to prevent dampness.
Outdoor storage bench/box – Conceals tools but keeps them accessible right in the garden.
Indoor space – Provides climate control and security. Basements, mud rooms and laundry rooms work well.

What are good storage solutions for long-handled tools?

Long-handled tools require vertical storage. Good options include:

Tool racks with slots or pegs to neatly stand tools upright
Ladders, boards or dowels mounted horizontally to hang tools from
Hardware mounted on walls like hooks, brackets and rails
Freestanding shelving units with height to accommodate long tools
Tool caddies or buckets deep enough to prevent tipping

How should cutting tools like pruners be stored?

Follow these tips for cutting tools:

Wipe blades clean before storing to prevent residue buildup.
Oil blades periodically to prevent rust.
Store in protective plastic sheaths or attached blade covers when possible.
Hang tools from hooks or clips on walls or racks so they don’t rest on blades.
Set tool cutting ends in either foam or wide plastic cups to keep edges safe.

What kind of storage should be used for hoses?

To store hoses properly:

Use hose reels or rings mounted to walls to contain coiled hoses neatly.
Hang loose hoses on hooks to elevate off the ground. Wrap hose midpoint around hook.
Coil hoses gently to avoid kinks that can damage and restrict water flow.
Buy expandable hoses that shrink up small for compact storage.
Store disconnected from spigots to allow drying and prevent burst pipes from freezing temps.

How can you maximize small storage spaces?

Use wall space efficiently with mounted shelving, cabinets, pegboards, etc.
Organize inside cabinets with shelves, drawers, dividers and small bins.
Store small items in clear plastic containers that can stack and laterally slide.
Use hanging baskets, wall grids and racks to take advantage of vertical storage.
Store long-handled tools upright in 5-gallon buckets.
Buy tools like pruners and snippers that have folding handles for compact storage.

Conclusion

There are many excellent solutions for organizing messy yards and gardens while protecting your investment in quality tools. Finding storage options that fit each tool type, your space constraints and budget will ensure you can easily access the right tool for every job. Keep your tools neatly stowed but handy by utilizing your available space to its full potential. Implement as many of these smart storage ideas as possible to get your yard and garden in shape.