How to Organize a Shed
Picture this: a shed transformed, where every tool and gadget finds its rightful place. No more rummaging through the labyrinth of clutter.
Banish broken brushes, and bid adieu to scattered screws! Discover the joys of an organized shed, where everything has its place, ready and waiting to help you bring your projects to life!
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Why is Organizing Your Shed Important?
The satisfaction of a tidy shed cannot be overstated; it’s a testament to your organizational prowess and offers a terrific sense of accomplishment.
An organized shed makes it a breeze to retrieve items quickly as you’ll know exactly where everything is and you’ll minimize the frustration of searching through clutter.
How to Organize a Storage Shed
Ready to conquer the clutter in your storage shed? Here’s a game plan to restore order and reclaim your space.
From clever categorization, dynamic decluttering, and strategic storage solutions, I’ll guide you through the art of shed organization, ensuring every item finds its rightful place. Let’s dive in!
Related: Episode #002: Letting Go of Stuff
Shelves
To kick off this list, where better to start than with shelves? Shelves are used nearly everywhere, and they will be right at home in a shed, too.
Built-in
- Easy one-person installation with all hardware included: Installation Template helps mount holes; Bubble Level helps get perfect horizontal location. (Assembly needed DIY project – Composition of four…
- More Sturdy and Stable: the buckle design with velcros prevents the brackets from falling or bending.
- Heavy gauge steel construction provides safety loading up to 800lbs total.
You can build custom shelves using long planks of wood and suitable brackets to support them.
This method is great as you can get the boards cut to the right length and width for your space.
The Carpenter’s Daughter has a fantastic guide on how to build and install shelves yourself.
Free-Standing
- 🟪 STYLISH REVERSIBLE BOARD : This board is perfect for those who want to add a touch of stylish to your space. It is made of two reversible sides, each with a different style. One side is chic deep…
- 🟪 THICKER & STRONG PREMIUM LAMINATE BOARD : It is overlaid laminate boards with Eco-friendly E1 green grade. Thanks to its waterproof nature for living, it is an excellent choice for areas subject…
- 🟪 HEAVY DUTY & STURDY DURABILITY : The unit is made of sturdy and high intense premium steel made from Korea and is easy to store for goods. This unit is built to last and Its maximum load is 264…
If you prefer an ‘off-the-shelf’ solution (see what I did there?), you can buy free-standing shelves that fit your space (be sure to check the dimensions).
Stackable Bins and Boxes
- 👍【Ideal Solutions for Large Storage】If you need to organize closets or other areas throughout the home, Citylife plastic storage bins are an ideal solution. Perfect for storing out-of-season…
- 👍【32-quart Capacity】Package includes 4 containers for organizing, single measuring 17.91″L * 13.19″W * 10.63″H, capacity 32 QT. Perfect for large storage needs in the closet, garage, bedroom,…
- 👍【Stackable for Efficient Use of Space】Stackable when storing items. Units nest when not in use. The deep recessed lids provide stability when stacking for efficient use of vertical storage…
Stackable bins and boxes are very useful. You can put them on shelves or the floor – the choice is yours!
You can opt for practical, basic bins with locking lids stacked on top of one another.
We just love these IKEA Sortera bins in my house. They can be used for nearly everything. We use them for our glass recycling, but you could even use them to store kids’ toys.
- 【Multi Function】 The folding storage box is versatile, can be used as kitchen organization, closet organizer, dog food storage container, laundry room organization, toy storage etc.
- 【Foldable & Install-Free】HAIXIN collapsible and install-free storage bin, enables to fold flat, only takes about 10 seconds to snap pieces together, no instructions or tools needed, easy-assemble…
- 【Two Opening Ways】 With top lid and the front doors, make it easy to access to stuffs from different directions. The front door built in lock buckles to lock and unlock the door.
These stackable AND collapsible boxes offer a practical and attractive storage solution. I love that they can be folded away when you’ve finished decluttering! They even come with wheels, how useful is that?
Wall Systems
Maximizing every available space is key, and using wall space helps free up floor space!
Note on weight: Never overload a shed’s walls, and always follow the manufacturer’s advice. You may need to reinforce the structure so that it has the strength to hold items, but beware manufacturer’s guarantee if you do decide to alter the structure
Hooks
- Space-Saving Solution: This garage organizer makes an excellent storage solution, helping you keep your garage or shed tidy and clutter-free by utilizing unused garage wall space.
- Heavy-Duty Storage – Sturdy and durable design with a maximum capacity of 300lbs, capable of hanging a wide range of tools and equipment including shovels, brooms, rakes, power tools, folding chairs,…
- Customizable Organization: Adjustable hooks with scratchproof sleeves and three rails provide a customizable and modular system that accommodates tools of various sizes and shapes, ensuring a…
Hooks come in many different shapes and sizes, and these are perfect for stowing away chairs, tools, hosepipes, and many other things you might otherwise trip over.
Pegboards
- More than ten times stronger than conventional pegboard and 32in Tall x 16in
- Galvanized steel pegboard panels accept slotted, stable, and more secure hooks, pegs, brackets, and shelves
- Steel panel prevents the pegboard holes from fraying and wearing out over time. For mounting into concrete, we would recommend using Blue TapCon screws or equivalent
Install a pegboard onto your shed walls for a fully customizable, wall-mounted storage solution. Use hanging hooks, baskets, shelves, and more to organize your storage shed’s contents.
Panel or Slat Wall System
- Proslat Slatwall Panels include all required trims and hardware for installation
- Holds up to 75 lb. (34 kg) per square foot
- PVC Slatwall made from 90% recycled materials
Panel or slat wall systems are customizable and perfect for storing anything from sporting goods, to yard work tools, to seasonal decorations. Simply arrange as you see fit and add hanging accessories to tidy away that clutter for good!
Ceiling and Loft Space
- Avoid water damage by storing your items off the garage floor. Protect your items and use garage ceiling space to store seasonal and unused items. Expand your storage capacity with FLEXIMOUNTS hooks….
- STRONG AND SECURE: Buy overhead storage racks with long ceiling brackets designed to be attached to 2 studs. Combined with 6 vertical posts, it is the optimal structure choice to ensure safety.
- HIGH QUALITY: Thicker M8 screws selected and all hardwares have gone through strict tests. Heavy duty cold-rolled steel construction provides safely loading up to 600 lbs.
If your shed is big enough or has an apex roof, you’re in for a treat. The amount you can cram into the ceiling or loft space is truly astonishing.
However, be mindful of what you store up there, as these could easily get wet or damp if your roof hasn’t been waterproofed.
You could store some simple tent poles or trekking poles along the rafters for easy access, or if you want, you can board it out with some wood and store some larger, more cumbersome equipment such as camping chairs. Beware of spiders and cobwebs is all I can say…!
How to Organize a Gardening Shed
In a gardening shed, you’re likely to have a LOT of clunky and cumbersome outdoor power tools and equipment. Space may be limited in a shed, and you may have a lot of stuff to store, so let’s explore the best ways to organize all of your gardening kit.
Shelves
- Each shelf supports up to 200 lbs of pantry canned goods or garage paint pails
- Approved for commercial kitchen use with NSF certification
- Adjustable shelf heights provide configuration versatility. No tools required for assembly.
If you get the size right, shelves can be big enough for potting trays, pots and buckets, and watering cans.
You can use free-standing shelves or custom-built ones. Opt for a metal and rust-resistant shelf.
Stackable Bins and Boxes
- KEEPS ESSENTIALS ORGANIZED AND VISIBLE – Stackable bins hold foods, toys, utensils, and toiletries without bending off. Set of 4, Each bin size: 14.5” x 11.5” x 7”.
- SPACE SAVING – Fit in small corners or areas like kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms, and office. Nestable when empty to save more space.
- MONEY BACK GUARANTEE – If unsatisfied, you will receive a full refund within 30 days! No question asked! Order now while stock lasts!
Stackable bins and boxes work a treat for storing seed trays and pots for easy access. You could even store supplies such as compost and fertilizers in them.
At my house, we store gloves in an old plastic basket and keep it in a readily accessible place on the workbench:
Seed storage boxes
- 1. The perfect solution to Organize & Store Photographs, Craft Supplies, important documents and office supplies. The organizer keeps your house or office clean and tidy.
- 2. Snap-tight closures keep the contents secure, and protect your pictures or cards. Extra depth allows for storage of larger.
- 3. Includes 16 of the 4″ x 6″ photo cases, each case holds 100 photos, holds up to 1600 4″ x 6″ photos, convenience to use and take with.
I searched high and low to find a suitable seed storage box for all of my seeds until I finally settled on a photo album container.
This certainly wasn’t its intended use, but I needed help finding something big enough to accommodate all of the seeds I seem to accumulate each growing season!
I used a Dymo label maker to make the labels for each box, which isn’t necessary, but I liked the aesthetic, and it’s great to use for labeling other things too!
Alternatively, if you’re committed to avoiding plastic, there are also wonderful metal or wooden seed storage boxes available.
Wall Systems
Hooks
- ☆Hanger Hooks Tools Set: Tool hanger hooks set Include 10 pack garage storage double hooks and 20pcs screws. Each Hook is approx size 7cm wide x 7.5 cm high, 5.5 cm deep.
- ☆Storage Hooks Material : Our sturdy hooks are made of strong steel with strength and durability .ideal for hanging various tools and getting items organized.
- ☆Easy to Install: Tool Hanger Hooks designed predrilled holes,which can be easily attached to the wall with two screws. Safe and stable hold for your garden tools and equipment ,Suitable for D or T…
These hooks are great for storing heavier tools such as spades and shovels. If you have more tools, then this larger heavy-duty hook is for you.
Pegboards
This wooden pegboard wall organizer looks super cute and even comes with some woven storage bags. Perfect for hanging up small things such as wire and plant labels!
Hose Reels
- ATTRACTIVE GARDEN DESIGN – Made of 3/16″ thick solid cast aluminum
- BEAUTIFUL CURVED SHAPE – Great for garden hose loops, reduce wear and tear on your hose
- HOLDS LONG GARDEN HOSES WITH A LOW PROFILE – The Smaller Hose Rack is 13″ wide and easily accommodates up to 100 ft of 1/2″ garden hose or 50 ft of 5/8″ hose
Hose reels are great for storing, yep, you guessed it, hoses! These hose reels will help you keep a tangled hose at bay. See more of our favorite hose hangers and reels.
Doors
- ONE-HAND TEAR: Wall-Mounted Shop Paper Towel Rack has the right amount of tension for a one-hand tear. Garage organization and storage for your garage, workshop, utility room, and home.
- STORAGE SHELF: 17″ x 8″ overhead shelf holds cleaning supplies, gloves, soap, wipes, tools, and more.
- HEAVY-DUTY STEEL: Made from solid, powder-coated industrial-grade steel to support up to 50 lbs of cleaning supplies, car wash supplies, pet stuff, and more.
While we’re sorting out storage for walls, why not make use of the door? The door can be a great space to put things you need readily accessible, such as plant feed or handheld tools.
Floor Space
The floor is the perfect place to store heavier and more cumbersome items, such as a lawn mower. The trick with storing anything on the floor is to make sure it is accessible and not going to cause trips and falls. Limit the use of floor space to just under a shelf or a workbench, as otherwise, it’s simply dead space.
While we’re here, why not vacuum up any mess in your shed with the best garage vacuums.
Crates
- Decorative Wooden Crates – A gorgeous wooden crate set with style, function and design. Three rectangular stackable nesting crates that are great for decor, storage and organization.
- Rustic Wood Farmhouse Display – Add a touch of farmhouse decor with these rustic barn wood style apple crates. The distressed design lends a splash of primitive elegance to these vintage style crates.
- Nesting Design for Optimal Storage – These nesting crates are stackable and nest into one another for easy storage. The cutout handles make them easy to carry around.
We place bulkier objects, such as clippers in a wooden crate equipped with caster wheels. This crate effortlessly glides underneath our workbench and provides a practical storage solution.
Another bonus is that it gives our space a rustic aesthetic which we quite enjoy!
Potting Benches
- EXPANDABLE SLIDING TABLETOP: Extend your workspace when piecing together plants with a tabletop that splits apart for a lengthy surface to cut and pot vegetables, herbs, and more; it also comes in…
- FOOD-GRADE DRY SINK: Includes a dry sink for convenient soil mixing and plant potting, made of quality material that helps ensure soil remains safe for planting after coming in contact with the sink
- AMPLE STORAGE SPACE: Keep all your gardening items neatly organized; a 2-tier upper shelf stores plants and more at arm’s reach, while the bottom shelf holds large supplies such as soil bags
A potting bench is a very practical piece of equipment in a gardening shed. This is somewhere you can easily take trays of seedlings and transplant them into bigger pots (potting on).
You can choose from many options, and you can accessorize them with hooks to give you even more space to store hand tools.
How to Organize a Tool Shed
Are your tools seemingly forever playing hide and seek? Worry not, DIY Warriors. We’re going to help you unleash the power of your tool shed. Buckle up and get ready to shed the mess once and for all!
Shelves
In a tool shed, you’re going to want enough shelves to store all of your tools. Here we revisit our built-in and free-standing options but with a twist…
Twin-slot shelving
- Provides adjustable height options for placement of wire shelves
- Standards must be placed no more than 24 in. apart and no more than 4 in. from end of shelf
- Snaps into ClosetMaid ShelfTrack Hang Track
Twin-slot shelving makes for a highly customizable tool storage solution, and it can be used for all sorts of storage needs.
All you need are some twin-slot uprights, brackets, wall plugs and screws, and either a metal or wooden surface.
We have done this before, and it required measuring the space to ensure that the uprights were the right size and they could support the weight.
We decided that for every 30 inches, we would have one upright, but you may need to increase or decrease this measurement depending on how heavy the load will be. Here’s a useful guide.
[Note: while this is in the section for tool sheds, this can be replicated for any storage solution of your choice!]Free-standing shelving
This shelving unit steals the show for free-standing shelving due to its impressive load-bearing weight of 264 lbs (600kg) and excellent customer reviews.
Toolboxes
- Sturdy + Stackable: Durable Auto-Lock Latches Make Connecting These Stackable Units Quick And Easy
- Quick Access: The Quick-Release On The Locking Latch Allows You To Easily Separate Each Module When Stacked For Quick Access To Individual Units
- Portable Convenience: Steer This Wheeled Unit Using The Ergonomic, Telescoping Handle
Fortunately, a lot of power tools come with their own cases. However, you may have the odd power drill without a home.
This Black+Decker toolbox was rated highly by customers. It is both stackable, water resistant, and moveable thanks to its sturdy wheels and handle.
Wall Systems
Wall systems can accommodate a lot of storage solutions. Here are just a few to get you started.
Pegboards
- LONG LASTING PEGBOARD: High- density fiberboard (HDF) is a wood product similar to MDF, but much denser, stronger and harder. It is recommended to be used with our DuraHook 70000 series locking…
- VERSATILE STORAGE SYSTEM: Organize your garage, shed, workshop, or any room in your house and keep your tools organized. Durable, weather-reisitant and easy to clean and maintain your storage space…
- STRONG AND CUSTOMIZABLE: Won’t crack or warp – even under severe fluctuations in temperature and humidity, completely maintaining the integrity of the finish. Can be cut (using an 80-tooth or higher…
Install pegboard onto your shed walls and accessorize with compatible hooks, shelves, and other storage solutions.
Panel or Slat Wall System
- Proslat Slatwall Panels include all required trims and hardware for installation
- Holds up to 75 lb. (34 kg) per square foot
- PVC Slatwall made from 90% recycled materials
Panel or slat wall systems are great choices if you have a lot of little things that need a home, such as drill bits and screws.
They offer a more permanent storage solution and are extremely customizable and adaptable to your storage needs. You can clip the accessories into place and move them around as often as you like.
Plus, they look very smart.
Magnetic Bars
- Benefits – The magnetic tool holder keeps all your tools organized and in one place, ensuring you always know where your tools are within reach.
- Quality – Magnetic tool holder strip is a strong and durable holder rail frame made of carbon steel. A solid magnetic bar holds up to 10 lb. of weight, enough to hold your most valuable hand tools.
- Features – The tool magnet bar is easy to install and expandable by connecting multiple strips
Magnetic bars are magnificent for storing tools that you want easy access to. You can put hammers, screwdrivers, basically anything on them as long as they’re magnetic!
Workbenches and Cabinets
If you’ve got a big tool shed, you might as well go all out and get a workbench or some cabinets in there. Rainy days will no longer affect you and your DIY project if you’ve got covered bench space!
Repurpose Kitchen Cabinets
- WALL CABINET STORAGE: Versatile Use HangUps Upper Storage Cabinet is a versatile wall mounted cabinet, perfect for any garage wall cabinet or kitchen wall cabinet needs. This sturdy floating cabinet…
- GARAGE CABINETS WALL MOUNTED: High-Quality Materials As durable as it is versatile, this wall mount cabinet is made from non-toxic, CARB-2 compliant laminated composite woods. Ideal for all your…
- WALL CABINETS FOR KITCHEN STORAGE: Easy Assembly This bathroom wall cabinet ships flat-packed with an easy-to-follow instruction booklet. It can swiftly convert into a laundry room cabinet, a bathroom…
Have you had a new kitchen installed, or do you know someone who has and wants to get rid of old kitchen cabinets?
What better way to reuse them than sticking them in your shed? If they are wall-mounted, you can still put them on the floor and even put some wood on top to make a makeshift workbench.
Jars and Small Containers
- CLEAR GLASS: The timeless clear finish of these canning jars looks elegant and rustic in your cupboards, shelves or refrigerator and allows you to easily identify contents. They’re a handy,…
- MULTIPLE USE: You can use canning jars to store fruits, vegetables, sauces, syrups and other condiments. These 16 oz regular mouth mason jars are also an ideal option for holding treats, snacks, arts…
- KEEP FRESH: Includes matching regular mouth lids to help seal in freshness and flavor. Ball glass jars are ideal for the storage of of dry foods and snacks such as sugar, beans, peas, rice, oats,…
I’m guilty of accumulating glass jars “just in case they come in handy.” They are very useful for storing the odd little tidbit.
You can place jars on nearly every surface, from shelves to workbenches, and have them labeled so you know exactly what should and should not go in them.
Small containers can be used for these things, too. I have an old biscuit tin that I store tape in, such as gaffer/duct tape, parcel tape, and electrical tape.
The best thing about this is that you can reuse so many containers and label them.
How to Organize a Sports Equipment Shed
From tangled skipping ropes to misplaced rackets, taming the clutter in your sports equipment shed is no fun game… or is it? With these ideas, you’ll whip that messy space into shape before halftime!
Shelves
- STRONG WEIGHT CAPACITY: Each shelf holds up to 150-lbs, with the total max weight being a sturdy 600-lbs. You also have the option to purchase an extra wire shelf if you’re looking for even more…
- NO TOOLS REQUIRED: Assembly has never been easier. The storage shelf rack’s simple installation requires less than 30 minutes of your time – and zero additional tools.
- CARBON STEEL CONSTRUCTION: Constructed with heavy-duty carbon steel, these storage shelves feature exceptionally secure wire racks, being able to bear more weight with its 20% higher density. The…
Use shelves, such as metal wire shelves or built-in ones, to store a wide range of sporting goods. Get big enough containers to store whatever you need in them, from soccer balls to tennis balls and everything in between!
Stackable Bins and Boxes
- 👍【STURDY】: These sturdy, long-lasting woven flat organizers and storage are made of high-quality BPA FREE material, it’s one of the best long lasting using plastic baskets. Outside…
- 👍【DESIGN WITH LID】: This plastic storage container with lid lay on top allows plastic storage bins for ease of moving and save space in your house, apartment, and condo.It also keeping items…
- 👍【VERSATILE FOR ALL SPACE STORAGE】:These lidded organizing baskets help to keep your room tidy and clean. These small storage baskets are great for storing all you homes goods in all kinds of…
Stackable boxes of different shapes and sizes can be used to store a huge range of small sporting items, like energy gels and bars.
Wall Systems
Hooks
- INDOOR/OUTDOOR :10-pack bike screw hooks ideal solution for ceiling or wall hanging of bicycles, power equipment, furniture, tools, and hoses, in the garage, home, apartment or wherever you store your…
- DESIGN – Bike Hooks Made of heavy-duty galvanized steel with a Soft non-marring, non-slip coated finish to protect surfaces.
- EASY TO INSTALL – Make sure the bike screw hooks to install in a stud/wood wall (not drywall, only) to ensure the screw hook stays secure.Easier to fit if you drill a small pilot hole but you can get…
I’m hooked on hooks! No, really, you can put hooks almost everywhere, from the ceiling rafters to any available bit of wall space.
Our badminton and tennis rackets hang from hooks, creating an aesthetically pleasing display and easy to grab for a quick match.
You can get these really sturdy hooks which you can even hang bicycles from. Just make sure your shed can take the weight!
Pegboard Wall
- LONG LASTING PEGBOARD: High- density fiberboard (HDF) is a wood product similar to MDF, but much denser, stronger and harder. It is recommended to be used with our DuraHook 70000 series locking…
- VERSATILE STORAGE SYSTEM: Organize your garage, shed, workshop, or any room in your house and keep your tools organized. Durable, weather-reisitant and easy to clean and maintain your storage space…
- STRONG AND CUSTOMIZABLE: Won’t crack or warp – even under severe fluctuations in temperature and humidity, completely maintaining the integrity of the finish. Can be cut (using an 80-tooth or higher…
You can build a large pegboard wall and store a huge range of sports equipment, including resistance bands, helmets, hats, and yoga mats. Check out this tutorial from Clean and Sentsible on how to build your own bespoke pegboard wall.
Bicycle Wall Mounts
- Durable Construction: Made from alloy steel and rubber for a sturdy and lightweight design.
- 4 Hanging Baskets: Comes with 4 metal, plastic, and rubber baskets to hold bikes.
- Easy Mounting: Wall mount rack with built-in hooks for quick and simple installation.
Store your bikes vertically with these bicycle wall mounts. Make sure to install them on solid wood studs or concrete walls!
Floor space
- 【STORAGE VARIOUS ITEMS】: This workout storage organizer can help to store your yoga mat, dumbbells, kettlebells, yoga brick, resistance band,roller wheel, foam roller etc.. Perfect for fan of…
- 【WELL-MADE QUALITY STORAGE RACK】: The yoga mat rack is made with high quality powder coated finish steel, the whole construction is sturdy and durable which can be use for years. And it is…
- 【HEAVY DUTY CASTERS】: The home gym storage rack comes with 4 strong 360-degree wheels (2 lockable) and can easy to move indoor and outdoor as well as any places you want to use.
Got a lot of gym equipment such as dumbbells, resistance bands, and foam rollers? This nifty storage device is your friend. Simply place it on the floor, propped up against any remaining wall space, and store away all of your equipment.
Ceiling and Loft Space
- ✅Best Customer Service – We care about our customers. If you face any issue in quality or missing anything from your order, you can contact us. We’ll issue you a refund or send replacement without…
- ✅PREMIUM QUALITY CONSTRUCTION – Interior steel screw, non-slipping rubber tips and Vinyl and Epoxy coating make these hooks for hanging durable, robust and anti-rust. These garage storage hooks…
- ✅LOAD CAPACITY – Our hooks can hold 50 pounds safely. Hang your all household items and bring a sense of neat and clean look to your Garage & home.
You probably won’t be able to get a bike in the ceiling or loft space, but you can certainly hang a few things off the ceiling rafters. Apparently, you can hang bicycles off these heavy-duty hooks attached to ceiling rafters, which is great for getting them off the floor!
Or consider pulley systems for easy access: Bike Hoist for Garage.
FAQs
Common items to store in a shed include gardening tools and equipment, bicycles, outdoor furniture, sports gear, seasonal decorations, and any other household items that are not needed as frequently.
Some items should not be stored in a shed due to potential damage or safety concerns. For example, perishable foods, flammable materials, important documents or any item that is susceptible to extreme changes in temperature and humidity.
Sheds are often exposed to extreme changes in temperature and humidity, which could damage clothing over time. If you must store clothes in a shed, use sealed containers or vacuum bags to protect them from moisture, pests, and dust.
Start by utilizing vertical space with shelves or hanging hooks to help keep items off the floor. Boost efficiency with stackable storage containers or bins.
Optimize the shed’s wall space by incorporating pegboards or racks for hanging tools and equipment.
Consider adding overhead racks or pulley systems for larger items like bicycles or ladders. Implement a well-organized system with labeled containers or zones for quicker item retrieval.
And remember the golden rule: declutter to create space. With this approach, your small shed will feel like a tardis!
