Introduction: 5 Ways to Maximize Shed Storage
In this article I show you 5 ways to maximize shed storage. These tips also work great for your workshop, or even inside your home. With these 5 tips, you can be assured that you are getting the most out of your storage space.
Over the last couple of weeks, I've been working on a project that I've been wanting to do for a while now: replacing my old shed with a new one that will; hopefully, provide the storage space I really need. The old shed has a lot of problems, including being too small, no ceiling height, and honestly, too gross.
In the process, I thought I'd share with all of you some of what I've learned, and what I consider to be 5 great ways to maximize shed storage space.
So let's get started!
Disclosure: This post contains a paid product placement by The Container Store. All views and opinions are my own.
Step 1: Store Tools for Similar Projects Together
One lost or misplaced tool can bring any project to a screeching halt. Before your workshop can be fully utilized, you need to make sure everything is easy to find and reach. But, if you want to take it even one step further, I'd recommend storing all tools you may use for the same projects in the same place.
For my new shed, I'm utilizing a group of tubs to help keep all these different tools separate but accessible. It's easy to step into my shed, grab a tub, and get started right away. By doing this, I not only maximize shed storage, I also save myself the frustration that comes with not having my tools when I need them.
Step 2: Use the Same or Similar Size Storage Containers
One thing that can really help you stay organized is to use the same or similar sized storage containers. They can be much easier to stack and keep cleaned up as opposed to having a ton of different sized and shaped containers. It can feel like you're playing Tetris every time you have to pull something out or put it back.
Every once in a while it may be beneficial to go through your stuff and buy a bunch of the same containers and then transfer items into the new tubs so that you can stay as organized as possible.
Step 3: Utilize Shelving
This ties into my first tip, in that your number one priority should really be accessibility. Storage space is only really helpful when you're not having to climb over a pile of junk to get to what you need. So I recommend getting some kind of shelving to help organize everything.
I'm using the ELFA system from The Container Store to help keep those same tubs from just stacking up, so I can reach over and grab what I need without doing a ton of lifting, moving, and groaning. And this also helps you maximize the vertical storage space your shed can offer, which brings me to...
Step 4: Get Things Off the Floor
My old shed was a mess, with everything packed together and covering the entire floor. And there were still a ton of lawn care tools that had to rest outside because they couldn't fit! Luckily, with my new shed, I'm able to use the racks I installed as part of the ELFA system. My set of lawn and garden hangers can cling to my rakes and shovels to get them off the ground and against the wall.
I also installed some Gladiator cabinets to add a bit more storage which ensures that I can store more stuff than I even thought I would be able to. This includes cleaning supplies and other products that were taking up space in my home. Remember, if you can't walk through your shed and reach the stuff you need, then your shed isn't being utilizing its storage space effectively.
Step 5: Label Everything You Can
I've found that labeling tubs, shelves, and cabinets can save me a lot of time and headaches. If you leave tools in your shed for a couple months, you may find yourself digging through your cabinets and tubs anyway.
So print some labels, or in a pinch, just use a marker. You'll be glad you took the time, because once everything has a place and a label, your life just gets easier and easier. And of course even if you maximize shed storage space, it isn't 100% effective unless you know where everything is when you need it.
Step 6: Your Shed Is Ready!
I hope these tips were helpful to you, and hopefully it gives you some ideas on how to maximize your storage space, whether you have a shed, or just work in your garage. It's important to keep your tools handy and organized.
If you liked these tips, here are some other DIY Home Improvement projects you might enjoy.