Gardening

Best Garden Storage Bench: Stylish and Practical Solutions for Your Outdoor Space

Written by Dale RichardsonUpdated: July 2, 2024

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Hey there, fellow garden enthusiasts! Dale here, and I'm excited to share some fantastic tips and opinions on choosing the best garden storage bench for your outdoor haven. Aren't you tired of the clutter in your garden? Ever wondered how you can tidy up and add a touch of elegance at the same time? Well, look no further, because I've got the answers you're searching for.

Here is a glance at the best Garden Storage Benches before we review them in depth further down:

The Current Best Garden Storage Benches In 2024

1. Lifetime Heavy-Duty Outdoor Storage Deck Box

Overall rating (4.6)

Scored based on 4821 reviews

Weatherproof (4.6)

Sturdiness (4.5)

Easy to assemble (3.9)

Consideration Points:

Material: The bench is made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and powder-coated steel, ensuring durability and low maintenance requirements.

Size and storage capacity: With dimensions of 127.76 x 58.93 x 66.04 cm, this storage box provides a spacious 439 litres of storage capacity, ideal for storing a variety of garden tools and accessories.

Weather resistance: The Lifetime storage box is UV-protected and weather-resistant, making it suitable for keeping your belongings safe from the elements all year round.

Comfort and style: While the storage box is designed for functionality, it may not be as comfortable for seating compared to a traditional garden storage bench, and its style may not suit everyone's taste.

Assembly and maintenance: The Lifetime storage box requires some assembly, but the process is straightforward. The high-quality materials used in its construction make it virtually maintenance-free, with no need for staining, painting, or oiling.

Product Summary:

The Lifetime Heavy-Duty Outdoor Storage Deck Box is a durable and practical storage solution for your garden. Made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and powder-coated steel, this storage box is built to last and requires minimal maintenance. With dimensions of 127.76 x 58.93 x 66.04 cm, it offers a generous 439 litres of storage capacity, ideal for stashing garden tools, cushions, and other outdoor accessories.

Featuring a UV-protected and weather-resistant design, the Lifetime storage box will keep your belongings safe from the elements throughout the year. While the storage box may not be as comfortable for seating as a traditional garden storage bench and its style may not appeal to everyone, its focus on functionality makes it a solid choice for those who prioritize durability and storage capacity.

Assembly is required, but the process is straightforward, and the maintenance-free nature of the materials used in its construction ensures it will remain a reliable storage solution for years to come. The Lifetime Heavy-Duty Outdoor Storage Deck Box is a great option for those looking for a long-lasting and practical garden storage solution.

Read all user reviews on Amazon

"I see potential for 5 stars"

"The parcel was heavy and the package carboard box came broken at the bottom as the delivery man dragged it across the ground. I was afraid that items came out of the box and there are missing parts from package because of that but wasn't the case. They delivered all items even the package box was open. Mounting this box is a job for professionals. Basically to be able to mount this item you need an impact drill and to know how to use it else you are exposed to accidents. I worked a decade as designer engineer and I know what I am saying. If you don't have this tool or you don't know how to use it you will have troubles putting this item together. Mounting process is noisy, so prepare your neighbours for about 2 hours of loud noise coming from the place where you have intention to do the job. They delivered my item at the front door and the garden is at a lower level so was necessary to unpack and move every part down trough a 12 steps stair. Moving entire parcel as arrived was not practical because was too heavy. You need to study the manual and a Youtube clip (there are several clips, for me was "Lifetime 116-Gallon Outdoor Storage Deck Box Lifetime Assembly Video" - for other sizes are other clips) together to be able to do the job. The process is difficult and time consuming, for me was about 2 hours (add half of hour of rest on top of these 2 hours - is absolute necessary). The most of this time was for transport of the parts down stairs, study the manual and watch the Youtube clip. The work itself was about half an hour of intense physical activity. During this half an hour of activity I observed that there are many design errors of this item. The most serious error is that the some screws are cutting in plastic if they are only slightly over torqued (you can see these screws after 6 minutes and 50 seconds from beginning of Youtube clip mentioned above). It's so simple to put an aluminium metal protection to avoid metal screws cutting in plastic! You don't need two persons to mount the lid, a wall or, if you are in the garden, a tree to support the lid while you are mounting it can easily replace the second person. At the end, when was necessary to put the lid on top of the box it looked like they are not fitting. I thought I did something wrong and is necessary to undo and rebuild something. Doing this would be very difficult and would practically damage the item. Studying again and again the manual and the Youtube clip I realized that I only didn't understand very well how to fit the lid on top of the box (the part where Youtube clip say that two persons are necessary to do the job). After finishing the job I obtained a good looking and sturdy storage box. Because they didn't recommend to their customers a professional person for doing the mounting job of the item as they should and didn't give enough instructions for a safe delivery and because of the design errors I would give to producers 3 stars for this item. The Youtube clip is making this job to look way easier than it is in reality. For example the guy in the clip is sliding the lid support slow and easy (you can see this after 4 minutes and 15 seconds from beginning of Youtube clip mentioned above). I used a hammer to do the same "easy" slide. In my opinion they should provide an optional mounting service of the item. I give them 4 stars instead because of their intention to deliver a product above mediocre. I think they deserve to be encouraged because of this. The high difficulty of mounting this item has the good part that if is successfully finished the result is amazing. Indeed, if you can forget their errors you will be able to look at a good quality product hoping that will last "lifetime" as the name of it is and hope that these errors will be avoided in the future and next time you will buy a much better item. I see potential for this to happen."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 17 September 2023

"Read the instructions!"

"This storage box is awesome, plenty of space to store cushions and other bits of bobs from the weather without having to drag them in/out of the house/garage constantly. The instructions are pretty straightforward, but pay close attention to the details because you'll have to start again if you've got parts swapped - you'll know what I mean if you try to assemble it and assume the instructions are simple, only to discover something is in the opposite place and now something doesn't fit/close properly..."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 14 September 2023

"Have the right tools"

"The media could not be loaded. It arrived early and we put it together the same day. Seems sturdy. Some nut just too tight for their bolts but we got them on. Some massive screws, going it to thin plastic. The plastic could be made thicker at those points. All in all I'm quite happy with it."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 16 August 2023

Where to buy Lifetime Heavy-Duty Outdoor Storage Deck Box?

2. Fantasy Fields Magic Garden Storage Bench

Overall rating (4.6)

Scored based on 137 reviews

Easy to assemble (5)

Value for money (4)

Consideration Points:

Material: This bench is made from eco-friendly solid wood, ensuring durability and sustainability.

Size and storage capacity: Measuring 59.39 x 40.01 x 59.69 cm, the Fantasy Fields bench is smaller than some other options, making it suitable for storing smaller items but not ideal for larger garden accessories.

Weather resistance: The hand-painted design and water-based paint may not hold up well against harsh weather conditions, so it's advisable to use this bench in a covered area or indoors.

Comfort and style: The Fantasy Fields Magic Garden Storage Bench features a unique, hand-painted design that adds a whimsical touch to any space. However, the bench does not come with a cushion for added comfort.

Assembly and maintenance: Assembly is required, which may be a drawback for some. On the other hand, the eco-friendly, water-based paint used for the design makes cleaning and maintaining the bench easier.

Product Summary:

The Fantasy Fields Magic Garden Storage Bench is a whimsical and eco-friendly storage option for your home or garden. Crafted from solid wood, this charming bench features a hand-painted design that brings a touch of magic to any space. While the bench's dimensions of 59.39 x 40.01 x 59.69 cm make it suitable for storing smaller items, it may not be ideal for larger garden accessories.

The hand-painted design and water-based paint may not be suitable for harsh weather conditions, so it's recommended to use this bench in a covered area or indoors. Although the bench does not include a cushion for added comfort, its unique style will be a conversation starter in any setting.

Assembly is required for the Fantasy Fields Magic Garden Storage Bench, and the eco-friendly paint used in the design makes maintenance a breeze. If you're looking for a whimsical, eco-friendly storage solution for small items, this bench is a delightful choice.

Read all user reviews on Amazon

"5.0 out of 5 stars Great item for 1-2 year old to learn about putting her toys away."

"It is colourful but the toy box space is small."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 on 4 January 2022

"Great item for 1-2 year old to learn about putting her toys away."

"It is colourful but the toy box space is small."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 4 January 2022

"5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful not sure how practical it is"

"*updated* Wowowowow a thousand times wow. If you are looking for something beautiful and well made this is the one. However for practical use... it’s quite small on the inside. Very misleading with the picture (size wise) and the description having toy box.. nope. More like a tiny shoe box. My daughter absolutely adores it and so do I. So will have to get her the toy box also and hope it’s bigger. *we are now using it as a dressing up box*"

Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 on 26 December 2019

Where to buy Fantasy Fields Magic Garden Storage Bench?

3. vidaXL Acacia Wood Storage Bench

Overall rating (2.8)

Scored based on 145 reviews

Easy to assemble (2.5)

Sturdiness (2.2)

Value for money (1.8)

Water resistance (1.7)

Weatherproof (1.5)

Consideration Points:

Material: The bench is made of solid acacia wood with a light oil finish, providing a natural, classic look that will complement any garden setting.

Size and storage capacity: With dimensions of 200 x 50 x 60 cm, this bench offers a generous storage capacity while still being compact enough to fit in most outdoor spaces.

Weather resistance: The vidaXL bench features a moisture-resistant, zippered inner lining that helps protect your stored items from dampness and other weather-related damage.

Comfort and style: The acacia wood and light oil finish lend a classic, timeless style to this bench. Its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable seating experience, making it perfect for relaxation.

Assembly and maintenance: Some assembly is required for the vidaXL bench, which may not be ideal for those who prefer a pre-assembled option. Additionally, the wooden material may require periodic maintenance, such as oiling or staining, to maintain its appearance and durability.

Product Summary:

The vidaXL Acacia Wood Storage Bench offers a great combination of style, comfort, and functionality. Made from solid acacia wood with a light oil finish, this bench boasts a classic look that will suit any garden setting. Its generous storage capacity is protected by a moisture-resistant, zippered inner lining, ensuring your belongings stay safe from the elements.

Measuring 200 x 50 x 60 cm, the vidaXL bench is compact enough for most outdoor spaces while still providing ample seating and storage. Its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable sitting experience, perfect for taking a break after tending to your garden.

While assembly is required for this bench, the end result is a stylish and practical addition to your outdoor area. Keep in mind that regular maintenance, such as oiling or staining, may be necessary to preserve the bench's appearance and durability. Overall, the vidaXL Acacia Wood Storage Bench is an excellent choice for those looking to combine style, comfort, and practicality in their garden storage solution.

Read all user reviews on Amazon

"4.0 out of 5 stars Great size"

"Holds 2 sets of cushions for outdoor sofas."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 on 24 August 2022

"Great size"

"Holds 2 sets of cushions for outdoor sofas."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 24 August 2022

"Brilliant size"

"Brilliant size and nice and easy too put together"

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 27 May 2022

Where to buy vidaXL Acacia Wood Storage Bench?

Why are garden storage benches better than their alternatives?

Now, you might be asking, "Dale, why are garden storage benches better than other storage options?" Well, let me tell you, it's all about the perfect blend of style and functionality. Sure, there are sheds, outdoor storage boxes, and other solutions, but nothing quite compares to a storage bench. Why? Let's dive in, shall we?

  1. Dual-purpose design: A garden storage bench provides not only a place to stash away your gardening tools and cushions but also a comfy spot to sit and relax. Isn't it great to have a place to rest after working hard in your garden?
  2. Space-saving: Unlike a bulky shed, a storage bench is compact, making it ideal for smaller gardens or patios. Plus, it can easily blend into your existing outdoor design without being an eyesore.
  3. Aesthetic appeal: Garden storage benches come in various styles, materials, and colours, so you can find the perfect one that complements your garden's theme. Why settle for a dull storage solution when you can have something that adds to your outdoor space's charm?

Consideration points when buying a garden storage bench:

Now that we've established why garden storage benches are the bee's knees, let's talk about what to look for when choosing one. Ready? Let's go!

  1. Material: First and foremost, consider the bench's material. Do you prefer wood, metal, or plastic? Each has its pros and cons. Wooden benches offer a natural, classic look but may require more maintenance. Metal benches can be more durable and sturdy, but watch out for rust. Plastic benches are low-maintenance and weather-resistant but may not offer the same aesthetic appeal.
  2. Size and storage capacity: How much storage do you need? And how much space do you have in your garden? Make sure the bench you choose can accommodate your storage needs and fit your outdoor area without overwhelming it.
  3. Weather resistance: Let's face it, the UK weather can be unpredictable. So, you'll want a storage bench that can withstand the elements, especially if you plan on storing delicate items like cushions and textiles.
  4. Comfort and style: A garden storage bench should be comfortable to sit on and visually appealing. Consider benches with cushions or ergonomic designs, and don't forget to choose a style that complements your garden's overall aesthetic.
  5. Assembly and maintenance: Are you a DIY pro or do you prefer something pre-assembled? Check the assembly requirements and consider the maintenance needed to keep your bench in tip-top shape.

And there you have it, folks! Keep these points in mind, and you'll be well on your way to finding a garden storage bench for your lovely outdoor space. So, what are you waiting for? Let's get shopping and make your garden the envy of your neighbours!

The current best garden storage benches in 2023

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