When speaking about space management, many of our minds naturally go to indoor storage. The good news is, is that you probably have quite a bit of outdoor storage space just waiting to be taken advantage of! I’m not reinventing the wheel here, but I will give you some killer tips to increase your home’s outdoor storage so you can enjoy your living space even more. Let’s jump right into it!

1. Storage Shed

Storage sheds can be incredibly helpful in storage excess items that are taking up room in the garage or don’t really have a place. However, I highly recommend before purchasing one that you become familiar with your neighborhood’s or HOA’s policies on storage sheds. Some require approval from everyone in the neighborhood, while others let you do your own thing. The great thing about these is that they come in just about every shape, size, material, and design you can imagine so you’ll be able to pick a model that suits your style perfectly. On top of that, they require very little assembly, so it’s not like you’re going to be out there using a hammer, nails, and a few 4x4s to put one together. Things like lawnmowers, bikes, tools, and other sporting gear can take up quite a bit of room and even look unsightly and unorganized. Storage sheds fix that and keep the items nice and secure, too. If you’ll be storing flammable, or otherwise dangerous liquids and chemicals, make sure you keep them well- accessible but safely kept away from children or pets.

2. Portable Garage

When we are cleaning out our garages, we often consider our vehicles to be almost fixed accessories – especially when the weather is frigid or the sun is beaming down. Garages are an easy way to keep vehicles protected from sun damage and other harm from the elements so it makes sense to use a portable one if you want to use your garage for other things. These garages-in-a-box are extremely easy to set up most of the time, though they do range in size, coverage, design, and more. With so many options available, I have no doubt that you’ll find one that suits you perfectly. The highest-quality models will often come comprised of a UV-resistant cover, with a heavy-duty, powder-coated steel frame to resist against rust.

3. Storage Benches

Every patio or garden needs some seating, right? Why not take a load off and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea? Benches are attractive and usually allow 2 or 3 people to sit comfortably, making it more convenient than 3 separate chairs. Moreover, benches that have a seat which lifts up to reveal storage space can make the most out of your space and your budget! You can make one yourself, or you can purchase one and save yourself the time and energy. There are so many design options available, you’ll find at least one to suit your space. These obviously aren’t going to be able to store larger items like a lawnmower, but they’re great for storing gardening tools, blankets, cushions, and more.

4. Upcycle Flower Pots

If “storing garden tools” got your attention, then check out your old flower pots. They’re excellent and cute options for storing them. Simply fill the pots with sand, wash your tools, and stick them inside. If you already have some pots, then you won’t have to spend any money and you’ll still have a general garden theme going on. If you don’t have any, then tin cans or metal buckets work just as well, offering a kind of rustic look to the area. You can even hang some up on hooks inside your garden shed to keep your gloves and small tools safe from the rain and sun. Take things even further and really amp up your organization by working up some labels to make sure you know where everything is for quick access.

5. Closet Shelving Systems

Once again, if you decide on a shed, you can select from various adjustable closet shelving systems to use inside of it! This open shelving is perfect for storing planters, tools, and more. Shelves are nice because they’re so versatile and allow you to find what you need right away without pulling out drawers or looking through different containers.

Are you ready to take on some of these tips to maximize the space inside your home? Even if you just do one of them, I’ll bet you notice a positive difference and an overall lighter feeling. You don’t have to be on an episode of Hoarders to start moving some stuff around! That’s all I have for you today! We hope these tips help your space to BLOOM in Baltimore and beyond.

And a special thanks to outsidepursuits.com for this fantastic guest blog post.