Spending time in the garden is one of the biggest pleasures of summer - but without the right weatherproof storage in place, the sense of tranquillity can soon be wrecked by clutter.
Toys everywhere, BBQ and gardening accessories becoming trip hazards and outdoor blankets and cushions all askew: it's more of a nightmare than nirvana.
What’s needed is the right storage, ideally something that can be used in other ways too, like a table or extra seating. Not only will your garden look tidier, but the storage will offer double use too. Regular readers know there’s nothing we love more here at ES Best than dual functionality in furniture.
So, what’s the answer? If you haven’t got the space for a full-on garden shed, a storage bench or chest offers a decent volume of space while creating somewhere for guests to sit when they pop around. They’re available in all shapes and sizes, but one thing is key, especially when bearing the infamous British climate in mind. It’s got to be waterproof.
The threat of rain is omnipresent to Brits, even when given forecasts promising fine weather. Choosing a waterproof storage bench for the garden offers peace of mind that even if you get drenched, at least whatever’s inside your bench will remain nice and dry.
Suppose you’re looking at getting your garden ready for the warmer weather ahead. In that case, your shopping list is likely crammed with essentials like seating, lighting and BBQs, but adding storage is an excellent investment that you’ll be pleased to have bothered with in the long run.
To help, we’ve rounded up the best options from across garden retailers, taking care to balance style with function and keeping waterproofability at the top of the checklist.
Keter Eden Bench 265L
- Dimensions: 132.5 x 75 x 18.5cm
- Lockable: yes
- Home delivery: yes
Available in black and cream options, this smart bench from Keter functions beautifully as both seating and storage.
Made from 60 per cent recycled resin, two people can perch comfortably on top of the weather-resistant frame, which is lockable for added security.
While it will stand up to the elements, positioning it in a slightly covered area like at the foot of a tree or under an awning will help increase its lifespan. Available as soon as the next day with Prime membership.
Buy now £109.49, Amazon
Dakota Fields Waterproof Extra Large Lockable Easy-Open Garden Storage Box
- Dimensions: 60.5 x 143 x 67.5cm
- Lockable: yes
- Home delivery: yes
Looking for something a little more heavy-duty? This supersized water and weather-resistant box can keep a whopping 450L safe and dry under its lid, making it ideal for storing everything from gardening equipment to outdoor games and BBQ fuel. Access it easily with the help of two pistons to lift the lid with minimal grunting on your part.
Admittedly what it flexes in storage capacity, it loses in seating appeal, but it’s nothing that a few choice seat cushions and blankets can’t fix.
Made to resemble wood but crafted from long-lasting resin, the box can handle any type of weather, from summer’s UV rays to winter snow.
Buy now £179.00, Wayfair
Airwave Seated Storage Bench
- Dimensions: 26 x 43 x 106cm
- Lockable: yes
- Home delivery: yes
This two-seater bench lifts the storage section off the floor, making it appealing for anyone with garden-drainage issues. The fir wood frame has been pressure-treated to guard against rot and pests.
Flip open the seat to reveal a spacious storage area inside that’s perfect for keeping wellies and gardening tools, preventing mud from being tracked into the house.
It’ll be delivered as a flat-pack item so you’ll need to dig out your tool kit to get it up and running. Sold with a one-year manufacturer’s guarantee.
Buy now £125.00, Wilko
Dakota Fields Wooden Under Seat Storage Bench
- Dimensions: 85 x 114.5 x 61cm
- Lockable: no
- Home delivery: yes
With a high back and comfy armrests, this storage bench will have you sitting pretty come the first glimpse of sunshine. Made from strong fir wood, the bench promises to add a splash of colour to your outdoor haven, all while offering a practical function too with storage under the seat to hide away bits and bobs. It’s comfortable as it is, but if you’re planning to spend all weekend here, adding an outdoor seat cushion is a good idea.
Comes with a one-year manufacturer's guarantee.
Buy now £115.99, Wayfair
Outsunny Patio PE Rattan Wicker Storage Basket Box Bench Seat Furniture with Cushion
- Dimensions: 102 x 51 x 52cm
- Lockable: no
- Home delivery: yes
It may have disappeared off the high street, but Debenhams is still offering home bargains galore through its website. This rattan-effect garden storage bench is an excellent example, offering a considered design that will enhance any garden.
The padded bench has enough space to seat two adults and is made from an aluminium frame and PE wicker, both impervious to most weather conditions. Air rods on each hinge make accessing the storage area underneath easy, while two carry holes also mean moving it around the garden is a fuss-free task.
Buy now £138.99, Debenhams
Easylife Outdoor Garden Storage Box
- Dimensions: 109 x 55 x 52cm
- Lockable: yes
- Home delivery: yes
Grey is hard to quibble with; the neutral tone goes with everything. For pared-back gardens, this metal and rust-proof design offers a long-lasting storage solution, smartening up your space while protecting seasonal essentials from weather damage.
The flat top means it can easily be dressed up as a bench with the right cushions and blankets.
Buy now £64.99, Amazon
Keter Marvel+ 270L Outdoor Garden Storage Box - Sage
- Dimensions: 57 x 116.7 x 44.7cm
- Lockable: no
- Home delivery: yes
Some folks like the idea of making their outdoor furniture stand out, while others want it to fade away. Keter's sage-green storage box does the latter and promises to appear camouflaged against lush foliage.
The box offers 270L of space and can double up as seating when you've got pals over. There is a loop to attach a padlock if you want extra peace of mind over security.
Buy now £33.75, Argos
Kettler Palma Aluminium Garden Cushion Storage Box
- Dimensions: 72 x 138 x 67cm
- Lockable: yes
- Home delivery: yes
Designed specifically to keep garden cushions from sprouting green mould if left outside unprotected, Kettler's modern storage box has simple clean lines that mean it won't end up an eyesore in your outside space.
The rust-proof design is made with powder-coated aluminium and it comes with a zipped waterproof liner for added protection against raindrops. There’s plenty of space for cushions, blankets and more inside - if organised well.
As an added bonus, there are also wheels fitted on one side to help move it around your space and into the next sun-dappled spot.
Buy now £429.00, John Lewis
Keter Patio Graphite Medium Garden storage bench box 227L
- Dimensions:132.7 x 61.2 x 89 cm
- Lockable: yes
- Home delivery: yes
This garden bench looks like any other, but lift the seat to find a deep chest that can accommodate a stonking 227L of garden essentials. The lockable lid features wood-like panelling but is crafted from durable, weather-resistant and maintenance and fade-free plastic to help it last through whatever the summer throws at it. Set it up on solid, dry ground like a patio or decking to ensure a stable and even footing.
Sold with a two-year manufacturer’s guarantee.
Buy now £130.00, B&Q
Dunelm Florenity Galaxy Garden Storage Bench
- Dimensions: 43.5 x 170 x 80cm
- Lockable: no
- Home delivery: yes
Cupboards bursting at the seams at it is? Keep outside accessories where they belong with Dunelm's smart bench. Made from eucalyptus wood, it's sturdy enough for occasional perching (but would serve better as a table with a pretty cloth thrown over the top) with a spacious interior that can hold cushions, tools, BBQ fuel and more.
Buy now £339.00, Dunelm
