If you have a storage shed, it can quickly become a cluttered space! Lawn tools, seasonal decor, outdoor gear – things can pile up over time and make it tough to find what you need. However, with proper organization, your storage shed interior can be an efficient space that works for you all year long.
Below are some tips, creative hacks, and custom solutions to help you declutter and maximize the use of your shed – so you’ll have everything perfectly in place for the year ahead.
Why Organizing Your Shed Matters
A cluttered storage shed isn't just inconvenient. It can actually cost you time and money. Misplaced tools could lead you to buy replacements you don’t need, and scattered supplies can become safety hazards.
Storage shed organization will help you:
- Save time by finding what you need more quickly.
- Save money by avoiding loss of items or damage.
- Maximize space in a way that optimizes every square inch.
- Protect your belongings by creating a clean and organized environment.
How to Organize a Shed in 5 Simple Steps
#1: Declutter Your Shed
Start by pulling everything out of the shed…yes, everything! This will help you see any unneeded items that you’ve been storing, so you can set them aside and start fresh.
Tips for Decluttering:
- Group items into categories like gardening tools, sports equipment, holiday decorations, etc.
- Only keep the essential items you frequently use.
- Donate items that you no longer need.
- Recycle or throw out broken or used items that can’t be salvaged.
- Sweep the shed floor, wipe down the shelves and benches, and clean out any pests or mold
Step #2: Plan Your Shed Layout
Before putting everything back, create a functional shed layout. A little bit of planning will ensure that you're using your storage space wisely.
Tips for Layout Planning:
- Place the tools and other items that you frequently use, like your lawnmower or gardening tools, near the shed’s entrance and within easy reach.
- Set up specific zones for different types of items (ex: one corner for tools, another corner for outdoor gear).
Pro Tip: Check out Lancaster Barns’ Shed Designer Tool to visualize your shed layout and make sure everything fits perfectly.
Step #3: Add Storage Solutions
Having the right storage tools can make a world of difference when it comes to keeping your shed organized. Below are some great shed organizing ideas to help utilize all the vertical and horizontal space in your shed:
- Wall-Mounted Hooks and Pegboards. Maximize your wall space by hanging tools, extension cords, and even bikes on heavy-duty hooks. Install a pegboard for more handy storage space.
- Rolling Storage Cabinets. Portable cabinets with drawers come in handy for storing screws, nails, and other small items. They’re also easy to tuck away when not in use.
- Door Racks. Install racks on the back of your shed doors for small tools, gloves, or spray bottles.
- Containers and Labels. Putting labels on your storage containers will save you time from digging through boxes or bins to find certain items. Use clear container so you can easily see the content, or use color-coded bins based on categories (ex: green bins for gardening items, red bins for holiday décor, and blue bins for kids toys).
Step #4: Rotate Seasonal Items
Shed organization isn’t a one-time task! As the seasons change, evaluate what items would be best to keep near the front of the shed for easy access.
- In the winter, bring snowblowers or shovels to the front and tuck away summer gear like lawn chairs.
- During the spring and summer months, make space for gardening supplies and pool equipment and store away holiday decorations.
Step #5: Stay on Top of Regular Maintenance
Another tip for keeping your shed organized is regular maintenance.
- Set 15-20 minutes aside each month for shed organizing and cleaning.
- Remove dirt, dust and other debris.
- Check for critters and other unwelcome pests.
- Inspect for any shed damage like leaks or drafts.
- Put items back in their designated spots.
- Donate or throw out items that are no longer needed.
Choose the Right Shed Type for Ultimate Organization
After implementing these shed organization ideas, you might realize that your current shed is simply too small or lacks helpful features. It just might be time to buy a better shed.
Lancaster Barns offers different types of customizable sheds and barns that are perfect for both small and large storage needs.
Here are a few shed types to consider if you decide to buy new:
Steeper Roof Pitch Sheds
- Steeper roof pitch sheds don’t just make it easier for rain and show to drain and slide off. They can also include a loft that provides additional storage space. A dormer window is an option that can be added to provide even more space.
A-Frame Sheds
- The A-Frame shed is a popular shed type that complements many of today’s modern home designs. It’s a low-maintenance structure that offers ample storage space for a variety of items. Choose from a number of shed siding choices including metal, which is durable, weather-resistant and perfect for anyone needing high strength and longevity.
Barn Style Sheds
- Our classic barn style sheds have the most overhead storage space – so you can maximize your vertical storage and stack more items without crowding the ground space. Add a loft to increase your overhead storage even more.
Board & Batten Barns
- Need to store lots of different items and keep them well-organized? Consider a large custom board & batten barn for versatile storage needs. These sheds are best for farm equipment, hay, or larger storage items.
Customizable Shed Storage Ideas
Once you pick your shed type, there are lots of ways to customize it. Two popular customizable options that will add much more organization to your space are shelves and workbenches.
Using our Shed Designer Tool, you can add 16” shelves to help keep your containers, pots, or paint cans off the ground. Or add 24” workbenches so you have plenty of room for DIY projects or additional surface for organization.
Need other custom sizes for your shelves or workbenches? No problem! Just contact us to speak with a Shed Designer.
Having an organized shed can save you time, reduce stress, and make everyday tasks more efficient. If you already have a shed, we hope you find our organizational tips helpful. And if it’s time to purchase a new shed, Lancaster Barns has you covered!
Contact our team today for a free quote, or call (717) 553-0300 Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.