Patio storage containers are an essential addition to any outdoor space. Rather than hauling various items in and out of your home, these pieces allow you to protect outdoor essentials while keeping them close to your patio seating, dining, work and play areas. Consider using one of the following patio storage furnishings to give your deck, terrace, balcony or porch a practical boost.

Patio Boxes

Available in a range of large and small sizes, patio boxes are excellent for those who lack storage sheds in their backyards. Bring home a 130-gallon box for your rakes, snow shovels and water hoses. If you’re decorating an apartment balcony or condo deck, consider a more compact option to hold a few gardening tools and outdoor cleaning utensils.

Deck Boxes

You can also use deck boxes to hold outdoor decor. For example, you can fill it with outdoor pillows and throw blankets so guests can stay warm and cozy when they gather around your fire pit table on chilly autumn evenings. Some people even keep seasonal figurines, wind chimes and wall art in deck boxes so it’s easy to swap out decorative accents and spruce up their porch or deck layouts.

Outdoor Chests

If you have children, an outdoor chest could be perfect for your patio play areas. Place one beside the pool to hold water wings, diving sticks, swim shoes and snorkels. Set another one by your backyard sandpit to give your kids easy access to their pails, shovels, and sports equipment whenever they want to build sandcastles or play volleyball.

Patio Storage Furniture

Want to provide storage and style for your patio with a single purchase? Consider setting up multipurpose storage furniture. Many outdoor benches, tables and ottomans have lower shelves and lift tops that reveal roomy compartments for holding various odds and ends. Even some patio chairs, sectionals and sofas have seats with built-in cubbies beneath the cushions.