Have you been in your shed recently? Is it possible to walk from the door, all the way to the back wall without tripping or stepping over something? If not, you aren’t alone.
Shed organization and storage is an ongoing battle for most homeowners. While this may seem like a never ending battle, there are some tricks, tips, and ideas you can use to get your shed organized once and for all. So check out these genius (but easy to implement) shed organization ideas!
My husband calls sheds storage buildings, but I think we can all agree that the small building out in a backyard can quickly become over run with all of the “extra” yard stuff that doesn’t fit anywhere else. So, it’s easy to see why it’s cluttered. For us, we usually have to “batten down the hatches” once a year in preparation for a hurricane, so shed organization becomes crucial for us. We’re trying to fit any backyard items that aren’t “nailed down” in our shed, and if it’s organized ahead of time, our job is much easier.
There are many different ways to organize your shed or storage building space, and here are some ideas to get you started:
Install a Magnetic Bar for Hand Tools
What do most tools and garden helps have in common? They’re made of metal, for garden tools, preferably stainless steel that won’t rust. If you want to keep your hand tools visible and available, install a magnetic bar. This shed organization tip is not a new idea, but it’s a good one. This magnetic strip from Master Magnetics is perfect for those tools you use regularly.
The key to using a magnetic bar is making sure you get one that’s strong enough to hold your heavier items, such as a hammer. Once installed, you’ll always know where your often-used hand tools are.
Hang Up Your Cords and Hoses
Tangled hoses and cords can be a real headache. However, if you just throw them into your shed randomly, this is bound to happen. I am speaking from personal experience here.
However, there’s an easy fix for this all-too-common issue. Use shelving units, PVC pipe, or hooks to organize and hang your hoses and cords. This is an easy and affordable fix that is going to make a huge difference in your shed organization. This steel hook set from Shepherd Hardware is a steal at only $10 for the set, and you’ll be able to hang a multitude of items. In fact, my husband uses these for hanging our leaf blower since it has a handle that can easily slide onto the larger hook. (And if you’re looking for outdoor hose storage, check out my review of Liberty Garden’s hose cart.)
Hang Your Garden Tools Outside
Some of the most forgotten storage areas of any shed are the back of the doors and the building’s exterior walls. However, these are prime real estate for storage or an outdoor potting bench. Check out this video from DIY expert Ana White for how to make your own outdoor potting bench, perfect for the side of the shed:
Install hooks on doors to organize the smaller garden tools, and then put larger tracks and holders on the walls for your rakes, wheel hoes (find a guide on buying wheel hoes from Easy Digging here), and shovels. It’s best to use this idea if your shed walls are slightly protected from the elements thanks to a roof overhang. We use a clamp style holder for all of our shovels and rakes. This keeps them off of the floor, which is less hazardous and much neater. 
Use Empty Paint Buckets as Caddies
If you are into reusing items, a great idea is to turn an empty paint bucket into a storage caddy. For example, you can make your galvanized paint bucket and use it as a storage container for your garden hose.
All you have to do is drill several holes in the bucket’s bottom and screw it to the wall. Wrap your hose around the bucket and then place items like paintbrushes inside – this makes it functional and you are doing something good for the environment. Larger buckets can also be great storage for garden stakes, and other tall items that never seem to find a home.
Add Open Shelving to the Shed Space
If you have limited space in your shed, you need to figure out a way to make the most of every inch. If you modify your walls using shelving, you can free up your floor and help your shed look more spacious than it really is.
You can build your own shelves or purchase them at any hardware store. However, this is a great way to get things off the floor and optimize the space. This shelf system from Hy-loft is a great way to add extra shed storage without breaking the bank.
Install Wire Shelving
Wire shelving is a smart option for any garden shed over wood shelves. Wire shelves are going to let the light through, which makes it much easier to find items in areas where they may not be much light otherwise. Choose from free-standing wire shelves to wall mounted types. 
Also, wire shelving can stand up to water much better than wood. If your shed is outside, you are bound to have some moisture intrusion, so wire shelving is a good thing. If you’re concerned about items falling through the wire shelves, then head to your local hardware store. There you can find plexi material that can be cut to size and set on the wire shelves. This keeps anything from falling through and makes a flat shelf surface.
Make Your Shed Organization Work for You
As you can see, there are several things you can do to optimize the space in your shed. There are more than a few things you can do to get organized and stay that way. I’d love to know if you have added any organization to your shed that has worked well for you. Comment below and let me know! Have a great week and happy gardening!
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