A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Best Poolside Storage Solutions
Summer is here, and you finally get to enjoy your pool time. You’ve got your clear blue pool in your backyard, along with lounge chairs, floats, electronics, an icebox, and tools, all out and ready for use. Imagine this! Scattered floats or pool toys that increase your risk of tripping, wet towels thrown around, perhaps leaky chemical containers, or even a missing pool skimmer. That’s a disaster waiting to happen right there!
This video is sourced from Youtube@Designs by Donnie Woodworking
You need order and safety, and only the best poolside storage solutions will put an end to this challenge. The good thing is you have a variety of materials and designs to choose from when it comes to outdoor solutions like deck boxes or an outdoor storage cabinet. This guide will walk you through choosing some smart, functional, and weatherproof storage solutions.
Table of Contents
- Which are the Right Types of Poolside Storage for You?
- Common Poolside Storage Challenges and Tips to Solve Them
- Material Comparison: Plastic, Resin, and Treated Wood
- Key Features Every Poolside Storage Box Should Have
- Capacity Guide
- Design & Aesthetic Integration
- Placement and Installation Tips
- Maintenance Tips
- Organization Hacks & Safety Tips
- GARVEE Poolside Storage Solutions
Which are the Right Types of Poolside Storage for You?
While poolside storage comes in various sizes, shapes, and materials, you need to buy something more suited to your needs, décor, and style. Here’s a breakdown of some of the types of poolside storage for you.
|
Storage Type |
Description |
Tips |
Recommended For |
|
Deck Boxes |
Widely used because they are versatile. Comes in multiple sizes for towels, toys, and accessories. |
Get a waterproof seal and UV protection design for durability. |
Regular swimmers and lots of gear. |
|
Outdoor Storage Cabinets |
Best for vertical storage and segmented shelving for chemicals, tools, or small items. |
Go for lockable models to ensure safety around children. |
Homeowners or people who need secure storage away from water. |
|
Multi-Functional Benches |
Twin options of seating and hidden storage underneath. Great for compact spaces. |
Match with the pool décor. |
Small patios or decks with partial space. |
Common Poolside Storage Challenges and Tips to Solve Them
Is your poolside drowning in clutter? Then you have a serious issue with poolside storage. Be it pool toys, wet towels, lounge chairs, or unsafe chemical storage, you need to tidy up. At this point, it is wise to invest in some simple, smart storage solutions—like a deck box, outdoor cabinet, or a pool storage chest. Here’s a look at some challenges and how to deal with them.
Wet Towels
A commonly used item that is often left strewn across chairs and fences is a wet towel. Apart from developing mildew, it creates a mess and attracts insects. Get a ventilated outdoor storage box for fast drying, storing out of sight when not in use. The ventilation will prevent it from becoming a breeding ground for mold and bacteria.
Tip: A patio storage box with built-in airflow or mesh lining will solve this issue, especially when you encourage your family members to drop towels into the box immediately after use.
Scattered Pool Toys and Floats
If you have kids or pets, then your pool is likely surrounded by inflatables and pool noodles that are often left on your deck and patio. Op for a large-capacity deck box or pool storage chest to store all toys in one place, as this will keep your walkways or the pool's edge a hazard-free zone.
Tip: Opt for a waterproof outdoor storage box with internal dividers or bins to sort smaller toys from larger items like floaties.
Hazardous Pool Chemical Storage
Pool maintenance requires using chlorine tablets, pH balancers, and algaecides that are just accidents waiting to happen if left around carelessly. Using a ventilated, lockable, upright outdoor storage cabinet to store chemicals safely is a good way to prevent that.
Tip: Invest in a dedicated outdoor cabinet with padlock support and weather-sealed shelves.
Misplaced Pool Cleaning Equipment
Pool cleaning requires poles, brushes, and vacuum heads that people often randomly prop against corners or fences. You could try hanging hooks behind a vertical outdoor cabinet or inside a patio storage box for an organized usage.
Tip: Vertical wall racks or tool clips installed on the inside of a cabinet door will keep each item in a designated hook or slot.
No Dual-Purpose Furniture
There are a variety of multi-functional benches with built-in waterproof storage that do not compromise your pool area. Multi-use benches with hidden compartments are aesthetic and utilitarian.
Tip: Buy deck boxes or benches that match your patio or pool décor, with ample storage.
Material Comparison: Plastic Vs. Resin Vs. Wood for Poolside Storage
While some swear by plastic for its durability, others are open to resin and wood depending on the usage. Here is a comparison of the materials that a pool storage chest is usually made of, so that you can weigh your options before making a purchase.
|
Material |
Durability |
Waterproofing/ UV Resistance |
Best Use |
Pros |
Cons |
|
Plastic |
Moderate |
May leak over time
Low UV resistance unless treated |
Shaded or covered spaces
Best for budget-conscious buyers |
Lightweight Affordable, Easy to clean Low maintenance |
Can warp or crack under prolonged sun exposure |
|
Resin |
High |
Fully waterproof
UV-protected |
Year-round poolside storage
Exposed to weather elements |
Weather-proof Durable Rustproof No maintenance needed |
Slightly more expensive
Bulkier than plastic |
|
Treated Wood |
High |
Moderate and requires sealing
Moderate UV resistance and fades over time |
Aesthetic or design-focused patios with partial coverage |
Visually appealing Blends with furniture Requires high seasonal care |
Requires sealing/ Staining
Vulnerable to rot, termites, and warping |
Key Features Every Poolside Storage Box Should Have
Features like waterproof design, UV protection, and locks are the ones to consider, besides durability and safety in outdoor environments. Here are some key things to consider when shopping for an outdoor storage cabinet.
Waterproof Construction: A true waterproof storage solution is a must for any poolside environment. Given the amount of exposure from sunlight, rain, pool splashes, and high humidity levels that towels, toys, and pool equipment undergo, you must protect them as much as possible.
UV Resistance: Prolonged exposure to UV rays causes plastics to become brittle and fade, especially in uncovered pool decks or patios. Check whether your selected storage is UV-treated or whether the manufacturers explicitly state UV resistance in product specifications.
Proper Ventilation: While a lot of people overlook ventilation, it is crucial to remember that storing damp items like towels, swimsuits, or pool shoes in a closed space will invite mold and unpleasant smells. It would be best to check for louvered vents on the sides or back of the unit, or even slatted or perforated panels on benches or cabinets.
Locking Mechanism: Safety locking always trumps other features, so hazardous things like pool chemicals, sharp cleaning tools, etc., should be under a securely locked cabinet. Always go for designs that have built-in latches, lock hasps, and combo locks.
Durable Hardware: If the hinges rust or the handles snap, you have lost your money right there. Make sure that your hinges, locks, or seals are made of stainless steel, and are powder-coated, or at least made from weather-treated metal components. This also includes reinforced hinges, slow-close lids, and rust-proof screws.
Ergonomic and Practical Design: Any outdoor storage box should be easy to access, such as gas-assisted or soft-close lids that prevent slamming, or those with wider openings for easier access.
Aesthetic Integration: As much as you want something utilitarian, how it looks also matters. Match your patio storage box with the rest of your outdoor furniture. Budget-friendly options like a wood replica, resin finishes, or wicker-style exteriors can add some sophistication.
Capacity Guide
Are you still debating how much storage space you really need? Learn how to pick the perfect size outdoor storage box or deck box, after weighing in on poolside needs. Here’s how to declutter and store smartly.
|
Storage Size |
Capacity (Gallons) |
Best For |
Usage Tip |
|
Small Storage |
30–50 gallons |
· Pool chemicals · Sunscreen · First-aid kits · Cleaning brushes
|
Tuck them away when not in use. |
|
Medium Storage |
70–100 gallons |
· Foldable floats · Rolled towels · Small kids' toys
|
Best for family usage, as it combines size and storage. |
|
Large Storage |
120–200+ gallons |
· Towels for guests · Inflatables · Water games · Pool furniture cushions
|
Useful for pool parties and larger households in the lounge zones. |
Design & Aesthetic Integration
You can consider a range of poolside storage solutions that complement your deck, patio furniture, and backyard aesthetics. Here’s how to make smart, stylish choices that look as good as they function.
-
Match the Deck Furniture: If you have rattan and wicker furniture, then go for deck boxes in a woven texture. Experiment with faux-wood patio storage boxes to match those wooden loungers or hardwood decking. While common, a modern sleek look also blends well with current outdoor cabinets.
-
Accent Piece: Pool storage in bold blues and yellows makes for a pretty sight. Especially when you throw in some matching cushions or umbrellas. Remember to cover them in waterproof slipcovers, though, and transform your benches into a lounge spot.
- Create Zones with Storage Pieces: Place a long patio storage box behind a sofa set or chaise loungers for easy access to towels, toys, etc. Separate the toy storage and chemical storage clearly by placing distinct deck boxes or cabinets in different corners. Some poolside storage benches include planter boxes or space for solar lights, so that you can light them up during your evening entertaining.
Placement and Installation Tips
To make sure that poolside storage lasts longer, here are some expert tips on installation and placement.
Placement Tips
-
Place on Flat surfaces: Place the boxes on a flat, stable surface, as uneven ground can cause warping or make cabinet doors misalign.
-
Evade Splash Zones: Make sure you place your outdoor storage box a few feet away from the pool’s edge, to prevent water damage from all the splashes.
-
Limit Sun Exposure: Despite being water and sun-resistant, resin and UV-protected plastic will degrade faster under harsh direct sunlight, so use shades or partial covers to extend its lifespan.
- Allow for Ventilation: Keep the storage units a little away from walls for better airflow.
Installation Tips
-
Tall Outdoor Cabinets: Due to the height of these cabinets, you will need to secure them with L-brackets against a fence, shed wall, or post, especially if you live in a windy area.
-
Freestanding Units: Since most deck boxes come pre-assembled or require basic snap-together setup, make sure to follow the manual closely, especially lid-fixing and waterproof sealing.
- Benches and Multi-Function Boxes: For multi-purpose storage, check the manufacturer’s weight rating, since not all patio storage boxes are designed to support adult weight.
Maintenance Tips
The best thing about poolside storage is that you hardly need any maintenance. Just follow some of these methods, and you will have a storage box that lasts for a long time.
Plastic: While plastic storage boxes are easy to maintain, a regular monthly wipe down with some mild soap and water will remove accumulating dirt and chlorine residue. Check the surface for any signs of fading or warping, and change the positions. UV exposure can cause the plastic to become brittle, so place it in a shady spot.
Resin: Harder than plastic, resin storage units are extremely durable; however, a hosing down every 2-3 months, while cleaning out the debris from the hinges, seals, and locks will preserve the waterproof and weather-resistant features.
Wood: Wood, especially treated wood, needs utmost care, once every season. Always clean it with a wood-safe outdoor cleaner and only lightly scrub with a soft brush. Reapply sealant or outdoor wood stain to maintain its resistance to mold, mildew, and rot.
Organization Hacks & Safety Tips
Some smart organization and safety tips for your outdoor storage box will save you a world of trouble. So, here’s how to manage your inflatables or dangerous chemicals for a hazard-free time.
Organization Hacks
- If you have a tall outdoor storage cabinet, stick or tack on some wall hooks behind the doors to hang your skimmers, brushes, and even rolls of garbage bags.
- Labeling your bins, or other items inside your patio storage box, prevents misplacement and encourages others to return items properly.
- Inside large deck boxes, divide the zones for toys, towels, and cleaning tools. Opt for mesh crates as they enable damp items to dry faster.
Chemical Storage Safety Tips
- Store cleaning chemicals separately in a lockable outdoor cabinet, to prevent mixing with toys or towels.
- Despite UV resistance, chemical containers can still degrade when exposed to extreme temperatures. So, remember to store the box in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
- To avoid pressure build-ups and spills, leave some space around chemical bottles as overcrowding increases the risk of container damage or accidents.
GARVEE Poolside Storage Solutions
1. Garvee 43"×23"×28" Poolside Float Storage Basket
This poolside storage basket is made from UV/saltwater-resistant materials and has dual storage zones for a clutter-free organization. The locking swivel wheels enable 360° mobility on grass/decks while the 43"x23" capacity holds 15+ pool floats.
2. Garvee 130 Gallon Heavy Duty Outdoor Storage Box
With this capacity, the outdoor storage box can hold 14+ patio cushions or all gardening tools. The thick resin walls block rain, UV rays, and extreme temperatures, while the smooth-lift hydraulic lid can be operated with one hand. The reinforced lid supports 330lbs as a seating or serving surface.
3. Garvee 90 Gallon Outdoor Storage Deck Box with Wheels
The deck storage box holds 10+ patio cushions or garden tools, has smooth-rolling wheels, and a soft-close hinge that stays open for safe, convenient access to stored items.
Choosing the right poolside storage will enhance safety and maximize convenience. When opting for a spacious deck box, a vertical outdoor storage cabinet, etc., consider features like waterproof storage, UV-protected resin, or treated wood. When functionality meets design and weather durability, anything from small pool storage chests to large waterproof outdoor storage boxes can save you a ton of effort. Assess the materials, sizes, placement, and safety features, and transform your cluttered patio into a safe, clean, organized, and welcoming space.
