The best wheelie bin storage for your garden

Wheelie bin storage solutions can help organise and improve the appearance of household waste containers. Everyone can agree that wheelie bins are not the most attractive feature of the front or back garden. Of course, they are a fundamental part of every household, but when you are making your front and back garden look lovely, why not go all the way and store your bins in a storage unit? After all, smart garden storage ideas help keep your garden in order. We've rounded up the best wheelie bin storage for you.

Best wheelie bin storage at a glance

• Editor's pick: Rowlinson Double Bin Store in Natural Timber – View on Amazon UK
• Best triple wheelie bin storage: Arbor Garden Solutions Triple Bin Store – View on Amazon UK
• Best plastic wheelie bin storage: Keter Midi Store It Out Pro – View on Amazon UK

Wheelie bin storage units are specifically designed to tuck your recycling bins away neatly and securely. There's a whole range of trendy options available. Whether you would prefer wood-style storage or something more modern such as a rattan design, we've put together a list of the best one, two and three-component bin storage to suit all styles and sizes of households.

There are also some storage units that can multi-task, doubling up as log storage or a handy shed space for storing gardening tools for a spot of weeding. So, if you're on the hunt for a simple solution to storing your bins or bargain hunting for the best budget wheelie bin storage ideas, then read on and see our favourites on the market.

Best wheelie bin storage units

FAQs

What do you look for when shopping for wheelie bin storage?

Well, firstly, you need to be clued up about the material - and if it will last. We've included one plastic storage box for your wheelie bins. However, Modern Gardens contributor Geoff Hodge says: "most stores are made from timber, which has a rustic charm, looks smart and fits in with cottage garden and traditional garden styles."

With wood being the main component of the majority of our list, it's important to look after your bin storage. Hopefully, your wood will come pressure-treated. Just in case it's a semi-permanent treatment, Geoff suggests adding another layer yourself - and then topping it up every few years. You could even paint it a colour to suit your garden.

There are a few more fancy features of wheelie bin storage that will make your lives easier. Geoff mentions the "ease of access" with the "top lid for putting rubbish in, and front doors to remove the bins on bin day." This works a treat if everything fits. Plus, some storage has sloped or rounded roofs to ensure "better shedding of rainwater."

Not to mention the most convenient feature: the chain bin opening. Essentially, this feature is a metal chain attached to both the store lid and bin lid. This makes sure your bin lid opens when you lift the storage lid. How cool is that? One, easy movement. It'll make filling the bin much easier as it's a "single, one-handed operation", says Geoff. Plus, some stores are lockable - a great advantage "if you're concerned about them disappearing overnight."

Some great advice from Geoff: "Always check the store dimensions to suit the size of your bin: most bins are 240L."

How do you treat wood?

You can treat wood with one of five items:

Wood Oil - penetrates deep into the wood grain, nourishing and sealing the timber. This helps to prevent drying, warping and splitting, Oils are tough, durable and good for waterproofing. They are best applied in thin and even coats with a brush or cloth, allowing them to absorb and dry before re-applying. Perfect for decking and furniture.

Wood Stain or Dye - is a great way to assure protection from the weather - and adds a rich colour, too. It offers great coverage, and long-lasting durability and enhances the natural wood grain. Plus, it's resistant to cracking, blistering and peeling. Re-coat every two to three years. Non-slip finishes are perfect for decking.

Wood Preserver - provides waterproofing, as well as protection against rot and decay. Resistant to mould, algae growth and woodworm, the wood preserver is also packed with UV protection. This kind of treatment penetrates the timber from within and should be applied liberally with a burhs. This makes a great choice for beds, fencing and sheds.

Wood Varnish - is ideal for woodwork, providing high-performance protection against UV light and water penetration. This makes a great top-up for previously-treated wood. It resissts cracking, peelingand blistering. Some formulas will offer year-round protection and different finishes, too. Varnish requires a sanded surface for smooth application.

Wood Paint - is the fastest (and easiest) way to transform your timber. It offers protection against fading, peeling and weather-related wear. Plus, it provides a rich, pigmented colour - and is ideal for old furniture, fence panels, trellis and more. It's best applied with a brush, pump or paint sprayer. Wickes recommends applying two or three even coats.

How do I build my own wheelie bin storage unit?

If you choose to buy wheelie bin storage, they will usually come in parts ready to assemble yourself. Building it yourself is the easiest and cheapest route if you feel up to it and have got the tools necessary.

Each individual storage unit will come with a manual instructing you on how to build the unit. However, If you need additional clarification, be sure to contact the manufacturer directly. It is good to note that most units will require a screwdriver to put the parts together, and electric screwdrivers usually work best.

See the video below for full instructions of how you can make a D.I.Y storage unit.

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Ellen Kinsey is a senior health and wellness product writer for Modern Gardens, specialising in sustainable living and health. She lives and breathes all things natural health, cooking and nature.