The 9 Best Deck Boxes to Organize Your Space With Style

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A great deck box can take your outdoor space from cluttered to clean in no time.

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Real Simple / Marcus Millán

An outdoor patio or deck can easily extend your living space. But without a plan for good organization, your patio area can start to look cluttered. A good deck box keeps your belongings—throw blankets, seat cushions, pool floats, you name it—tidy.

The best options have plenty of storage and look good in your space, says Meaghan Kessman, professional organizer and founder of Meaghan Kessman Home Organization. They should also be durable and weather-resistant. Some can even serve as extra seating for your next backyard get-together.

To find the best deck boxes for your outdoor essentials, we spent hours researching a number of options, while evaluating dimensions, capacity, aesthetics, and material durability. Plus, we also asked Kessman for the expert scoop on what to look for when shopping for a great deck box.

It resembles wood with its durable resin exterior, and it locks.

Water pools at the top, so make sure to wipe it before opening the lid or the water can spill in.

This option from Keter Brightwood earned our overall best deck box spot. Its 120-gallon capacity allows you to store a large amount of items, including pool toys, workout equipment, gardening supplies, or everything you need to wash your car. It can even double as extra seating, because the lockable lid has an impressive weight capacity of 804 pounds. Thanks to hydraulic pistons, it opens easily and closes softly, taking a strain off lifting while keeping fingers safe from getting pinched.

This deck box comes in two colors, and both offer a weathered wood aesthetic. Unlike actual wood, though, it will never rot or require protective coatings. The weather- and UV-resistant resin also won’t rust, peel, or fade. You do have to assemble this one yourself, but we think doing so is quick and easy.

Dimensions: 27.5 by 57 by 23.7 inches | Material: Resin | Capacity: 120 gallons

It’s a great size for smaller patios, and its durable materials make it an ideal value for the price. Also, it’s easy to assemble—no tools required.

It has a smaller capacity than some.

Even though this deck box is less expensive than most on our list, it’s still in line with the high quality expected of Keter’s storage solutions. The 50-gallon capacity is smaller than our other favorites, but spacious enough for patio furniture cushions, yard games, and more. The box comes ready to assemble in under 20 minutes, with no tools required.

Like our Best Overall pick, this deck box uses resin, meaning this durable, weather-resistant material can be left outside, rain or shine, without fear that it will rust, peel, fade, or dent. The locking lid doubles as bench seating and can hold up to 350 pounds. All in all, this is a sleek and modern-looking box with a resemblance to wood without the upkeep.

Dimensions: 18 by 22.7 by 32.4 inches | Material: Resin | Capacity: 50 gallons

Built-in handles make this deck box easy to move, and a controlled spring hinge allows for easy opening and closing.

Though lockable, the box doesn’t come with its own lock, so you’ll have to purchase one separately.

Lifetime’s deck boxes are known for their near indestructibility, and this box is no exception. Its strong, UV-protected, and weather-resistant plastic keeps whatever you store safe, clean, and dry. The lid also locks, keeping out small hands or critters who may be curious to get inside. The lock is not included, though, so remember to add one to your cart if that’s important to you. When it’s not locked, a controlled spring hinge gives you effortless opening and closing.

This deck box is also easy to transport, thanks to its molded side handles that allow you to grab and move the box from your garage to your patio. Once on your patio, it’s strong and durable enough to double as a bench.

Dimensions: 26.7 by 50.75 by 25.4 inches | Material: Plastic | Capacity: 116 gallons

The box can be assembled in 10 minutes without tools, and it promises protection from UV exposure for more than 1,000 hours.

Pieces should slide into place when assembled, but you may have difficulty building the box by yourself.

The East Oak Outdoor Storage Box is compact, but it’s still large enough to store all of your garden tools and pool toys. It’s sturdy enough to function as a bench or side table, thanks to its 170-pound load capacity. It can even be tucked out of the way behind gazebos and other structures for convenient storing.

Though petite, the material is mighty. Its upgraded resin material can tolerate UV exposure for over 1,000 hours; plus, it’s waterproof and fade-resistant. In fact, it’s comparable to metal in terms of its strength and how well it can stand up to the elements. (But unlike metal, resin is much more lightweight and easier to move.) This box also costs far less than metal deck boxes with its $36 price tag, and it comes with a 3-year warranty, just in case.

Dimensions: 21 by 22 by 17 inches | Material: Resin | Capacity: 31 gallons

The box is meant to be put outside, but it can also be placed indoors—it comes with padding under the trunk to help protect your floors.

The material can’t handle harsh cleaners or abrasives, so Pottery Barn recommends wiping up spots quickly with a damp cloth.

With a 60-inch width and a 30-inch height, this deck box from Pottery Barn is big enough to protect and store just about anything you need, keeping families’ outdoor gear, cushions, and toys all within reach. With a rustproof aluminum frame wrapped in all-weather wicker, this model is strong and durable, too. It’s also resistant to sun, rain, and heat.

And if you’re looking for an aesthetically pleasing deck box that won’t look like an eyesore in your outdoor space, this one may be your best bet. The deck box is handcrafted with simple, clean lines, and the wicker adds texture to any space. The material is also hand painted and has a powder-coated espresso finish. To protect the beauty of this box all year round, you might want to consider protecting it with an outdoor cover, though you’ll have to purchase one separately.

Dimensions: 60 by 28 by 30 inches | Material: Wicker | Capacity: Not listed

The sustainably-sourced wood material is sealed and moisture resistant.

You'll still need a protective covering during extreme weather to prevent the wood from changing color.

Another beautiful deck box option is the Portside Outdoor Storage Trunk from West Elm. This deck box is made with moisture-resistant mahogany and solid eucalyptus wood treated with oils and then sealed with a protective topcoat. The surface of the box is also wire brushed to create a weathered look, which adds to the overall aesthetic of the piece. Plus, the wood is FSC®-certified, meaning it comes from responsibly managed forests, making it sustainably sourced.

Though the wood is moisture resistant, extreme weather can affect the wood’s color and contribute to the natural wear and tear of the piece. When it’s not in use, the deck box should be stored or covered to protect it. West Elm has a Portside Outdoor Storage Trunk Protective Cover that you can purchase separately for some extra peace of mind.

Dimensions: 47 by 23.5 by 18.25 inches | Material: Wood | Capacity: Not listed

Its simple design, size, and shape make it a versatile piece that works with many outdoor home decor styles.

The item isn’t sold in stores, so picking it up in person is not an option.

With its durable metal construction, this deck box is waterproof and can withstand heavy rain and other inclement weather. It’s so durable, in fact, that it can also function as a toolbox and keep heavy-duty equipment protected. To keep unwanted hands out, the lid has a lock for easy securing. And with a hydraulic rod design, you can prevent little hands from getting pinched, too.

The deck box can serve as an extra table while entertaining, because it can easily hold plates, beverages, or a board game or two during a barbecue. This box is an attractive option for an outdoor space, and the metal is designed to mimic the style and texture of wood.

Dimensions: 28.5 by 30.8 by 51.7 inches | Material: Metal | Capacity: 164 gallons

This deck box is specifically made to dually function as a seat, with multiple size options.

Lid hinges may break with normal wear and tear.

This Rubbermaid deck box is available in four different sizes, so you can choose the one that best fits your outdoor space and storage needs. With its double-walled construction and heavy-duty resin, whatever you store will be protected without the exterior rusting or fading in color. It’s also weather-resistant and leak-resistant, so you can feel confident that it will withstand the elements while being outdoors all day, every day.

The standout feature of this deck box is that it has a built-in seat. Although other deck boxes are able to double as a bench, this one was specifically made to be used as both, which is great on those occasions when you need extra seating. The resin is also shaped to conform to the body, so the seat is comfortable, too. Last, but not least, it’s lockable so that you can secure your belongings once you store them away. Keep in mind that the lock must be purchased separately.

Dimensions: 56 by 26 by 25 inches | Material: Resin | Capacity: 19, 73, 90, and 120 gallons

This deck box is for more than just storage—it doubles as a workspace for food prep when grilling.

Although the cabinet space is large, it could use an extra shelf.

A multifunctional piece of furniture is always a good idea, especially when it comes to outdoor patios with limited space. That’s where the Suncast Patio Storage and Prep Station comes in. If you love to host and entertain outdoors, you’ll have both storage and a space for food preparation.

Its lower cabinet space has plenty of room for pots and pans, and there is an adjustable shelf to ensure that your cookware fits. It even comes with utensil hooks to keep grilling accessories organized, plus a bottle opener that’s sure to come in handy on hot pool days.

Made from durable resin, this deck box is easy to clean and can withstand snow and rain, and it’s made to be water- and UV-resistant, too. The deck box is mobile, with four rolling casters (two of which lock in place if needed for added stability).

Dimensions: 31.75 by 19.5 by 44.25 inches | Material: Resin | Capacity: 47 gallons

For our overall best deck box, we recommend the Keter Brightwood 120 Gallon Weatherproof Backyard Deck Box for all of your outdoor storage needs. It locks, resembles wood with a durable resin exterior, and has a generous 120-gallon capacity. For a budget-friendly alternative, we like the Kentwood 50 Gallon Deck Box. Though it’s less than half the capacity, it’s also about half the price of our Best Overall pick. It’s perfect for those who don’t need that much space or don’t want to commit to an expensive deck box.

When shopping for the best deck box for you, Kessman suggests that you start by measuring your space to help you get an idea of how big or small your box should be. Kessman also suggests making a list of what you would like to store in your deck box. Doing so can help you figure out if you need a deep-set box or if a smaller, more petite one will do.

Then, find a piece that gives you the best of both worlds, aligning with what you can fit in your space and what you need to store. One tip from Kessman is to look for pieces with adjustable compartments to fit everything perfectly.

Along with choosing the perfect style for your deck box, be thoughtful about your choice of material. After all, the whole point of the box is to protect the items concealed inside. Also, check if the deck box has UV protection, rust resistance, and waterproof features. These factors will all contribute to the longevity of your deck box and the items inside of it. Kessman advises selecting materials such as resin (a durable plastic), wood, and metal.

All of our picks come with pros and cons, depending on the type of weather exposure in your area. Resin can combat rain, snow, and sleet well, and keep out moisture. It is less likely than regular plastic to fade from sun exposure over time, plus it can be shaped to simulate other materials like wicker, giving the piece a more stylish look.

Alternatively, wood and metal are very hardy materials. That said, unless they’re treated properly, they will eventually rot, splinter, rust, or degrade over time. If you choose a deck box with these materials, keep in mind that they need extra protection from the elements.

While you can use your deck box to store just about anything, there are some items that are more appropriate than others, depending on what you do on your deck. You should ask yourself which items you plan to use around the deck and patio area.

For example, if you garden near the deck, you can store gardening equipment—such as seeds or fertilizer—so supplies will be nearby. “Think about what you need to store, and choose furniture with the right compartments or features,” Kessman says.

The sky’s the limit, but according to Kessman, deck boxes are great for outdoor cushions, gardening tools, pool accessories, and toys. If you have a deck box that feels more like a bench, you can treat it as a storage ottoman, and use it to hide throw blankets, pillows, and candles to spice up your evening ambiance when enjoying your outdoor space. At the end of the day, whatever you don’t want to look at in your backyard is worth storing in a deck box.

Yes, if it’s high quality and weather-resistant. “For extra protection,” Kessman suggests, “use covers or move them to sheltered areas during extreme weather.”

Deck boxes should hold up in winter, whatever the material, be it resin, treated wood, or metal. But if your winters tend to get icy, consider a deck box cover as added protection from moisture.

Also, plan on removing and relocating temperature-sensitive and perishable items, such as bird seed, that can become moldy if exposed to the elements for too long.

One of the features of a good deck box is that it will keep your items protected from rain. When shopping, take each box’s material into consideration. Resin—a type of super-strong but lightweight plastic—is a favorite because of its water-resistant properties. If you opt for wood or metal, they should be treated and sealed to prevent softening, corrosion, rusting, and splintering.

This article was written by Michelle Mastro, a contributing writer at Real Simple with over 10 years of experience writing about home and lifestyle topics. To compile this list of the best deck boxes, she researched different options and considered things like dimensions, capacity, aesthetics, and material. She also spoke to Meaghan Kessman, professional organizer and founder of Meaghan Kessman Home Organization, for expert insight on what to look for when shopping for a great deck box.