Expert reveals top ten strategies for efficient shed organisation

Gardens expert Calum Maddock has shared essential tips for creating a well-organised shed space that maximises safety and convenience.

The HomeHow.co.uk specialist emphasises that proper organisation allows for quick access to tools while reducing potential hazards.

A sturdy workbench is identified as the foundation of a functional shed, with Maddock recommending it be securely attached to the wall structure rather than the panelling.

“For many people, a shed is somewhere to do DIY or gardening chores such as potting plants. So, a bench at a good height is important,” Maddock said.

Shelving systems represent another crucial element, with the expert advising owners to attach shelves to the structural supports rather than directly to shed walls.

“It’s important to attach the shelves to the supports of your shed and not the walls which won’t be strong enough to hold much weight,” he said.

Garden tool storage solutions feature prominently in the recommendations, with safety considerations highlighted alongside organisational benefits.

The expert suggests that overhead storage spaces are frequently underutilised despite offering significant potential for storing lightweight but bulky items.

Pegboards are recommended for smaller hand tools, providing flexibility for rearrangement as collections grow or change.

“If your shed tends to get damp, a metal pegboard may be better than a wooden one. They also tend to last longer,” Maddock said.

For tiny components such as screws and drill bits, clear plastic containers with appropriate labelling are suggested as the optimal storage solution.

Proper labelling features as a standalone recommendation, with the expert noting that without it, “if you have to rummage through boxes because you’ve forgotten what you’ve put inside, it defeats the purpose.”

Grouping similar items together is advised to enhance efficiency when locating tools and materials.

Magnetic strips installed above workbenches are suggested for holding smaller metal tools such as tape measures, scissors and spanners.

For heavier items like soil bags or machinery, Maddock recommends wheeled solutions, either through purchased trolleys or DIY platforms created from wood and castors.

“If you’re going to be moving this item around a lot, consider adding a lip of additional timber around the edges to stop it sliding off as you move it,” he said.