Ditch The Shed: IKEA Has A Rustic Solution For Instant Outdoor Storage

Sheds are storage powerhouses, but sometimes they fall flat. Whether yours is in a state of disrepair that has you dreading using it or you simply don't own a shed at all, you might be looking for another storage solution for your outdoor essentials. IKEA's RUNMARÖ shelf unit could be a good option for those who are short on room in their yard or in need of a new favorite IKEA find for patio storage.

Retailing for $99.99, the RUNMARÖ is a sturdy looking piece of furniture with a fairly affordable price tag. It is made from plastic that is touted for its durability in outdoor settings. The unit's measurements are 15 ¾ inches deep, 71 ⅝ inches tall, and 35 ⅜ inches wide, with a maximum load per shelf of 40 pounds. With five shelving surfaces, that's a decent amount of weight capacity overall. When the unit gets dirty — as it will from time to time — it can easily be cleaned with a damp cloth, keeping maintenance simple.

Customers have given the piece a 4.6-star average based on around 17 reviews. The piece received the highest marks for its ease of assembly and performance. One five-star review on IKEA's website states, "Was better than I expected. [I] am using [it] to put some plants on outside. Would be good to have ridges at [the] back so [you] can't accidentally push something off a shelf. So far [it] seems solid and [I] haven't had any issues. Hoping to get another one soon."

If the RUNMARÖ is going to serve as your outdoor storage on the patio or another exterior location, it will be important to outfit it with the right bins or containers to enhance its performance. Items that need to be protected from moisture should go placed in sealing bins. The SAMLA line of boxes is a good option for the RUNMARÖ; they are completely clear, making it simple to see what you have stowed at a glance. Make your life easier by storing items according to purpose; gardening supplies, for example, could be kept in one bin, while grilling supplies can live in another. Remember that only items that can handle being stored outside for months on end should have a home on the RUNMARÖ; otherwise, consider putting them in your garage, or (at a minimum) acquiring some truly weather-tight boxes to add to the unit's shelves. Larger or bulky outdoor essentials can be stored in a stylish deck box available on Amazon.

Other loose or easily misplaced items should go in open bins or wooden crates, the latter being able to elevate the appearance of the RUNMARÖ. If you're wanting to shield the unit from being constantly bombarded by rain and direct sunlight, consider tucking the shelf under your home's eaves in the corner of your patio. If you love the idea of the RUNMARÖ but are looking for something with a slightly different appearance, IKEA's budget-friendly outdoor storage solution — the HYLLIS shelf unit — can replace bulky bins.