IKEA's Versatile Outdoor Storage Find That Can Replace Bulky Bins

Outdoor storage prevents our yards, patios, and other exterior spaces from becoming cluttered, but often the solution is a bulky bin. While this works for some, those living with limited outdoor square footage might prefer a slimmer alternative. Rather than trying to cram in a large bin that takes up half of your balcony, small patio, or petite deck, IKEA has an outdoor storage solution that could tackle your porch or patio clutter while saving space. IKEA's GRILLSKÄR is a metal island table with lower shelves and a slim back panel with an attached crossbar. It's made mostly of galvanized steel with a polyester powder coating, and the top panel is made of stainless steel. IKEA notes the composition makes this grill a good fit for the outdoors as it is rust-resistant. That combination of durability and a narrow footprint makes it an appealing alternative to oversized bins.

The GRILLSKÄR is 69.25 inches tall, 24 inches wide, and 33.875 inches in length. So, it's a fairly compact unit with enough storage shelving to pack away your outdoor items. The back panel of the unit functions like a pegboard, and it comes with three plastic containers and two hooks for even more organization. However, while this slim storage item could be ideal for small outdoor areas, it isn't ideal for larger items. While the lower shelves can store smaller totes that are less than 30.5 inches by 13.75 inches, larger things won't fit.

Whether you want to DIY a garden storage space without a shed or spruce up an outdoor kitchen area, this slim unit could be a great way to manage loose outdoor materials. For example, swap bulky cabinets or storage bins in your outdoor cooking area. You can use the GRILLSKÄR to organize cooking essentials. Stow bulky things like larger outdoor pots, wire grates, charcoal, or other grilling items on the lower shelves. On the back panel, place cooking tools or grill cleaning brushes. Just keep in mind that anything stored on top of the GRILLSKÄR and exposed to the elements could become damaged. To better protect outdoor equipment, you may need to keep the GRILLSKÄR under cover or keep items stashed in smaller totes.

Other ways you can use the GRILLSKÄR in your backyard could include using the shelves to stash totes with outdoor cushions, small pillows, blankets, or rugs when not in use. Those who like to spontaneously entertain could also store hosting equipment and use the tabletop for serving. If you want a more aesthetic use for the GRILLSKÄR, you could try some beautiful outdoor storage ideas you'll wish you thought of sooner, like using it as a gardening table for potting or propagating plants. Its open shelving and hanging storage make it well suited for potting plants, organizing gardening tools, or creating a compact propagation area. Or, those living in a small space could use it as a tool bench for pegboard-style storage in a garage, shed, or under an exterior awning.