Swimming pools bring endless summer fun but they also create a storage nightmare. We’ve all faced the challenge of organizing pool noodles floats cleaning supplies and maintenance equipment that seems to multiply every season. Without proper storage answers your backyard quickly transforms from a relaxing oasis into a cluttered mess.
The good news? You don’t need to spend hundreds on expensive storage systems. We’ve discovered brilliant DIY pool storage ideas that’ll keep your pool area organized stylish and functional. These creative answers use everyday materials and basic tools to create custom storage that perfectly fits your space and budget.
Whether you’re dealing with a small patio pool or a sprawling backyard paradise these DIY projects will revolutionize how you store pool essentials. From floating organizers to weatherproof storage benches we’ll show you how to maximize every inch of space around your pool area.
Create Poolside Storage Benches With Hidden Compartments
Storage benches transform your pool area into an organized oasis while providing extra seating for guests. These versatile pieces hide pool supplies beneath comfortable surfaces that seamlessly blend with your outdoor decor.
Build a Simple Wooden Storage Bench
Cedar wood offers the perfect foundation for creating a durable poolside storage bench that withstands moisture and sun exposure. Start by cutting four pieces of 2×4 cedar lumber to 48 inches for the frame base and four pieces to 16 inches for the legs. Assemble the rectangular frame using wood screws and attach the legs at each corner for stability.
Cut a piece of ¾-inch cedar plywood to 48×18 inches for the top lid and another piece to 46×16 inches for the bottom shelf. Sand all surfaces smooth before applying two coats of marine-grade wood sealer to protect against pool chemicals and weather damage. Install heavy-duty hinges on the back edge of the lid to create easy access to the storage compartment below.
Add a safety chain or soft-close hinges to prevent the lid from slamming shut and potentially injuring fingers. This simple design provides approximately 6 cubic feet of storage space for pool noodles, cleaning supplies, and maintenance tools.
Design a Waterproof Cushioned Bench
Vinyl upholstery creates a comfortable seating surface while maintaining complete water resistance for poolside environments. Select marine-grade vinyl fabric in colors that complement your outdoor furniture and cut it 4 inches larger than your bench dimensions on all sides. Use high-density foam padding that’s specifically rated for outdoor use to ensure it won’t absorb moisture or develop mold.
Secure the foam to the bench top using marine-grade adhesive spray and wrap the entire surface with batting for a smooth finish. Staple the vinyl fabric to the underside of the bench lid, pulling it taut and creating neat hospital corners at each edge. Apply a bead of silicone sealant around the rim where the cushioned lid meets the bench base to create a watertight seal.
Install rubber gaskets around the interior edge of the storage compartment to prevent water infiltration during heavy rains. This waterproof design keeps stored items completely dry while providing a comfortable place to sit and put on swim gear.
Add Wheels for Easy Mobility
Swivel casters transform your storage bench into a mobile organizer that moves wherever you need extra seating or storage access. Choose heavy-duty outdoor casters rated for at least 100 pounds per wheel to support the weight of the bench plus stored items. Install locking wheels on two corners to prevent unwanted rolling when the bench is positioned.
Mount the casters to reinforcement blocks made from 2×4 lumber rather than directly to the thin bottom panel for maximum stability. Pre-drill holes to prevent wood splitting and use carriage bolts with washers and nuts for secure attachment. Position the wheels slightly inward from each corner to maintain the bench’s visual proportions.
Test the mobility by loading the bench with typical pool supplies like chemicals, brushes, and towels to ensure smooth rolling across different surfaces. Wheeled storage benches make it easy to follow the sun around your pool area or quickly clear space for pool parties and maintenance activities.
Transform Pool Noodles Into Organized Storage Solutions
Beyond traditional storage benches, we can repurpose pool noodles themselves into clever organizational systems that maximize space while protecting our pool equipment.
Create a Pool Noodle Storage Rack
Pool noodles make excellent cushioned holders for pool poles, cleaning equipment, and long accessories. We recommend cutting pool noodles lengthwise and attaching them to a wall or frame to create soft, secure slots where we can slide pool accessories and keep them organized off the ground. This method protects items from damage while decluttering our pool area at minimal cost.
Wooden pallets combined with pool noodles create even more versatile storage racks. We can tuck noodles between pallet slats or mount them vertically with hooks and baskets for smaller items like goggles, toys, and towels. This approach transforms unused wall space into functional storage that’s both weatherproof and easily accessible.
Build a Floating Toy Organizer
Floating organizers solve the common problem of scattered pool toys by keeping them contained and accessible. We create these by linking pool noodles together to form a floating frame or caddy that takes advantage of their natural buoyancy. Adding mesh containers or small baskets inside the noodle frame holds toys while keeping them off the pool floor.
Strategic placement of these floating organizers minimizes pool clutter throughout swimming sessions. We position them in shallow areas or corners where they won’t interfere with swimming but remain easily reachable for both children and adults.
Design a Pool Noodle Caddy System
Comprehensive caddy systems combine multiple storage functions into one organized unit. We design these all-in-one answers with noodle holders, bins for smaller items like sunscreen and goggles, and hooks for towels or swimsuits. Incorporating PVC pipes alongside pool noodles creates a sturdy, weather-resistant frame that organizes various pool necessities in one convenient spot.
Customization options allow us to adapt caddy systems to our exact storage needs. We can add wheels for mobility, adjust heights for different users, and include specialized compartments for cleaning supplies or maintenance tools. This flexibility ensures our storage solution grows with our poolside requirements while maintaining a tidy, organized appearance.
Build Custom Pool Equipment Storage Sheds
While smaller storage answers work well for toys and accessories, pool equipment like pumps, filters, and chemical supplies requires more substantial protection. We’ll explore several DIY shed designs that keep your equipment organized and weatherproofed.
Construct a Compact Lean-To Shed
Building a lean-to shed against your existing fence or home maximizes space efficiency while providing dedicated storage. We recommend using pressure-treated lumber for the frame and weather-resistant siding to ensure longevity in outdoor conditions.
Start by measuring the area where you’ll attach the shed to your existing structure. Create a simple frame using 2×4 lumber, ensuring proper ventilation for equipment that generates heat. Add a slanted roof to direct water runoff away from your storage area.
Install adjustable shelving inside to accommodate different equipment sizes. We suggest dedicating exact areas for pool chemicals, cleaning tools, and electrical components like pumps or heaters. This organization system keeps everything accessible while maintaining safety protocols for chemical storage.
Design a Weather-Resistant Storage Cabinet
Weather-resistant cabinets offer versatility for organizing various pool supplies while protecting them from harsh outdoor elements. PVC construction provides the best combination of durability and affordability, resisting rust and heat damage that affects metal alternatives.
Build your cabinet using marine-grade plywood or PVC boards for maximum weather resistance. We recommend creating multiple compartments with adjustable shelves to accommodate pool floats, noodles, goggles, and maintenance supplies. Install piano hinges and weatherstripping around doors to create watertight seals.
Add interior hooks and hanging baskets to maximize vertical storage space. Consider installing small battery-powered LED lights inside each compartment for easy access during evening maintenance tasks. Secure the cabinet to your deck or patio to prevent wind damage during storms.
Create a Multi-Level Equipment Organizer
Vertical storage systems maximize your available space while keeping equipment easily accessible and well-organized. Wooden pallets provide an excellent foundation for building multi-level organizers at minimal cost.
Mount pallets vertically against a fence or wall, creating natural slots perfect for storing pool noodles, skimmers, and vacuum poles. We suggest treating the wood with marine-grade sealant to prevent rot and insect damage. Add eye hooks with string connections between pallets to create adjustable hanging zones.
Attach plastic storage baskets at different levels using zip ties or mounting brackets. Position frequently used items like test strips and pool chemicals at eye level for easy access. Install larger bins at the bottom level for storing bulky items like pool covers and inflatable toys.
Customize your organizer by adding specialized holders for exact equipment. Create dedicated slots for pool brushes, leaf rakes, and telescoping poles to prevent tangling and damage during storage.
Repurpose Household Items for Pool Storage
We’ll explore creative ways to transform everyday household items into functional pool storage answers. These budget-friendly approaches help us maximize our poolside organization while giving new life to items we already own.
Convert Plastic Bins Into Pool Toy Containers
Clear plastic storage bins offer us an affordable solution for organizing pool toys and accessories. We can easily sort items like goggles, small floats, and pool noodles by using different colored bins for each category. Labeling each container helps family members quickly find what they need and return items to their proper place.
Stacking these bins creates a compact storage system that fits neatly near our pool area. We recommend drilling small drainage holes in the bottom to prevent water accumulation after wet toys are stored. Adding wheels to larger bins transforms them into portable storage that we can move around our deck as needed.
Transform Old Dressers Into Poolside Storage
Old dressers become valuable poolside storage units when we give them a weatherproof makeover. Sanding the surface and applying outdoor waterproof paint protects the wood from moisture and extends its lifespan. We can choose colors that complement our pool deck for a cohesive look.
Each drawer provides dedicated space for different pool supplies like towels, sunscreen, goggles, and smaller toys. Positioning the dresser strategically near our pool creates an organized station where everything stays protected but easily accessible. This upcycling approach saves furniture from landfills while solving our storage challenges.
Upcycle Wooden Crates for Pool Accessories
Wooden crates work perfectly for storing larger pool items like floats, noodles, and towels when arranged in creative configurations. We can stack them vertically or mount them on walls to create custom storage that fits our available space. Applying weatherproof sealer ensures these crates withstand outdoor conditions.
Painting the crates in bright, summery colors adds a decorative element while serving practical storage needs. Elevating items off the ground promotes faster drying and reduces poolside clutter. We can customize the arrangement by mixing different sized crates to accommodate various pool accessories efficiently.
Install Vertical Wall Storage Systems
Vertical wall storage transforms unused wall space into organized storage zones while keeping pool accessories easily accessible. We’ll explore three effective approaches that maximize your poolside storage capacity without consuming valuable ground space.
Mount Pegboard Organizers for Pool Tools
Pegboard organizers offer versatile storage answers for pool maintenance equipment like telescoping poles, brushes, and skimming nets. We recommend mounting a 4×4 foot pegboard section on your pool house wall or fence to create a dedicated tool station. Adjustable hooks and brackets allow you to customize the layout based on your exact equipment needs.
Position your pegboard at eye level for easy access to frequently used items like pool testing kits and cleaning supplies. Metal pegboard hooks work best for heavier tools, while plastic hooks handle lighter accessories such as pool thermometers and small brushes. Consider adding small bins to the pegboard for storing pool chemicals, test strips, and maintenance supplies in labeled containers.
Weather resistance becomes crucial for outdoor pegboard installations, so we suggest using marine grade plywood or treated lumber as your backing material. Seal all wood surfaces with outdoor polyurethane to prevent moisture damage and ensure your storage system lasts multiple seasons.
Create Hanging Basket Storage Answers
Hanging baskets provide contained storage for smaller pool accessories while protecting items from ground moisture and dirt accumulation. Wire baskets with weather resistant coatings work exceptionally well for storing swim goggles, pool toys, and water games that need quick access.
Install basket mounting brackets directly into fence posts or pool house walls using galvanized screws for maximum security. We recommend placing baskets at different heights to accommodate various family members and create visual interest along your pool area perimeter. Drainage holes in basket bottoms prevent water accumulation that could damage stored items.
Labeling your baskets helps maintain organization and ensures everyone knows where items belong after pool sessions. Use waterproof labels or laminated tags that can withstand pool splash and weather exposure. Consider grouping similar items together, such as dedicating one basket for diving toys and another for floating accessories.
Build Ladder Style Towel and Toy Racks
Ladder style racks provide multiple horizontal storage levels for towels, swimwear, and larger pool toys while allowing proper air circulation for drying. PVC pipe construction offers rust proof durability and easy customization to fit your exact space requirements and storage needs.
Design your ladder rack with 4 to 6 rungs spaced 12 inches apart to accommodate folded towels and hanging swim gear. We suggest using 1.5 inch diameter PVC pipes for the frame and 1 inch pipes for the rungs to ensure adequate weight capacity. Angled feet at the base provide stability on pool decking while preventing the rack from sliding during use.
Assembly requires basic PVC fittings including T joints, elbow connectors, and straight couplers that create a sturdy freestanding structure. Prime and cement all joints according to manufacturer instructions to ensure permanent connections that won’t separate under load. Consider adding wheels to the base for easy repositioning around your pool area as needed.
Customize your rack height based on available space and storage requirements, with taller racks accommodating beach towels and shorter versions working well for children’s swim gear. Sand all cut edges smooth to prevent fabric snags and apply UV resistant spray paint if desired for enhanced weather protection.
Design Floating Pool Storage Options
Floating storage answers take pool organization to the next level by keeping essential items accessible right on the water’s surface. We can transform ordinary materials into buoyant storage systems that eliminate constant trips to poolside storage areas.
Create a Floating Pool Bar With Storage
Building a floating pool bar creates the ultimate poolside entertainment hub while providing hidden storage compartments. We start by constructing a waterproof platform using treated marine-grade plywood or high-density polyethylene foam boards for maximum buoyancy. Sealed compartments underneath the bar surface store drinks, towels, and pool accessories in waterproof containers.
Adding insulated bins keeps beverages cold for hours while built-in cup holders prevent spills during pool activities. We recommend installing drainage plugs in each compartment to remove any water that might seep in over time. Rope handles on the sides make it easy to maneuver the floating bar around the pool as needed.
Safety features like rounded edges and non-slip surfaces ensure the bar remains stable even when multiple people are using it simultaneously. Pool noodles attached underneath provide additional flotation support while creating a softer surface for swimmers who might bump into the structure.
Build Waterproof Floating Containers
Creating waterproof floating containers involves using sealed plastic bins with airtight lids that protect contents from pool water splashes. We select containers with thick walls and secure locking mechanisms to prevent water infiltration during regular use. Clear bins work best because they allow us to quickly identify stored items like goggles, sunscreen, and small pool toys.
Adding foam padding or pool noodles to the container’s exterior creates buoyancy and prevents the container from sinking if accidentally dropped. We drill small holes near the top and thread rope through them to create secure handles for easy retrieval from the water.
Multiple containers can be tethered together using marine-grade rope to create a floating storage train that moves as one unit. This system works particularly well for families with children who need quick access to various pool toys and safety equipment throughout their swimming sessions.
Create Pool Side Floating Organizers
Pool side floating organizers combine multiple storage functions into one comprehensive system that stays within arm’s reach of swimmers. We build these organizers using PVC pipe frames that hold pool noodles, floats, and smaller accessories in designated sections. The modular design allows us to customize the organizer based on exact storage needs.
Plastic baskets attached to the PVC frame create compartments for toys, goggles, and pool maintenance supplies. We secure these baskets using zip ties or marine-grade adhesive to ensure they stay attached during regular use. Mesh pockets sewn onto the frame’s sides provide additional storage for lightweight items that need to drain quickly after use.
Connecting multiple organizer units creates a floating storage network that can be positioned around the pool’s perimeter. Pool noodles threaded through the bottom of the frame provide flotation while serving as bumpers that protect both the organizer and pool walls from damage during contact.
Construct Underground Pool Storage Vaults
Underground storage vaults offer the ultimate solution for keeping pool equipment completely hidden while maximizing your available deck space. These permanent installations protect valuable items from weather damage and theft while maintaining a pristine poolside aesthetic.
Dig and Install Below-Ground Storage Boxes
Excavating a designated area near your pool creates space for embedding storage containers flush with the ground or pool deck surface. We recommend digging compartments approximately 3-4 feet deep and 2-3 feet wide to accommodate standard pool equipment and accessories. Professional waterproof storage boxes made from sealed plastic or fiberglass provide the best durability and moisture protection for this application.
Installing these boxes requires careful attention to drainage and access points. We suggest incorporating hatch doors that integrate seamlessly with your existing deck or patio materials. The boxes should sit level with the surrounding surface to prevent water pooling and ensure safe foot traffic. Proper grading around the installation prevents water from collecting near the storage area.
Create Waterproof Underground Compartments
Custom built waterproof compartments offer flexibility in size and design to meet your exact storage needs. We can construct these using concrete walls with waterproof membrane coatings or prefabricated resin containers designed for underground installation. The key components include proper ventilation systems to prevent mold and mildew buildup inside the storage space.
Drainage considerations are critical for long term success of underground compartments. We recommend installing French drains around the perimeter and including sump pump systems in areas with high water tables. Sealed access lids with gasket systems keep moisture out while allowing easy retrieval of stored items. These compartments work perfectly for pool chemicals, cleaning equipment, and seasonal accessories that need protection from sun and rain damage.
Build Deck-Integrated Hidden Storage
Deck integrated storage answers blend seamlessly with your existing pool deck structure while providing convenient access to frequently used items. We can create storage spaces within bench seats, corner compartments, or areas beneath deck steps using weather resistant materials like composite decking or treated lumber. These installations maintain the clean lines of your pool area while keeping essential items within easy reach.
Building these storage areas requires coordinating with your deck’s structural elements to ensure proper support and water resistance. We recommend using marine grade hinges and weatherproof seals on all access points to prevent moisture infiltration. Storage bins camouflaged with matching deck finishes create invisible organization that doesn’t compromise your poolside design aesthetic.
Develop Seasonal Pool Storage Solutions
When temperatures drop and pool season ends, we need storage answers that adapt to different times of the year. Organizing pool supplies based on seasonal use keeps everything accessible while protecting valuable equipment from weather damage.
Build Collapsible Storage for Off-Season
Collapsible PVC pipe racks offer the perfect solution for storing pool floats and noodles during winter months. We recommend building multi-use PVC storage units that can hold floats, noodles, and bins for smaller accessories since PVC won’t rust and withstands both heat and cold temperatures.
Creating these units requires basic PVC pipes, connectors, and zip ties to secure movable components. During pool season, we can position these racks outdoors for easy access to swimming gear. When cold weather arrives, we simply collapse the units and move them into garages or sheds for winter storage.
Overhead garage storage provides another excellent off-season option for pool toys and accessories. Installing shelving units above garage doors keeps seasonal items completely out of the way during winter while maintaining easy access when pool season returns.
Create Weather-Protected Winter Storage
Indoor storage becomes essential in colder climates where pools close completely during winter months. We store all pool-related items in weather-protected locations like garages or sheds to prevent damage from humidity, freezing temperatures, and UV exposure.
Plastic bins and weatherproof containers work perfectly for sorting pool supplies during off-season storage. Grouping chemicals, covers, toys, and floats in separate labeled containers makes spring setup much faster and more organized.
Privacy stalls and enclosed storage compartments protect outdoor equipment that can’t be moved indoors. These structures shield pool pumps and heaters from snow and rain while maintaining easy access for winter maintenance needs.
Design Modular Storage for Year-Round Use
Modular storage systems adapt to changing pool storage demands throughout different seasons. We combine hooks for poles and nets, bins for chemicals and smaller items, racks for towels, and specialized float holders to create versatile organization answers.
Repurposed wine racks and wooden pallets make excellent modular units that we can customize for exact poolside needs. These budget-friendly options provide sturdy foundations for organizing various pool supplies while adding unique character to storage areas.
Combining shelving systems with hooks and netting creates organized pool areas that work in summer and winter. We can easily reconfigure these modular components as storage needs change with the seasons, ensuring our pool areas stay functional year-round.
Conclusion
We’ve explored many DIY pool storage answers that transform cluttered pool areas into organized spaces without very costly. From simple poolside benches with hidden compartments to innovative floating organizers these projects use readily available materials and basic construction skills.
The key to successful pool storage lies in choosing answers that match your exact needs and space constraints. Whether you opt for vertical wall systems to maximize limited areas or underground vaults for permanent installations each approach offers unique benefits for keeping your pool area tidy and functional.
Remember that weatherproofing and proper drainage are essential for any outdoor storage project. With these DIY ideas you’ll create a more enjoyable pool environment while protecting your investment in pool equipment and accessories for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best materials for DIY pool storage projects?
Cedar wood is ideal for outdoor storage benches due to its natural weather resistance. For floating storage, use marine-grade plywood or PVC pipes with waterproof sealants. Marine-grade vinyl works best for cushioned seating, while clear plastic bins are perfect for toy organization. Always choose materials that can withstand chlorine exposure and UV rays.
How can I create storage using pool noodles?
Cut pool noodles lengthwise and attach them to walls or frames to hold pool poles and cleaning equipment. Link multiple noodles together to create floating toy organizers that contain items while keeping them accessible. You can also build a comprehensive pool noodle caddy system that combines multiple storage functions for customized organization.
What’s the most space-efficient pool storage solution?
Vertical wall storage systems maximize space efficiency. Mount pegboard organizers for tools, use hanging baskets for small accessories, and install ladder-style racks made from PVC pipes for towels and toys. These solutions keep items organized and easily accessible while minimizing floor space usage around your pool area.
How do I build a poolside storage bench?
Use cedar wood to construct a waterproof bench with hidden compartments. Cut and assemble the frame, add hinges for the lid, and apply marine-grade sealant for weather protection. Include safety features like soft-close hinges and ventilation holes. Add high-density foam cushioning covered with marine-grade vinyl for comfort and moisture resistance.
What are floating storage options for pools?
Create floating pool bars with hidden storage compartments using waterproof materials and insulated bins. Build waterproof floating containers with airtight lids to protect items from splashes. Construct poolside floating organizers using PVC pipe frames to hold various pool accessories while keeping them accessible on the water’s surface.
How should I store pool equipment seasonally?
Build collapsible PVC pipe racks for off-season storage that can be moved indoors during winter. Use overhead garage storage for seasonal items and labeled plastic bins for organization. Create modular storage systems with hooks, bins, and racks that adapt to changing seasonal needs while protecting equipment from weather damage.
What household items can be repurposed for pool storage?
Transform clear plastic bins into labeled toy containers that can be stacked and made portable with wheels. Upcycle old dressers into weatherproof storage units for towels and supplies. Use wooden crates for larger items like floats, and repurpose wine racks or wooden pallets for budget-friendly, customized storage solutions.
How do I create underground pool storage?
Excavate areas for embedding waterproof storage boxes with proper drainage and access points. Build custom waterproof compartments with ventilation systems to prevent mold. Consider deck-integrated hidden storage that blends with existing structures, providing convenient access to frequently used items while maintaining a clean, organized appearance.
