Buying a garden bench with storage: what should you look out for?

A garden bench with storage combines two functions: a comfortable seating area and handy storage for cushions, blankets, toys or garden tools. Especially on a terrace with limited space, this is a smart choice. But not every storage bench is the same — these are the main points to consider.

Water resistance of the storage area

The most important criterion: is the inside dry? A garden bench sits outside and has to withstand rain. Check whether the bench has good sealing around the lid and whether the bottom of the chest is raised or perforated to prevent moisture buildup.

Only store garden cushions in a storage bench if the inside is really dry — damp cushions quickly become musty. A separate cushion bag provides extra protection.

Volume and dimensions

Measure in advance how many cushions you want to store. A standard lounge cushion is approximately 60 × 60 cm and 10–15 cm thick. A storage bench 120 cm wide provides space for 4–6 cushions. Larger benches (150–180 cm) can accommodate a complete set of cushions.

Also pay attention to the depth of the chest: a shallow bench is less suitable for thick cushions. A capacity of at least 200 litres is convenient if you want to store more than just cushions.

Material of the bench

The most common materials for storage benches are polywood (durable plastic that looks like wood), teak and aluminium. Polywood is ideal for storage benches: completely water-resistant, maintenance-free and does not rot. Teak is beautiful but requires more care. Aluminium is lightweight and robust.

Read more in our comparison of garden bench materials.

Seating comfort

Check the seat height (standard 43–47 cm), the depth of the seating area and whether a cushion is included. A hard seat without a cushion is fine if you put one on anyway, but less comfortable without.

Hinge mechanism

A good hinge keeps the lid open without you having to hold it. Choose a bench with a soft-close or gas spring — this prevents the lid from falling on your hands and extends the life of the hinge.

View our full range of garden benches. Having doubts? Get in touch via our contact page.