Getting Your Shed Ready for Fall: Smart Storage Tips Before Winter Hits

As cooler weather rolls in, now’s the perfect time to prepare your shed for fall and winter. Taking a weekend to clean, organize, and protect your tools can prevent rust, pests, and clutter while setting you up for an easy spring start.

1. Clear It Out and Take Inventory

Begin by emptying your shed completely. Sweep out dust, leaves, and cobwebs. Sort your items into three categories:

• Keep: tools and supplies you’ll use this fall or winter
• Store away: summer gear like hoses or sprinklers
• Discard: broken, rusted, or expired items

2. Weatherproof and Inspect

Check your shed for leaks, soft spots, or gaps where rodents could sneak in. Replace worn door seals or roof panels, and consider adding weatherstripping or a door sweep to keep the cold out.

For metal or wooden sheds, seal any cracks and look for moisture buildup. If you live in a damp climate, place a few silica gel packs or a small dehumidifier inside.

3. Organize Smartly

Use vertical space and walls to keep the floor clear. A tool rack organizer or garage wall tool organizer helps hang rakes, shovels, and brooms neatly. Add sturdy storage shelves or labeled bins for smaller items like gloves and seeds.

Group tools by type—gardening, lawn equipment, power tools—so everything is easy to find when you need it.

4. Prep and Protect Your Tools

• Clean metal tools and lightly oil them to prevent rust.
• Drain fuel from mowers, trimmers, and other gas equipment.
• Sharpen blades and store them in a dry area or hang them safely.

5. Add Simple Upgrades

Little improvements make a big difference during dark, chilly months. Add LED or solar lighting, hooks for coats or gloves, and maybe even a small shelf for hot drinks if you use your shed often.

Bonus: Quick Weekend Timeline

• Day 1: Empty, clean, and check for leaks or damage.
• Day 2: Organize tools, install shelving, and prep your equipment for storage.