This $35 Unexpected Find from IKEA Is Actually the Perfect Outdoor Storage Gem

My current apartment has more square footage than my previous place but a much smaller outdoor space. While maintenance has been so much easier to manage, (I rely on this $14 spray!), the one challenge that comes with this small balcony is the lack of storage space. 

I’ve downsized furniture and decor significantly to make sure my balcony stays tidy and functional, but I was still struggling to figure out how to efficiently store my outdoor cushions and blankets. During a recent trip to IKEA, I found the perfect solution.

In the home organization section of the IKEA marketplace, I quite literally stumbled on the lid of the IKEA DAMMÄNG Bin as I was walking through the aisle. Although it was labeled as a recycling bin, I started picturing it on my covered balcony. 

It turns out the IKEA DAMMÄNG Bin’s slim construction — 18×10 3/4×25 1/2 inches — was the perfect fit for my small balcony. Prior to getting this bin, I kept my second set of outdoor seat cushions tucked between some folding chairs and stored blankets in my dining credenza along with a tablecloth. Not only was I able to free up some space in my credenza to better organize place mats and other table textiles, my balcony looked much neater without my cushions sticking out. 

The dark gray-green color paired well with my balcony’s look, and the lid keeps everything protected. My favorite feature is the folding handle, which allows me to easily move the bin from one end of the balcony to the other (this is especially helpful when I need to clean). Although it’s recommended for indoor use only, I’ve had no issues with this bin on my covered balcony (even on a windy, sprinkling day).

These IKEA DAMMÄNG bins are originally intended to hold larger recyclable waste, like bottles or packages, up to 13 gallons. They are also stackable, so if you wanted to, you could get multiple bins to hold all your outdoor necessities and stack them up high vertically to save on space.

If you have the space for larger storage solutions, this $40 deck box from Wayfair is just as functional. It holds 45 gallons, is water resistant, and lockable!