7 Best Pool Storage Bins For Kid Pool Toys That Drain

Pool decks often transform into chaotic landscapes of soggy noodles, waterlogged dive rings, and half-inflated beach balls by mid-July. Finding an efficient way to corral these items prevents tripping hazards and keeps the backyard looking intentional rather than cluttered. Selecting a storage solution that prioritizes drainage is the single most effective step toward preserving toy longevity and preventing unwanted pool area grime.

Suncast DBW9200: The Classic All-Purpose Deck Box

The Suncast DBW9200 serves as the gold standard for homeowners who need a straightforward, unobtrusive container that tucks neatly against a fence or under a window. Its resin construction holds up well against harsh UV rays, ensuring the plastic does not become brittle or discolored after a few seasons of direct exposure.

This unit offers a modest capacity that works best for households with a smaller inventory of pool gear or those who practice frequent seasonal rotations. Because it lacks built-in drainage holes, adding a few small gaps along the bottom edge is a simple DIY fix that elevates its performance significantly.

Choose this box if the priority is aesthetic simplicity and a compact footprint. It remains a reliable, low-cost investment for anyone who simply needs a place to hide the clutter at the end of the day.

Keter Westwood 150-Gallon: For a Ton of Toys

For families managing a massive collection of floats, life jackets, and oversized water wings, the Keter Westwood provides the necessary volume to clear the deck entirely. Its design mimics the look of wood grain while offering the maintenance-free benefits of high-quality resin, making it a functional yet handsome addition to a patio.

The sheer size of this bin accommodates bulkier items that would otherwise sprawl across the pool deck. While the heavy-duty lid protects contents from the elements, it is essential to keep the interior clean, as trapped moisture under the lid can occasionally lead to damp conditions if toys are stored while dripping wet.

Consider this option if the storage area must also double as a place to keep extra towels or pool chemicals dry. The expansive interior capacity is the primary advantage here, justifying the slightly larger physical footprint in the backyard.

Rubbermaid Horizontal Shed: For Serious Pool Storage

When a traditional deck box falls short of the necessary storage capacity, a horizontal shed becomes the ultimate utility player for the backyard. This structure allows for a more organized approach, providing enough room to stand items upright rather than tossing everything into a single, dark pit of rubber and plastic.

This is the preferred solution for homeowners who need to store items beyond just toys, such as pool cleaning poles, maintenance nets, and outdoor cushions. The double-door access makes it far easier to retrieve items from the back of the unit without having to unload the entire contents first.

Opt for this storage type if long-term durability and organization are the top requirements. While it represents a higher initial cost and requires assembly, it effectively acts as a permanent, weather-resistant closet for all seasonal outdoor equipment.

Baleen Large Mesh Bin: Dries Toys Out in a Hurry

If the primary concern is preventing mildew and keeping toys fresh, a mesh bin is vastly superior to any solid-walled container. The Baleen Large Mesh Bin allows for constant airflow, which ensures that wet pool toys dry naturally between swims, eliminating the dreaded “swamp smell” that often plagues solid boxes.

This type of bin is particularly effective for households with young children who cycle through multiple toys daily. Because it is lightweight, it can be relocated easily, though the lack of a lid means it is better suited for covered porches or sheltered corners rather than areas prone to heavy rain or wind.

Select a mesh option if the household inventory is mostly rubber, foam, or plastic toys that require significant ventilation. It is a no-nonsense, budget-friendly approach that prioritizes function over form to solve the moisture problem once and for all.

Essentially Yours Roller: Easy to Move and Store

For homeowners who prefer to keep the pool area entirely clear when guests arrive, a rolling storage bin is indispensable. The Essentially Yours Roller features heavy-duty wheels that allow the entire bin to be moved from the pool deck to a garage or shed in seconds, keeping the deck clear of obstructions.

Portability is the standout feature here, as it removes the need to carry individual pool toys back and forth from a storage house. This design often incorporates side vents or slatted construction to assist with drainage, making it a well-rounded choice for busy, high-traffic households.

This is an ideal choice for renters or those with smaller patios who need a flexible storage solution that can be tucked away when not in use. The ability to roll the storage to a protected area also helps extend the life of the plastic by shielding it from excessive sun when the pool is closed for the season.

Gracious Living 90-Gallon Box: A Solid Mid-Size Pick

The Gracious Living 90-Gallon box balances the needs of a typical family with the reality of limited deck space. It is large enough to house a respectable collection of dive sticks and noodles without becoming a dominant feature that detracts from the pool’s design.

This box is constructed from durable resin that is easy to wipe down, which is essential after a long summer of dust and pollen accumulation. While it is not the largest option on the market, the mid-size capacity encourages regular purging of broken or unused toys, keeping the collection manageable.

The bottom line for this product is reliability and accessibility. It provides a sturdy, weather-resistant home for pool toys that fits comfortably into most residential budgets without sacrificing structural integrity.

YITAHOME 100-Gallon Box: Storage That Doubles as a Seat

A dual-purpose bin is a smart move for homeowners who want to maximize every square foot of outdoor space. The YITAHOME 100-Gallon box offers ample storage for pool accessories while featuring a reinforced lid that serves as a functional bench for additional deck seating.

The convenience of having a place to sit while putting on water shoes or supervising the pool makes this an efficient use of furniture. However, ensure that any toys placed inside are shaken dry, as the structural design leans toward keeping water out, which can also trap existing moisture inside if not managed properly.

Choose this unit if floor space is at a premium and every piece of furniture needs to pull double duty. It is a smart, tactical purchase for those who value efficiency and want their storage to blend seamlessly into their outdoor living setup.

How to Pick the Right Size Bin for Your Pool Toys

Start by taking a physical inventory of all current pool gear to gauge the actual volume required. It is helpful to group items by type—long items like noodles, flat items like floats, and small items like goggles—to see which shape of bin best accommodates the collection.

Consider the available footprint on the deck, keeping in mind that you need clearance to walk around the box easily. A bin that is too large will feel like a cluttered roadblock, while one that is too small will inevitably lead to items being tossed over the side, defeating the purpose of the purchase.

Remember that horizontal storage is almost always easier to manage than vertical storage for pool toys. A wider, shorter bin allows for better accessibility than a deep, narrow box where items become buried at the bottom.

Preventing Mold and Mildew in Your New Storage Bin

No matter how high-quality the storage box, mold will develop if wet items are sealed inside without ventilation. Always dedicate five minutes to shaking off excess water from floats and toys before tossing them into the storage bin at the end of the day.

If the chosen bin has solid walls, elevate the toys slightly using a plastic milk crate or a slatted tray inside the bottom of the box. This simple adjustment prevents toys from sitting in the puddle of water that inevitably drips off, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.

Once every few weeks, empty the entire bin and spray the interior with a mixture of water and a small amount of mild dish soap. This quick cleaning routine maintains a hygienic environment and prevents the plastic from developing a permanent musty odor.

Solid Box vs. Mesh Bin: Which Drains Toys Better?

Mesh bins are the clear winners for drainage, as their entire surface area allows for maximum airflow and instant moisture release. They are the superior choice if the storage location is protected from the elements, as they prevent the build-up of stagnant water more effectively than any solid alternative.

Solid boxes, while superior at protecting toys from dust, UV light, and debris, require a more disciplined approach to maintenance. If opting for a solid box, ensure it is placed on a slight incline or has pre-drilled holes in the bottom corners to allow water to exit, as standing water inside is a magnet for insects and grime.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on the climate and the storage location. Choose mesh for breathability and low-maintenance drying, but opt for a solid box if the toys need to stay shielded from heavy rain or strong wind.

Choosing the right storage solution ultimately comes down to balancing the reality of your climate with the volume of gear you manage every weekend. By prioritizing airflow and selecting a size that fits your actual lifestyle, you can keep the pool area organized and your toys in prime condition for seasons to come.