The 6 best plastic sheds for low-maintenance outdoor storage

The best plastic sheds offer a range of benefits you don't generally get with other materials — they're typically maintenance free, incredibly durable and easy to assemble. 

The great thing about plastic sheds is that they can be kept looking new with a quick wipe with a wet cloth. They also offer brilliant durability - especially those made from strong polypropylene resin - and in most cases, the panels simply click together which means assembly is pain-free, although larger sheds might prove slightly trickier. 

They come in a range of dimensions and styles to complement your garden design, and if you're looking to store garden furniture then it's a good idea to buy the biggest plastic shed you can afford (and that will fit in your garden). 

These are the best plastic sheds you can buy which combine style, space and durability.

Quick links to the best plastic shed deals

• Amazon — limited time only deals on selected Duramax plastic sheds
• Buy Sheds Direct — save £££ on a range of Keter and Palram sheds
• Wayfair — a variety of plastic sheds have had their prices slashed

The best plastic sheds

Keter are pioneers of plastic sheds, and their first of three appearances on this list is their pièce de résistance: the Factor shed. Featuring an apex roof that is easy on the eye, the Factor shed also includes a side window as well as a skylight so it's flooded with natural light. 

Stylish and maintenance-free, the Factor shed includes two integral shelves to enable easy access to tools, and the double doors make it easier to carry large items in and out, such as lawn mowers.

Made from durable resin with steel reinforcement, it is weather resistant, and its UV-protected polycarbonate panels are unlikely to rot or discolour, making it maintenance-free.

Its quality is undeniable, plus it goes up to 8x11 feet which is great for larger gardens.

Lifetime has a range of sizes available for plastic sheds and storage boxes, and this heavy duty plastic shed is robust, well-designed and a great option for small or medium-sized gardens. 

This attractive shed is purpose-built to hold two large garbage cans (you can of course store other things such as bikes and tools), and it comes with front and top openings as well as lockable doors which have an external latching mechanism. 

It is UV-protected to help prevent fading and cracking and the weather-resistant steel hinges add extra protection. And the stain-resistant exterior means it will rarely need painting.

Duramax's StoreAway shed is a must-have if you're in need of an affordable storage space.

You might not be able to set up a pool table in it, but garden equipment, bikes, BBQs and power tools will all fit into this storage-only shed, which features a wide opening roof and doors to enable easy accessibility. 

Its 850L capacity means it can also store two 120L garbage bins, while a 1,200L version is also available for only a fraction more in cost.

Furthermore, there's a a lockable latch for added security, it's UV resistant and weatherproof, and it includes built-in shelf support. It's incredible value for money.

The Palram Canopia Skylight Plastic Shed is a great option if you’re looking for a robust plastic shed that lets in lots of natural light.

It might not have any opening windows, but Palram compensates for this via unique skylight roof panels that allow for the ingress of natural light while remaining opaque externally. 

The shed also boasts UV-protected polycarbonate panels and it has a reinforced galvanised aluminium frame to give the structure extra rigidity. 

There's also a non-slip floor and ramp, which is a great addition if you are pushing heavy kit into the shed, such as a wheelbarrow or lawn mower. It comes in multiple colours too.

The Keter Manor plastic shed is a narrow yet durable shed which has been designed to fit neatly into smaller gardens that are short on space. 

Both available sizes are sizeable enough to store BBQs and a range of tools, and the double-walled plastic panelling ensure durability and weather resistance. A light wash every now and then is all that's needed to keep it looking its best.

There's also a robust single door and padlock hasp for added security, and a heavy-duty floor panel so you can store heavier items with ease. Plus, it's easy to assemble. 

An alternative to Duramax's StoreAway shed, the Keter Store It Out Max plastic shed is another of the best smaller plastic sheds.

It's particularly suited to disguising bins, or storing garden tools, and it features convenient front and top openings.

Its durable and weather-resistant construction keeps stored items dry, and its fade-free plastic with steel reinforcement means you won't have to worry about regular maintenance. 

Another handy feature is a lockable bolt and padlock facility for extra security. 

How to Choose the Best Plastic Shed

Here are some of the key criteria to consider when choosing the best plastic shed for your home:

Weather-Resistance

Most high-quality plastic sheds are built to withstand the elements, using high-density polyethene (HDPE) or polymerizing vinyl chloride (PVC) vinyl for structural support. The quality of materials is important, so be sure to review your preferred model before buying.

Maintenance

Plastic sheds do not corrode or rust and so have the advantage of being maintenance-free. Every so often you may need to wash off grime or mildew that has collected on the shed.

Design

Most plastic sheds are available in a variety of colours and sizes to complement any garden, and the variations in product features and designs means you won’t be short of inspiration when picking your model. 

Lockable?

Many plastic sheds will have some sort of locking mechanism for extra security.  

Size

If you're just looking for a secure place to store a cordless drill and other tools, then you might be better off selecting one the best outdoor storage boxes for a more compact option.

How to Prepare a Base for Your Plastic Shed

The most important element of planning where your shed will stand is to make sure it is placed on a flat, concrete or paved base. 

Positioning is pivotal, especially if you're laying on grass - if your shed is placed on an uneven lawn it could warp out of shape over time. If you're laying on grass, then lay a concrete, gravel or wooden foundation first and this will ensure the surface is entirely level.

If you purchase a shed without a base, then you'll need to fix it onto a concrete base, or raised wooden floor. 

Both paved and concrete bases require a sub-base to support the concrete, and while laying a shed base can be done on a DIY basis, it can be quite a technical operation. If you're not hugely experienced then it might be best to ask a professional.