
Garbage bin box with storage: How to cleverly use your garbage bin enclosure as a storage system
With a shelf and an additional compartment, you turn your garbage bin box into a flexible storage system – perfect for rock salt, gravel, shovels, garbage bags & garden accessories. Here you will find a detailed guide, buying advice, checklists, FAQ, and practical examples.
Garbage bin boxes – more than just cladding
A garbage bin box not only visually hides your bins. It protects against wind, weather, and direct sunlight – this reduces odors, extends the lifespan of the bins, and makes the driveway and front yard look tidy. Modern systems go even further and offer multifunctional solutions for order in the outdoor area.
Especially practical is an additional compartment (side cabinet or upper shelf) that you use as storage space. This way you store things you often need around the house and that can stay outside.
- In winter: rock salt, gravel, hand broom – always within reach.
- All year round: shovel, dustpan, garbage bags, gloves, small pots.
- In the garden: potting soil, plant fertilizer, small tools, string & plant labels.
Additional compartment & insert shelf: Use storage space cleverly
The insert shelf creates a second level inside the garbage bin box. This way, you separate trash containers and accessories cleanly. An example is the Dagobert insert shelf compartment: It fits precisely, is robust and weatherproof, and turns the box into a storage system.
Your advantages at a glance
- More storage space without additional space requirements – ideal for small properties.
- Order & safety thanks to separate storage for accessories.
- Easy retrofitting with compatible models.
- Seasonally flexible: Winter items on top, garden helpers in summer.
Ideas for organization
- Use small, stackable boxes or buckets (labeled with road salt, gravel, garbage bags).
- Hook rails on the inside for hand brooms, dustpans, gloves.
- Non-slip mat on the insert shelf to prevent slipping when opening the lids.
- Store moisture-sensitive items in sealed boxes.

Design, materials & variants
To ensure your garbage bin box cladding fits visually and functionally, it's worth looking at materials, designs, and extensions.
Materials
- Wood: Natural, warm, blends into gardens. Regular maintenance (oil/glaze) recommended.
- Metal: Very robust, modern, low-maintenance (e.g., powder-coated steel, aluminum).
- Plastic: Lightweight, weatherproof, budget-friendly – ideal for quick solutions.
Designs & options
- Boxes for 1–6 bins; plan an additional storage compartment if needed.
- Plant roof for green appearance and heat protection of the bins.
- Lockable doors for secure access.
- Modularly expandable: Additional cabinet or shelf can be retrofitted later.
How to use the box optimally (practical)
With a few steps, you get the most out of your garbage bin box:
- Choose location: Level ground, short paths to the street, shady to prevent odors.
- Insert shelf: Mount precisely, observe load capacity.
- Organize utensils: Road salt, grit, gloves, shovels – store separately and clean.
- Ensure ventilation: Avoid condensation, support dry storage.
- Care & cleaning: Wipe out seasonally; oil wood, wipe metal.
Checklist “garbage bin box as storage space”
- Internal dimensions matched with bins and shelf
- An additional compartment planned
- Hook rail and boxes for small parts provided
- Weather and moisture protection considered for sensitive items
- Accessibility for garbage collection ensured
Buying guide: What you should pay attention to
Before buying your garbage bin box with storage space, it's worth taking a close look at details that make a difference in everyday life.
- Size & compatibility: Do 120 l or 240 l bins fit? Is the height sufficient despite the insert shelf?
- Expandability: Is an additional cabinet/insert shelf retrofittable?
- Material & workmanship: Weather-resistant, sturdy fittings, rust-free screws.
- Secure closure: Child-safe handles, lockable if applicable.
- Design: Color/appearance matching facade, fence, or pavement.
- Assembly & Service: Kit vs. pre-assembled, optional assembly service.
If you are specifically looking for a retrofit solution: Check out the Dagobert Fach insert shelf – ideal for upgrading existing boxes.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I retrofit an insert shelf?
Yes, provided your box is compatible. Pay attention to the internal dimensions and load capacity. Systems like the Dagobert Fach can be easily installed.
Does an additional compartment affect garbage collection?
No, if you pay attention to sufficient opening angles and free pathways. Accessories should be stored so that lids and doors can open fully.
Which items are suitable for the storage compartment?
De-icing salt, grit, broom set, shovel, gloves, garbage bags, potting soil, small tools. Do not store flammable liquids.
Wood, metal, or plastic – which is better?
Depends on appearance, budget, and maintenance effort: Wood is natural, metal durable and modern, plastic easy to care for and light.