Key Takeaways -

• Smart storage solutions can effectively hide unattractive bins and enhance your garden’s appearance.
• Options include garden steps, living willow screens, green roofs, and trellis with climbing plants.
• Built-in, gated, and multi-purpose storage units provide additional functionality and organisation.
• Using durable materials like metal and plastic ensures long-lasting and low-maintenance bin storage.

Hiding wheelie bins is important for keeping your home’s exterior looking nice. Wheelie bins are essential, but they can be unattractive. With some creativity and practical ideas, you can easily hide them.

We will show you 10 wheelie bin storage ideas. From using hedges and climbing plants to creating special storage units, there are many ways to make your bins blend into your garden or driveway.

Keep reading to find out how to keep your outdoor space tidy and attractive with these smart wheelie bin disguise ideas. No matter the size or style of your garden, there’s a solution here for you.

1. Utilise Garden Steps

Using the space under or beside garden steps is a smart way to hide your wheelie bins. This often overlooked area can be perfect for discreet storage, keeping your bins out of sight while making use of otherwise wasted space.

This method maximises your garden area without adding clutter and blends naturally with your existing landscape, maintaining aesthetic appeal. Custom timber storage units can fit neatly under your garden steps.

These units can be designed to match your garden’s style, providing a practical and attractive solution for hiding wheelie bins.

2. Living Willow Screen

Growing a living willow screen is an excellent way to hide your wheelie bins. This natural solution involves planting willow whips, which are young, flexible branches that can be woven together to form a living fence.

This method is eco-friendly and visually appealing, adding a touch of greenery to your garden. Once established, it requires minimal maintenance. Planting willow whips is simple: insert them into the ground in a row where you want the screen.

Regular trimming and weaving will help maintain the structure and keep your bins out of sight.

3. Built-in Bin Storage

Multi-use built-in storage units are a great way to hide your wheelie bins. These units are designed to store bins and other items like bikes and garden tools, making them a versatile addition to your outdoor space.

This method is space-saving, as it combines multiple storage needs into one unit. Built-in storage units are also secure and durable, providing a long-lasting solution. An example is metal-clad designs with sliding doors.

These designs not only keep your bins hidden but also add a sleek, modern look to your garden or driveway.

4. Green Roof Storage

Adding a green roof to bin storage units is an innovative way to hide your wheelie bins. This approach involves creating a small garden atop your bin storage, turning an otherwise plain area into a vibrant living space.

This method provides extra planting space, perfect for growing flowers, herbs, or succulents. It also enhances garden biodiversity by attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Install a waterproof membrane on the storage unit's roof to construct the green roof.

Add a layer of soil and choose suitable plants like sedum or small flowers that thrive in shallow soil.

5. Hedges for Screening

Using hedges to hide bins is a natural and effective way to keep your garden looking neat and tidy. Planting a hedge around your wheelie bins creates a green barrier that seamlessly blends into your garden's landscape.

This method is not only visually appealing but also provides a habitat for wildlife, enhancing your garden's ecosystem. Some of the best hedges for this purpose include cherry laurel, yew, and privet.

These plants are dense and evergreen, offering year-round coverage and a beautiful, lush backdrop for your outdoor space.

6. Trellis with Climbing Plants

Installing trellis panels is a beautiful and practical way to hide your wheelie bins. These panels create a framework that supports climbing plants, turning an eyesore into a lush, green feature (1).

The benefits of using trellis are its versatility and attractiveness. Trellis panels can fit into various garden styles and provide a living screen that enhances your outdoor space. Popular plant options for this method include jasmine, clematis, and honeysuckle.

These climbing plants grow quickly and offer fragrant flowers, creating a charming and effective solution for concealing your bins.

7. Gated Bin Areas

Creating enclosed bin areas with gates is an excellent way to hide your wheelie bins while keeping your garden organised. This method involves building a designated area with a gate to securely store your bins out of sight.

This solution keeps your bins secure and adds to the overall layout of your garden, making it look more structured and tidy. An example of this approach is using designs with matching gates and railings.

These designs conceal the bins and add a cohesive and stylish look to your garden, seamlessly integrating with the existing landscape.

8. Screening with Slatted Panels

Using slatted timber panels is a stylish and effective way to hide your wheelie bins. These panels create a modern screen that conceals bins while adding a contemporary touch to your garden.

This cost-effective method allows for customisable designs, making matching the screen with your garden’s aesthetic easy. When installing, you can choose between vertical or horizontal slats based on your preference.

Vertical slats can create the illusion of height, while horizontal slats can make the area appear wider. Both options provide a sleek and functional way to keep your bins out of sight.

9. Multi-purpose Storage Units

Combining bin storage with seating or other uses is a clever way to maximise garden functionality. These multi-purpose units not only hide wheelie bins but also provide additional features like seating or extra storage space.

This method helps you make the most of your garden area by combining different functions into one unit, creating a cohesive and practical garden feature. For example, a wheelie bin store with integrated benches offers a place to sit while keeping your bins out of sight.

These designs enhance the usability of your outdoor space while maintaining a neat and tidy appearance.

10. Metal and Plastic Storage Units

Durable metal and plastic bin stores are excellent options for hiding wheelie bins. These units are designed to withstand the elements, providing a long-lasting and reliable solution.

The benefits of metal and plastic storage units include their durability and low maintenance requirements. They come in various designs and sizes, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your garden.

Top choices include rust-resistant metal units, which offer a sleek, modern look, and ventilated plastic models, which help prevent odours and moisture buildup. These options keep your bins hidden and protected while enhancing your space.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Materials Are Best for DIY Wheelie Bin Covers?

Weather-resistant materials such as treated wood, composite panels, or galvanised metal are ideal for DIY wheelie bin covers. These materials can withstand outdoor conditions, ensuring durability and longevity.

They are also relatively easy to work with, making them perfect for custom projects. Additionally, using high-quality screws and weatherproof finishes can further extend the lifespan of your DIY bin covers.

Are Recycling Bins Storage Different From General Bin Storage?

Recycling bin storage can differ slightly from general bin storage, primarily in terms of accessibility and organisation. Recycling bins often need to be easily accessible for sorting materials.

Specialised compartments or labelled sections can help differentiate recycling bins from general waste bins. Using colour-coded bins or clear labels can make sorting easier and more efficient for everyone in the household.

Can I Store My Compost Bin Using a Bin Enclosure Screened With Gates?

Yes, you can store your compost bin using a bin enclosure screened with gates. This method provides easy access while keeping the compost bin out of sight. It also helps contain any odours and keeps the area looking tidy.

Ensuring proper ventilation in the enclosure will help maintain the composting process and prevent unpleasant smells.

How Can I Utilise a Living Roof on My Bin Storage Unit?

To utilise a living roof on your bin storage unit, start by installing a waterproof membrane on the roof surface. Add a layer of soil and choose suitable plants like sedum, herbs, or small flowers that thrive in shallow soil.

This not only hides the bins but also adds greenery and supports biodiversity. Regularly watering and maintaining the plants will ensure your living roof stays healthy and vibrant.

How Do I Create a Half Concealed Storage for My Bins?

To create a half-concealed storage for your bins, use a combination of screening and open space. Build a low fence or wall to partially hide the bins while allowing for easy access.

This method provides a neat appearance without fully enclosing the bins. You can also add decorative elements like climbing plants or garden art to enhance the look of the storage area.

Can I Paint My Wheelie Bin to Make It Less Noticeable?

Yes, you can paint your wheelie bin to make it less noticeable. Use outdoor, weather-resistant paint to ensure it holds up against the elements. Choose colours that blend with your home’s exterior or garden to help the bin blend in seamlessly.

Applying a couple of coats and using a primer can ensure the paint adheres well and lasts longer.

What Are Some Quick Fixes for Hiding Wheelie Bins?

Quick fixes for hiding wheelie bins include using a garden screen, placing large potted plants around the bin, or installing a foldable privacy fence. These solutions are easy to implement and provide immediate results.

They can quickly enhance the appearance of your outdoor space. Additionally, you can use decorative lattice panels or outdoor fabric to create a temporary yet stylish cover for your bins.

Conclusion

Incorporating smart and practical solutions to hide unattractive bins can significantly enhance the appearance of your outdoor space.

Whether you choose to use garden steps, living willow screens, built-in storage, green roofs, hedges, trellises, gated areas, slatted panels, multi-purpose units, or durable metal and plastic storage, each method offers a unique way to keep your bins out of sight.

These ideas not only improve your garden’s aesthetics but also provide additional functionality and organisation. With a bit of creativity, you can easily transform the look of your garden and maintain a neat, attractive exterior.

Sources -

1. https://www.idealhome.co.uk/house-manual/storage-organisation/wheelie-bin-storage-ideas