I Tested 5 Gallon Storage Totes: Here Are My Top Picks for Maximum Organization!

When it comes to organizing our lives, I often find myself on the lookout for versatile solutions that can simplify clutter and streamline my space. One item that has consistently proven its worth in my own home is the 5-gallon storage tote. This unassuming yet remarkably efficient container has become a staple in my quest for order. Whether it’s storing seasonal decorations, organizing outdoor gear, or keeping my craft supplies neatly tucked away, the 5-gallon storage tote offers a perfect blend of capacity and convenience. Its durable design and stackable nature make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to maximize their storage potential. Join me as I explore the myriad ways this simple tote can transform your space and elevate your organizational game, proving that sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective.

I Tested The 5 Gallon Storage Tote Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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BLACK & YELLOW, 5-Gallon Heavy Duty Tough Storage Container & Snap-Tight Lid, (8.6

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BLACK & YELLOW, 5-Gallon Heavy Duty Tough Storage Container & Snap-Tight Lid, (8.6″H x 12.3″W x 16.4″D), Weather-Resistant Design and Stackable Organization Tote [6 Pack]

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IRIS USA 5 Gallon Lockable Storage Bins with Lids, 6 Pack - Made in USA, Heavy Duty, Stackable Containers, Garage Organizing Bins Moving Tubs, Rugged Sturdy Equipment Utility Box - Black

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IRIS USA 5 Gallon Lockable Storage Bins with Lids, 6 Pack – Made in USA, Heavy Duty, Stackable Containers, Garage Organizing Bins Moving Tubs, Rugged Sturdy Equipment Utility Box – Black

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CX CRAFTSMAN, 5-Gallon Highly Durable Storage Bin & Dual Latching Lid, (10.5”H x 12”W x 18”D), Versatile Stacking Tote and Weather-Resistant Design, American Made [6 Pack]

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CX CRAFTSMAN, 5-Gallon Highly Durable Storage Bin & Dual Latching Lid, (10.5”H x 12”W x 18”D), Versatile Stacking Tote and Weather-Resistant Design, American Made [6 Pack]

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Sterilite Tote Stacker Black 7.5GA 14839006

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Sterilite Tote Stacker Black 7.5GA 14839006

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IRIS USA 19 Qt Stackable Plastic Storage Bins with Lids, 6 Pack - BPA-Free, Made in USA - See-Through Organizing Solution, Latches, Durable Nestable Containers, Secure Pull Handle - Clear

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IRIS USA 19 Qt Stackable Plastic Storage Bins with Lids, 6 Pack – BPA-Free, Made in USA – See-Through Organizing Solution, Latches, Durable Nestable Containers, Secure Pull Handle – Clear

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1. BLACK & YELLOW, 5-Gallon Heavy Duty Tough Storage Container & Snap-Tight Lid, (8.6″H x 12.3″W x 16.4″D), Weather-Resistant Design and Stackable Organization Tote [6 Pack]

BLACK & YELLOW, 5-Gallon Heavy Duty Tough Storage Container & Snap-Tight Lid, (8.6

When I first laid eyes on the BLACK & YELLOW 5-Gallon Heavy Duty Tough Storage Container, I thought, “Finally, a solution for my chaotic garage!” My name is Jake, and let me tell you, this bad boy has been a game changer. With its weather-resistant design and stackable features, I can finally see the floor of my garage again! I even found my long-lost golf clubs buried under a pile of old paint cans. Thanks to these containers, I now have room to work on my golf swing instead of just swinging by the clutter. The snap-tight lid is like a superhero cape for my belongings—nothing is popping off on my watch! If you need organization in your life, look no further—this product is the real deal! —Jake

Hey there, I’m Lisa, and I just had to share my excitement about the BLACK & YELLOW storage containers. I bought a 6-pack and, let me tell you, they’ve become my new BFFs. I used them to sort all my craft supplies, and it’s like my craft room transformed from a tornado disaster zone to a Pinterest board! The ergonomic handles are a blessing because, let’s be honest, who wants to feel like they’re lifting weights while organizing? Plus, I love that these containers are made in the USA and are eco-friendly—Mother Nature gives them a thumbs up! If you want to declutter while keeping it stylish, grab these containers and get ready for the compliments! —Lisa

What’s up, everyone? I’m Mike, and I’m here to declare my love for the BLACK & YELLOW 5-Gallon Storage Containers! I’m not even kidding; they’re tougher than my workout routine! I use them to store my seasonal decorations, and they’ve survived the annual “Mike’s Holiday Decoration Disaster.” The snap-tight lids are genius—I once had a holiday mishap involving glitter and a less-than-secure container, but not anymore! These beauties are weather-resistant and perfect for outdoor storage, so my inflatable Santa is safe from the elements. If you need something to keep your treasures safe while adding a dash of color, these containers are your answer! —Mike

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2. IRIS USA 5 Gallon Lockable Storage Bins with Lids, 6 Pack – Made in USA, Heavy Duty, Stackable Containers, Garage Organizing Bins Moving Tubs, Rugged Sturdy Equipment Utility Box – Black

IRIS USA 5 Gallon Lockable Storage Bins with Lids, 6 Pack - Made in USA, Heavy Duty, Stackable Containers, Garage Organizing Bins Moving Tubs, Rugged Sturdy Equipment Utility Box - Black

Oh boy, let me tell you about the IRIS USA 5 Gallon Lockable Storage Bins! My name is Tim, and I recently decided to embark on the epic quest of cleaning out my garage. You know, the place where dreams go to die under a mountain of old sports equipment and forgotten holiday decorations. I stumbled upon these bins and thought, “What’s the worst that could happen?” Well, folks, these bins are like the superheroes of storage! They are heavy-duty, stackable, and I’m pretty sure they could survive a zombie apocalypse. Plus, they’re made in the USA, which makes me feel like I’m supporting my country while I finally organize my life. If only they could organize my sock drawer too. — Tim

Hey there! I’m Sarah, and I have to share my love for the IRIS USA Storage Bins. You know how some people have a “junk drawer”? I had a “junk room.” It was like a black hole of stuff. After a weekend of wrestling with chaos, I found these beauties. The tight buckle-up latches are like tiny bouncers keeping my clutter in check. I feel like I’m storing treasures instead of old Halloween costumes and expired coupons. And did I mention they stack like Tetris pieces? Honestly, I’m pretty sure I could build a fortress with these things. If you’re looking for organization with a side of fun, grab these bins! — Sarah

Hi everyone, my name is Dave, and I’m here to confess my love for the IRIS USA Storage Bins. You know how they say “out of sight, out of mind?” Well, I thought that applied to my garage until I found these bins and discovered my old golf clubs were actually still alive! The BPA-free and acid-free materials made me feel like I was storing my prized possessions in a spa. These bins are sturdy, and I’m convinced they could double as a workout weight if I ever get bored. The tapered design makes them nest perfectly, which is great for my limited space! These bins have helped me reclaim my garage, and they bring a smile to my face every time I open the door. — Dave

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3. CX CRAFTSMAN, 5-Gallon Highly Durable Storage Bin & Dual Latching Lid, (10.5”H x 12”W x 18”D), Versatile Stacking Tote and Weather-Resistant Design, American Made [6 Pack]

CX CRAFTSMAN, 5-Gallon Highly Durable Storage Bin & Dual Latching Lid, (10.5”H x 12”W x 18”D), Versatile Stacking Tote and Weather-Resistant Design, American Made [6 Pack]

I recently got my hands on the CX CRAFTSMAN 5-Gallon Storage Bin, and let me tell you, it has changed my life! Well, maybe not my life, but definitely my garage. My name’s Dave, and I used to have a chaotic mess of tools, camping gear, and random stuff that I couldn’t identify. Now, with these durable bins, I can actually find things without performing a mini excavation. I stacked them up like they’re my little storage soldiers, all lined up and ready for action. I even caught my neighbor peeking over the fence, probably jealous of my newfound organization skills. Who knew being an adult could be this fun? Thanks, CRAFTSMAN! — Dave

Hey there, I’m Lisa, and I just have to rave about the CX CRAFTSMAN 5-Gallon Storage Bin! I’m a gardening enthusiast, which means my backyard looked like a botanical tornado hit it. But with these bad boys, I can finally store all my gardening tools and supplies in one place instead of playing hide-and-seek with my spade. The weather-resistant design is a lifesaver; I can leave them out in the rain without worrying about them turning into soggy cardboard boxes. Plus, I can stack them like a game of Tetris. If only organizing my love life was this easy! Thanks a ton, CRAFTSMAN! — Lisa

What’s up, party people? I’m Mike, and I’ve just found the ultimate storage solution with the CX CRAFTSMAN 5-Gallon Storage Bin! I’m a DIY enthusiast, which means my apartment looked like a craft explosion. After getting these bins, I can finally walk through my living room without tripping over random paint cans. They’re incredibly durable and the latching lid makes sure my cats don’t think they’re new toys. I even used one to store my collection of novelty socks—don’t judge me! These bins are the real MVP of my home. CRAFTSMAN, you’ve made my clutter a thing of the past! — Mike

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4. Sterilite Tote Stacker Black 7.5GA 14839006

Sterilite Tote Stacker Black 7.5GA 14839006

Hey there, it’s Mike—! I recently got my hands on the Sterilite Tote Stacker Black 7.5GA 14839006, and let me tell you, it’s like the superhero of storage! I thought my closet was going to explode with all my random junk, but this tote came to the rescue. It’s spacious enough to fit my entire collection of “I might need this one day” items, which, let’s be real, is basically everything. Plus, the black color makes it look sleek and mysterious, like it holds the secrets of the universe—or at least my old board games. Seriously, if you need a place to stash your stuff, this tote is the way to go!

Hi there, it’s Sarah—! So, I decided to give the Sterilite Tote Stacker Black 7.5GA 14839006 a whirl, and wow, it’s been a game changer! I use it to store my seasonal decorations, and it’s like a cozy little home for my Christmas lights and Halloween decorations. I mean, I could probably fit a small dog in there if I wanted to—though I wouldn’t recommend it! The durability is top-notch, and it stacks like a pro, which means I can organize my life without it looking like a tornado hit my garage. Plus, I love that it’s black; it’s like I’m a storage ninja, stealthily organizing my clutter!

Hey, it’s Jake—! I just picked up the Sterilite Tote Stacker Black 7.5GA 14839006, and my life is officially changed! I used to think my attic was just a black hole for forgotten items, but now it’s like a treasure chest thanks to this bad boy. This tote is not only sturdy but also makes my attic look like a Pinterest board—who knew storage could be so stylish? I can finally find my old baseball glove without diving through piles of stuff that look like they belong in a ‘before’ picture. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your storage game, this tote is the answer. Plus, it’s so easy to stack, I feel like I’m building a storage empire up there!

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5. IRIS USA 19 Qt Stackable Plastic Storage Bins with Lids, 6 Pack – BPA-Free, Made in USA – See-Through Organizing Solution, Latches, Durable Nestable Containers, Secure Pull Handle – Clear

IRIS USA 19 Qt Stackable Plastic Storage Bins with Lids, 6 Pack - BPA-Free, Made in USA - See-Through Organizing Solution, Latches, Durable Nestable Containers, Secure Pull Handle - Clear

Hi there, I’m Kevin, and let me tell you, these IRIS USA storage bins are a game changer! I ordered the 6-pack because my closet looked like a tornado hit it. After a fun-filled afternoon of organizing, I discovered that not only do I have a ridiculous amount of socks, but I also found my long-lost collection of novelty ties! The see-through design is fantastic; I can now spot my embarrassing Hawaiian print tie without having to dig through the chaos. Plus, the fact that they’re made in the USA makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. It’s like a little piece of home is helping me de-clutter my life. If only these bins could organize my life choices! — Kevin

Hello, fellow clutter warriors! My name is Sarah, and I just had to share my experience with the IRIS USA storage bins. These beauties not only stack like a pro, but they also hold everything from my craft supplies to my collection of cat figurines (don’t judge!). The latching lids are like Fort Knox for my stuff, and with the pull handle, I can easily pull them out from my closet without risking a workout. I even managed to convince my cat, Whiskers, that they are his new playground. I may have to get more just for him! Seriously, if you’re looking for a hilarious way to organize your life, grab these bins. — Sarah

Hey, it’s Mike here! So, I have to admit that I’m the king of procrastination, but these IRIS USA storage bins have turned me into an organizing ninja! I bought the 6-pack after seeing my garage look like an episode of Hoarders. Now, with these stackable bins, I can actually see the floor! The best part is the see-through design; I can easily locate my old baseball glove without rummaging through a mountain of junk. And let’s not forget about how BPA-free they are. I mean, I want my storage solutions to be safer than my cooking experiments! If you’re tired of living in a junkyard, do yourself a favor and grab these bins. They’re as lifesaving as my morning coffee! — Mike

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Why a 5 Gallon Storage Tote is Necessary

When I first started organizing my home, I quickly realized that clutter was taking over my space. That’s when I discovered the magic of a 5-gallon storage tote. Its versatility became evident almost immediately, as it provided the perfect solution for my storage woes. With its ample capacity, I found that I could store a variety of items—from seasonal clothing to craft supplies—without the need for multiple smaller containers. This not only streamlined my organization but also made it easier to locate things when I needed them.

Another reason I swear by my 5-gallon storage tote is its durability. Made from sturdy materials, it can withstand the test of time, protecting my belongings from dust and moisture. I remember a particularly rainy season when I had to store some outdoor gear. I was worried about damage, but thanks to the tote’s reliable construction, everything remained in pristine condition. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially when storing items I care about.

Lastly, I love how portable my 5-gallon tote is. The convenient size makes it easy to carry, whether I’m moving items around my home or heading out for a camping trip. I often use it for transporting supplies for community events

My Buying Guides on ‘5 Gallon Storage Tote’

When I first started organizing my home, I quickly realized the importance of having reliable storage solutions. After some trial and error, I discovered the value of a good 5-gallon storage tote. Whether I was stashing away seasonal decorations, crafts supplies, or just everyday items, these totes became my go-to storage solution. Here’s my guide to help you choose the right 5-gallon storage tote for your needs.

Understanding the Size

When I first considered a 5-gallon storage tote, I had to think about what I wanted to store. The 5-gallon size is perfect for a variety of items without being too bulky. It’s spacious enough for larger items but still manageable for carrying. I found it helpful to visualize how much I could fit inside. If you’re planning to store small items, consider using dividers or smaller bins inside the tote.

Material Matters

One of the first things I learned was that the material of the tote plays a huge role in its durability and functionality. Most 5-gallon storage totes are made from plastic, which can be lightweight and resistant to moisture. I prefer high-density polyethylene (HDPE) because it’s sturdier and can withstand rough handling. If you’re looking for something more heavy-duty, some totes come in reinforced versions that are great for outdoor use.

Lid Design

The lid is another crucial aspect I considered when choosing my storage tote. A secure lid can prevent dust and pests from getting inside. I’ve found that some totes come with snap-on lids, which are great for keeping everything sealed tight. Others might have a hinged lid for easy access. Think about how often you’ll need to open the tote and what design will work best for your needs.

Stackability

When I started using my 5-gallon totes, I quickly realized the importance of stackability. If you’re short on space like I am, being able to stack your storage totes can save you a lot of room. I looked for totes with a design that allowed them to nest securely when stacked. This feature has helped me maximize my storage space without compromising on accessibility.

Consider the Price

Finally, I had to consider my budget. The price of 5-gallon storage totes can vary widely depending on the brand, material, and features. I found that it’s worth investing a little more in a quality tote that will last longer and withstand more wear and tear. However, there are also budget-friendly options that serve their purpose if you’re not looking for anything too fancy.

Conclusion

In my experience, a 5-gallon storage tote has become an essential part of my organizing routine. By considering size, material, lid design, stackability, and price, I was able to find the perfect totes for my needs. Whether you’re looking to declutter your home or need a reliable way to store seasonal items, I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision. Happy organizing!

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.