Summer is here, and that means it’s the perfect time to breathe new life into your outdoor spaces. In today’s post, I’m sharing my top 15 summer hacks to make your backyard the ultimate relaxing and entertaining spot.
Whether you’re working with a tiny deck or a spacious yard, these budget-friendly and practical ideas will help you organize, decorate, and enjoy every sunny moment outdoors!
1. Laundry Hamper Side Tables
Looking for extra outdoor storage? Use plastic laundry hampers with a piece of wood on top to double as stylish side tables. They’re perfect for stashing pillows, blankets, and random patio essentials—and super affordable!
2. DIY Tiered Flower Pots
Stack cheap dollar store pots upside down and glue them together to mimic the look of grand, expensive planters. For around $5, you can create a high-end look that would cost $50+ at the store.
3. Towel Ladder for Pool Days
Repurpose an old ladder (or build one!) to hang pool towels and bathing suits. Not into ladders? Just install some hooks on your fence or wall. It keeps everything tidy and off the ground.
4. Pool Toy Organizer
Instead of stuffing pool toys into corners, use a metal garage organizer. Spray it with a clear coat to protect against rust, and use it for everything from goggles to floaties to chlorine supplies.
5. Protect Outdoor Cushions
A quick coat of outdoor Scotchgard on your cushions helps them repel water, dirt, and pollen. This easy step will keep them looking like new all summer long.
6. Set up a Flip-Flop Bin
Especially useful in no-shoes households! Place a bin by your back door filled with Dollar Store flip-flops for guests. It keeps your floors clean and your visitors happy.
7. Create a Summer Product Caddy
Bug spray, sunscreen, and even a mini first-aid kit—organize all your summer essentials in a Dollar Store caddy. Keep it near the door so you can grab and go when the kids head out.
8. DIY Drink & Snack Station
Tired of kids running in and out all day? Set up a drink tray with water, lemonade, and cups. Add a three-tiered cart for snacks so everyone can help themselves without trekking through the house.
9. Organized S’mores Station
Keep all your s’mores ingredients together in a tray or basket. Tip: try squishing the chocolate into the marshmallow for less mess. Pro tip—use Celebration cookies or even Oreos for a fun twist!
10. Picnic Caddy
This little hack is a game-changer. Keep a caddy stocked with paper plates, napkins, and cutlery so you can grab it for impromptu BBQs or park days. No more last-minute kitchen scrambles!
11. Contain Those Condiments
Use a small bin in your fridge to corral all your summer condiments. It makes transporting them to your outdoor table a breeze and saves time during BBQs. And if you’re looking for some tried and true (and EASY) summer recipes – download my FREE SUMMER RECIPES E-BOOK
12. Dollar Store Serving Tray with Lid
Pick up a sectioned tray with a lid—perfect for fruit or snacks. Flip the lid and use it as a base for ice packs to keep everything cool during hot summer parties.
13. Beach Ready
Always be beach-ready! Keep a mesh beach bag filled with essentials like toys, sunblock, and a waterproof blanket. Mesh is great for shaking out sand before tossing it in the car.
14. Camping Chair Umbrella Hack (That Kinda Works)
Saw this on TikTok: supposedly, the hole in the bottom of your camping chair is for an umbrella. It didn’t work perfectly, but with a little rigging, we made it happen! Verdict: partly busted, partly saved.
15. Pack a Dog Bag
Dog parents, this one’s for you. I found an affordable little dog bag on Amazon with pockets for treats, poop bags, a collapsible water dish, and space for kibble. It clips onto your belt so you’re ready for anything.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun, hosting friends, or just lounging on your deck with a cold drink, these simple and smart hacks can make a big difference. I hope you’re feeling inspired to try a few ideas and create a backyard space that’s both beautiful and practical.
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DOWNLOAD MY FREE SUMMER FUN BUCKET LIST
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