9 Storage Products for Organizing Barn Tack and Feed

A cluttered barn aisle is more than just an eyesore; it is a safety hazard and a recipe for wasted time during daily chores. Organizing tack and feed efficiently ensures that expensive gear stays protected from moisture and pests while streamlining the morning feeding routine. By investing in practical, durable storage solutions, part-time farmers can transform a chaotic barn into a highly functional, stress-free workspace.

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Assessing Your Barn Storage and Feed Needs

Before buying any hooks or bins, a hobby farmer must evaluate the actual layout of the barn and the seasonal needs of the animals. Cramming storage into a damp corner or placing feed bins too far from the stalls leads to unnecessary steps and potential spoilage. Map out the daily workflow, noting where feed is mixed, where horses are groomed, and where dirty blankets are hung to dry.

Consider environmental factors like humidity, rodent pressure, and temperature fluctuations. Leather tack requires ventilation to prevent mold, while grain needs airtight, chew-proof containers to keep pests at bay. A small-scale setup benefits most from modular, mobile, and wall-mounted storage that keeps the floor clear for easy sweeping and safe animal movement.

Feed Bin – Behrens 20-Gallon Galvanized Can

Keeping grain secure is the first line of defense against rodents, raccoons, and moisture. A flimsy plastic bin will quickly succumb to determined teeth, leading to wasted feed and potential colic if animals break into the supply. A heavy-duty metal can is essential for securing sweet feed, pellets, or supplements in a busy barn environment.

The Behrens 20-Gallon Galvanized Can is the gold standard for small-scale feed storage because it is rustproof, rodent-proof, and built to withstand years of rough handling. The galvanized steel construction does not absorb odors, and the tight-fitting lid keeps moisture out. Its size is ideal for holding a standard 50-pound bag of feed with just enough room to spare for a scoop.

• Capacity: Holds up to 75 pounds of dry material.
• Material: Heavy-duty galvanized steel that won’t crack in freezing temperatures.
• Features: Large, comfortable handle and a secure, snug-fitting lid.

Make sure to place the can on a flat surface or a wooden pallet to prevent moisture from pooling underneath, which can cause premature rust over decades of use.

This bin is perfect for hobbyists keeping one to three horses or a small flock of livestock. It is not suitable for large-scale operations requiring bulk grain deliveries, where automated silos or industrial-sized bins are necessary.

Saddle Rack – Tough 1 Portable Saddle Stand

Saddles are a significant financial investment and need proper support to maintain their structural integrity. Leaving a saddle on the floor or draped over a fence rail damages the tree and scuffs the leather. A dedicated stand keeps the saddle off the ground, allows air to circulate, and provides a stable base for cleaning and conditioning.

The Tough 1 Portable Saddle Stand offers excellent versatility for barns with limited space or temporary setups. Made from heavy-duty tubular steel, this stand is incredibly sturdy yet light enough to move around easily. It features a convenient lower wire basket to hold saddle pads, grooming supplies, or cleaning sprays, keeping everything in one neat footprint.

• Portability: Collapsible design for easy transport to shows or trailheads.
• Storage: Integrated bottom wire mesh shelf for extra gear.
• Finish: Durable powder-coated steel prevents rust in damp tack rooms.

While highly stable, it should be placed on level ground to prevent tipping when loading heavy western saddles.

This stand is ideal for the part-time farmer who needs to move gear between the tack room and the trailer frequently. It is not the best choice for those with a dozen heavy saddles who require a permanent, wall-mounted multi-saddle system.

Bridle Rack – Weaver Leather Cast Iron Hook

Bridles, reins, and halters easily tangle into a frustrating mess if left draped over posts or tossed into buckets. A proper bridle rack preserves the natural curve of the leather crownpiece, preventing cracking and maintaining a comfortable fit for the animal. Hanging gear also keeps it away from dirt and moisture.

The Weaver Leather Cast Iron Hook combines rugged durability with a classic barn aesthetic. Unlike cheap plastic hooks that snap under pressure or bend over time, this cast-iron hook is virtually indestructible. The wide, rounded top curve is specifically designed to support the headstall without leaving sharp creases in expensive leather.

• Material: Solid cast iron with a protective finish.
• Design: Rounded top contour to protect leather shape.
• Mounting: Requires heavy-duty wood screws (not included) for secure installation.

Make sure to mount this hook into solid wood framing, as drywall anchors will not hold up to the weight of heavy leather bridles and lead ropes.

This hook is perfect for any horse owner looking for a permanent, lifetime-quality storage solution for their tack room. It is not suited for temporary boarders or renters who cannot drill permanent holes into barn walls.

Blanket Rack – Dura-Tech 3-Bar Swivel Rack

Heavy winter turnouts, rain sheets, and coolers take up massive amounts of space and are prone to mildew if stored wet. A blanket rack keeps these bulky items organized, off the ground, and spread out so they can dry properly between uses. Without proper air circulation, expensive blankets quickly rot and develop foul odors.

The Dura-Tech 3-Bar Swivel Rack is a space-saving powerhouse for small tack rooms. Its three independent swinging arms allow blankets to hang flat against the wall when not in use, opening up valuable aisle space. When blankets are wet, the arms swing out to maximize airflow, speeding up drying times significantly.

• Capacity: Three independent 180-degree swivel arms for maximum versatility.
• Construction: Heavy-duty steel with a rust-resistant powder coat.
• Space-saving: Folds completely flat against the wall when empty.

Because heavy winter blankets can weigh over ten pounds when dry—and much more when wet—this rack must be anchored securely to solid wall studs or a backing board.

This rack is excellent for horse owners with multiple blankets who need to maximize vertical wall space. It is not necessary for those in warm climates who only use light sheets that can easily fit in a simple tote.

Grooming Tote – Weaver Leather Grooming Bag

Brushes, hoof picks, combs, and detangling sprays have a habit of scattering across the barn. A portable grooming tote keeps these daily essentials organized and easily transportable from the tack room to the cross-ties. Having a dedicated bag prevents tools from getting lost in the bedding or covered in barn dust.

The Weaver Leather Grooming Bag stands out for its smart organization and rugged construction. Made from durable polyester, it features multiple exterior pockets to keep small items like hoof picks and braiding bands separate from main brushes. The open-top design allows for quick access, while the padded shoulder strap makes carrying comfortable even when loaded with heavy bottles.

• Storage: Six outer pockets and a spacious main compartment.
• Portability: Padded, adjustable shoulder strap and comfortable webbing handles.
• Maintenance: Easy-to-clean fabric that can be hosed down and air-dried.

Be sure to clean out the bottom of the bag periodically, as dirt and hair from used brushes will accumulate over time.

This bag is perfect for the active rider who needs their grooming kit mobile and organized. It is not designed for heavy, oversized veterinary supplies or power tools, which require a rigid hard-shell case.

Whip Holder – Roma Wall Mounted Whip Rack

Whips, crops, and lunging whips are notoriously awkward to store. They easily bend, get stepped on, or disappear into corners when propped up against a wall. A dedicated whip holder keeps these long, flexible tools upright, protected from damage, and always within arm’s reach.

The Roma Wall Mounted Whip Rack is a simple, highly effective solution to a common barn annoyance. Made of durable plastic, it features slots that securely grip whips of various thicknesses by their handles. It mounts easily to any flat surface, keeping whips organized vertically and out of the way of passing horses and humans.

• Capacity: Holds up to 11 whips or crops simultaneously.
• Material: Flexible, impact-resistant plastic that won’t damage whip shafts.
• Installation: Pre-drilled holes for quick wall mounting.

Mount the rack high enough on the wall so that long lunging whips do not touch the floor, which can bend the tips over time.

This rack is a must-have for trainers, instructors, or hobbyists with a collection of training whips. It is not necessary for casual trail riders who do not use whips or crops in their daily routines.

Feed Scoop – Fortex 3-Quart Flat Back Scoop

Measuring feed accurately is critical for maintaining animal health and preventing costly overfeeding. A reliable feed scoop ensures consistent portions of grain, pellets, or chaff every single day. Using makeshift containers like old coffee cans can lead to inaccurate feeding and potential digestive issues.

The Fortex 3-Quart Flat Back Scoop is molded from a rubber-polyethylene composite that is virtually indestructible. Unlike cheap plastic scoops that crack in cold weather or shatter when dropped on concrete, this heavy-duty scoop flexes under pressure and bounces back. The flat-back design allows it to sit flat on a counter or hang neatly against the inside of a feed bin.

• Capacity: 3-quart volume with graduated marking lines for accurate measuring.
• Material: Rubber-polyethylene blend that resists cracking and freezing.
• Design: Ergonomic handle with a flat back for easy storage.

Keep in mind that different feeds have different densities, so it is always wise to weigh a full scoop of your specific grain on a kitchen scale once to know the exact weight.

This scoop is ideal for any livestock owner feeding grain, beet pulp, or supplements daily. It is not suitable for measuring tiny doses of concentrated medications, which require a precise syringe or gram scale.

Tack Trunk – Stanley 37-Inch Mobile Chest

A secure, weather-resistant trunk is the ultimate storage solution for expensive tack, seasonal blankets, and veterinary supplies. It keeps gear dust-free, dry, and protected from rodents while providing a centralized location for storage. In a busy barn, a mobile trunk allows you to lock up valuable equipment when you are not around.

The Stanley 37-Inch Mobile Chest is a rugged, industrial-grade alternative to traditional wooden tack trunks that cost hundreds of dollars more. It features heavy-duty wheels and a retractable handle, making it incredibly easy to roll down barn aisles or load into a trailer. The water seal protects contents from damp barn air, and the lockable metal latches keep curious hands and pests out.

• Mobility: Heavy-duty wheels and a pull-out steel handle for easy transport.
• Security: Lockable metal latches with a built-in padlock eye.
• Capacity: 50-gallon volume with a removable organizer tray.

While highly durable, the plastic exterior can get scuffed over time in a rugged barn environment, though this does not affect its structural integrity.

This chest is perfect for hobby farmers who travel to shows or need a secure, rodent-proof storage unit in a shared barn. It is not the right choice for those seeking a traditional, polished wood aesthetic for a high-end show barn.

Hay Bag – Derby Originals Heavy Duty Bag

Feeding hay directly on the stall floor leads to massive waste as animals step on, soil, and scatter the forage. A hay bag keeps the hay contained, off the dirty ground, and slows down fast eaters, which mimics natural grazing and aids digestion. It also keeps the stall neater and reduces the time spent cleaning up wasted hay.

The Derby Originals Heavy Duty Bag is engineered to withstand the daily abuse of hungry horses. Constructed from tough nylon with reinforced stitching, it features a front grid design that allows horses to pull out small mouthfuls at a time without tearing the bag. The top-loading design makes it easy to fill, and the adjustable straps allow for quick hanging in stalls or trailers.

• Durability: Double-layered nylon with reinforced seams.
• Feeding Style: Slow-feed grid to reduce waste and boredom.
• Capacity: Holds two to three large flakes of hay easily.

Always hang the bag at a safe height—generally chest-high for the animal—to prevent them from catching a hoof in the bag or straps.

This bag is excellent for stall-bound horses, easy keepers who need restricted diets, or for feeding during travel. It is not suitable for feeding large herds in open pastures, where large round bale feeders are more practical.

Tips for Keeping Feed Fresh and Rodent-Free

Rodents are the bane of any feed room, bringing disease, chewing through expensive gear, and contaminating feed. The most effective defense is a multi-layered approach that starts with immediate containment. Never leave feed in open paper bags; transfer every new delivery directly into metal or heavy-duty plastic bins immediately upon arrival.

Sweep up spilled grain daily, as even a small handful of pellets will attract mice and rats from far and wide. Keep feed bins elevated off the ground on pallets or shelves to eliminate dark hiding spots underneath. Additionally, implement a first-in, first-out rotation system to ensure older feed is used before it has a chance to spoil or attract pests.

Maintaining Your Tack Storage for Longevity

Barn environments are notoriously harsh on storage equipment, with high humidity, dust, and temperature swings constantly taking a toll. Regular maintenance of your storage solutions is just as important as maintaining the tack itself. Wipe down metal racks and hooks with a light coat of oil or rust-inhibitor once a season to prevent corrosion.

Clean out plastic and fabric grooming totes regularly by shaking out hair and debris, then washing them with mild soap and water. For mobile trunks and cart wheels, keep the axles free of hay and hair wraps, and apply a silicone lubricant to keep them rolling smoothly. Taking these simple steps ensures your organizational gear lasts for years, protecting your investments and keeping your barn running like a well-oiled machine.

A well-organized barn saves valuable time, protects expensive equipment, and creates a safer environment for both animals and handlers. Implementing these durable, practical storage solutions ensures that every piece of tack and scoop of feed has its proper place. With a little planning and the right tools, daily barn chores become a streamlined, enjoyable part of the farming lifestyle.