What are the best ideas for under-bed storage?
Finding the right storage solutions in your home can be a challenge. One area of your home you may be under-utilizing is the square footage under your bed. Two ideal options to consider include ready-made storage bins or a platform bed frame with built-in storage.
On the one hand, storage containers enable you to maximize the square footage that already exists in your home in a budget-friendly fashion. On the other hand, a platform bed frame with built-in drawers and shelves adds beauty to the bedroom while also providing under-bed storage.
With some careful planning, you’ll find the exact storage solutions for the items that need to be out of sight but not out of mind.
How to choose under-bed storage
Measure your space
Before buying under-bed storage, measure the width and height of your space to determine what can fit. A king-size bed that sits on a traditional bed frame has a bar in the center, so if you’re considering storage bins, be sure they’re low in profile so they don’t hit that bar.
If you’re considering a platform bed with added storage, make sure the frame coordinates with your mattress size.
Consider what you are going to store
Some storage solutions depend on what you’re storing. For clothing and linens, choose storage bins that allow the fabric to breathe. For shoes, find storage with small compartments. Use plastic storage for keeping mementos safe and dust-free.
If you opt for a platform bed, clothing and linens store together easily in deep drawers that slide from beneath the bed. Other items can be grouped in organizer bins and then stored in the drawers.
Determine how frequently you’ll access your items
Under-bed storage is best for things you don’t have to access frequently. Consider clothing that you switch out when seasons change. Shoes you don’t wear every day or special linens for overnight guests are good options. Clothing accessories such as scarves or shapewear are accessed easily with under-bed storage. Gift wrap also is ideal for storing under the bed.
Decide whether or not your storage also needs to be decorative
If you’re considering storage bins and your bed has a skirt to hide them, you don’t need to be quite as selective about their visual appeal since they won’t be seen. If your under-bed space is visible, choose bins that are attractive and add to your bedroom’s decor.
Platform beds are built to look great and add to your bedroom’s aesthetic. They come either upholstered or made with wood. Find one that complements the furniture you already have.
Cost of under-bed storage
Depending on size, material and quality, expect to pay $3-$200 for under-bed storage bins. Platform beds with storage range from $400-$5,000, with the more expensive beds being made from solid wood.
Best under-bed storage bins
Flexible Zippered Fabric Storage Box, Set of Four: available at Wayfair
Made of lightweight, breathable fabric, this set of storage containers are mildew-resistant and measures 18 inches wide, 6 inches high and 42 inches long. Each bin has two handles on each side. The clear plastic lid allows for easy viewing and has a zipper enclosure.
Rolling Under-bed Wooden Storage Drawers with Wheels: available at Amazon
These storage drawers come in a set of two. They’re made from wood and have casters on the bottom for easy rolling. Each drawer is 20 inches wide, 10 inches high and 36 inches long.
StorageLAB Under Bed Shoe Storage Organizers: available at Amazon
Coming in a set of two, these fabric storage bins have adjustable compartments where you can fit up to 12 pairs of shoes in each container. They have clear plastic lids that let you quickly see your collection.
Design Imports Two Piece Storage Bin Set: available at Macy’s
This pair of storage bins come in grey chevron or grey starburst for mixing. Their patterns add some decorative flair to the room, especially if they are visible at a glance or used without a bed skirt. Because they come without lids, they’re best used for items that don’t need to be washed such as magazines or books, office items or gift bags.
Rosecliff Heights Rattan Basket: available at Wayfair
This black-washed rattan storage basket offers a streamlined style to your storage needs. It is handwoven, comes with a cotton liner and has handles on each end. The basket is smaller than other storage options, but it is especially nice when under-bed storage is visible to others.
Under Bed Plastic Storage Bins 2-Pack: available at Amazon
This four-pack of plastic storage bins are long, clear and narrow. They measure 20 inches wide, 7 inches high and almost 40 inches long, making them ideal for clothing and linens. They are also stackable. They come with wheels and handles. This storage style is also great for organizing gift wrap.
Seward Trunk Under the Bed Trunk with Wheels: available at Amazon
Add interest to your under-bed storage with a trunk on recessed wheels. This one comes in black and measures 18 inches wide, 8.25 inches high and 30 inches long. It also has strong nickel hardware to keep your items safe.
Ziploc Space Bag with Vacuum Sealer: available at Amazon
Protect all your linens and clothing from moisture, pets, dust and mildew with these heavy-duty space bags. Attach your vacuum hose to the bag’s air valve to remove the air, reducing the volume up to 75%. The bags work best for seasonal items, as opening the bags eliminates the airtight seal. These durable vacuum-sealed bags come in a package of two.
Best platform bed frames with built-in storage
Lasell Storage Platform Bed: available at Wayfair
Offered in grey oak or white, this bed comes with five drawers and nickel hardware. It features a higher platform so the drawers can be stacked. The headboard is included, which also has storage.
Brandon Storage Queen Platform Bed: available at Macy’s
Made of solid wood, the frame is made with tongue and groove construction for durability. It comes with a headboard and drawers that pull from either side of the bed. The end of the bed has shelves for added storage.
Allewie Queen Platform Bed with Four Storage Drawers and Headboard: available at Amazon
The dark grey upholstered bed brings sophistication to your storage solutions with its linen-look and square-stitched fabric. It has four steel drawers underneath. The headboard can be adjusted to your mattress size.
Urban Queen Platform Bed: available at Home Depot
If you want just the platform and storage without a headboard, this is a great choice. It comes in grey and has two deep drawers on wheels that measure 22 inches wide, 12 inches high and 38 inches long. They have a flat front for a simple design. The frame also has an attached USB charger.
Tammy Tilley is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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