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Imagine waking up on Christmas morning surrounded by snow, or enjoying a summer BBQ in your shorts and t-shirt. Each season comes with its own set of essentials—seasonal clothing, blankets, or those bulky items that only come out once a year. Storage beds, whether single or double, offer a practical solution to tuck away those items until you need them again.
With a storage bed, your space stays tidy and organised while still giving you easy access to your belongings. Once everything is neatly stored, your room feels more open, airy, and, most importantly, calm. Our ultimate guide to storage beds will help you find the perfect solution for keeping your home clutter-free and serene all year round.
What Are Storage Beds?
A storage bed is a clever piece of furniture designed to maximise your space. Some come with drawers on the sides, others have a mattress that lifts up to reveal a compartment underneath. Beds with storage utilise that often-wasted area beneath where dust bunnies usually live. Plus, they come in various designs to match your decor so that you can enjoy both form and function in your bedroom.
Storage Bed Types
There are a few different types of storage beds you need to understand before you can choose which best suits your home and bedroom decor.
Divan Bed
A divan storage bed features a solid wooden structure with a soft, padded base covered in fabric. The base is designed to match the mattress size, making it more compact than other bed frames. It offers generous storage drawers in various configurations, perfect for storing bedding, clothes, and more. The clean, minimalist design helps keep your room clutter-free. You can also choose between a platform or sprung top, allowing you to select the firmness level that suits your comfort needs. Whilst many divan beds come with headboards, the option to go without makes them ideal for loft rooms or spaces with sloping ceilings.
Ottoman Bed
Unlike divan beds that split storage into drawers, ottomans use the entire bed base. You can use them to store larger and bulkier items, as there is no division. The storage area is easily accessible thanks to a piston-assisted lift mechanism that reveals ample space underneath the mattress. However, if you have a heavy mattress, lifting it can be a bit of a workout. But don’t worry, there’s a solution.
Electric ottoman beds solve the issue many face when lifting heavy mattresses for storage access. They come with two motors that can raise the mattress with just a press of a remote control button. Safety is integrated into the design, and there's even a backup system in case of power failure.
Slide Stores
Sliding stores are a great alternative to traditional drawers on a divan bed. Instead of drawers that use the width of the bed for storage, you get a sliding door that covers the length. Sliding a door open feels so much easier than pulling out a packed drawer. Beds with slide stores are generally lighter, so you can move them around more easily for cleaning or rearranging your room.
Divan Beds vs Ottoman Beds
It’s a bit confusing to decide between an ottoman or divan bed. Both offer sturdy builds and useful storage, but which suits your home better? We’ve put together pros and cons of each bed to make the decision easier for you.
Pros of Divan Beds
- Divan beds come in easy-to-assemble packages, requiring minimal effort to set up.
- Features built-in drawers to give you extra under bed storage without taking up more floor space.
- They aren't too expensive, and their compact form makes them easy to move around.
- From different shapes and sizes to various materials, divan beds are available in so many options. Whether your style is classic or modern, you’ll find a divan that fits right in.
Cons of Divan Beds
- Divan beds are delivered as two pre-made box bases, which can be tricky to get through narrow doorways or up steep staircases.
- Since divans sit close to the floor, sweeping or vacuuming underneath is difficult. Dust can easily find a new home underneath.
Divan Beds vs Ottoman Beds
Pros of Ottoman Beds
- You'd be surprised at how much stuff ottoman beds can store — up to four times more than a standard four-drawer divan.
- The entire area under the bed can be used to keep things you need close but out of sight, helping you declutter your bedroom.
- Modern designs come with electric lifting mechanisms controlled by a remote. Now, it’s super easy to lift the bed without manual effort.
- The latest ottoman beds are designed with aesthetics in mind, ensuring they look as good as they function.
- Ottoman beds have plenty of options in fabrics, finishes, and headboards. You can design a bed that truly fits your personality and bedroom decor.
Cons of Ottoman Beds
- Ottoman bed frames can cost more than divans, because they include a piston-assisted lift and close mechanism that's tricky to manufacture.
- Once assembled, these beds may be difficult to relocate, especially if the storage area is full and there are no wheels on the bed frame.
- Whilst modern ottoman beds come with multiple safety features, they aren’t meant for rough handling. Keep kids and pets away when accessing the storage compartment to ensure everyone's safety.
Storage Bed Sizes
Just like regular beds, storage beds are available in multiple sizes, such as single, small double, double, king, and super king. Here's a breakdown of common bed sizes:
Bed Size | Metric Dimensions | Imperial Dimensions | Ideal Use |
Small Single | 75cm x 190cm | 2'6" x 6'3" | Young children, small rooms, guest beds |
| 90cm x 190cm | 3'0" x 6'3" | One person with extra space, cosy for two |
Small Double | 120cm x 190cm | 4'0" x 6'3" | One person with extra space, cosy for two |
Double | 135cm x 190cm | 4'6" x 6'3" | Two people, small to average bedrooms |
King | 150cm x 200cm | 5'0" x 6'6" | Two people wanting more space, taller individuals |
Super King | 180cm x 200cm | 6'0" x 6'6" | Couples who value space, large bedrooms, family time in bed (pets included) |
Bed Size | Metric Dimensions | Imperial Dimensions | Ideal Use |
At Furl, we offer a comprehensive range of options, from single beds with storage to Emperor and everything in between. Our beds also come with six different storage depth options, ranging from 20cm to 40cm.
When measuring for your new storage bed, remember to account for the space you'll need to lift the base or open the drawers fully. Make sure there's enough room on both sides and at the foot of the frame.
Storage Bed Fabrics
Storage beds bring a cosy charm with their soft, upholstered fabrics. Faux leather storage beds add sophistication and warmth. You can go for black and brown for a striking contrast or grey for a neutral look. Velvet storage beds exude elegance and comfort. They have a luxurious feel and historical allure. Meanwhile, wooden bed frames give a rustic or Scandinavian vibe. You will never go wrong with a wooden storage bed if you’re into natural aesthetics. If mid-century design is more your thing, a boucle bed with storage is also a great option. Boucle fabric's looped yarns create eye-catching textures that add a pop of personality to any bedroom decor.
At Furl, we offer the traditional fabrics but also fabrics made from 100% recycled plastics that are just as stylish and durable as everything else, and even vegan-friendly fabrics certified by The Vegan Society. You can order the bed “naked” and add removable covers later down the line once you decide on your bedroom decor.
Storage Bed Headboards
A storage bed headboard can transform your bedroom's look. Not only does it frame your bed, completing the room's look, but it also functions as a convenient backrest. If you enjoy reading late at night, a headboard adds to your comfort. An upholstered headboard offers extra support for your back and neck, so you can lean up against it or use it to prop up pillows.
The Furl collection offers over ten styles, from classic to contemporary. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or want to make a bold statement, we have something for you. And if headboards aren't your thing, no worries — our beds look equally stunning without them.
Storage Bed Mattresses
For a good night's sleep, the right mattress matters big time. Storage bed mattresses come in all shapes and sizes. As a rough guide, you can get mattresses for storage beds in the following sizes:
- Small Single: 75 x 190 cm (2'6" x 6'3")
- Single: 90 x 190 cm (3' x 6'3")
- Small Double: 120 x 190 cm (4' x 6'3")
- Double: 135 x 190 cm (4'6" x 6'3")
- King: 150 x 200 cm (5' x 6'6")
- Super King: 180 x 200 cm (6' x 6'6")
- Emperor: 200 x 200 cm (6'6" x 6'6")
What To Store In A Storage Bed?
Storage beds are incredibly useful for keeping various items out of sight but still allowing for easy access. You can store bedsheets, seasonal and holiday clothes, Christmas decorations, ironing boards, shoes, toys, boxes, and even suitcases. Essentially, you can store anything you like.
The storage capacity depends on the type of storage bed you have. Ottoman storage beds are great for larger items, while divan beds have specific compartments you can organise however you like.
When organising your storage bed, place items in such a way that the frame still closes properly. Arrange everything so that the items you need frequently are more accessible, while those you rarely use are stored behind or underneath the more frequently used items. This way, you can easily grab what you need, when you need it, without any hassle.
Storage Bed Benefits
Clutter Control
Clutter can make your bedroom feel chaotic and stress-inducing. When things are scattered everywhere, it's easy to get overwhelmed. That's why storage beds are a great choice for a stress-free life. They provide a simple solution to keep your room tidy and organised. You won't have to worry about where to put things, and your space will feel more relaxed and inviting.
Handy Access With an Elegant Look
Storing bigger items under your bed with no order or storage compartments can make the space look messy. Not to mention, makes it so difficult to find the things you’re looking for when searching on your hands and knees. Plus, finding a storage box big enough to fit a suitcase that can also slide under the bed is nearly impossible.
With a storage bed, even the bulkiest items have a home. You don’t have to fit things into awkward spaces or deal with an eyesore under your bed. Storage beds are designed without compartments, giving you more room to store what you need. They’re sleek and chic, so you’ll have easy access to your things without compromising aesthetics.
Easier Cleaning
Keeping your room clean becomes a breeze when everything has a place in your storage bed. With fewer items scattered around, daily tidying becomes quicker and more straightforward. It's amazing how much time you’ll save when you don't have to move piles of stuff just to vacuum or dust.
How to Assemble a Storage Bed?
Assembling a storage bed usually differs depending on the brand and type. Here's a basic rundown:
- Check the instructions and gather your tools before moving everything into the room where the bed will be placed. You’ll save time and effort by building it close to its final spot. Don’t make the age-old mistake of building the bed outside and releasing it doesn’t fit through the door when built.
- Next, put together the headboard, footboard, and side rails to create the bed frame.
- Install the lifting mechanisms, following the specific instructions for your model.
- Once the base is in place, test the lifting system a few times to ensure it works smoothly.
- Finish up by adding the lower base and your mattress, and you're all set.
While it's manageable to assemble a storage bed on your own, you don't have to worry about it at Furl. Our team handles the delivery and assembly, so you get a perfectly built bed without lifting a finger.
Should You Choose an End or Side-Lifting Storage Bed?
Choosing between end lift and side lift ottoman beds comes down to how the storage compartment opens. For beds placed against a wall, side lift ottomans are convenient. They open along the bed’s length, giving you easy access to the storage space from the side that extends into the room.
If your bed sits away from the walls or just the headboard is against a wall, an end-lift ottoman might be a better fit. The foot of the bed is accessible, so you can open the lift top without any clearance issues. The storage area is at the foot of the bed, making it easy to reach. This style is also great for loft bedrooms as it can fully open even with a sloping ceiling.
Most storage beds, whether they open from the side or the front, work pretty much the same way. Ultimately, it comes down to your own preference in most cases, but think about the type of room you have and which style will suit your needs best.
How to Clean a Storage Bed
Most people overlook cleaning their storage beds, but it's a good idea to understand how to clean your bed before you make a purchase decision. Over time, dust and allergens can build up in and around the bed, affecting not just the bed's cleanliness but also your health. Simply changing the sheets won't do the trick; you need to clean the entire bed properly every now and again.
Like all beds, storage beds can easily build up with dust underneath. Having many things stored underneath means more places for dust and dirt to hide. So take some time to clean both the bed and the stored items. Here’s how…
Clean the Mattress
Start by stripping off the bedding and mattress protector, then use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum to clean both sides of the mattress thoroughly. If you come across any stains, grab a mild detergent and a cloth to clean them off. After removing the stains, allow the mattress to dry thoroughly.
When your mattress starts to smell or just needs a refresh, there's an easy fix. Sprinkle some bicarbonate of soda over the surface and gently rub it in with a soft-bristled brush and some water, then leave it overnight to dry. For memory foam mattresses, check if they come with a removable protector. If they do, simply take it off and follow the washing instructions above.
Clean the Storage Area
First, you have to clear everything out from under the bed. After you've emptied the space, use a vacuum to clean the dust thoroughly. A storage bed lifting mechanism lets you raise the mattress high, so it’s easy to reach even the farthest corners of your bed.
Once the storage space is clean and you've reorganised everything, vacuum the area under the bed, too. It's also a good idea to wipe down the skirting boards to remove the accumulating dust between the wall and the bed.
Clean the Headboard
You can simply vacuum the surface of upholstered headboards to remove dust. Then, use a mild detergent to dissolve stains. Always check the care instructions before using any cleaning products. Some upholstered headboards can be steam-cleaned, but double-check the manufacturer's guide to be sure.
For leather headboards, start by vacuuming off the dust using a soft brush attachment. Then, use a damp cloth with some soap to remove any dirt that’s built up. Remember, too much water can damage leather, so keep the cloth just damp enough and finish by buffing it with a dry cloth.
Clean the Bed Frame
Once your headboard is fresh, move on to the bed frame. Follow the same cleaning method you used for the headboard, focusing on the sides and bottom. Work your way around the whole bed, and then your bed will be fully cleaned. We suggest cleaning your bed like this every month as you spend a lot of time sleeping, so creating a clean environment for this time is great for your overall health.
How to Close a Storage Bed?
Closing a storage bed is pretty simple. First, make sure everything inside is neatly organised and doesn't interfere with the mechanism. Then, align the top with the base before gently pressing it down a little. Once the bed starts to move, use its own weight to guide it down. The hydraulic lifts should do most of the work for you. When you hear that satisfying click, you’ll know it’s secured.
Give the bed a gentle push and pull to make sure it’s stable. If it feels wobbly or doesn’t close smoothly, something might be in the way. Check the inside again and make any necessary adjustments.
For extra safety, lock the storage bed once it's completely lowered. The locking mechanism is usually at the foot or side. Push or slide it into place until it clicks. You can test it by lifting the bed slightly; it should stay put. Each brand might have different instructions, so always check the manufacturer's manual for specifics.
If you prefer a hands-free experience, you can consider an electric lift storage bed. These are super easy to use and work with just a button press. The electric ottoman bed mechanism makes lifting and lowering the bed effortless.
How To Keep Bedding Smelling Fresh in Storage Beds
Extra storage in a bed is a lifesaver. But if you're tucking away bedsheets and seasonal clothes, it's important to store them right to avoid any unpleasant smells. Here's how:
- Always wash your bedding before storing it. Sweat stains become harder to remove over time. A 60-degree wash kills sweat, dust, and bacteria.
- Place scented beads in a mesh bag next to your bedding to keep it smelling fresh.
- Make sure your sheets are bone dry before putting them away. A short tumble dry followed by air drying usually works best.
- Keep the storage bed clean. A deep clean every month is a good rule of thumb, but it can vary based on your living conditions.
- If you don’t want to store your bedding directly in the storage bed, use fabric storage bags. Avoid anything with a lid as even the driest sheets hold some moisture, which can lead to mould and mildew in airtight containers.
Storage Bed Accessories
Here are some cool add-ons to make your storage bed more functional, secure, and organised.
Removable Bed Cover
You might not always need a bed cover, but if you’ve got kids or like to enjoy a drink in bed, it’s a good idea to have one. A bed cover sits right over your mattress, protecting it from spills and stains while adding some style to your room.
There are different materials to choose from, like leather for a chic look, or something lighter like cotton for the summer. For colder nights, a quilted cover with sheets underneath will keep you warm. Whether you need it for protection or style, a bed cover has got you — and your bed — covered.
Security Box
A storage bed isn't just for your bedding and suitcase. It's also a great place to keep your valuables like passports, jewellery, credit cards, and important documents. If you're thinking about storing these items, a security box can be a thoughtful addition. Our insurance-approved security boxes are certified for up to £1000 in cash and come with an electronic deadlock. It's smart, secure storage right under your mattress.
Mechanism Cover
A storage bed already does a great job of keeping your belongings dust-free. But if you live in a dusty area, dust particles can still sneak inside. That’s where a mechanism cover comes in handy.
A mechanism cover fits tightly around the mechanism and over the slats of your storage bed. It keeps your items protected from dust that might pass through the mattress. Plus, it hides everything neatly away, even if the mattress is removed.
Using a mechanism cover means you won't have to empty out all your stored items for deep cleaning too often. It’s a practical solution for anyone wanting that extra layer of protection.
Drawer Organisers
With an ottoman bed, you usually get a big space without any built-in organisation. If you’re not just storing big, bulky items, try using drawer organisers to sort everything out. Label each drawer so you won't waste time finding what you need. It’s a simple way to make your storage space work for you.
Storage Beds FAQs
What Not To Store In A Storage Bed?
While storage beds are super handy, certain items are best kept elsewhere. Heavy stuff like furniture and machinery can damage the bed’s base. Books might attract silverfish, leading to an unwanted infestation. Shoes, even new ones, can attract insects and may disintegrate over time.
Are Storage Beds Strong?
Storage beds are just as sturdy as regular beds. They have the same slatted layout, plus a strong lower frame for drawers or a full storage area if it’s an ottoman style. They’re built to last and give you years of use. However, the quality comes down to the material and brand, so choose wisely.
Do Storage Beds Need Box Springs?
Most storage beds today don't need box springs. Box springs used to help with support and height, but modern storage beds have built-in support systems. The sturdy platform or slats in these beds offer enough support for your mattress.
Now that you know all about storage beds and how they can help you maximise your space, you're ready to take the next step toward creating a clutter-free, calming bedroom. Whether you're after a smart solution for storing extra bedding or simply want to make the most of every inch in your room, storage beds offer a clever way to do it without sacrificing style.
At Furl, we’re here to help you find the perfect storage bed to fit your home and lifestyle. With so many options to choose from you'll be sure to find something that suits your space and decor. Plus, with our wide range of fabrics and finishes, you can customise your bed to match your personality and make it truly yours.
Got questions or need a little advice? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We’re always happy to help you pick out the perfect bed and make your home feel even more like home.
