Modern city living in cramped conditions has forced many young people to get creative with underbed storage. Floors strewn with clothes is not a good look however, which is where storage beds with built in drawers and compartments come in. Hiding clothes, bedding and other items in plain sight, these beds offer ample organizing space within a beautifully designed frame, and are often made using, durable materials that combine style with function. We’ve compared the different options available to help those interested in decluttering their sleep sanctuary.
Storage beds refer to beds that have integrated, easy-access drawers built directly into the side of the frame. The best designs, like this wood king bed with storage make these drawers almost invisible. High-quality versions feature recessed, integrated handles or push-to-open mechanisms and drawer fronts that align perfectly with the bed frame, creating a seamless look. It minimises clutter through this integrated design. It is best for everyday items like clothing, shoes, and linens and is much easier for daily use than a lift-up bed. The main consideration is that you need space on either side of the bed for the drawers to open, so measuring your room carefully is essential. You should avoid designs with bulky external handles.
Ottoman beds use a hydraulic mechanism to lift the entire mattress platform smoothly, revealing a cavernous space perfect for bulky, out-of-season items. It minimises clutter because the storage is completely invisible when the bed is down, creating a clean, uninterrupted line from the floor. It is best for storing large, infrequently used items like winter duvets, seasonal clothing, suitcases, or extra bedding. It is ideal for smaller bedrooms where a wardrobe is insufficient. Considerations include needing enough clearance around the bed to lift the mattress (which can be heavy). It is not ideal for daily access and requires a specific type of slatted base or panel to support the mattress.
A variation on the drawer bed, platform beds utilise drawers mounted underneath the platform, sitting lower to the ground. The platform itself often overhangs slightly, hiding the drawer mechanisms. This design often results in an even cleaner, more low-profile aesthetic. The drawers are subtly tucked away, emphasizing the horizontal line of the platform. It is best for modern, minimalist bedrooms and works well with a low-profile mattress. A consideration is that the drawers may have a lower height clearance than side drawers, which can limit what you can store.
Our final option, Divan beds comprise a sturdy base in the form of an upholstered box that sits directly on the floor. While some have visible drawers, many modern versions offer “no-gap” drawer systems. The “no-gap” design means the drawer fronts are perfectly flush with the fabric of the base so that when closed, it looks like a solid, upholstered platform. It minimises clutter through this flush, seamless appearance. It is best for a traditional or hotel-like bedroom aesthetic and is often very affordable and practical.
