Buzz
Credit: MytourIf your sleeping area feels cramped or your bedroom is overflowing with seasonal clothes and decor that lack proper storage, a storage bed might be the perfect solution. Having personally used one for years, I can confidently attest to its space-saving and clutter-reducing benefits, all while maintaining a stylish and functional design.
No matter your storage requirements—be it side drawers for nighttime essentials or headboard shelves to showcase cherished photos—we’ve curated a list of the 22 best storage beds to fit every style and budget. After evaluating numerous retailers, we focused on storage types, frame materials, design aesthetics, and pricing. Additionally, we consulted interior designer Alice Moszczynski from Planner 5D for expert tips on selecting the ideal storage bed for your needs.
Top Lift-Up Storage Beds
ArticleLift-up storage beds offer a discreet storage solution that blends seamlessly into your bedroom. Models like the budget-friendly IKEA MALM Storage Bed function much like a storage ottoman, allowing you to lift the bed base to stow away items. This design is ideal for storing large bedding items like comforters and duvets.
The West Elm Emmett Pop-Up Storage Bed boasts an impressive selection of 49 fabric and color options, ensuring a perfect match for any decor. For a plush and stylish option, consider Article’s Sven Tufted Storage Bed, available in timeless shades such as birch ivory and briar gray. If you prefer the elegance and sturdiness of solid wood, the Room & Board's Hudson Bed offers eight wood finishes, including walnut and white oak, along with nine hardware choices to customize your bed’s look.
We also highly recommend lift-up beds available on Wayfair, such as the Braya Hydraulic Lift-Up Storage Upholstered Platform Bed, which comes in lively shades like moss green. The hydraulic mechanism makes lifting the bed effortless. Another standout is the Shila Lift-Up Storage Bed Frame & Charging Station, a versatile design featuring under-bed storage, a built-in outlet, and USB ports for convenient device charging.
Top Side Drawer Beds
Design Within ReachSide drawer storage beds are an excellent solution for organizing seasonal clothes, sleepwear, and casual tees. They’re particularly popular in kids’ and teens’ rooms, as drawers like those on the Pottery Barn Hampton Storage Bed can also hold toys, books, and sports equipment.
However, side drawer beds aren’t just for children. The West Elm Mid-Century Storage Bed offers a sophisticated and elegant design, while the IKEA BRIMNES Storage Bed provides an affordable option with ample drawer space for compact living spaces. For a tailored solution, the Thuma Classic Bed allows customization of headboard style, color, size, and side-pull underbed drawers.
For a high-end, contemporary choice, consider the Design Within Reach Matera Bed, which offers customization in configuration, headboard, size, and color. A more budget-friendly option is the Antioch Bed Frame, featuring both underbed and side drawers, a charging station, and an LED-lit headboard ideal for nighttime reading.
Top Footboard Drawer Beds
CastleryFootboard drawer storage beds are ideal for smaller or narrow rooms due to their easy accessibility. The Article Pactera Storage Bed offers a timeless design available in walnut or oak finishes, while the Castlery Dalton Storage Bed features a cushioned upholstered frame with both side and footboard drawers for added convenience.
Need a footboard drawer bed that seamlessly complements your decor? The Room & Board Wyatt Bed provides four neutral base colors and an extensive palette of 219 additional shades, ranging from timeless tones to vibrant yellows, reds, and blues. For a more refined aesthetic, leather options are also available.
The budget-friendly Bret Upholstered Storage Bed is perfect for kids, offering three spacious drawers and a low-profile design for easy access. Another excellent choice for children or teens is the Pottery Barn Rhys Storage Bed, which includes open side storage areas for books, toys, or baskets.
For compact spaces like studio apartments, the Atiyah Solid Wood Storage Murphy Bed is a versatile solution. It features dual footboard drawers and folds into a discreet storage cabinet, making it a space-saving marvel.
Top Headboard Storage Beds
ArticleHeadboard storage beds may not accommodate bulky items or clothing, but they’re perfect for displaying keepsakes, small decor, or organizing books for convenient nighttime reading. The West Elm Mid-Century Headboard Storage Platform Bed offers a minimalist, versatile design that complements both sophisticated and understated bedrooms. It also includes two spacious cabinets to discreetly store items like TV remotes, maintaining a clutter-free look.
The Article Kouva Storage Headboard pairs seamlessly with an Article bed frame, offering a stylish storage solution in three wood finishes: oak, smoked oak, and white. For a more affordable option, the Gramercy Storage Bed and Bookcase Headboard Set features above-bed shelving. Alternatively, the Cleisthenes Storage Bed Frame with Bookcase provides a modern, eclectic design with ample shelf space for decorative items, all at a budget-friendly price.
Expert Tips for Shopping for Storage Beds
Storage Type
As you’ve likely observed, storage beds come in various styles, including lift-up beds, side drawer beds, and more. Choosing the best one for you depends on personal preference, with a few important considerations to keep in mind.
“Lift-up beds are ideal for larger rooms where you can access them from all sides,” Moszczynski notes. “They provide ample space beneath the mattress for bulky items like comforters or seasonal clothing.” However, they can be quite heavy and may require significant effort to lift. Additionally, certain items should not be stored under the bed, as dust can accumulate over time.
Moszczynski’s preferred option is the side drawer bed. “Drawer storage beds are highly accessible and excellent for organizing smaller items,” she explains. These beds typically feature two to four drawers that can be easily accessed while you’re in bed.
While shelf or headboard storage beds offer a sleek, modern aesthetic, Moszczynski points out that they may not be the most practical choice for storing seasonal clothing or bedding. “Shelf storage beds are great for showcasing books and decor, but they’re less suitable for larger items,” she explains. “If not organized properly, they can lead to visual clutter.”
Size
When shopping for a storage bed, approach it the same way you would a traditional bed—start by assessing the size of your room. A child’s bedroom typically requires no more than a twin or full bed, while larger spaces, such as a master bedroom, can accommodate a queen or king-sized bed.
Ensure you have enough space to open side or footboard drawers comfortably. One advantage of a storage bed is that it can eliminate the need for additional furniture, such as extra nightstands.
If you’re debating between two bed sizes, take precise measurements of your room and leave a few feet of clearance on each side of the bed for walking space and safety. For those with very limited space, a murphy bed that folds away when not in use is an excellent option.
Frame Material
Moszczynski highlights solid wood as the top choice for bed frames, thanks to its durability and timeless appeal. While solid wood frames may come at a higher cost, they offer long-lasting quality, making them a worthwhile investment.
Plywood is a more affordable alternative that Moszczynski notes offers reasonable sturdiness, though it may warp over time compared to solid wood. Upholstered storage beds are another popular option, providing added comfort and a plush feel. Ultimately, the best frame material depends on your budget and personal style preferences.
Style
Storage beds are available in a variety of styles, from modern to classic. Whether your bedroom decor is boho, farmhouse, or something else entirely, you’re likely to find a storage bed that complements your aesthetic without compromising on functionality.
Those who appreciate minimalist designs and open, airy spaces will find options like the West Elm Mid-Century Storage Bed to be both functional and stylish. Meanwhile, the adaptable Article Sven Tufted Storage Bed can effortlessly transition between glamorous and coastal-inspired decor.
For households with young children or those prone to accidents, an upholstered bed offers added cushioning to prevent injuries. On the other hand, a wooden bed frame may be more suitable for pet owners, as it’s less likely to be damaged by scratches or tears from pets.
Common Questions You Might Have
Are storage beds less durable than traditional beds?
Not necessarily. Storage beds are generally just as sturdy as traditional beds. Most feature slatted designs that evenly distribute the mattress’s weight, ensuring stability and preventing any risk of collapse.
Is a Box Spring Necessary for a Storage Bed?
Most storage beds are designed with a solid platform base or slats, eliminating the need for a box spring. Adding a box spring could even obstruct access to the storage compartments or drawers, reducing the bed’s functionality.
Are Storage Beds Pricier Than Traditional Beds?
Storage beds typically come at a higher price point than traditional beds due to their added features like storage compartments and lifting mechanisms. While the initial cost may be higher, the investment can save you money on additional storage furniture, making it a practical choice for many.
Trust Our Expertise
This article was authored by Ashley Zlatopolsky, a seasoned bedding and bath writer for Mytour with over a decade of experience in the field. Having personally used storage beds in compact spaces, Ashley understands their practicality. To curate the top storage beds, we assessed key factors such as frame material, storage design, and aesthetic appeal. For expert guidance, Ashley consulted interior designer Alice Moszczynski from Planner 5D.
