Best beds with storage for small bedrooms

It can be tough to live in a small bedroom. You need space for your bed, but also for all your stuff, such as clothes and blankets. It often feels like you have to choose between a comfortable bed and sufficient storage.

Wish you didn't have to decide? Storage beds give you both! They look like regular beds but 
have built-in storage underneath, which gives you both a great place to sleep and extra space for your belongings.

If you want to make the most of your small bedroom, we will help you choose the best storage bed. You will know about the different types of storage beds available, what important features to look for, and how to find one that fits perfectly in your room.

Types of Storage Beds for Small Bedrooms

Storage beds come in a few main styles, and each one works a bit differently. Some have drawers that pull out, while others have a top that lifts to reveal storage underneath, much like a trunk. Let's discuss these different types so you can decide which one is the best fit for your bedroom.

Platform Beds with Built-in Drawers

These beds resemble regular beds, but they feature drawers built into the base. The drawers usually slide out from the sides or sometimes from the foot of the bed.

Drawer Types

Most drawer beds have two to four drawers.

• Side Drawers: These are the most common. You pull them out from the long sides of the bed, just like a regular dresser drawer.
  
• Foot Drawers: These drawers are located at the very end of the bed and pull straight out.
  Some beds have a mix of both side and foot drawers.

Ottoman Storage Beds

Ottoman beds have a big storage area under the mattress. You lift the mattress, and there's all your storage!

• Lift-up mechanism: Most ottoman beds use gas struts (like car trunk supports) to help you lift the mattress. This makes it easy to open, even though you're lifting the whole mattress and bed frame.
• Storage capacity: These beds usually have the most storage space. Since there are no drawers taking up room, you get one big open area under the entire bed. You can store bulky items, such as comforters, pillows, or even suitcases.

Captain's Beds

These beds sit higher off the ground and have storage built into them all around. 

• Storage Features: You'll find a mix of drawers and open shelves, with some even featuring headboard storage, including small spaces for books or personal items.
• Organised Storage: Instead of one big space, you get many smaller compartments. This makes it easy to keep various types of items organised and tidy.
• Ideal Rooms: These are perfect for children's rooms, helping them store toys, books, and clothes all in one place. 

Divan Beds with Storage

These beds have a simple, clean look with hidden storage that you might not even notice.

Continental European style: Divan beds sit low to the ground and have a very minimalist appearance.

Storage options: You can get divan beds with drawers, ottoman-style lifting storage, or a combination of both (called half-and-half). The choice depends on what you want to store and how often you need to access it.

What To Look For When Picking a Storage Bed?

When shopping for a storage bed, focus on these key features, and you'll find the perfect bed for your space and needs.

Size and Storage Capacity

Measure Your Space: Before purchasing a storage bed, measure the height of your bedroom from the ceiling. Some storage beds are taller than regular beds, so you'll want to ensure they fit.

Storage Space: Larger beds offer more storage. For example, a queen bed has about twice the storage of a twin bed. Consider how much storage you need.

Construction Quality and Durability

When selecting a bed, two key factors to consider are its composition and the weight it can support.

Materials: Solid wood lasts the longest but is more expensive. Engineered wood (like MDF or particleboard) is cheaper but may not hold up as well over time. Metal frames are sturdy and often the most affordable option.

Weight capacity: It's important to know how much weight your bed can support, both for sleeping on top and for anything you plan to store underneath. Some beds are designed to hold a lot of weight for sleeping, but can't handle much in their storage compartments.

Ease of Access

Smooth Drawers: When you're looking at furniture with drawers, check that they open and close easily without getting stuck or making a racket.

Effortless Ottoman Beds: For ottoman beds, you want a strong lift system that makes raising the mattress feel super easy. Cheaper systems will become a struggle to use over time.

Style and Aesthetics

Match Your Style: If your room is modern, go for a bed with simple, clean lines. If your room 
A more traditional bed with classic details will fit better.

Colour Matters: Storage beds typically come in standard colours, such as white, black, or various wood shades. Pick a colour that won't clash with your walls or other furniture.

Hidden or Shown Storage: Some storage beds are designed to hide their storage for a sleek, minimalist look. Others show off their storage as part of their design. Pick the style that best matches your taste.

How to Make the Most of Your Storage Bed?

Getting a storage bed is only the beginning. The real benefit comes from learning how to use its storage space well.

• Put away winter clothes in summer and summer clothes in winter
• You can see what's inside without opening everything
• Lighter items can go in lift-up storage areas
• Keep matching sheet sets in one place
• Don't bury things you use often under hard-to-access areas.
  

You may also like to read: What are the ideal beds for small rooms?

Final Thoughts

Storage beds are fantastic for small bedrooms because they give you a comfy place to sleep and help you store your things. You can find them with drawers, a top that lifts, or even hidden compartments, and you'll be surprised how much you can put away. With a good storage bed and some innovative organising, your small room will feel bigger, tidier, and more peaceful.