Ideas · Bedroom
13 Under-Bed Storage Ideas for Small Bedrooms
Drawers, trundles, daybeds and bed steps that turn the space under your bed into real storage, without blocking the walkway.
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In a small bedroom the bed is the biggest piece of furniture you own, and the space under it is often the largest empty volume in the room. Used well, it can replace a dresser, hold guest bedding or keep off-season clothes out of a tiny closet.
The ideas below cover three approaches: drawers built into the bed, separate bins and drawers that slide under an existing frame, and daybeds or trundles that do double duty. Whatever you choose, measure the clearance under your frame and the space you need beside the bed to pull a drawer all the way out.
1. Matching under-bed drawers
A row of identical drawers under a platform bed works like a low dresser. Give each drawer one job, such as sweaters, spare sheets or gym clothes, and keep the things you use weekly in the drawer closest to where you stand.
2. A bed frame with built-in drawers
If a separate dresser would block your path, put the drawers in the bed itself. Before buying, measure how far the drawers extend and check that you still have a clear route around the bed when they are open.
3. Drawers only on the aisle side
When one side of the bed touches a wall, drawers on that side are useless. Look for a storage bed with drawers on one side only, or set up bins so everything opens toward the walkway.
4. Low rolling bins for dorms and rentals
No storage bed? Measure the gap under your frame and buy low bins on wheels that fit it. Sort by season so off-season clothes stay at the back and everyday items roll out first.
5. A separate drawer for shoes
Keep shoes away from clean linens by giving them their own drawer at the foot of the bed. A ventilated front and a washable liner stop grit and smells from spreading.
6. A low dresser at the foot of the bed
If the foot of the bed faces open floor, a dresser that sits below mattress height adds drawers without boxing in the bed. Leave enough room to walk past and keep one small tray on top so clutter has a limit.
7. A recessed cubby in the bed base
When there is no room for a nightstand, a small cubby set into the side of the bed base can hold a book, glasses and a phone. Because it sits inside the bed footprint, it doesn't stick out into a narrow room.
8. A pull-out step for a raised storage bed
Taller storage beds hold more but are harder to climb into. A wide, low step that slides out of the base is safer than a loose stool left in the walkway. Make sure it is properly supported and has a non-slip top.
9. A daybed with a hidden trundle
A trundle tucked under a daybed gives you a second bed for guests and seating the rest of the time. Check that the pull-out mattress is the right size for the trundle.
10. A trundle guest bed in the living room
If your living room doubles as the guest room, a trundle daybed is easier than an air mattress. Store the guest bedding nearby and keep the space in front clear so the trundle can roll out.
11. A daybed with drawers for bedding
In a studio, a daybed with drawers keeps pillows and blankets out of sight during the day. Only store bedding that is completely dry, and leave space in front to open the drawers.
12. A modular cube daybed base
Sturdy storage cubes can form the base of a daybed, with bedding stored in fabric bins inside. Use a system made for this purpose and follow its load and anchoring instructions.
13. Loft bed stairs with drawers
On a loft bed, stairs with built-in drawers replace both the ladder and a dresser. Choose a complete loft system, check your ceiling height, and keep the stairs free of clutter.
Before you buy anything
- Measure the height under your bed frame and the floor space beside it. Drawers need their full depth to open.
- Store only fully dry items under the bed, and use lidded bins or drawers to keep dust out.
- Keep weekly items in front and off-season items at the back.
Questions people ask
How much space do I need under the bed for storage?
Most low bins need about 6 to 7 inches of clearance. If your frame is lower, bed risers can add a few inches. Check the bin height before you buy.
Is a storage bed better than bins?
A storage bed keeps dust out and looks tidier, but bins are cheaper and work with the bed you already have. In a rental or dorm, bins are usually the easier option.
