Under-bed storage is a great way to create extra space in smaller bedrooms and studio-style apartments. From storing seasonal clothes and shoes, extra bedding, or any number of other items, under-bed storage boxes or drawers are a great idea for anyone looking to add storage to their small bedroom.
While many individuals may choose to purchase a pre-made bed frame with built-in storage, others may prefer to follow a quick tutorial and undertake a bed storage DIY project to create the perfect solution for their needs.
There are countless under-bed storage ideas out there, including super cheap wood boxes and repurposed materials like dressers. Today, we’re taking a look at the best bed storage ideas to help you get started on your next DIY masterpiece.
A Cozy Sleeping Nook With Deep Under Bed Storage Space Made of Raw Materials
You can use unfinished wood, wood glue, and screws to create simple under-bed storage boxes that you can place your mattress directly on top of. This is a great idea for anyone who prefers a more natural, effortless look in their house.
The beauty of this design is that it’s incredibly easy to DIY, yet is completely customizable. You have the option to stain or paint the wood, add drawer pulls, install standalone wheels or a track slide, and so much more.
This example places the bed snugly in a recessed area of the room to make a cozy sleeping area. It also uses neutrals and dark tones to both complement and contrast with the raw wood storage boxes.
via Stadshem
A DIY High-Set Wooden Bed Frame With Large Storage Boxes Underneath
If a large, fixed under-bed storage layout isn’t your style, but you still like the idea of using raw materials in a simple design, this might be the option for you. Instead of building a big square box for your mattress to rest on, opt to build a raised platform with fully removable bins on wheels.
This will allow you to easily access the bins to store and retrieve your items without hassle. Additionally, the specific layout and appearance of this design are even more customizable than the previous idea. You can rearrange, remove, add, and decorate these bins as you see fit.
Styled by Martina Mattsson, photographed by Krister Engström for Kvarteret Makleri
Cabinet-Style Drawers Under the Bed for Extra Storage Space in a Studio Apartment
Under-bed storage is a must-have when living in a studio apartment layout. However, this type of layout means that whatever storage option you choose must coordinate with the rest of the room’s decor in a way not seen with a traditional bedroom setup.
This example idea uses the same style of cabinetry found in the kitchen area to make a matching drawer design under the bed, just in a different color. The result is a subtle, classic look that doesn’t pull attention away from the other elements in the room. This bed is also set a bit higher than some other ideas, creating additional space to store items you’d prefer to keep out of sight.
via Entrance Makleri
Repurposed Old Dresser Drawers to Efficiently Utilize the Space Under Your Bed
If you enjoy repurposing thrifted or hand-me-down furniture, you can make your own custom under-bed storage setup by giving an old dresser new life. Simply build a support platform for the bed and secure a set of drawers at the front for a unique, effective means to store all of your stuff when not in use.
This under-bed storage design is a perfect example of the kind of results you can see from this type of project. The bottom drawer row protrudes to act as a step to help ease the process of climbing onto a tall bed that doesn’t have another access point. Drawer fronts and trim are painted with a breathtaking blue tone that exudes calm and draws the eye to the ingenious design.
via Entrance Makleri
Refinished Cabinetry for a Super Easy Bed Storage Solution You’ll Absolutely Love
In a similar fashion to one of the previous bed storage ideas from above, this bedroom uses cabinetry as a storage solution. However, these cabinets use shelves to organize the stored items, which may be more convenient for some.
There’s also an opening where you can house frequently used items, such as a clothes hamper while keeping the floor clear. This setup would be ideal for a child’s room, allowing for plenty of accessible storage for toys, shoes, and clothes alongside room to play.
Styling by Grey Deco, photography by Jonas Berg for Stadshem
Customized Steps and Built-In Storage Made From Raw Plywood for a More In Depth DIY Project
Anyone looking to tackle more in-depth bed storage ideas may prefer to build a more intricate storage system. One popular choice is to build an elevated platform with a small set of stairs leading to the bed itself. This leaves plenty of space underneath the platform for a complete storage system of boxes, shelves, drawers, and more.
This example design uses raw materials, though painting or staining the wood is an option if you so choose. The plywood has been continued up the wall, creating a unique surface for coat hangers and task lighting for a truly personalized space.
Styled by Pella Hedeby, photographed by Ragner Omarsson for Ikea Livet Hemma
Discrete Bed Risers With Enough Storage Space for an Unconventional Room
When dealing with limited floor space or needing an extra bed where a traditional room doesn’t exist, under-bed storage can be the answer you’re looking for. As seen in this example image, you can place a bed in an area that is easily divided from the rest of the space, in this case with curtains.
Then you can utilize an under-bed box or two to store items when not in use. Wheels can be a fantastic addition here as well to help make it easier to get to your most used things and protect your flooring from scratches. The storage boxes here have discrete hinges on the doors for a sleek, seamless appearance, though you can attach handles or knobs to make opening them a simpler process.
Styled by Thomas Lingsell, photographed by Therese Jahnson for Historiska Hem
A High Bed For Easy Access to Even More Storage in a Compact Room
Built-in under-bed storage is the perfect solution to compact bedrooms, such as those in city apartments or college dormitories. By utilizing the vertical space in the room, you’ll be left with much more floor area for other furniture without crowding the bedroom unnecessarily.
In this example image, the raised bed allows for a small desk to be comfortably placed against the wall for a quaint workspace. The decor is both slightly abstract and mature, providing an air of focus without becoming too stuffy.
Styled by Bon Interior, photographed by Mariah Salander for Bjurfors
Apothecary-Style Old Drawers Help Organize All Kinds of Small Supplies With a Charming Touch
For the final example in our list of bed storage ideas, we’re taking a look at an eclectic and truly unique solution. This apothecary-style drawer unit brings a certain charming air to this bedroom area. There are plenty of places to store all sorts of items, and you can even utilize the nameplates in the center of each drawer to keep everything organized if you choose.
Using this style of storage in a room filled with a variety of textures, patterns, and colors results in a slightly Bohemian design that’s bursting with personality.
via Historiska Hem
