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Bed Guides

Are Storage Beds Worth It? The Ultimate Guide

8 min read
November 11, 2025
By Sonno Beds

Summary:

Have been thinking about storage beds, whether they are worth it or not. This guide explains it all. Storage beds are stylish and functional, as they will provide additional space without reducing comfort. Read below and see whether you have been missing out on them or not.


In today’s world, your floor space truly matters. Gone are those days when people used to focus too much on furniture and overstuffing their space just to store everything they need (or don’t need at all). But today, consumers also know the importance of investing in functional furniture. The storage bed is one of the finest examples, a smart, space-saving solution that is a perfect addition to the bedrooms of the age.

So, let’s start this guide and find out are storage beds worth it?

What Is A Storage Bed?

A storage bed is a bed frame that has inbuilt storage compartments. It can be drawers, lift-up bases, or shelves that are built inside the bed frame. These beds mostly include:

  1. Divan beds
  2. Ottoman divan bed
  3. Upholstered ottoman beds

Here is a table below to understand common storage beds in a better way:

Type

Description

Best For

Ottoman Beds

Lift-up mechanism with a hydraulic system

Base lifts to reveal full under-bed storage

Small bedrooms that need maximum space.

Drawer Beds

Pull-out drawers built into the sides or foot of the bed.

Rooms with enough clearance for opening drawers.

Divan Beds with Storage

Fabric-covered bases with drawer options or lift-up lids.

Traditional or hotel-style bedrooms.

Headboard Storage Beds

Include shelves or compartments in the headboard.

Bedrooms with limited nightstand space.

 

Benefits Of Storage Beds

1. Maximised Space

Storage beds can be placed in small houses, apartments, or rooms with scarce space to store. The under-bed space that is usually not used is converted to a useful storage area with bedding, clothes, or even seasonal stock.

2. Clean & Uncluttered Bedrooms

Storage beds are used to preserve a clean and minimalist look in the bedroom. You can stash away additional pillows, beddings, or out-of-season clothes for visible space and ensure a comfortable ambience, which is an absolute requirement for sleeping.

3. Sophisticated & Practical Design

The current storage beds are available in various designs, like sleek upholstered beds and wooden, elegant beds. They are practical yet lovely, and they will lift your room style, upscaling it and at the same time keeping its appearance clean.

4. No Need For Extra Furniture

When you have a storage bed, you don’t have to worry about other additions for storage. To ensure there is proper space for your stuff, you just need to invest in a storage bed like an ottoman divan bed.

5. Dust-Free Storage Of Items

The enclosed or lift-up storage compartments are a hack for the protection of your belongings against dust, pet hair, or dirt.

6. Fits well In Small Or Shared Rooms

Storage beds work like magic for:

  • Guest rooms
  • Kids rooms
  • Master bedrooms
  • Airbnbs
  • Hostels
  • Hotels

Drawbacks Of Storage Beds

Storage beds may be feasible, but are not the best choice for everyone.

1. More Costly Than Standard Beds

The cost is increased by the additional functionality. A decent quality storage bed can end up costing 20-40 percent higher than a normal bed frame of the same size.

Bed Type

Average Price Range (UK)

Standard Bed Frame

£200 – £600

Drawer Storage Bed

£400 – £900

Ottoman Storage Bed

£500 – £1200

 

2. Limited Accessibility

Drawer-style beds need side clearance in order to open up, and this may not be convenient in a small room. Likewise, the Ottoman beds require a vertical area to raise the base.

3. Weight Restrictions

The frame may be pressured due to heavy storage, particularly where not properly built. Never overload compartments without checking their weight capacity.

Storage Beds vs. Regular Beds

Feature

Storage Bed

Regular Bed

Storage Space

Built-in (drawers, lift-up base)

None, or minimal under-bed clearance

Price

Higher due to the mechanism and materials

Lower

Aesthetic Appeal

Sleek and modern

Varies widely

Ease of Cleaning

More complex; depends on access

Easier to clean under

Weight & Portability

Heavier

Lighter and easier to move

Ideal For

Small rooms, apartments, and organised storage

Larger rooms or minimalist designs

 

Comfort & Sleep Quality

One of the main questions for many people is whether storage beds undermine comfort. The short answer? No, if you choose wisely.

1. Mattress Compatibility

Storage beds can accommodate the majority of standard mattresses. All you have to do is make sure that the base supports your type of mattress you use.

2. Choose Upholstered Headboards

Go for velvet upholstery that ensures you enjoy comfort and the benefits of having storage beds.

Are Storage Beds Worth It For Small Bedrooms?

Absolutely. Storage beds can be used as a space hack for your bedrooms, especially when they are small. Rather than a disorderly wardrobe or boxes of clothes, all this can be packed away under the bed.

Ideal uses in small rooms:

  • Store extra bedding, duvets, or blankets
  • Keep your books and everyday items
  • Hide out-of-season clothes
  • Keep kids’ toys organised
  • Store shoes and bags
  • Stash away your crisps and chocolates 

This implies that you can still make your small bedroom seem:

  • Organised
  • Open
  • Spacious
  • Clutter-free

Who Should Consider Buying A Storage Bed?

Situation

Why It’s Ideal

Apartment or Flat Living

Space-saving and organised.

Guest Rooms

Store extra bedding and keep the room ready.

Children’s Rooms

Perfect for toys, clothes, and books.

Minimalist Bedrooms

Keeps everything hidden and clean.

Shared Rooms or Rentals

Maximises personal storage without needing bulky furniture.

 

Different Storage Mechanisms Explained

1. Side-Lift Ottoman Beds

Raise on one side, which works well in the room where the foot of the bed is against a wall.

Pros:

  • Easy side access
  • Great for tight spaces.

Cons:

  • Limited lifting direction.

2. End-Lift Ottoman Beds

These bases are lifted from the foot-end, and you get a large compartment under the mattress.

Pros:

  • Large storage area

Cons:

  • Requires space to lift fully

3. Half Ottoman Beds

It raises only a section of the bed, a perfect solution when you are willing to have halfway storage and still have easy access.

Pros:

  • Lighter
  • Easier to lift

Cons:

  • Reduced total storage capacity

4. Drawer Storage Beds

Have offer drawers on one or both sides.

Pros:

Easier daily access

Cons:

Need space to pull drawers out.

Maintenance Tips For Storage Beds

To make your storage bed look and work like new:

  • Clean compartments regularly: Use a vacuum to clean inside to avoid the accumulation of dust.
  • Check hydraulic systems: Screws and test lift mechanisms should be tightened on a regular basis.
  • Overloading: Do not exceed the weight capacity on the frame as recommended in the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Store items using storage organisers: Store in boxes or bags.

How Long Do Storage Beds Last?

A good storage bed can be used up to 8 to 10 years or beyond with proper care, and this is dependent on the material and usage. Choose beds that have good metal or hardwood frames and a good gas-lift system to ensure longevity.

Storage Bed Buying Guide

Prior to buying, it is important to consider the following:

1. Bedroom Size

Measure your room carefully. Drawer beds require clearance on the side, whereas ottoman beds require lifting space.

2. Storage Needs

Consider first what you will put inside the storage compartment. So, you can choose a design that suits your needs the most.

3. Material & Build Quality

Find durable frames, materials, and effortless lift.

4. Mattress Compatibility

Make sure the base is a perfect fit for your mattress type.

5. Ease Of Assembly

Choose beds that are easy to assemble. You don’t want to be stuck with a bed that requires expensive and professional assistance.

Are Storage Beds Worth The Price?

The difference in price between a regular bed and an extra storage, cleaner, designed, and better-organised bed can easily be justified when you think of what you are getting.

In short:

✅ You save on additional furniture.
✅ You gain more usable space.
✅ You enjoy a more organised home.

A storage bed is a great investment in case you care more about practicality and style.

Final Verdict: Are Storage Beds Worth It?

Storage beds are worth it, yes, particularly when you appreciate the necessity of living in order and using space wisely.

They become an investment that is paid for by convenience, aesthetic, and durability.

FAQs

How long do the lift mechanisms last?

High-quality gas-lift systems last for years, especially with periodic checks and maintenance.

Are storage beds difficult to assemble?

Ottoman beds may take longer to assemble due to hydraulic systems, but many come with pre-installed parts or professional assembly options.

Do storage beds affect ventilation?

Solid bases may limit airflow slightly, but choosing breathable mattresses or vented bases helps prevent moisture build-up.

What’s better: drawer or ottoman storage beds?

Drawer beds are great for everyday use, while ottoman beds offer maximum space. Your choice depends on room layout and storage needs.

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