Running out of Closet Space? A Storage Bed Is Just What You Need

Whether you live in a tiny apartment or sprawling house, there’s a good chance you're using that space under your bed for some extra storage. Shoes, bags, boxes full of knick-knacks, even a lost sock or two — those are just some of the things that make their way to that nook beneath the mattress. 

This is why upgrading to a storage bed makes total sense. These beds are designed to take full advantage of that extra space with storage sections built right in — drawers that pull out, mattresses that lift up, neat and tidy compartments that blend seamlessly into the rest of the bed. I recently upgraded my son’s bed to a storage bed, and I can say unequivocally that they are awesome. No need for clunky bins and boxes, no frightening discoveries when spring cleaning rolls around, and loads of extra storage.

Storage beds have a come a long way on the design front, too. Beautiful versions are now available for grown ups with sophisticated taste, in many styles and at high and low price points. Here is my list of the top three storage beds you can buy right now. 

When opting for a storage bed, the first thing to consider is how you plan to use it. Will the storage compartments be used on a daily basis? Or will they be used for occasional, seasonal storage? This bed is a great solution for long-term storage. The mattress completely lifts up and provides an enormous amount of storage space. Since it’s nearly a foot deep, it can even hold most luggage.

Stylishly upholstered in tufted linen, when the mattress is back in place you’d never guess this was a storage bed. Sturdy with a steel frame and wooden slats, a gas lift mechanism ensures it will be easy to lift and close. As I love an upholstered headboard and I’m thinking of using a storage bed for longer-term items, this is definitely my top choice right now.  

If you're looking for storage spaces that are more easily accessible for everyday items, then a bed with pullout storage is the best choice. The Karens Upholstered Panel Bed has four built-in drawers on three sides that simply slide out whenever you need access to them. This style of storage bed is ideal for clothing, linens, pajamas — you name it!

I especially love how the side drawers can be used for books and magazines. And they're set far enough back that they won’t bump into the nightstand when pulled out. This bed is pretty spectacular stylistically, too, with button tufting, nailhead trim, and winged sides: a perfect mix of form and function. Lastly, with five colors to choose from, it's virtually guaranteed you will find one that works with the bedroom decor. I'm kind of loving it in navy.

Is sleek and modern your go-to look? Then Blu Dot’s Modu-licious storage bed fully fits the bill. The bed frame is available in maple, graphite and walnut, and the steel drawer fronts come in six different colors, from red to gray to robin’s egg blue. So customizing this bed is fun (I love how the  interactive customization tool let's you see different configurations before you decide.) 

The bed also coordinates with Blu Dot’s Modu-licious Collection, and you have the option of adding to it with a dresser or nightstand. With six drawers in total, you get a huge amount of storage out of this bed—like getting another closet — and it is fully accessible for everyday use. It's pricey, but considering how well built Blu Dot products are, you can rest assured it will stand the test of time. As a design-loving New Yorker with nonexistent storage space, I'm finding this bed a little hard to resist.