What to Store in an Ottoman Bed: 12 Smart Storage Ideas

An ottoman bed gives you one of the biggest storage spaces in your home, right under your mattress. But what should you actually keep in there? Here are 12 smart ideas to help you clear clutter and make every inch count.

The Windsor Comfort Bed Base with full-length storage.

12 things to store in an ottoman bed

1. Spare duvets and pillows. Bulky bedding is the classic ottoman essential.
2. Bed linen sets. Keep fresh sheets right where you need them.
3. Out-of-season clothes. Swap summer and winter wardrobes twice a year.
4. Coats and knitwear. Free up wardrobe space for everyday clothes.
5. Shoes and boots. Store them in clear boxes so you can see each pair.
6. Suitcases and travel bags. Pack smaller bags inside larger ones.
7. Christmas decorations. Perfect if you don't have a loft.
8. Spare towels and blankets. Ideal for guest stays.
9. Keepsakes and photo albums. Safe, dry and out of sight.
10. Gym and yoga kit. Mats, resistance bands and weights tidied away.
11. Gift wrap and craft supplies. Lay rolls flat along the length of the bed.
12. Important document boxes. Keep paperwork together in a labelled file box.

Tips to keep your ottoman storage organised

• Use vacuum bags for duvets and clothes to save space.
• Add storage boxes or dividers so items don't slide around.
• Put everyday items at the foot end where they're easiest to reach.
• Label everything so you can find things quickly.
• Keep it fresh with cedar blocks or lavender bags, and air the base every few months.
• Don't overfill. Leave a little room so the platform closes easily.

What not to store in an ottoman bed

Avoid damp items, food, and anything you need every day. Keep very heavy objects to a minimum, and never store anything that could block the gas lift mechanism.

The Eden Luxe Velvet Bed Frame – storage hidden beneath a luxury finish.

Find your ottoman bed

Ready to reclaim your space? Explore our full range of ottoman storage beds, or read our ottoman beds buyer's guide to find the right one for your bedroom.