How to Use the Storage Space Under Your Bed

The space under your bed is often an overlooked and underutilized area in most bedrooms. With some clever storage solutions, you can transform that wasted space into valuable hidden storage. Using the area under your bed is an excellent way to help keep your room organized and decluttered. This guide will provide tips and ideas to help you maximize the storage potential under your bed.

Assess the Space

The first step is to assess the area under your bed to determine what type of storage will work best.

Measure how much clearance you have between the floor and your mattress. This will impact the height of any storage containers. At least 4 inches of clearance is ideal for most underbed storage solutions.
Consider the size and layout of your room. Measure the length and width under your bed to calculate the total square footage. This will give you an idea of how much storage you can fit.
Determine if the area has any obstructions. For example, bed posts or legs may limit certain storage options. Make sure to measure any spaces or gaps that cannot be used.
Check how much empty space is under your bed now. Remove any existing boxes or items to get a blank slate.

Thoroughly accessing your available space will allow you to choose storage solutions that maximize every inch.

Choose Appropriate Storage Solutions

Once you know the dimensions you are working with, you can start selecting storage containers, baskets, or bins to install. Here are some ideal options to take advantage of the space under your bed:

Underbed Storage Bins and Boxes

Plastic underbed bins and fabric underbed boxes with slide out trays allow for easy access to your stuff. Look for bins and boxes that are sized to specifically utilize the space under your bed. Some even have caster wheels to conveniently roll in and out. Make sure they are not too tall for the clearance you have. These are great for storing off-season clothing, spare bedding, linens, toys, and other household items you access occasionally.

Underbed Drawers

For more frequently used items, underbed drawers are a great choice. They function like dresser drawers so you can neatly organized and readily access items. Full extension drawers on smooth glides offer the most user-friendly access. Consider storing underwear, socks, t-shirts, and other clothing essentials. Some units even have features like dividers, shelves, and closet rods to maximize organization.

Pull Out Storage Containers

Pull out storage containers mounted on wheels are another excellent option for utilizing awkward spaces under your bed. These low profile, rolling carts can be positioned in otherwise unusable gaps and corners. Use them to store shoes, accessories, electronics, school supplies, or craft materials. The pull out design makes contents easy to see and grab.

Underbed Trundle Beds

For extra sleeping space, consider getting a trundle bed that slides or rolls out from under your main bed. The trundle can act as a second bed for guests and sleepovers. During the day, it simply slides under the bed out of the way. Choose a trundle height that fits the clearance under your bed. Some even have pop-up mattresses.

Maximize Vertical Space

In addition to containers that fit directly on the floor, utilize vertical space under your bed too. Installing shelves, racks, and wall organizers can double your storage potential.

Sturdy metal shelving units work wonderfully for holding folded clothes, shoes, purses, and more. For safety, make sure shelves are firmly anchored to studs in the wall.
Hanging shoe organizers are fantastic for maximizing small unused spaces under the bed. The over-the-door style can be mounted to walls or bed frames.
Wall mounted storage racks add vertical space perfect for stowing sports equipment, tools, bikes, or other larger items.
Floating wall shelves offer decorative open storage for displaying books, plants, baskets, and your favorite items.

Keep Organized with Bins and Baskets

To keep your new underbed storage solutions neatly organized, use bins, baskets, dividers, and other organizational tools. Here are some great ways to incorporate small storage containers:

Use fabric bins or baskets to corral underwear, socks, accessories, toiletries, and other small items on shelves. Labels help identify contents.
Plastic bins are perfect for categorizing arts supplies, sewing notions, tools, gadgets and electronics. Transparent bins make it easy to see what’s inside.
Woven baskets stylishly hold linens, blankets, towels, and clothes waiting to be folded. They contain items while adding texture.
Sturdy cardboard boxes are ideal for categorizing seasonal, rarely used items like holiday decorations and winter clothes.
Shoe storage boxes prevent dirty soles from touching your clothes. They also neatly contain all shoe care supplies in one place.

Staying organized with small bins and baskets makes retrieving and putting away items much simpler. The divided storage also minimizes clutter so you can efficiently access what you need.

Secure Safely Stored Items

When using underbed storage for infrequently accessed seasonal items or keepsakes, make sure they remain secure. Use bins and boxes with lids or doors to keep out dust and pests. For important documents and valuables, lockable plastic trunks offer peace of mind. If small children have access to underbed spaces, anchor heavy storage furniture or containers to the wall for safety. Take steps to safely store items that you cannot bear to lose or that could be hazardous if accessed by kids.

Maintain a Clear Pathway

Avoid treating the space under your bed like a black hole to toss things. Make sure to leave a pathway clear so containers can be easily accessed. Trying to reach behind piles of stuff leads to frustration and disorder. Maintain at least 2 feet of clearance around the perimeter so you can retrieve storage without moving everything. Keeping a clear path also promotes routine maintenance like vacuuming to remove dust and dirt.

Incorporate Lighting

Trying to locate items in dark shadowy space under the bed is annoying and inefficient. Install lighting to brighten the area so you can easily see stored belongings. Here are some great options:

Battery powered stick-on LED tap lights illuminate bins and boxes when you lift the bed skirt.
Underbed rope lights or strip lighting tape can be attached to frames with adhesive. These emit a nice ambient glow.
Remote control color-changing LED strips are fun for creating custom mood lighting.
For serious task lighting, mount gooseneck lamps or swivel reading lamps to the bed frame aimed at the storage area.

Proper lighting transforms an unused gloomy cavity into a conveniently visible storage space.

Add Drawers to Your Bed Frame

Another way to utilize the valuable real estate under your bed is to choose a bed frame or bed base with integrated drawers. Today many models offer this clever feature:

Storage platform beds have drawers built right into the base, maximizing every inch of space under the mattress.
Drawers can be installed on bed legs or posts to create compartments along the sides of the bed.
Trundle beds allow full size second beds to roll or slide under the main bed. Some contain built-in drawers for storing bedding.
Upholstered storage bench beds provide generous drawers disguised in the footer bench base.

Integrated bed frame storage Drawers provide easily accessible storage without sacrificing space in the middle of the room. Just be sure to choose furniture with high-quality joinery and materials that will last.

Take Advantage of Wheels

A clever tip for utilizing awkward underbed spaces is to accessorize with furniture mounted on wheels. Items like storage ottomans, rolling carts, and pull out cabinets can roll under the bed, then be pulled out when needed. For safety, look for smooth rolling casters or wheels with locks. Useful portable furnishings to stash under the bed include:

Rolling storage carts andutility carts to hold craft supplies, extra towels, office supplies, or electronics.
Rolling file carts to organize files, paperwork, wrapping paper, or documents. Locking models add security.
Upholstered ottomans on wheels provide padded seating and flip open to reveal interior storage.
Rolling drawer organizers for cosmetics, jewelry, toiletries, or sewing notions.

Furniture on wheels makes it easy to access stored items then tuck them out of sight when finished using them. This is especially helpful for small rooms short on floor space.

Safety Tips For Underbed Storage

While utilizing space under the bed can add valuable storage, be sure to follow some basic safety guidelines:

Keep storage bins and boxes a minimum of 2 feet from heat and air conditioning vents to prevent fire hazards.
Avoid storing anything flammable, toxic, or dangerous in underbed spaces, especially if children may access the room.
Check for sharp points or exposed nails before sliding storage under the bed to prevent snags or scratches.
Make sure freestanding shelves are securely anchored to studs in the wall per the manufacturer instructions.
Test that storage furniture and mattresses are stable and will not collapse when weight is placed on them.
Use caution when rolling storage in and out from under the bed. Make sure the pathway is clear and fingers will not get pinched.

Observing basic safety tips will prevent underbed storage from becoming a hazard. Protect yourself, your family, and your belongings.

Ideas for Organizing Underbed Storage

The space under your bed can accommodate a variety of handy household items. Here are suggestions for ways to organize the areas:

Seasonal Clothing Storage

Utilize stackable bins and underbed boxes to store off-season clothing until needed. This clears closet space and keeps garments clean and wrinkle-free. Use breathable fabric bins for items prone to mildew like bathing suits and gym clothes.

Linens and Towels

Rolling or stacking bins are perfect for neatly holding reserve sheets, blankets, towels and other linens. Use containers with multiple compartments to separate types of linens.

Shoes, Purses and Accessories

Clear plastic shoe boxes prevent shoes from damaging clothing while protecting them from dust. Handbags can be inserted in bin organizers to retain their shape. Accessories like belts, scarves, and hats are easy to see and access in open bins.

Gift Wrap Storage

Keep gift wrap, tissue, ribbon, gift bags and supplies organized together in underbed storage so they are easily accessible when needed. Storing these items flat helps prevent wrinkling and damage.

Files and Documents

Safely store important documents like tax files and records in lidded plastic underbed bins. This protects them from water damage, pests, mold, or dust. Fireproof lockable file boxes add another layer of security.

Sports Equipment

Use the space under high beds and bunk beds to store hockey sticks, baseball bats, tennis rackets, helmets, pads, balls and other sports gear. Mounted racks and netting keep items secure and prevent damage to bedding.

Pet Supplies

Designate underbed bins or baskets for holding pet toys, blankets, grooming supplies, extra food, medication, and other essentials all in one place. Keeping pet items contained avoids scattered clutter.

Memorabilia and Photos

Sentimental collections of albums, photos, memorabilia, and keepsakes can be protected from light damage in acid-free archival boxes stored under the bed. Important items remain private but accessible.

The underbed environment provides plenty of versatile storage possibilities. Use bins and baskets to neatly organize the categories of items you need close at hand.

Creative Ways to Use Underbed Space in Other Rooms

The valuable storage potential under beds can also be utilized in other rooms of the house:

Under Guest Room Beds

Provide bins holding extra blankets, towels, toiletries, and closet hangers to make guests feel comfortable and welcomed. This eliminates having supplies cluttering the room.

Under Kids’ Beds

Use storage furniture like cube organizers or canvas bins to store toys, books, art supplies, and games within easy reach of kids. Trundle beds maximize sleeping space for sleepovers.

Under Baby Cribs

Safely store extra crib sheets, waterproof pads, blankets, burp clothes, and other infant care essentials within easy access for middle-of-the-night changes.

Under Futons or Daybeds

Take advantage of the storage space under convertible furniture. Use it to store extra cushions and bedding or create hidden organized storage.

Under Pet Beds

Keep dog and cat food, treats, medication, grooming tools, and extra beds handy but out of sight under custom pet furniture made with storage bases.

With some creativity, underbed storage can be helpful throughout the home. Use it to stow necessary items where they are readily accessible when needed in each room.

Tips for Making Use of Awkward Underbed Spaces

The space under the bed often contains hard-to-use gaps due to bed legs, moldings, piping, and unusual dimensions. But don’t let awkward areas go to waste. Put them to work with these clever tips:

Use oddly-shaped spaces for stashing rolled items like yoga mats, sleeping bags, wrapping paper, posters, and blueprints.
Stick self-adhesive wall hooks on vertical surfaces to hang hats, purses, robes, and dog leashes.
Install corner shelving to hold small bins and baskets for organizing toiletries, cosmetics, hair care supplies and electronics accessories.
Narrow spaces between bed legs or moldings are perfect for upright umbrella storage and tall boots.
Toe kick door storage cabinets can be installed in unused recesses along the sides or foot of the bed.
Slide very shallow items like artwork or mirrors behind indented areas to protect them from damage.
Strap cleaning tools like brooms, mops, and vacuum attachments in narrow gaps to keep them out of the way.

With some measurements and planning, those awkward underbed cavities can transform into surprisingly functional storage space. Don’t let any area under the bed go unused.

Underbed Storage Safety Tips for Kids

If small children have access to the bedroom, be sure to keep underbed storage safe. Take these precautions:

Avoid storing anything potentially hazardous in spaces kids can access like medications, tools, or cleaning products.
Secure heavy storage bins, furniture, and mattresses to the wall studs so they cannot tip over on top of a child.
Use child safety locks to prevent storage cabinets or chests from being opened. Keyed locks add extra security.
Attach guards or rails to open bed frames to prevent kids from trying to crawl inside and getting stuck.
Eliminate suffocation hazards by not allowing children to climb or play inside enclosed underbed spaces.
Check for sharp edges, points, or exposed nails that could scratch or cut a child trying to retrieve toys.
Teach kids to always slide storage in and out by the handles. Do not allow climbing on cabinets or drawers.

Take safety precautions when utilizing underbed storage around children. Supervise use and access to prevent accidents and injuries.

Answers to Common Underbed Storage FAQs

Utilizing all the space under your bed with storage solutions leads to some common questions. Here are helpful answers:

What kind of items should I not store under the bed?

Avoid storing anything valuable, hazardous or flammable. Never store guns, medications, chemicals, or cash under the bed. Also avoid important documents that could be damaged.

How much weight can I safely store under my bed?

Most underbed storage solutions can safely hold 40-50 pounds per square foot. Check manufacturer ratings and do not overload. Distribute weight evenly between storage containers.

Should I store seasonal clothing under the bed?

Yes, underbed bins are ideal for holding off-season clothing to free up regular closet and dresser space. Use breathable fabric bins and cedar blocks to prevent mildew and moths.

What about storing shoes under the bed?

You can store shoes under the bed as long as they are enclosed in bins to prevent dirt and dust from contacting clothes and bedding. Use clear plastic bins so you can easily see all your options.

How can I keep stored items from getting dusty?

Wipe storage containers regularly with a microfiber cloth. Avoid storing fabric items directly on the floor. Using lidded bins and boxes helps minimize dust exposure. Shake out stored linens periodically.

How can I make retrieval easier?

Install lighting under the bed so you can see. Leave a 2-foot perimeter around storage to easily access contents. Label bins clearly. Use storage with doors or full extension drawers for the best access.

Should I vacuum under the bed while empty?

Yes, vacuuming underneath while storage is removed allows you to clean the space thoroughly. This prevents dust bunnies, pet hair, and debris from accumulating over time.

How can I elevate storage off damp basement floors?

Use waterproof plastic bins and place containers on wood pallets, platforms or cinder blocks to keep them elevated. Eliminate cardboard storage which can disintegrate. Dehumidifiers also help.

Conclusion

The valuable space hiding under your bed can transform into a functional storage asset for your bedroom with some clever organizing solutions. Measure the area, choose appropriate storage furniture and containers sized for the space, maximize vertical room, incorporate lighting and labels, and maintain accessibility. Follow safety guidelines and tips to create valuable hidden storage that keeps your bedroom tidy and decluttered. With some creativity, the underbed space can provide specialized storage to suit your needs.