Bedroom storage ideas to save much-needed space

Thankfully, a plethora of clever storage ideas and stylish bedroom storage options exist to add incredible function.

Whether you’re working with primary bedrooms that feel surprisingly compact or simply don’t want to invest heavily in bulky bedroom furniture, we have some fantastic options to introduce additional bedroom storage. Multifunctional pieces are a true game-changer, so let’s explore some of our favourite practical storage solutions to keep your sanctuary wonderfully tidy…

1. Start with a clutter cleanse

If your bedroom clutter is overwhelming, the first step in any good bedroom design refresh is to assess if you’ve accumulated items you can part with, to keep clutter at bay.

By cleansing your belongings, you’ll be left with the things you really love, and it can feel a lot more manageable to deal with. Start by cleaning your bedroom and getting rid of any rubbish or broken items that cannot be fixed, then identify pain points in your storage:

• Do you struggle to find space for your clothes, so they end up on the bed?
• Do your socks need a good home that’s not the floor?
• Is your makeup strewn across multiple surfaces?

This will help you pinpoint where you lack storage capacity and need a perfect solution. We, as bedroom storage enthusiasts, always recommend this first step! Get more tips on how to declutter your bedroom efficiently.

2. Underbed storage makes the most impact

Looking for maximal bed storage? An ottoman bed makes the biggest difference, offering ample storage by utilising the entire footprint of your bed to store things.

One of the most popular bed frames for a reason, a lift-up bed or ottoman is the clear winner when it comes to clever storage solutions for bedrooms. And since you lift the bed, you don’t need to worry about space around it for drawers – just your ceiling height. These are perfect for larger items like suitcases, and ideal for bed storage boxes filled with clothes, shoes, bedding, seasonal items like clothes, and anything else you can imagine! Explore our favourite storage beds to get inspired; some even feature built-in drawers or options for beds with drawers beneath.

Extra tip: You can find vacuum-pack bags easily online. They are ideal for storing soft items for an extended period, like summer clothes over the winter, and you can shrink them down with your vacuum cleaner and keep them fresh for months.

3. Add hooks to wardrobes, chests of drawers, and doors

Many of us have seen over-door hooks, a great, renter-friendly storage solution for bedrooms to hang coats and bags. But you can use vertical space in tonnes of clever ways for added organisation and to maximise wardrobe space.

If you own your bedroom furniture, like built-in wardrobes or freestanding chests of drawers, then adding adhesive hooks to the sides is another intelligent storage trick to sneak in more capacity. Large hooks can hold all sorts of everyday accessories to keep them accessible. You can also add them to the inside of wardrobe doors for items like jewellery or make-up bags, keeping these loose items tidy.

4. Blanket boxes add elegance and storage

Simple and aesthetically pleasing, a blanket box provides surprising storage while making your bedroom look put together.

Sometimes the secret to keeping tidy is simply having somewhere to hide the mess, which is why a blanket box can be such a blessing. These decorative items provide ample space for packing away things like throw pillows, blankets, and extra linens when not in use. They’re especially helpful for guest beds, which are only used occasionally.

You can also get clever and use drawer organisers or space dividers within them. This will designate specific areas and keep the belongings in drawers (or boxes) more organised – a perfect solution for shared spaces!

5. Clever, multipurpose dressing tables

If maximising bedroom storage capacity is your goal, create multifunctional areas. Think of a beautiful dressing table or vanity with a table surface, bedroom drawers, space to sit, and a mirror. This gives you a dedicated space for beauty products and keeps them from taking over the whole bedroom.

One of the biggest issues with mess is not having functional spaces. A dressing table is super helpful because it gives you a home for getting ready – you no longer need to keep your make-up, hair products, accessories, and jewellery in different places.

Many vanities also come with a built-in mirror or space for one to be propped up, helping to keep everything contained. Consider adding a drawer unit or a bedside drawer unit nearby if you need even more additional clothes storage or space for products. A make-up box or jewellery stand is a lovely finishing touch, so you can display what you use daily.

Credit: @the_cubbyhome

6. Secret storage footstools

Maximise the potential of every piece of bedroom furniture with a storage ottoman footstool. This is a prime example of hidden bedroom storage. These double as seating, so you can pair one with your dressing table or use it when you have guests over.

Cute and compact, an ottoman footstool is a straightforward way to add more storage without taking up much room. It offers the right amount of space to help you stash away smaller items that you struggled to store before, and is easy to access –  it only makes your life easier.

7. Use surfaces wisely

Make the most of what you have – invest in innovative storage solutions like baskets, boxes, and organisers that can fit on surfaces around your room.

If you’re struggling for storage in your bedroom, it may be time to let go of the minimalist aesthetic and double up on your available space. Create solutions by adding organisers, which can serve as a permanent home for things like books, jewellery, and hair accessories or give you space to dump neatly contained items.

If you tend to leave little things around the place, then it can be helpful to designate an area for these. At the end of the day (or, let’s be honest, week), go through these baskets and put the stuff away.

Credit: @8smejacky

8. Statement storage choices

Just because storage is practical doesn’t mean it has to be boring! Stylish storage solutions can make for fun design features that give your bedroom with storage tons of personality. This is where visual appeal meets function.

Plenty of non-traditional storage options aren’t plain chests of drawers or wardrobes, making a space dynamic and exciting. Open-side shelves displaying their contents are an excellent opportunity for displaying colourful storage boxes, books, and other trinkets. You can also try using ladder shelves to maximise height rather than hiding your things away.

9. Creative clothes and shoe storage

Beyond the wardrobe, consider clothes rails for an open, boutique feel, perfect for showcasing your favourite pieces or planning outfits.

Freestanding clothes rails are incredibly versatile, and you can find options with double-tier rails to maximise hanging space or integrated trouser rails. This is a fantastic clothes storage idea for rooms without built-in wardrobes.

Don’t forget the clever shoe storage, too – stackable boxes, under-bed organisers (especially useful in storage beds), or a dedicated slim cabinet can make all the difference. Of course, many divan beds offer excellent built-in drawer solutions, ideal for tucking away shoes or seasonal clothes, complementing these freestanding options.

10. Tackling awkward spaces

Every bedroom has them – that awkward space or tricky corner. Custom-built-in storage or modular storage cabinets featuring smooth pull-out drawers can be the best solution here, transforming unused nooks into valuable assets.

For bedside convenience, if traditional nightstands don’t fit, look for narrow bedside storage units, wall-mounted shelves, or even a stylish drawer unit. Sometimes, the best solution is the bed itself; a clever storage bed can provide that essential bedside storage without needing extra furniture, keeping the area clear. Just take a look at our Madison bed frame with built-in bedside tables.

With such a wide range of products and intelligent storage designs available, improving your bedroom storage capacity and creating a clutter-free, stylish bedroom is more achievable than ever. We hope these clever bedroom storage ideas inspire you to transform your space.