Bedrooms fill up faster than we expect. Extra bedding piles up, shoes spill out, and seasonal clothes end up wherever they fit.
When storage runs out, the space under your bed suddenly feels like the obvious next move.
Key Takeaways
- Underbed storage vs bed with storage comes down to how much space you need, how often you access it, and whether you want storage hidden or flexible.
- Underbed storage works well for lighter, less-used items, while beds with storage handle bulkier items and keep dust and clutter out of sight.
- The best choice depends on your room size, cleaning habits, budget, and how long you plan to stay in the space.
In this blog, we break down how underbed storage compares to beds with built-in storage.
We’ll look at how each option works day to day, including space, ease of use, and design.
What Is Under Bed Storage?
Under bed storage is exactly what it sounds like. You use the space under your bed to stash things in boxes, bins, or low-profile drawers.
It’s often used for things you do not need every day, like spare bedding, off-season clothes, shoes, kids’ toys, or extra towels. For many homes, it becomes the go-to spot for the “where do I put this?” pile that does not belong on display but still needs a home.
Pros & Cons of Under Bed Storage
| Pros | Cons |
| Boxes can be moved, swapped, or used in other rooms later. | Collects dust because it sits close to the floor. |
| Affordable compared to upgrading to a new bed or DIY-ing drawers. | Can look untidy if the containers are visible or mismatched. |
| No installation needed for most under bed storage boxes. | Not ideal for heavy items since pulling weight from the floor takes effort. |
| Easy to add or remove as your storage needs change. | Clutter builds quickly if items are pushed in without a system. |
| Good for rarely used items like spare linen or seasonal clothing. |
Best For:
- Renters who want more storage without buying new furniture
- Small bedrooms where every cupboard is already doing overtime
- Off-season clothes, spare linen, and the “keep but not daily” pile
- Kids’ rooms where toys multiply overnight
- Anyone who wants a low-cost fix and does not mind occasional dusting
What Is A Bed With Storage?
A bed with storage has built-in space underneath the mattress, so your bed does double duty.
Instead of sliding separate boxes under the frame, the storage is part of the design, so everything stays tucked away and out of sight.
People usually use it for bulkier or messier items you still want close by. Think spare doonas, extra pillows, books and magazines, shoes, and kids’ toys. The big win is that the space feels intentional, not like you’re hiding things under there.
Types Of Beds With Storage
- Drawer storage bed –A bed frame with storage drawers built into the sides or foot, so you pull storage out like a low dresser.
- Lift-up storage bed – A base that lifts to reveal a large compartment across the whole footprint, which is handy when you want one big hidden zone.
- Hybrid styles – Some designs mix drawers with a partial lift section, or add smaller compartments for easier sorting.
Pros & Cons of Beds With Storage
| Pros | Cons |
| Storage blends with the bed making your room look tidier. | You need enough space around the bed to open drawers. |
| Items are better protected from dust than loose boxes. | Beds with storage usually cost more than basic frames. |
| You can store bulkier items like doonas and spare pillows. | The bed can feel heavy and awkward to move once assembled. |
| Built-in compartments make it easier to stay organised. | Assembly takes longer because of the extra parts. |
| You may not need extra storage furniture in the room. |
Best For:
- Bedrooms short on wardrobe or drawer space
- People who want storage hidden, not on display
- Seasonal items, spare linen, and bulky bedding
- Homes that get dusty quickly
- Anyone who plans to stay put for a while, since storage beds are not fun to move often
Underbed Storage vs Bed with Storage: What to Consider for Your Choice
Both options create extra space, but they change how your bedroom works in different ways.
Storage & Capacity
✅ A bed with storage usually holds more.
Underbed storage suits lighter loads and items you rotate through the year.
A bed with storage underneath can handle bulkier items and makes better use of the full bed footprint.
Aesthetic & Design
✅ Built-in storage keeps the room looking calmer.
Underbed boxes can creep into view over time, especially in low or open frames.
A bed frame with storage hides everything and gives the room a more finished look. Plus, they come with cushioned bedheads that offer more comfort.
Ease of Access
✅ Access depends on how often you need the items.
Underbed storage works best for things you rarely reach for.
Storage beds are easier day to day, with drawers or lift-up bases that do not require crouching.
Cleaning
✅ Enclosed storage stays cleaner.
Items stored under the bed collect dust faster, even in tidy rooms.
Built-in storage keeps belongings protected and makes floor cleaning quicker.
Price
✅ Underbed storage is the cheaper starting point.
Under bed storage boxes cost less upfront, while beds with storage cost more but can replace other furniture and free up space elsewhere.
Extra Tips to Organise Your Bedroom
Once you’ve sorted your main storage, a few small habits can make your bedroom feel calmer and easier to live in.
- Store items by season so what you use now is always within easy reach.
- Use matching storage containers to keep visual clutter to a minimum.
- Keep the area under and around the bed clear to make cleaning quicker.
- Limit bedroom storage to sleep-related items to avoid spillover clutter.
- Do a monthly bedroom cleaning and remove anything you no longer use.
- Fold soft items tightly so they take up less space and stay organised.
Ecosa’s Beds with Storage
Ecosa’s beds with storage are made to suit smaller rooms or anyone looking to make better use of their space.
- Sierra Storage Bed Frame – A double-cushioned bedhead with four built-in drawers for easy, hidden storage.
- Breeze Storage Bed Base – A streamlined base with four drawers that add storage without visual bulk.
- Alta Storage Bed Frame–A tall cushioned bedhead with four smooth-gliding drawers underneath.
These beds come in sizes available in double, queen, and king, and they are backed by a 5-year limited warranty.
You can order online across Australia and New Zealand, with next-day delivery available.
If you’re in Australia, you can also visit one of our stores to try the range in person or use click & collect for added convenience.