by Under the bed is the largest unused storage space in most bedrooms — typically 6–14 cubic feet depending on frame height. Using it well can eliminate the need for additional furniture, reduce clutter, and free up closet space. Using it poorly creates a dust trap and humidity problem. Here's how to do it right.
What You Need First: Clearance Height
Under-bed storage only works if you have adequate clearance. Measure from the floor to the bottom of your frame or slats before buying any organizers.
- Under 5": Vacuum storage bags only (flat when compressed)
- 5–7": Flat bins, vacuum bags, slide-under trays
- 8–10": Low-profile rolling drawers, flat storage boxes
- 10"+ : Full-height rolling drawers, shoes, small bins with lids
If your current frame doesn't have enough clearance, bed risers can add 3–8 inches to any standard frame leg. See our best bed frame guide for frames with built-in storage clearance.
8 Under-Bed Storage Solutions
1. Rolling Storage Drawers
Best for: Frequently accessed items — extra bedding, seasonal clothes, shoes
Rolling drawers on casters are the most practical under-bed storage for everyday use. Pull out one side, access immediately, push back. Look for drawers with a lid (keeps dust out) and smooth-rolling casters rated for hardwood and carpet.
Requires: Minimum 8" clearance
Capacity: 15–25 liters per drawer
Price range: $30–$80 per pair
2. Vacuum Storage Bags
Best for: Seasonal items — winter comforters, off-season clothing, extra pillows
Vacuum bags compress bulky items to 20–30% of their original volume. A queen comforter compresses to under 3 inches thick. The compression also protects against dust, moisture, and insects — important for items stored 6+ months.
Requires: Any clearance height
Limitation: Not for items that need to retain shape (shoes, structured garments)
3. Fabric Storage Bins with Lids
Best for: Books, accessories, children's toys, craft supplies
Collapsible fabric bins are lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to pull out and replace. Lids keep dust off contents. Choose bins in coordinating colors if they're occasionally visible from the bed's side. Avoid open-top bins for under-bed use — dust accumulation is significant over months.
Requires: Minimum 6" clearance
Capacity: 15–30 liters
Price range: $15–$40 for a set
4. Bed With Built-In Drawers
Best for: Permanent storage needs, small apartments
Some bed frames include built-in side drawers as part of the frame structure. IKEA MALM and various storage beds offer 2–4 large drawers (typically 18–25 liters each). The tradeoff: higher cost, no flexibility to change storage configuration, and reduced clearance access on the non-drawer sides.
5. Shoe Storage Organizers
Best for: Shoes (obviously), but also hats, folded accessories
Dedicated shoe containers in clear plastic let you identify contents without pulling them out. Stackable designs work for frames with 10"+ clearance. Shoe storage under the bed keeps the closet floor free and prevents shoes from getting dusty on open shelves.
Requires: 8–10" minimum depending on shoe type
Tip: Store only current-season shoes under the bed; keep off-season in vacuum bags
6. Bed Risers
Best for: Increasing clearance on existing frames
Bed risers screw or fit over existing frame legs to add height. Available in 3", 5", and 8" increments. Check that your frame legs are a standard size (most are 1.5–2" square or round). Risers rated for 1,000+ lbs are necessary for couples. Shorter risers (3") maintain stability better than taller ones.
Cost: $15–$40 for a set of 4–6 risers
7. Flat Sliding Trays
Best for: Very low-clearance frames, items that need to stay flat
Designed for frames with 4–7" clearance, flat sliding trays hold items on a wheeled board that slides out from the side. Limited capacity but functional for frames where rolling drawers won't fit.
8. Storage Ottoman at Bed Foot
Best for: Accessible overflow from under-bed storage, seating
Not technically under the bed, but a storage ottoman at the foot of the bed serves as a visual anchor for the bedroom while adding 30–60 liters of interior storage. Best for extra pillows, blankets, or items retrieved daily. See our bedroom setup guide for placement tips.
What NOT to Store Under Your Bed
Under the bed experiences higher humidity from floor-level air circulation and is harder to clean than open shelving. Avoid storing:
- Food or anything organic — attracts insects and pests
- Important documents — paper degrades faster at floor level in humid climates
- Electronics — humidity and dust damage circuits over time
- Anything you haven't touched in 2+ years — this belongs in long-term storage, not in the bedroom
Maximizing the System
The most effective under-bed storage systems divide items by access frequency. Daily-access items (extra pillows, a spare blanket) go in rolling drawers on the accessible side. Seasonal items (winter bedding, off-season clothing) go in vacuum bags pushed to the back. Label everything — under the bed is where things get lost.
If you're choosing a new frame with storage in mind, the best platform bed frames offer the best clearance-to-price ratio. Check the bed frame sizes guide for how clearance height interacts with overall bed height.
→ See the Saatva Foundation — 7.5" clearance standard
Frequently Asked Questions
How much clearance do I need for under-bed storage?
A minimum of 5 inches for vacuum bags and flat items. For rolling drawers and bins, you need at least 8 inches. For full-height shoe boxes and standard containers, 10+ inches is required.
Are vacuum storage bags safe for clothing?
Yes for most clothing. Avoid vacuum bags for wool, cashmere, or structured garments — compression can distort shape permanently. Use them for cotton, polyester, bedding, and casual wear.
Do bed risers damage hardwood floors?
Standard plastic risers can scratch hardwood. Use felt pads or rubber-footed risers specifically. Alternatively, place a small felt pad between the riser and the floor. Most premium risers include non-scratch bases.
How do I prevent dust buildup under the bed?
Use lidded containers rather than open bins. A bed skirt reduces the amount of dust that accumulates from room air circulation. Vacuum under the bed monthly using a flat attachment. This also reduces allergen buildup that affects sleep quality.
Can I use under-bed storage with a platform bed?
Yes, but clearance height varies significantly by platform frame model (6–14 inches). Check the specific frame spec before purchasing organizers. See our platform bed frame guide for clearance specs by model.