8 Bedroom Storage Ideas Beyond Wardrobes and Drawers

Wardrobes and chests of drawers cover the basics, but most bedrooms have more to store than hanging clothes and folded socks. Spare bedding, books, shoes, off season coats, a small library of skincare and the cardigan that keeps migrating from the chair all need somewhere to live. The good news is that the most useful storage rarely looks like storage at all.

Here are eight ideas that solve the everyday clutter problem without adding another bulky cabinet to the room.

1. An upholstered ottoman at the foot of the bed

An ottoman serves three jobs at once. It holds bedding inside, gives you a seat for putting on shoes, and visually closes off the foot of the bed. Choose a length that matches the width of the mattress for the cleanest look. Our ottomans collection includes both lift up and front opening designs in linen, velvet and faux leather.

2. A blanket box that doubles as a bench

A traditional blanket box sits well under a window or along a wall. Add a folded throw or a flat cushion on top and it works as casual seating for a guest or somewhere to drop a dressing gown overnight. The blanket box range includes painted, wooden and rattan finishes that suit a range of bedroom styles.

3. A bedroom chair that earns its keep

Most bedroom chairs end up buried under clothes within a week. The trick is to choose a chair small enough to discourage clothes piles, ideally with a slim wooden frame or a low slung shape that does not invite layering. Our bedroom chairs section includes designs that read more as decor than as another flat surface.

4. Use the space under the bed

Even beds without built in storage usually have room beneath the frame for low boxes on wheels. Flat fabric boxes hold shoes, gym kit or out of season clothing and slide out easily for access. Aim for boxes around 15 cm to 20 cm deep so they tuck completely under the frame without catching on the slats.

5. A valet stand for tomorrow’s outfit

The humble valet stand earns its place quickly in busy households. Set the next day’s shirt, trousers and tie out in the evening and the morning rush eases. It also gives a worn but not yet laundered outfit somewhere to hang overnight, which keeps the chair clear. Browse our valet stands for both timber and metal designs.

6. Open shelving above the bed or door

A pair of plain shelves above the headboard or above the door frame uses wall space that nothing else can. Keep the contents minimal. A row of books, a small plant and one or two ceramics is enough. Anything more reads as clutter and risks gathering dust at a height that nobody wants to clean.

7. A bedside cabinet with a deep drawer

A bedside cabinet with one shallow drawer and one deep drawer holds far more than the standard two shallow drawers. Phone chargers, reading glasses, paperbacks, sleep masks and the inevitable collection of half empty hand creams all find a home. The bedside cabinets range includes both single and double drawer designs.

8. A behind the door rack for shoes or bags

The back of the bedroom door is one of the most underused surfaces in the house. A slim hanging rack holds shoes, handbags or scarves without claiming any floor or wall space. Pick a design with felt lined hooks to protect both the door and the items hanging on it.

Editing as you go

Even the most thoughtful storage cannot keep up with too much stuff. Twice a year, ideally with the change of season, take ten minutes to clear the chair, the chest top and the wardrobe shelf. The wider bedroom furniture range gives plenty of options for adding more storage if needed, but more often the issue is too many items rather than too few cabinets. Honest editing is usually cheaper and quicker than a new piece of furniture.

For larger overhauls, the full collection at Furniture in Fashion includes ranges where bedside cabinets, ottomans and chests share a finish, which makes coordinating new storage with existing pieces straightforward.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best storage solution for a small bedroom?

An ottoman bed combined with one bedside cabinet that includes a deep drawer usually covers most needs without crowding the floor.

How do I store bedding in a bedroom without a linen cupboard?

A blanket box at the foot of the bed or an ottoman base under the mattress both hold a full set of spare bedding comfortably and keep it within easy reach.

Are under bed storage boxes worth it?

Yes, particularly for shoes and seasonal clothing. Choose boxes on wheels for easier access and look for breathable fabric rather than plastic for items kept long term.

How do I stop a bedroom chair becoming a clothes mountain?

Either remove the chair entirely or pair it with a small valet stand. The stand absorbs the natural impulse to hang yesterday’s clothes somewhere visible.

What is the best way to store shoes in the bedroom?

A behind the door hanging rack or a low chest of drawers near the wardrobe both work well. For larger collections, a dedicated shoe storage unit in the hallway often makes more sense.