*This is a collaborative post.
There’s nothing more refreshing than getting your summer wardrobe out of storage and packing away those cosy winter layers.
But where do you stash all those chunky knits and heavy coats in the warmer months? An ottoman bed is your secret weapon for keeping your bedroom clutter-free.
These savvy storage beds have a roomy compartment under the mattress, accessed by lifting the frame (on hydraulic gas struts for easy operation). It’s like hiding a mini walk-in closet under your bed! Now, you have tons of space to neatly organise everything from off-season clothes to spare bedding and more.
Summer storage solutions
Tucking away winter duvets and other bulky items like dressing gowns until the temperatures drop again is the best way to save space.
Vacuum storage bags compress bulky items down even more to their smallest possible size, maximising every inch of ottoman storage.
You can even segment like a pro-organiser by designating one section of your ottoman for winter outerwear like puffer coats and snow boots, another for all your cable knits, and a special compartment for out-of-season accessories like hats, scarves, and gloves.
A streamlined summer closet
With all that newly freed-up closet space, you can neatly arrange your breezy summer threads—sundresses, shorts, tank tops, and sandals will be within easy reach. No more spelunking through a jumbled mess every morning. Drawer dividers and hanging shelves will keep everything immaculately organised.
Take things a step further by “rotating” your wardrobe with changing seasons – at the start of summer, swap out all your cool-weather looks from your closet, stashing them in that oh-so-handy ottoman bed. Then, reverse the process when autumn rolls around again.
Shoe storage galore
Let’s talk footwear. Summer’s strappy sandals and colourful slip-ons often get crammed into corners or scattered across closet floors—yikes! With ample ottoman storage at your disposal, you can finally implement some serious shoe organisation tactics.
Designate one section for sandals and another for trainers and heels. Your shoes will thank you by living longer without getting crushed and jumbled together. No outfit is complete without stylish, well-preserved footwear.
Storage made stylish
Pictured: Aspire Chesterfield 4FT 6 Double Sleigh Bed Frame. Priced £449 (Save £450 on RRP) Available from Bedstar.
Of course, we’d be remiss not to mention how gorgeous ottoman beds are in their own right. With an upholstered, often buttoned frame, they lend luxurious comfort and sophistication to your sleeping sanctuary.
From sumptuous velvet to sleek linen and cosy teddy fabric, there’s an upholstered ottoman bed to suit every aesthetic – modern, traditional, eclectic, you name it. With so many fashion-forward options, your new storage superhero will be the chicest addition to your bedroom while keeping your seasonal swap supremely organised.
Popular beds include the classic Urban Beds Aspire (pictured above) and Bedmr Osborne with their sleigh designs and the Kaydian Lanchester (pictured below) for a modern twist.
Pictured: Kaydian Design Lanchester 4FT 6 Double Ottoman Bed – Grey. Priced £799 (Save £280 on RRP) Available from Bedstar.
Stackable smarts
Think Tetris to get the most from your ottoman. You’ll want to utilise every last inch with smart, stackable containers that let you pack in your off-season goods like a pro.
Sturdy, shallow plastic crates are ideal – they’re durable, easy to clean and stack securely. Look for ones with attached lids to seal out moisture and critters. Get multiple sizes, from shoeboxes to sweater cubes, to tackle any storage need.
Or go for fabric storage bins/boxes if you prefer a softer aesthetic. Canvas bins with rigid reinforced bottoms will hold their shape under heavy loads. Plus, you can find them in fun prints and colours to add personality to your storage display.
Once you’ve nailed that storage space, add a winter/summer side mattress to your ottoman to master every season in comfort.
I’ve always loved the look of this type of bed. All that hidden storage is a miracle. #MMBC
Recently bought one of these to replace a divan
Really is so practical as well as stylish
Many modern houses have small bedrooms and no wardrobes so there really isn’t any better way of storing seasonal items than an Ottoman bed. They are increasingly stylish and comfortable, too.