To find the best storage furniture, we spent hours researching the most popular options on the market. While narrowing down the list, we considered factors like versatility, durability, storage capacity, and price. We also spoke with Kevin Francis O’Gara, interior designer and owner of his eponymous design studio, for expert recommendations on choosing the best storage solution for your unique space. “When it comes to design projects, it’s rare for me not to recommend storage furniture,” says O’Gara. “Pretty much anyone can benefit from having more places to stow away clutter, whether it’s kids’ toys, dog supplies, or your winter sweaters.” Find all of our storage furniture recommendations below, and keep scrolling for expert advice on what to keep in mind while shopping for them. Who it isn’t for: People who want a cushion you sink into, as this one’s more firm. A storage bench is a smart way to take full advantage of your space without sacrificing style, evidenced by this chic option from AllModern. Perfect for placing at the end of your bed or using as an accent piece elsewhere, this piece is just as convenient for stylish seating as it is for storage. With neutral beige upholstery and chic tufting, this storage bench is held together by a natural wood base with tapered wooden legs. But the star element is that the seat lifts on its hinges to reveal a large (13 x 42.5 x 7.5 inches) compartment for blankets, winter coats, board games—you name it. Product Details:
Dimensions: 46 x 16 x 18 inchesMaterials: Polyester-blend upholstery and wood
Who it isn’t for: People with animals that might be tempted to scratch at the cabinet door webbing. This decorative accent cabinet is anything but boring—which is proof that Target’s furniture section is seriously underrated. The clean-lined frame is made of dark pinewood, and it’s a visually compelling contrast to the tan-colored daisy webbing seen on its doors. It also boasts eye-catching, spherical-shaped knobs (a playful detail that surely won’t go unnoticed by guests). When you pull them open, there are four square-shaped storage compartments for storing things like board games and extra holiday decorations. The storage potential doesn’t end there, though: The top surface of the cabinet also makes a photogenic perch for coffee table books, artwork, plants (even if they’re fake!), and more. Product Details:
Dimensions: 33.8 x 13.8 x 32 inchesMaterial: Pinewood
Who it isn’t for: People who aren’t willing to purchase a new bed frame. A storage bed is a brilliant way to maximize your home’s storage and save you the headache of investing in under-bed bins and a bed skirt. This modern Novogratz design features two built-in drawers on each side (or one drawer on each side for the twin size). The storage compartments are spacious, measuring 35 x 23.5 x 6.5 inches each. An added benefit is that the drawers easily lock into place, and they blend in so well with the rest of the frame that you can’t even tell it doubles as a storage solution. Finally, you can choose from linen upholstery in three colors (dark gray, navy blue, or green) or velvet in one (light gray). Product Details:
Sizes: Twin, full, queen, kingMaterials: Wood frame; linen or polyester upholstery
RELATED: The 9 Best Beds for a Perfect Night’s Sleep Who it isn’t for: Non-drinkers probably won’t benefit from this wooden storage cabinet. Bar carts are great, but why not level up with a whole cabinet, like this wood and metal option from World Market? We love the contrasting wood-grain patterns, which look luxe when paired with the gold metal base and handles. Liquor and spirit aficionados will applaud the vast amount of storage space, perfect for housing all of your adult beverages, bar tools, and glassware. In addition to the roomy top shelf, this bar cabinet has three stemware racks for holding your wine glasses, four behind-the-door compartments, and removable shelves that can be adjusted to store bottles. Product Details:
Dimensions: 36 x 19 x 46 inchesMaterials: Acacia, particleboard, and MDF
Who it isn’t for: People who want a coffee table with open storage. Whether you work from home or eat dinner on the couch, you’ll appreciate this wooden coffee table’s pop-up design. Your guests probably won’t even realize that the unique wooden design has built-in storage (lots of it!) because they’ll be preoccupied with its lavish details, like the accordion detail along the perimeter and the refined tapered legs. This mid-century-inspired investment piece is crafted from medium-density fiberboard, acacia, and eucalyptus in a warm, medium-brown color that will suit a variety of design aesthetics. It’s sturdy, high-quality, and is bound to become a permanent fixture in your home. Product Details:
Dimensions: 38 x 25 x 17 inchesMaterials: Medium-density fiberboard, acacia, eucalyptus wood
Who it isn’t for: Renters who can’t affix anything to the wall. Though it may sound counter-intuitive in theory, minimalist storage furniture exists—and it looks a little something like this industrial wall-mounted shelving unit. This ladder bookcase has three tiers of shelves (with 12 inches between each level) to display hardcovers, knick-knacks, or both. The open shelves—as well as the drawers—are made of medium-density fiberboard with rustic oak lamination that evokes a vintage feel. They’re held together by a sturdy powder-coated metal frame that will look sharp in any room of your home. And thanks to its square footage-saving design, it won’t overpower your space—even in the smallest rooms. Product Details:
Dimensions: 24 x 14 x 72.5 inchesMaterials: Medium-density fiberboard and metal
RELATED: These Space-Saving Furniture Pieces Will Make Even Small Living Rooms Feel So Much Bigger Who it isn’t for: People looking for a true-white design, as this one’s slightly off-white. This four-compartment shoe cabinet from Ikea can benefit any home, from small apartments to spacious houses. It’s a brilliant space-saving entryway solution to keeping shoes off the floor and neatly tucked away. The wall-mounted design holds a minimum of eight pairs of footwear (at least two per drawer), but you might be able to fit even more depending on the size and shape of your shoes. You aren’t limited to storing shoes in this cabinet, though: Accessories like hats and gloves work, too. Product Details:
Dimensions: 42.13 x 8.63 x 39.75 inchesMaterial: Particleboard
Who it isn’t for: People who want to find a home for their entire shoe collection. Finding a storage bench suitable for an itty-bitty apartment is no easy feat. Thankfully, The Container Store has you covered with this piece that is stylish, versatile, and sustainably made with easily renewable bamboo. It’s even cushioned so that you can comfortably sit down to slip on your shoes before heading out the door. When you pull it open by its handle, you’ll find four compartments with a plastic-lined interior that wipes clean in a breeze (in the very likely case that a little one throws in a pair of dirty shoes). And it arrives on your doorstep fully assembled—need we say more? Product Details:
Dimensions: 20 x 13 x 20 inchesMaterials: Bamboo and canvas cushion
Who it isn’t for: People who usually apply skincare and makeup products in the bathroom. This wooden vanity from Urban Outfitters has a vintage-inspired design with beautiful details, like intricate woven cane paneling on the front of the drawers and angled-out legs. Even better, the center of the vanity flips up on its hinges to reveal a mirror and one of three hidden storage compartments. The draws are great for organizing your go-to makeup, skincare, and miscellaneous beauty products. But that doesn’t mean you have to use it exclusively for getting glammed up. Due to its versatile nature, this vanity can easily double as a desk for those who work from home. Product Details:
Dimensions: 40 x 18 x 30 inchesMaterials: Wood, MDF, and cane
RELATED: 12 Best Makeup Organizers That Will Seriously Declutter Your Makeup Collection Who it isn’t for: People who are worried about stains and spills. Interior enthusiasts who appreciate buzzy home trends will enjoy this upholstered ottoman, dressed in the Instagram-famous bouclé fabric. The Scandi-chic storage piece comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large. No matter which you choose, it’ll give your space a little texture, level up the cozy vibe, and work double-duty as a footrest or a contemporary bench. One major detail separates the small-sized ottoman from the medium and large options—the former features a removable top that you have to take off to access storage items. In contrast, the medium and large options have attached lids and feature a soft-close mechanism. Product Details:
Dimensions: 19 x 19 x 18.5 inches to 48 x 15.5 x 18.5 inchesMaterials: Solid pine, engineered wood, foam, and fabric (polyester and acrylic)
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t want to mount furniture to the wall, as this one must be to prevent it from tipping over. Vying for more closet space? This sleek wardrobe from Ikea contains a clothing rail, shelves, and a full-length mirrored door, so you don’t have to invest in another one (unless you want to, of course). It’s customizable in that you can adjust the shelves to best house your belongings and even decide if you want the aforementioned mirror on the left, right, or middle door during assembly. And if you need even more room, you can place a few storage baskets on the top of the wardrobe, as long as you have a stool to reach them. Plus, it comes in three neutral hues: white, dark gray, and black. Product Details:
Dimensions: 46 x 19.75 x 74.75 inchesMaterial: Particleboard
Who it isn’t for: Those who are looking for under-the-radar storage options. Reimagine your entryway with a comprehensive storage solution like this hall tree. It has everything you need to sort your out-the-door essentials, like four hooks for hanging coats and scarves, two open cubbies for storage baskets and decor, and a bottom drawer for shoes and anything you want to keep out of sight. Plus, there’s a built-in bench so you can take a seat while you put on your shoes. As for its design, this hall tree comes in a total of four neutral hues, each with a subtle distressed finish that gives it character. Pro tip: Consider adding a cushion or a throw pillow to the bench to make it more comfortable and personalized. Product Details:
Dimensions: 40 x 18.5 x 64.5 inchesMaterial: Manufactured wood
Who it isn’t for: People who’d like a design that can stand both vertically and horizontally. While this cubby is technically designed with a kids’ room in mind (it’s from Pottery Barn Kids, after all), there’s nothing that says it’s exclusively for little ones. In fact, the six-cubby design is as versatile as it gets. While you can style items inside each 13 x 13 x 14-inch cubby on their own, design enthusiasts like to divvy them into decorative storage baskets, which keeps what’s inside out of your direct line of vision. The best part about this piece is that you’ll be able to repurpose it through the years, so you don’t have to worry about it ever going to waste. Product Details:
Dimensions: 43 x 14 x 32.5 inchesMaterials: Poplar wood and medium-density fiberboard
Who it isn’t for: People looking for a spot to seat the whole family (this cart can fit one to two stools). This kitchen cart doubles as an island countertop, offering a significant amount of storage space—and it comes in a wide variety of color choices to fit your aesthetic. It consists of three drawers and one large internal cabinet measuring, which is ideal for storing small kitchen appliances. But perhaps the best part about its design is the drop-down leaf, which adds enough extra counter space to fit one to two bar stools underneath. This makes it an excellent option for small spaces that don’t have room for a full dining table and chairs. Product Details:
Dimensions: 53.75 x 29 x 35.75 inchesMaterials: Engineered and solid wood
Who it isn’t for: People who’d like their storage ottoman to be higher off the ground. If customization is a top priority in choosing storage furniture for your home, this ottoman from Pottery Barn might be the perfect fit. You can choose from 100+ custom upholstery options in various fabrics (like chunky basketweave and performance plush velvet) and prints (like vintage-inspired florals and classic coastal stripes). The flip-top cushion opens on its hinges to a spacious compartment that’s perfect for stashing extra bedding and hiding general clutter. Plus, its firm surface means it can double as a coffee table in spaces that don’t already have one—but that’s not to say it won’t be a hit in spacious living rooms, too. Product Details:
Dimensions: 42 x 25 x 18 inchesMaterial: Multiple options available
Who it isn’t for: People who prefer open shelving over closed drawers. Function meets form in this elevated nightstand from West Elm. There are two gorgeous finishes to choose from: simple white and deep navy blue. With two roomy drawers (the bottom one is bigger), you’ll be able to keep your bedside essentials out of sight, out of mind, and most importantly, free of chaos. The overlapping front panels and the tapered legs add more visual intrigue than your typical nightstand. And finally, you can purchase just one or a set of two if you can already envision one on each side of your bed. Product Details:
Dimensions: 18 x 15.75 x 25 inchesMaterials: Engineered and solid wood
Who it isn’t for: Anyone who may have trouble accessing the top shelves. Take advantage of your home’s vertical space with this glossy white tower from CB2, which will fit in even the narrowest nooks and crannies. It’s made up of five stacked cubbies (measuring 10 x 10 x 12.75 inches each) and features an alternating open and closed-back design that adds visual interest. When filled with decor, books, and plants, these shelves look straight out of a magazine. If you’re hesitant about the height, keep in mind that you can mount it to the wall to keep it extra sturdy. It even comes with the basic hardware to do so; all you’ll need to complete the project is a screwdriver. Product Details:
Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 71 inchesMaterial: Metal
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t like herringbone patterns. Equal parts rustic and contemporary, this two-tone storage cabinet will undoubtedly be a conversation starter, especially because it looks high-end but is reasonably priced. The white base and light wood doors are bound to brighten your space, while the herringbone design and gold metal legs add a decorative touch. Inside the cabinet’s swinging doors, you have the freedom to adjust the height of the horizontal shelf. You can even remove it entirely if you’d prefer to maximize this cabinet’s vertical space for taller items (like extra vases or faux plants that aren’t being displayed). Product Details:
Dimensions: 31.5 x 16 x 31.5 inchesMaterials: Engineered wood, metal
Who it isn’t for: People who want to keep their stored items out of sight. Searching for a side table with multiple spots for storage? Look no further than this versatile end table. Its tiered design consists of a particleboard tabletop with another shelf and a roomy storage basket underneath. We appreciate that the cloth basket isn’t attached, so you can remove it as you please. This highly functional end table makes a great spot to store throw blankets, books, and anything that doesn’t already have a designated home. In addition to the brown and black version, it also comes in a bright white option with metallic gold accents. Product Details:
Dimensions: 15.3 x 15.3 x 31.5 inchesMaterials: Particleboard, metal, fabric
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t want to regularly have to flip and rotate the cushions. This sofa bed from Article has it all: a comfy-cozy memory foam mattress nearly the size of a standard full-size bed (70 x 51.5 inches, to be exact), easy-to-clean loose cushions, and a spacious storage chaise. These combined elements are especially convenient for those who host guests overnight because you can easily throw extra bedding into the chaise, so everything ready to grab when your friends—or in-laws—show up for a last-minute stay. To ensure this sectional will work in your space, it comes in both left and right-facing options in three different colors: light gray, dark gray, and navy blue. Product Details:
Dimensions: 105 x 64 x 31.5 inchesMaterials: High-density foam and polyester
RELATED: The 9 Best Futons for Every Style and Space Who it isn’t for: People who prefer separate drawers over a large compartment. This mid-century-inspired storage bench might surprise you. See those four drawers in front? They’re not real! Instead, the actual storage compartment is hidden underneath the upholstered polyester seat cushion. A thoughtful detail about its construction is that you don’t have to worry about this bench slamming shut after opening it because it has soft-close hinges that prevent a dramatic bang. Oh, and check out how the pulls on the faux drawers match the color of the angled legs. Product Details:
Dimensions: 46 x 15.75 x 18 inchesMaterial: MDF
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t want a glass top. This modern coffee table from Target’s Project 62 line features a unique mixed material design—and it’s hard to believe such a luxe-looking piece is so affordable. The rectangular-shaped table has a tempered glass top above two wooden drawers, all centered within a durable black metal frame. Beyond being a striking living room centerpiece, there’s no doubt that it’s also a smart storage solution. The aforementioned drawers, which open with cutout handles, are perfect for storing books, remotes, extra coasters, and more. Product Details:
Dimensions: 43.87 x 20 x 18 inchesMaterials: MDF and tempered glass
Who it isn’t for: People with a television bigger than 72 inches. Not only is this black entertainment unit sleek and sophisticated, but it’s thoughtfully designed to house your TV with plenty of additional storage. It features a hidden net on the underside of the console to store cables, and you can even place equipment in the cabinets and still control your TV with the remote. Just keep in mind that Ikea says this silhouette is best for screens up to 72 inches, but you can go bigger so long as you keep the weight limit in mind. As for storage potential, there’s a top and bottom shelf behind each of the three glass doors that you can organize to your heart’s content. Product Details:
Dimensions: 70.13 x 16.5 x 21.25 inchesMaterials: Particleboard and tempered glass
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t want to spend a lot on storage furniture. Those searching for a unique statement piece will be impressed by this drum-shaped bar cabinet from Crate & Barrel. The semi-circle doors are crafted with elaborately woven cane, which gives guests a sneak peek at what beverages lie inside. The cabinet opens up to two shelves and a wine rack, which holds at least nine bottles. We also love the unexpected yet artfully designed mirrored panel on the back. The frame, which is made of sustainably sourced white oak (certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, FYI), has an additional open shelf below the cabinet if you’re compelled to add a decorative element, like a piece of artwork or a fruit bowl. Product Details:
Dimensions: 40 x 20 x 70 inchesMaterials: White oak and oak veneer
Who it isn’t for: People who do their job entirely online, no paperwork required. This Art Deco-inspired piece from Crate & Barrel is proof that file cabinets don’t have to be bland or unappealing. We love the combination of materials, which provide a sharp, glamorous contrast: There’s the wire-brushed acacia wood that’s been stained black and the iron frame with a rich brass finish. It has two stacked drawers; the smaller one is a good spot for office essentials, while the larger one is perfect for letter and legal files. Product Details:
Dimensions: 36 x 19 x 31 inchesMaterials: Wood and iron
To ensure you’re getting the best bang for your buck, you should take internal dimensions very seriously. “I always double-check these measurements if I’m looking to store specific items or planning to use baskets or bins as part of the organization process,” says O’Gara. Though obvious, you should also be taking the dimensions of the items you intend to store—eyeballing won’t cut it.
Ease of Access
Another consideration is how easily accessible your storage furniture will be in your day-to-day life. “I always consider my client’s lifestyle when considering storage furniture,” says O’Gara. Are you always running in and out the door? Maybe consider a hall tree for on-the-go essentials. Have an expansive lineup of liquor and cocktail-making accessories? A special bar cabinet might be the perfect fit for your kitchen. O’Gara’s favorite? “Upholstered pieces with hidden storage like ottomans and benches.” He describes them as “a great way to incorporate storage directly into the floorplan where it’s needed.” He’s especially fond of this type of furniture in the entryway, living room, and bedroom—all of which are infamously prone to clutter (think: shoes, blankets, and bedding).
Internal Storage Compartments
Even if you can fit a bunch of your belongings inside, that doesn’t mean you should throw it all in and call it a day. Consider investing in a few organizers to place inside of your storage compartments when possible. Some pieces have organizational aspects built-in (especially bar carts that come with stemware racks and wine bottle slots), but you can always add organizers to large open compartments. For example, O’Gara recommends using decorative baskets or bins to hide clutter, especially for bookcases and shelving units. This makes these pieces of storage furniture more functional “because you can usually fit more into a bin than on a shelf surface,” he says.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Marisa Petrarca, a contributing writer for Real Simple with over five years of editorial experience crafting product reviews and lifestyle content. To compile this list, she spent hours researching storage furniture. She also consulted Kevin Francis O’Gara, interior designer, for recommendations on choosing the best storage solution for your unique space.
