Struggling to fit all your clothes and linens in a tiny bedroom? Under bed storage for clothes could be the game changer you need. This often-overlooked space is a hidden treasure for maximizing storage. By
tucking items under the bed, you keep belongings out of sight while freeing up valuable closet and
floor space . With the right containers and organization tricks, under bed storage for clothes can make a small bedroom feel calmer, more open, and clutter-free.
Under bed storage for clothes isn’t just about hiding clutter, it’s about creating a sense of calm and
reclaiming square footage. As one design editor puts it, a well-organized space “directly impacts how restful the room feels” . Rather than letting that space collect dust bunnies, turn it into an extra closet.
You’ll be surprised how a bed frame with even a few inches of clearance can double your storage. When used for under bed storage for clothes, even a narrow gap is “plenty of space to keep extra stuff,” as House Beautiful points out .
In the sections below, we’ll explore the types of under-bed solutions, how to choose and maintain them, and tips to keep your clothes fresh and accessible.
6 Best Types of Under Bed Storage for Clothes
There are many clever ways to use under bed space for clothing. Below are common types of under bed
storage for clothes, with their best uses, pros, and cons:
- Plastic or Fabric Storage Bins: These are basic rectangular containers (often with lids) designed to slide under a bed.
Pros: Affordable and durable. Lidded plastic totes protect clothes from dust and pests. Fabric bins (like zippered canvas bags) are lightweight and often breathable.
Cons: They require enough height clearance and can be heavy when full. - Rolling Under-Bed Drawers: These are rigid or plastic bins on wheels.
Pros: The wheels let you slide heavy loads out easily without straining. well on both carpet and hard floors,” making everyday access a breeze .
Cons: Takes up vertical space (wheels plus bin). May cost more than simple bins. - Vacuum-Seal Storage Bags: Heavy-duty plastic bags that you pack clothes into and then vacuum the air out, compressing the contents.
Pros: Dramatically save space – great for bulky coats, blankets, or sweaters, especially seasonal items.
Cons: Not for items you need often (you must unseal to retrieve items). Repeated sealing/unsealing can wear the bag. - Woven Baskets or Decorative Bins: Stylish baskets (e.g. wicker or fabric) that look nice even in view.
Pros: Adds warmth and style; easy to grab with handles.
Cons: Typically open or with no lid, so clothes can collect dust. Best for frequently used items or accessories. - Built-In Bed Drawers / Storage Beds: Beds designed with drawers or lifting platforms under the mattress.
Pros: Seamless, integrated storage. Keeps everything completely hidden and dust-free, essentially adding a “hidden second closet” under your bed.
Cons: Expensive and fixed (best for new furniture purchases). Requires room for the drawer to open or enough height for a lift bed. - Repurposed Luggage or Suitcases: An old wheeled suitcase or trunk can double as an under-bed drawer.
Pros: Typically sturdy with handles/wheels, and adds a vintage touch.
Cons: Limited sizes and shapes, and usually expensive to buy new; more of a DIY hack.
Example Table: Comparing Under Bed Storage for Clothes
| Storage Type | Best For | Pros | Pros |
| Plastic/Fabric Bins | Seasonal clothes, linens | Inexpensive; dust resistant | Bulky; needs bed clearance |
| Rolling Drawers/ Bins | Everyday clothing/ items | Easy to pull out; protects from dust | Uses more height; higher cost |
| Vacuum Storage Bags | Bulky coats, bedding | Compresses large items, saves space | Not quick-access; occasional wear |
| Woven Baskets/ Bins | Accent decor, frequently used | Stylish; breathable; easy to reach | No full seal; visible contents |
| Built-In Drawers/ Beds | General storage | Maximum storage; dustfree; organized | Expensive; fixed size |
| Repurposed Luggage | Decor-conscious storage | Sturdy; on wheels; decorative | Limited capacity; not universally cheap |
How to Choose the Right Solution
Picking the best under bed storage for clothes depends on your space and needs. Here are some key considerations:
- Measure your clearance: Before buying, measure the height under your bed. If you only have 6–8 inches, look for shallow bins or vacuum bags. If you have 12+ inches, rolling drawers or bigger boxes work. Even a very narrow gap can hold slim containers as House Beautiful notes .
- Consider what you store: Clothes you use frequently (like everyday tees or kid’s uniforms) might go in easily reachable rolling bins. Off-season items (winter coats, holiday sweaters) can be vacuum sealed and slid to the far back. When planning under bed storage for clothes, Bulky bedding or guest linens also tuck well under bed .
- Wheels vs. no wheels: If your bedroom floor is carpeted or you anticipate heavy loads, wheels are a huge convenience . For concrete or hardwood, wheels still help but choose quality ones (lowprofile) to avoid getting stuck.
- Material matters: Plastic totes with lids provide the best protection from spills or pests. Fabric bags (often with mesh panels) breathe better and collapse when empty. For delicate fabrics, breathable material or cotton fabric bins prevent mildew.
- Aesthetics: Will your under-bed storage be visible? If yes, try matching baskets or fabric bins in neutral colors to blend in . Many designers suggest a consistent look (“matching containers create a sense of visual calm” ). When planning under bed storage for clothes, this approach helps keep the bedroom looking tidy and well coordinated. For totally hidden storage (like lift beds), this is less of an issue.
- Durability: For clothing, make sure zippers and handles are sturdy. Reviewers of storage containers praise those with robust handles and smooth-opening lids . Good hardware means the container lasts through many swaps.
Keep Clothes Fresh and Clean
Finally, don’t forget the basics of fabric care. Before storing garments:
- Clean Everything: Always wash and fully dry clothes and linens before stashing them. Dirt or moisture can cause odors or mildew over time .
- Prevent Pests: Add cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or mothballs in storage containers to deter moths and bugs .
- Label Seasonally: Consider labeling bins by season (e.g. “Winter 2025 Sweaters” or “Guest Bedding”). That way, you won’t forget what’s where.
- Inspect Periodically: Every few months, peek inside to make sure nothing has gotten damp or musty. A quick “sniff test” prevents surprises.
With these steps, your under bed storage for clothes will stay clean, functional, and odor free.
Conclusion
In a small bedroom, every inch of space matters. The area beneath your bed, often neglected, is a smart
and versatile storage zone for under bed storage for clothes, linens, and out-of-season items. By choosing the right containers (bins, drawers, vacuum bags) and keeping things well-organized, under bed storage for clothes can free up closets, reduce clutter, and make your room feel more spacious.
Experts agree that transforming the under-bed into extra storage brings calm and order to a bedroom . Whether you’re a student in a dorm, a city dweller in a studio, or anyone struggling with wardrobe space, under bed storage for bed a low-cost, high-impact fix.
What under bed storage for clothes trick will you try first? Share your ideas or photos in the comments below. And if you’re ready for a bigger change, consider a storage bed or built-in drawers next. For more tips on maximizing small spaces, check out our guide to Small Bedroom Organization .