How to Choose the Right Storage Bench for Your Space

Picking the right storage bench means considering size, material, style, and features to fit your needs. Here are some tips:

• Measure Your Space First

Always start by measuring the area where you plan to place the bench. Note the width, depth, and height available. As one expert advises, “measure the space you have available” to ensure the bench fits without crowding the room. Also consider seat height: a bench should be comfortable to sit on. If it’s for an entryway, about 18-20 inches high is usually good. For a foot-of-bed bench, use the bed length (e.g. full, queen) to pick a matching bench length.

• Consider Material and Durability

Decide what material suits your space and use. Common materials are:

• Wood: Classic and sturdy, wood (or plywood) benches are durable and can be painted or stained to match your decor. Solid wood benches look high-quality but can be heavy.
• Metal: Metal benches (like steel) are often lighter and can withstand more wear. They offer a modern or industrial look and are a good outdoor option since metal is “weather-resistant and sturdy”.
• Upholstered: These have fabric-covered seats for comfort. They come in many colors and fabrics (velvet, linen, etc.), adding a cozy look. Keep in mind fabric can stain, so choose a washable cover if children or pets will use it.
• Wicker/Resin: Synthetic wicker or resin benches look nice for patios. They are designed for outdoors and resist moisture.

Think about how much weight the bench needs to hold (people sitting plus contents). Choose strong materials if it will hold heavy items or children jumping on it.

• Match Your Style and Color

Your bench should fit the room’s style. If you have modern decor, look for sleek lines or metal accents. For a farmhouse look, choose distressed or whitewashed wood. Experts say matching the bench’s color to your room’s palette is key. A bold bench color can also add a pop to a neutral room. Decide if you want the bench to stand out as an accent or blend in.

• Decide on Lid Type and Features

Storage benches come in different styles:

• Top-Opening (Flip Lid): The seat lifts up to reveal storage. This gives a lot of space, but everyone inside must be out of the way to open it.
• Drawers or Cubbies: Some benches have drawers or open cubby compartments underneath instead of a lift-up lid. Drawers let you access one part of the bench without bothering others (good for high-traffic areas). Cubby holes with baskets are great for organized storage.
• Soft-Close Hinges: If you have kids, a bench with soft-close hinges (that prevent slamming) can protect little fingers.
• Additional Cues: Some benches have coat hooks, lockers, or cushion tops. Think about extras like a padded seat (for comfort) or removable cushion (for easy cleaning).

Plan what you will store inside. If it’s shoes, shelves or racks inside may help. If blankets, a simple open space is fine. One source suggests choosing a bench with the right storage type for its use – for example, entryway benches often have shoe cubbies, while bedroom benches might just have a hinged lid.

• Price and Quality

Set a budget, but remember that better materials and craftsmanship last longer. A cheap bench might look nice initially, but it may squeak or break with heavy use. If you go with a DIY or used bench, ensure all parts (hinges, screws) are secure. Investing a bit more in a quality bench can pay off in durability.

In summary, pick a storage bench that fits your room’s dimensions, matches your decor, and has the features (lid, drawers, cushion) that you need. By carefully measuring and considering material and style, you can choose the perfect bench for your space.

Top Storage Benches for Small Spaces

Meta description: Discover storage bench ideas ideal for tiny apartments and small rooms. Learn about compact designs like corner benches, foldable benches, and ottoman-style solutions that save space.

When space is tight, choose a storage bench that is compact and multi-functional. Here are some top options and ideas:

• Slim Hallway or Shoe Benches

Look for narrow benches designed for entryways. These often have a slim profile but include shoe racks or shelves underneath. They fit flush against a wall or in a hallway. Even a bench only 30–40 inches wide can store up to two people’s shoes in a small entryway. Some are only a foot deep, so they don’t block the walkway.

• Foldable or Collapsible Benches

A foldable storage bench or ottoman can be tucked away when not in use. For example, some benches have legs that fold up or removable lids that allow the whole unit to collapse flat. As one design guide notes, a foldable storage bench is ideal for small spaces because “we can fold this bench away when not in use”. These are great for apartments – pull them out for extra seating when guests come, then fold up to save floor space.

• Corner Benches

If you have an unused corner, a corner storage bench fits into it neatly. This maximizes space that normally goes unused. Corner benches usually have a triangular shape, providing a cozy seating nook and storage under the lid. They are perfect for small kitchens or breakfast nooks where two sides can be used against the wall.

• Window-Seat Benches

In a small room, build a storage bench under a window to use the space efficiently. A window-seat bench doubles as a reading nook with storage below. One guide suggests adding a bench beneath a window: “Create a cozy reading nook with a bench that doubles as extra storage.” This way, you gain both natural light and useful seating without wasting space.

• Ottoman-Style Storage Bins

Cube ottomans or bench ottomans can hide in plain sight. These are cushioned boxes that open up. They often come in compact sizes (e.g. 15"×15" or 18"×18") and can be paired together. In a small living room, a fabric storage ottoman serves as a bench and a coffee table alternative, and kids' toys or books can be stashed inside. They are soft and space-saving. (For instance, a petite upholstered bench with storage worked well for one family’s living room to store toys and act as seating.)

• Tall Back or Hall Tree Benches

If your small space is an entryway, consider a bench that’s part of a hall tree with vertical storage. Some benches have built-in coat hooks and shelves above. This vertical design uses the wall height instead of floor space. It may be a bit larger, but it can replace multiple pieces of furniture in a narrow entry.

• Corner Cubby Benches for Kids

In a child’s small bedroom or play area, look for a low bench with built-in cubbies. These allow kids to store toys in labeled bins. The bench provides seating and the cubbies (or basket holders) keep their items organized in a confined footprint.

When choosing for a small space, remember tips: measure the exact area (including nearby furniture). A bench 30–40 inches wide is often recommended for tight spots. Also consider benches with wheels or lightweight builds so you can move them as needed. Many design blogs stress picking pieces that fit the space without blocking doors or walkways.