To maximize the storage space under your bed, we researched the best under-bed storage organizers on the market, evaluating each on size, material, durability, features, and cleaning requirements. Our best overall pick, The Container Store’s Our Under Bed Box, is accessible, extremely durable, and easy to clean, since it’s made of plastic that can simply be wiped with warm, soapy water. Here are the best under-bed storage organizers. This under-bed storage box comes in two sizes: regular (6.25 by 16 by 27.1 inches) and long (6.5 by 18.25 by 35.6 inches). The longer box features a dual-hinged lid, allowing you to open the box from either side without pulling the whole thing out. It also comes with wheels that enable the box to be rolled for easier access. According to Gill, “If you want to ensure easy access to items like clothing or accessories, drawers or bins on wheels will be most convenient.” Note that this plastic organizer (and ones like it) aren’t breathable like fabric and wooden options, and they may trap moisture. On the plus side, the locking lid will keep dust and bugs away from your stored items. You may notice that the lid doesn’t close or fit properly, so be sure to inspect your product for defects before purchasing and upon arrival, and also make sure to not overfill the box, as that can cause the lid to bulge or bend a bit. Otherwise, this box is up to any organizing task in our eyes. “I’ve used The Container Store Under Bed Storage Box for years,” says our commerce editor, Erin Johnson. It has moved from apartment to apartment with me, and it’s really been a lifesaver since my New York City closets are always on the smaller side. I have the longer one with wheels so that I can easily slide it out from underneath my bed. I’m amazed at how long this container has lasted." Price at time of publish: $17 These under-bed storage organizers aren’t as structured as other models you’ll find. They do fold up easily when not in use, though, which is an upside to the less rigid design. You also have the option to purchase an upgraded version with firmer sides at an additional cost. These affordable under-bed storage organizers come in three neutral colors, too—herringbone gray, black, and gray—to match most decor. Price at time of publish: $13 The exterior of the container is made of breathable linen, which provides proper airflow and keeps moisture at bay. Measuring 27.5 by 15.6 by 7 inches, this box has a fairly generous storage capacity, too. It is taller than most other options, though, so be sure you have enough clearance under your bed before clicking “Add to cart.” The box has a solid lid rather than a transparent one, so you won’t be able to see the contents when it’s closed, either. Price at time of publish: $18 Note that this drawer requires some assembly, but it’s very easy to put together. Since it doesn’t have a lid, this under-bed organizer won’t protect your stored items from dust, bugs, and other contaminants, either. However, the open design allows for plenty of airflow to keep your belongings fresh and easy to reach for. Price at time of publish: $63 Measuring 6.12 by 16.62 by 34.87 inches, this long, shallow storage box is ideal for under-bed placement. However, you can also stack multiple boxes together to maximize vertical storage space. Unlike fabric and wood organizers, one disadvantage to a plastic container is that it’s not breathable. However, if you notice any trapped moisture or a funky odor, you can easily give the container a thorough cleaning. As with other options on the market, just be sure to inspect your product for defects before purchasing and upon arrival, and don’t overfill it. That can help prevent the lid from fitting improperly. Price at time of publish: $11 Measuring 6.5 by 12 by 24.25 inches, this box fits easily under most beds, but it’s also attractive enough to leave out in the open. The Container Store offers various-sized boxes in the same pattern, so you can buy a matching set for optimal organization. A fabric organizer isn’t as rigid or durable as plastic or wooden options, but it provides better airflow, preventing linens and clothing from getting musty between uses. Price at time of publish: $25 Measuring 7.9 by 28 by 17.9 inches, these organizers are designed to fit under most beds, though they are a bit taller than other options. Their semi-rigid design and zippered lid provide secure storage for seasonal items, which we love. Offered as a set of two, these bins are significantly more expensive than other organizers, but their good looks and solid construction are worth the splurge in our opinion. Price at time of publish: $148 The Woffit Under Bed Shoe Organizer comes in two neutral colors—black and beige—to match almost any decor. You also have the option to purchase a set that includes one shoe and one boot organizer—the latter features larger compartments to accommodate four pairs of boots. The shoe dividers might not be rigid enough for your organization needs, which may cause your shoes to shuffle around when the container is moved. It’s also important to note that larger-sized shoes might not fit in the compartments. Price at time of publish: $33 Another nice perk to these StorageLab containers is that they maintain their shape, even if they’re not filled up. Four durable handles (two on the front, and one on each side) make them easy to pull out from under the bed, too. The lid is secured by dual zippers, however, the zippers can break off, which could be the only potential design flaw worth noting. This container comes in three neutral colors—gray, black, and straw—and a version with wheels is also available, making these containers really accessible for college students with limited space and lots of storage needs. Price at time of publish: $30 Since these bins are made of durable plastic, they hold up well to everyday use. One disadvantage to a plastic container, however, is that it can trap moisture and not allow proper airflow. For that reason, you should air out your items from time to time, and be sure to wash them if they feel damp or develop a funky odor. On a positive note, plastic is easier to clean than fabric—all you need is a little soap and water. Price at time of publish: $105 Choosing the right size of container will depend on the amount of items you want to store, too. If you have enough space below your bed, you can place multiple containers side by side. You could also stack containers if your bed is high enough. Our “Best Overall” pick, The Container Store’s Under Bed Box, has a stackable, modular design for this exact purpose.
Material and Cleaning Requirements
Fabric under-bed storage organizers tend to be more attractive than plastic options, and they have the benefit of keeping clothing and linens fresh by circulating air. Many fabric options fold up for compact storage when not in use, too. However, fabric often lacks the rigidity that other materials offer, so it’s not the best choice for storing delicate items or keepsakes that you may want to protect more. Most fabric bins can only be spot-cleaned, as well. Plastic storage bins—such as our “best plastic” pick, the Sterilite Underbed Storage Box—are usually the most durable option and are a great choice if you’re storing delicate items. These containers are often equipped with a transparent lid, so you can easily see the contents. The disadvantage to sealed plastic containers is that they may retain moisture, which isn’t the ideal environment for clothing, linens, or textiles. On a positive note, plastic can be easily cleaned with soap and water.
Organization Features
Accessibility is key when it comes to under-bed storage solutions. Features like handles and wheels allow you to easily move the bin from under your bed. A container with zippers or a dual-hinged lid allows you to remove individual items without having to dig through the entire bin, as well. “If your space is prone to dust, lidded boxes, airtight bins, or zippered garment bags are your best option,” notes Shira Gill, home organizing expert and author of Minimalista.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Sage McHugh, a freelance writer who specializes in home, lifestyle, and organizational content. To find the best under-bed storage organizers on the market, she considered dozens of products, carefully evaluating their size, material, durability, features, and cleaning requirements. Sage consulted hundreds of customer reviews, as well as reviews from third-party websites. For expert insight, she interviewed Shira Gill, home organizing expert and author of Minimalista.
