Bedroom Storage Ideas & Organization Guide
Your bedroom should be a peaceful retreat, not a cluttered catch-all. Learn how to maximize storage in any size bedroom while maintaining a calm, organized space.
Quick Answer
The biggest bedroom storage opportunity is under your bed—use risers and storage containers to gain 30+ cubic feet of space. Combine this with vertical storage (tall dressers, wall shelves) and closet optimization for maximum capacity.
In This Guide
1. Under-Bed Storage Solutions
The space under your bed is prime real estate—most beds have 6-12 inches of unused space underneath. Here's how to use it:
Bed Risers
If your bed is too low, add risers to create more space:
- Standard risers (3-5"): $15-30 for a set of 4
- Tall risers (5-8"): $25-50 for a set of 4
- Adjustable risers: Multiple height options
- USB risers: Include built-in charging ports
Under-Bed Containers
- Rolling bins: Easy access, great for frequently used items
- Vacuum bags: Compress bulky bedding and off-season clothes
- Canvas bags with handles: Soft-sided, easy to slide out
- Drawer units: Slide under bed frame, work like dresser drawers
Pro tip: Measure the clearance under your bed before buying containers. Leave 1-2 inches of space above containers for easy sliding.
What to Store Under the Bed
- Off-season clothing and shoes
- Extra bedding and linens
- Luggage and travel bags
- Gift wrap and craft supplies
- Sentimental items and photo albums
2. Nightstand & Bedside Organization
Nightstands attract clutter quickly. Keep them functional with these strategies:
- Drawer organizers: Keep small items (medication, lip balm, chargers) contained
- Charging station: Dedicated spot for phone and devices
- Small tray: Corral jewelry and daily carry items
- Nightstand with shelves: Open storage for books, reading glasses
- Wall-mounted shelves: Free up floor space in small rooms
3. Dresser & Drawer Organization
Messy drawers waste space and make getting dressed frustrating. Organize them properly:
The KonMari Folding Method
Fold clothes into rectangles and store them vertically (file-style) instead of stacking. Benefits:
- See everything at a glance
- Fit 2-3x more items per drawer
- Clothes stay organized when you remove items
Drawer Dividers
- Honeycomb dividers: Perfect for socks and underwear
- Adjustable dividers: Customize compartment sizes
- Small boxes: Repurpose shoe boxes or use acrylic organizers
Drawer Assignment Strategy
Top Drawers
Everyday items: underwear, socks, accessories
Middle Drawers
Casual wear: t-shirts, shorts, loungewear
Bottom Drawers
Bulky items: sweaters, jeans, sweatshirts
Dresser Top
Keep clear or use for jewelry box, mirror, minimal decor
4. Vertical Storage Ideas
When floor space is limited, go vertical:
- Tall dressers: Choose height over width in small rooms
- Floating shelves: Display books, plants, store boxes
- Over-door organizers: Shoes, accessories, or cleaning supplies
- Wall-mounted hooks: Bags, hats, robes, tomorrow's outfit
- Corner shelving: Utilize awkward corner spaces
- Pegboard: Customizable wall storage for accessories
5. Small Bedroom Strategies
In a small bedroom, every inch counts. Try these space-maximizing ideas:
- Storage bed frame: Built-in drawers or hydraulic lift platform
- Headboard with storage: Shelves or cubbies replace nightstands
- Wall-mounted nightstands: Free up floor space
- Behind-door storage: Hooks, mirror with jewelry organizer
- Trunk or ottoman at foot of bed: Seating + storage
- Declutter aggressively: Small spaces demand minimal possessions
Space-saving rule: In small bedrooms, choose furniture that does double duty. A storage ottoman, bed with drawers, or nightstand with shelves earns its floor space.
6. Kids' Bedroom Storage
Kids' rooms need storage that's accessible and fun to use:
- Low shelves and bins: Kids can reach and put away their own stuff
- Labeled containers: Picture labels for pre-readers
- Toy hammock: Corner net for stuffed animals
- Loft bed: Desk or play area underneath
- Closet kid zone: Lower rod they can reach for everyday clothes
- Rolling cart: Art supplies, LEGO, or craft materials
7. Seasonal Clothing Rotation
Rotating seasonal clothes frees up 30-50% of your closet and dresser space:
How to Rotate
- At season change, remove off-season clothes from closet/dresser
- Wash or dry clean everything before storing
- Fold and place in vacuum bags or storage containers
- Store under bed, in closet, or in a storage unit
- Swap when seasons change (spring/fall)
What to Rotate
- Heavy winter coats and jackets
- Sweaters and fleece
- Boots and sandals
- Shorts and swimwear
- Seasonal accessories (scarves, hats, gloves)
Need More Storage Space?
If your bedroom still feels cramped, a climate-controlled storage unit can hold seasonal items.
Find Storage Units Near You