The Organised Life | Luvasmr

Maximize your small bedroom space with under-bed storage. Whether you need a place for seasonal clothes, bulky items, or everyday essentials, under-bed storage is a practical solution to keep your room tidy and organized. Here's what you need to know:

• Why use under-bed storage? It turns unused space into functional storage, keeps items out of sight, and frees up prime storage areas like wardrobes.
• Popular options include:
  • Plastic containers: Durable, moisture-resistant, and see-through.
  • Fabric boxes: Lightweight, collapsible, and budget-friendly.
  • Wheeled units: Easy to access and mobile.
  • Vacuum bags: Perfect for saving space with bulky items.
• DIY or ready-made? Build your own storage with materials like MDF and casters, or choose budget-friendly options like IKEA SKUBB or premium solutions like John Lewis Seagrass Boxes.
• Key features to consider: Accessibility, protection from dust and pests, visibility with clear containers, and ventilation for freshness.

Quick Tip: Measure your under-bed space carefully before choosing storage solutions to ensure a perfect fit.

Want to keep your bedroom clutter-free? Start utilizing that under-bed space today!

Selecting Under-Bed Storage

Storage Container Materials

Choosing the right material for your under-bed storage is crucial for durability and ease of use. Nicole Gabai, Founder of B. Organized, highlights the importance of quality:

"You want a good quality container to avoid it from cracking, falling apart, or being difficult to open or close."

Here’s a quick comparison of common storage materials:

For delicate items, Luvasmr's clothes storage boxes are a great option. They protect contents while allowing airflow, making them ideal for seasonal clothing and accessories. Once you've chosen a material, double-check that it fits your space by measuring carefully.

Space Planning

Take accurate measurements of the space under your bed. Measure the height (subtract about 2.5 cm for clearance), width (account for the bed frame and supports), and length (ensure easy access from both sides).

Using graph paper or a digital tool to map out your storage layout can help you maximize available space. Don’t forget to factor in furniture like nightstands that might block access.

Key Selection Criteria

After planning your space, focus on features that match your needs. Organization expert Leslie Lehr advises:

"Consider the style of your bed, will the space beneath the bed be covered by a bed skirt or is it exposed? If it is exposed, consider the style of your bed and the furnishings, because this will help you determine the type of decorative container to use."

Here are some important features to keep in mind:

• Accessibility: Wheeled containers make it easy to retrieve items quickly.
• Protection: Airtight lids can help keep dust and pests away.
• Visibility: Clear containers let you see what’s inside without unpacking everything.
• Ventilation: Mesh vents prevent musty odors and keep clothing fresh.

For example, the Better Homes & Gardens Rolling Under Bed Zippered Storage Bin kept blankets dust-free for six months while its wheels made access simple. Similarly, the IKEA SKUBB Storage Case provided excellent ventilation, making it a solid choice for clothing storage.

Make Your Own Storage

Converting Old Furniture

Turn old furniture into practical storage solutions. Start by removing any outdated hardware, sanding down rough edges, and lining drawers with sturdy fabric. For added convenience, attach swivel casters securely to the base for easy mobility.

To make these repurposed drawers more organized, try using Luvasmr's drawer organizers. They help create specific compartments for smaller items while maximizing the available space. If you prefer open storage, a coat of eggshell wood paint can provide excellent coverage and a polished look.

Once you've transformed old drawers, consider designing additional custom storage units to make the most of your under-bed space.

Basic Storage Construction

Design your own storage with these materials:

For a stronger build, combine wood glue with screws at the joints. Use deck screws spaced 15–20 cm apart along the edges to prevent warping. Apply wood filler to any visible seams, then sand and finish the surface with your preferred stain or paint .

Once completed, thoroughly check the safety and durability of your storage unit.

DIY Safety Guidelines

Follow these safety tips to ensure a secure DIY project:

• Choose wheels that can handle the weight of your storage load.
• Sand and seal all edges to prevent splinters or injuries.
• Gradually test the container's weight capacity before using it for valuable items.

For wheeled storage, add wheel locks to keep it stationary when needed. If you're repurposing older furniture, inspect it carefully for structural issues. Replace any rusty hardware and reinforce weak joints to ensure long-term stability.

Five Storage Hacks for Under Your Bed

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Ready-Made Storage Solutions

If DIY isn't your thing, ready-made storage can be a quick and dependable way to organize small bedrooms.

Budget-Friendly Options

You don't have to spend a fortune to get effective storage. The Amazon Basics Fabric Underbed Storage Bags 2-Pack (£20) is perfect for stashing seasonal clothes and bedding without breaking the bank. Another great choice is the VTL 45-Litre Underbed Large Plastic Storage Box Twin Pack (£30), which offers durable plastic storage and comes highly recommended by Mumsnet users .

For added organization, Luvasmr's drawer organizers and clothes storage boxes can help create neat compartments while keeping items protected. If you're looking for a touch of luxury, check out the high-end storage options below.

High-End Storage Products

Looking for something that combines style and function? High-end storage solutions are built to last and look great, too. One standout is the John Lewis & Partners Fusion Seagrass Under Bed Storage Box (£55), which uses natural materials to create a practical yet attractive option for storage that might be on display.

"For higher beds where the under-bed storage is more visible, prioritise a clean and structured look. Sturdy bins, or even drawers, add a polished touch" .

Here’s a quick comparison of some great high-end options:

Must-Have Features

Whether you're going for budget-friendly or premium options, certain features can make a big difference in usability.

"If you need to stretch your arms or flail about to reach your boxes, you likely won't reach for them very often" .

Look for features like wheels, clear lids, sturdy handles, secure closures, and moisture resistance. A great example is the Strata Under-bed Smart Plastic Storage Box (£16), which offers all these at an affordable price. For shoes, the Periea Sami Shoe Organiser (£12) provides a durable and flexible solution .

Storage Management

Keeping your under-bed storage well-organized can make a big difference in maintaining a clutter-free space. Professional organizer Michele Goldsmith highlights the importance of organizing your items to ensure they're easy to find and access.

Item Organization

Sorting items by category is a smart way to maximize your storage space. For example, Luvasmr's drawer organizers can help separate smaller items like accessories or seasonal clothing within larger containers.

Here are a few tips for organizing your under-bed storage:

• Use vacuum bags for seasonal clothing.
• Group similar items together for better efficiency.
• Opt for clear containers to quickly see what's inside.
• Label containers with their contents and the season they belong to.

"Once you have your organizing container bought and everything placed in it, don't forget to label. This is one of the most important steps and is often overlooked."
– Caitlin May, Professional Organizer and Life Coach

Storage Protection

It's important to shield your stored items from dust, moisture, and pests, especially for long-term storage. Karin Socci, Founder of The Serene Home, reminds us:

"It gets dusty under the bed in the cleanest of homes"

Here’s a quick guide to keeping your items safe:

Before storing, wash your items, and consider adding dryer sheets or scented sachets to keep them fresh. Luvasmr's clothes storage boxes, which include built-in moisture protection, are also a great option. Once everything is protected, make sure your items are still easy to reach.

Easy Access Tips

Using wheeled storage can make accessing your items a breeze. For instance, the Sterilite Clear View Under Bed Storage Bin was praised for its smooth movement during extended testing .

Here are some tips for keeping items accessible:

• Add bed risers to create more clearance.
• Store frequently used items near the foot of the bed.
• Pick lightweight containers with handles for easier handling.
• Keep the area around the bed clear for unobstructed access.

The Storage Lab Under-Bed Storage Set also performed well in testing, holding up under the weight of an 11-pound dog without any damage. Its see-through window and sturdy handles make it a practical choice for everyday use .

Conclusion

Key Takeaways

Using the space under your bed can be a game-changer for keeping small bedrooms organized. Professional home organizer Alex Rush points out:

"If you live in a small space, you sometimes will need to utilize that extra space under your bed for things you'd typically keep in a chest of drawers or wardrobe - this is the case with many of my clients who are dwellers of teeny New York City apartments."

Whether you're on a budget (like the £10 IKEA SKUBB) or looking for something higher-end (such as the £42 Storage Lab option), there are solutions for every need and style .

Leslie Lehr, another organization expert, highlights the benefits:

"One of my favorite places to store essentials is to use the space under the bed. Using this unused area for storage will not only clear the clutter, but it will create a welcoming retreat for you to peacefully sleep."

By making use of this often-overlooked space, you can keep things tidy while improving the look and feel of your room.

More Storage Ideas

If you're looking to expand your storage solutions, Luvasmr offers a variety of options to consider:

• Wardrobe & Closet: Clothes storage boxes, shoe racks
• Bedroom Furniture: Storage boxes, blanket chests
• Organization Tools: Drawer organizers, storage protection

Alex Rush also suggests paying attention to the aesthetic aspect:

"For higher beds where the under-bed storage is more visible, prioritise a clean and structured look. Sturdy bins, or even drawers, add a polished touch. And you can have fun with it! Choose bins that reflect your personal style and make you happy when you look at them."

With these tips and resources, you can make the most of your space while keeping it stylish and functional.

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