Storage benches are a brilliant fusion of functionality and design. Combining seating with hidden storage, they serve as stylish solutions for maximizing space, reducing clutter, and organizing household essentials. Whether you're furnishing a small apartment, updating a busy entryway, or simply seeking smarter storage in your bedroom, a storage bench offers more than meets the eye.
But what exactly can you store in a storage bench? The answer: almost anything—if done strategically.
In this article, we explore a variety of items you can store in a storage bench, categorized by room and lifestyle needs, along with tips to optimize organization.
Why Use a Storage Bench?
Before diving into storage ideas, let’s consider the unique advantages of a storage bench:
Dual purpose: Provides comfortable seating and hidden storage.
Space-saving: Great for smaller homes, apartments, or multifunctional rooms.
Versatile design: Available in different styles, materials, and sizes to fit any decor.
Concealed clutter: Keeps everyday mess out of sight but easily accessible.
Multi-room function: Suitable for bedrooms, entryways, mudrooms, living rooms, and more.
Now let’s look at how to put that versatility to work.
1. Entryway and Mudroom: Streamline Your Welcome Space
The entryway is one of the most logical spots for a storage bench. It’s the first area you step into, and it sets the tone for the rest of your home.
Store in an entryway bench:
Everyday shoes, boots, and sandals
Scarves, gloves, and hats
Dog leashes, pet waste bags, or treats
Umbrellas and reusable shopping bags
Keys, wallets, or sunglasses (in a tray or bin inside)
School backpacks and lunchboxes
Tips:
Use labeled bins or shoe compartments inside the bench to keep it tidy and avoid a jumbled mess of items.
2. Bedroom: Create Calm and Free Up Closet Space
In bedrooms, storage benches are often placed at the foot of the bed or under a window. Not only do they offer a soft place to sit while dressing, but they also provide extra storage for textiles and seasonal items.
Store in a bedroom bench:
Extra bed linens and pillowcases
Blankets, throws, or comforters
Out-of-season clothing or shoes
Spare pillows or decorative cushions
Nighttime essentials (books, slippers, heating pad)
Tips:
Use vacuum-seal bags for bulky bedding to save space, and rotate items seasonally to keep the contents current.
3. Living Room: Stylish Solutions for Everyday Clutter
A storage bench can work beautifully as an alternative to a coffee table or under a window in a living room. It's also ideal for families who want to quickly tidy up before guests arrive.
Store in a living room bench:
Board games and puzzles
Throw blankets or lap quilts
TV remotes, chargers, or media devices
Books, magazines, and journals
Children’s toys or plush animals
Craft supplies or knitting tools
Tips:
Add small boxes or containers inside to divide electronics, books, and miscellaneous items for easy access.
4. Kids' Room or Playroom: Tame the Toy Avalanche
Storage benches are perfect for kids' spaces—they encourage self-cleanup and offer a safe way to hide visual clutter.
Store in a kids' room bench:
Action figures, dolls, and playsets
Art supplies like crayons, paper, and paint
LEGO bricks or building blocks
Storybooks or activity books
Costumes and dress-up clothes
Tips:
Choose a soft-close lid to prevent pinched fingers and clearly label inside bins or sections to make it easier for kids to organize themselves.
5. Home Office: Organize Supplies Without Extra Furniture
With many people working from home, storage benches have found their way into home offices and study nooks.
Store in a home office bench:
Notebooks and stationery
Printer paper, folders, and envelopes
Cords, chargers, and electronic accessories
Files and office supplies (pens, staplers, etc.)
Laptops or tablets (when not in use)
Tips:
Opt for a bench with a padded top that can serve as additional seating for visitors or clients during meetings.
6. Dining Room or Kitchen Nook: Maximize Mealtime Space
Benches are common in dining spaces, especially in banquette setups. Using a bench with built-in storage helps make the most of these areas.
Store in a dining room bench:
Tablecloths, placemats, and napkins
Dishware used occasionally
Candles and centerpieces
Cookbooks or recipe binders
Non-perishable pantry overflow (like paper towels or snacks)
Tips:
If storing food items, ensure they are sealed tightly and rotated regularly to prevent staleness or pest issues.
7. Bathroom: Hidden Storage in Small Spaces
While less common, water-resistant storage benches can be placed in large bathrooms to keep supplies within reach but out of sight.
Store in a bathroom bench:
Towels and washcloths
Extra toilet paper or toiletries
Hair styling tools (dryers, straighteners)
Bath toys or spa accessories
Laundry baskets or hampers (inside a hollow bench)
Tips:
Use moisture-proof liners or containers to keep humidity from damaging stored items.
8. Guest Room: A Warm, Welcoming Touch
In guest bedrooms, a storage bench serves as a hospitality hub, letting guests access essentials without digging through closets.
Store in a guest room bench:
Spare blankets and sheets
Extra pillows or travel-sized bedding
Slippers and robes
Toiletries or welcome kits
Reading material and local guides
Tips:
Add a personalized note or small treat inside to surprise and delight guests.
9. Outdoor or Patio: Tidy Up Your Exterior Spaces
Outdoor-rated benches made of weatherproof materials (like plastic, resin, or teak) are great for patios, porches, and decks.
Store in an outdoor bench:
Garden tools and gloves
Grill accessories or firewood
Pool toys or towels
Outdoor cushions or covers
Sports gear (balls, bats, frisbees)
Tips:
Make sure the bench is sealed against rain and pests, and place it under a covered area if possible.
Maximize Bench Storage with These Organization Tips
To make the most of your storage bench:
Use containers or baskets to group similar items together.
Label inside compartments to find things quickly.
Avoid overstuffing, which makes it hard to open and closes the lid improperly.
Keep high-use items on top for easy access.
Clean out seasonally to remove unused items and freshen the space.
Final Thoughts
A storage bench can transform how you manage space in your home. From shoes and extra clothing to books, toys, and office supplies, there's no shortage of what you can tuck inside. It’s a simple yet powerful way to blend functionality with decor—and bring order to chaos.
Whether you're trying to declutter, add seating, or simply hide the things you don’t want out in the open, a storage bench is one of the smartest investments you can make in your living space.
