Storage Beds: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide to Choosing the Best Bed

Storage Beds: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

If your bedroom often feels crowded with spare blankets, winter duvets, or clothes that don’t quite fit in your wardrobe, you’re not alone. Many of us run out of storage space faster than we expect  especially in modern homes and apartments where every inch matters.

That’s where storage beds come in. They combine comfort, practicality, and design, helping you make the most of your space without adding extra furniture. Whether you live in a small city apartment or a family home with growing storage needs, a storage bed can instantly make your room feel tidier and more organised.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what storage beds are, why they’re so popular, the different types available, and a few key things to look for before buying one. We’ll also show you why gas lift storage beds have become one of the best choices for Kiwi homes.

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What is a Storage Bed?

A storage bed looks just like a standard bed, but there’s a smart twist  hidden space underneath your mattress. Instead of letting that area collect dust, it turns into a functional spot for storing things like extra bedding, seasonal clothes, or shoes you don’t wear every day.

Depending on the design, the storage area can be accessed through drawers built into the base or by lifting the mattress using a hydraulic mechanism (commonly known as a gas lift bed). The idea is simple: your bed does double duty  as a comfortable place to sleep and a clever storage solution.

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Why Choose a Storage Bed?

It’s not just about saving space  it’s about simplifying your life. Here are some reasons why a storage bed might be the smartest addition to your home:

• Maximise your space: Great for apartments, smaller bedrooms, or guest rooms where storage can be limited.
  

• Keep things tidy: Say goodbye to clutter. Store spare sheets, winter duvets, or kids’ toys neatly out of sight.
  

• Stylish and versatile: Modern storage beds come in a range of materials and finishes  from soft fabric upholstery to sleek wooden frames  to match any bedroom style.
  

• Built to last: A well-constructed storage bed can easily last years, providing strength and durability along with style.
  

• Easy access: Gas lift models make it effortless to reach everything you’ve stored underneath without bending or pulling drawers.
  

In short, a storage bed gives you all the comfort of a regular bed, plus an organised space that makes everyday life a little easier.

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Different Types of Storage Beds

Storage beds aren’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on your needs and space, you can choose from a few key styles:

1. Gas Lift Storage Beds

These are the most popular type for a reason. Gas lift beds feature a lift-up base that reveals a large storage compartment under the mattress. The gas lift mechanism makes it light and easy to lift, even with a heavy mattress on top. It’s perfect for storing bigger items like blankets, luggage, or off-season clothes.

Best for: Small bedrooms or anyone who wants maximum hidden storage.

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2. Drawer Storage Beds

These beds have built-in drawers at the base that slide out smoothly, making it easy to keep smaller items organised. They’re perfect for things like shoes, bed linens, or extra pillows.

Best for: Larger rooms where there’s enough space to pull drawers out comfortably.

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3. Ottoman Storage Beds

Ottoman beds work similarly to gas lift beds but often open from the side rather than the foot. They’re a good choice if your room layout makes a front lift impractical.

Best for: Bedrooms where the bed sits close to a wall or window.

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4. Divan Storage Beds

Divans have a box-style base that often comes with drawers or sliding panels. They’re sturdy, supportive, and commonly paired with matching mattresses.

Best for: Traditional bedrooms and people who prefer an all-in-one bed-and-base setup.

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Among all these, gas lift storage beds are often considered the most practical and stylish choice. They make full use of the space beneath the mattress, keeping your belongings protected and dust-free  and they look great doing it.

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How to Choose the Right Storage Bed

When shopping for a storage bed, it’s worth taking a little time to think through your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Room Size and Layout

If your bedroom is compact, a gas lift bed will give you easy top access to storage without needing extra clearance space for drawers. For bigger rooms, drawer storage beds can work beautifully.

2. Bed Size

Storage beds come in all sizes  single, double, queen, king, and super king. Choose the one that suits your space and sleeping needs. A queen or king-size gas lift bed can store a surprising amount  you’ll be amazed how much it holds.

3. Ease of Use

Gas lift beds are designed for convenience. The hydraulic system does most of the work for you, so lifting the mattress feels light and effortless. This is particularly helpful if you need regular access to your stored items.

4. Style and Material

From natural wood to premium upholstery, storage beds now come in every look imaginable. Wooden bases bring warmth and timelessness to a room, while fabric or leather finishes add a soft, modern touch. Choose one that complements your existing furniture.

5. Durability

A good storage bed should feel solid and stable. Look for strong wooden slats or a sturdy platform base. Avoid frames that feel flimsy or lightweight  they won’t stand up to years of use.

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Key Things to Look for Before Buying

Before making your final decision, check for these details:

• Frame strength: A solid wood frame will last much longer than cheaper alternatives.
  

• Mechanism quality: If you’re buying a gas lift bed, test how smoothly it lifts. A good one should feel light, not stiff.
  

• Base construction: A thick wooden base supports both your mattress and the items inside without sagging.
  

• Headboard design: Whether you prefer a simple, minimalist headboard or a button-tufted statement piece, your bed should reflect your style.
  

• Assembly and warranty: Always buy from a trusted retailer that offers warranty coverage and easy assembly instructions.
  
  

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Our Gas Lift Storage Beds

At Furniture Tree, we take pride in offering solid gas lift storage beds that blend quality craftsmanship with timeless design. One of our customer favourites features a luxurious button-tufted headboard, upholstered sides, and strong wooden legs for a sturdy, elegant finish.

The base is built from thick, durable wood  so it’s not just stylish, it’s made to last. The gas lift mechanism glides smoothly, giving you full access to the spacious under-bed compartment. It’s ideal for storing your bedding, clothes, or even suitcases.

We design our beds to be more than just furniture; they're an investment in comfort, functionality, and long-term durability.

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Storage Beds vs. Traditional Beds

So, how do storage beds stack up against traditional ones?While traditional beds may be a little cheaper upfront, storage beds deliver far more value in the long run. They help you declutter your home, free up wardrobe space, and create a cleaner, calmer environment.

Think of it this way: you're not just buying a bed; you’re adding a clever piece of furniture that makes your room feel bigger and more organised.

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Tips for Maintaining Your Storage Bed

A storage bed is built to last, but a little care goes a long way:

• Don’t overload it: Even though the compartments are roomy, avoid overpacking to keep the base in good shape.
  

• Keep it dry: If you’re storing bedding or clothes, make sure they’re completely dry before putting them in.
  

• Use organisers: Storage boxes or bags make it easier to keep things neat and easy to find.
  

• Check the mechanism: Occasionally check the gas lift or drawer tracks to ensure they’re running smoothly.
  

• Dust regularly: A quick vacuum or wipe under the base keeps everything fresh and clean.
  
  

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Final Thoughts

A good bed should do more than just give you a good night’s sleep, it should also help you live better. A storage bed brings order, comfort, and elegance to your space, making it one of the smartest pieces of furniture you can buy.

Whether you choose a gas lift storage bed for maximum space, or a drawer storage bed for easy access, the key is to find one that fits your lifestyle and complements your décor.

At Furniture Tree, we’ve carefully curated a range of beds designed for Kiwi homes strong, stylish, and made to last. If you’re ready to declutter your space and upgrade your bedroom, explore our collection today.

Visit your nearest Furniture Tree store in Auckland and Palmerston North or browse online to discover the perfect storage bed for your home.