Joybuy Insights

Choosing a Storage Bed: Sizes, Styles and Practical Buying Tips

A storage bed can hold clothes, bedding or toys, freeing up extra space in your bedroom. However, drawers, open under-bed storage and hydraulic ottoman-style beds all work quite differently in everyday use. If you focus only on the design or an especially high stated weight capacity, it’s easy to overlook important details.

Common pitfalls to avoid when buying

1. Storage isn’t always easy to access

A bed with drawers needs enough space at the side. If it’s placed right next to a wall or wardrobe, you may not be able to open the drawers fully. A hydraulic storage bed usually makes better use of the space beneath the mattress, but you’ll need enough room to move around at the head or foot of the bed.

Before you buy, check:

  • Which way do the drawers open?
  • Are there wheels, handles or runners?
  • How deep is the storage space?
  • Do you need to lift the mattress to open it?
  • Is the bed’s storage capacity specified?

2. Confusing overall dimensions with mattress size

A 140 x 200 cm storage bed won’t necessarily measure 140 x 200 cm overall. The headboard, side rails and shelves can make the bed significantly wider or longer. For example, a model with a 90 x 200 cm sleeping area may have overall dimensions of 104 x 220 cm.

So measure the space the bed will occupy, including:

  • Clearance from walls and furniture
  • The space needed to open drawers
  • Room for cleaning and assembly
  • Any extra depth added by a headboard or shelf

3. Focusing on extra features instead of the construction

LED lighting, a USB port and an upholstered headboard can all be useful. But they’re no substitute for clear information about the frame material, slatted base, maximum weight capacity and mattress size. For a bed with LED lighting, also consider the power supply, cable routing and protection from spills.

Key buying criteria at a glance

Sleeping area, room size and intended use

For one person, a single storage bed or a metal bed with under-bed storage could be a good choice. Common sizes include 90 x 190 cm, 90 x 200 cm and 140 x 190 cm. Couples often choose a 140 x 200 cm storage bed or a 160 x 200 cm storage bed. The larger size takes up more room and may make it harder to access side drawers.

For children, the sleeping area isn’t the only thing to consider. Check that the mattress is the right thickness, edges are rounded, fixings are secure and the maximum user weight is stated. A children’s bed with drawers shouldn’t encourage children to climb or jump on shelves and seating areas.

Materials and construction

A bed frame with a slatted base should clearly state which components are included. For metal beds, check the number and position of the legs, crossbars, and feet designed to prevent slipping or reduce noise. For wooden and upholstered beds, consider the frame construction, how the headboard is attached and the quality of the drawers.

Also compare:

  • Maximum static weight capacity
  • Frame and support rail materials
  • Whether a slatted base is included
  • Assembly requirements and number of packages
  • Spare parts and customer service information

Always consider a high stated weight capacity in relation to how the bed is intended to be used. It doesn’t replace proper assembly.

Drawers or a hydraulic storage bed?

Bed with drawers: A good choice if you want to keep frequently used items neatly organised. The contents are usually easier to reach, but the drawers need space at the side.

Hydraulic storage bed: Handy for seasonal clothes, bedding or larger boxes. Operate the lifting mechanism slowly, using both hands. Keep your hands and fingers away from the joints.

Open under-bed storage: A metal bed with storage and generous clearance underneath can fit storage boxes and make it easier to clean beneath the bed. However, open storage offers less protection from dust.

Our picks for different needs

Best for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
JOYFURNOS Single Metal Bed Frame, 140 x 190 cm, with Under-Bed Storage, Modern, Easy Assembly, Black

JOYFURNOS Single Metal Bed Frame, 140 x 190 cm, with Under-Bed Storage

Why it suits this profile: The metal frame has 31.6 cm of clearance underneath for storage boxes. It comes with pre-drilled parts and labelled components for assembly. The sleeping area measures 140 x 190 cm; a mattress is not included.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The open storage area is clearly visible, so there are no hidden drawer dimensions to factor in. You’ll still need to choose storage boxes and consider dust protection separately.

Key benefit and strengths

Steel frame, nine legs and a stated maximum static load of 500 kg, according to the product information.

Best for: Buyers with high quality expectations
URBAN MEUBLE Storage Collection Upholstered Platform Bed with Drawers 140x200 cm

URBAN MEUBLE Storage Collection Upholstered Platform Bed with Drawers 140x200 cm

Why it suits this profile: This upholstered bed combines a 140 x 200 cm sleeping area with four drawers on wheels, a padded headboard and storage compartments. The headboard includes USB, Type-C and EU power sockets.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The storage solution includes clearly described drawers. Before ordering, measure the space at the side of the bed to make sure there’s room to pull them out.

Key benefit and strengths

Frame made from solid wood and metal, according to the product description, plus four drawers and integrated charging ports.

Best for: Specific needs and frequent use
90x200cm Bed with Storage, Upholstered Headboard, 360 Surround LED Function

90 x 200 cm Bed with LED Lighting, USB Port and Hydraulic Storage

Why it suits this profile: This single bed is available in several sizes and combines hydraulic storage with USB and Type-C ports, as well as LED lighting controlled by a button, remote control or app.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies the sleeping area, maximum user weight of 113 kg and hydraulic opening mechanism. Protect the mechanism and electrical components from liquids.

Key benefit and strengths

Storage compartment with lifting mechanism, LED lighting with several control options and charging ports in the headboard.

Best for: Families short on storage space
Single Children's Bed with Storage, Drawers, Shelf, and Storage Bench, 90x190 cm

Children’s Bed with Drawers, Shelves and Bench, 90 x 190 cm

Why it suits this profile: This wooden bed has two drawers, 13 cm-deep shelves at the head and foot, and a bench. The drawers can be fitted on either the left or right. A mattress is not included.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The mattress size, recommended mattress thickness of 15 cm and maximum user weight of 120 kg are specified. The bench’s weight capacity isn’t stated, however, so check this before using it to support heavier loads.

Key benefit and strengths

Drawers can be positioned on either side, run on wheels and are complemented by integrated shelves for books or small items.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.

FAQs about storage beds

How much space should I allow for a bed with drawers?

As well as the bed’s overall dimensions, you’ll need to allow for the drawers to open fully. Leave a little extra room to move around, open the drawers, clean and put things away. With a hydraulic storage bed, the space at the foot of the bed is particularly important.

Is a hydraulic storage bed suitable for everyday use?

That depends on its construction and stated weight capacity. If you’ll be opening it often, use the lifting points and mechanism as instructed. Make sure there are no objects or body parts in the way when opening or closing it.

How much does it cost to run a bed with LED lighting?

Running costs depend on the wattage, how long the lights are used and your electricity tariff. LED lighting usually uses less energy than many traditional light sources, but you’ll need the stated power consumption to calculate the exact cost. Also check whether the lights can be switched off completely or only put into standby mode.