Joybuy Insights

Buying a Storage Bed: How to Compare Sizes, Materials and Features

A storage bed can create extra space in a bedroom, children’s room or guest room. However, storage options vary considerably: drawers need room to pull out, shelves are handy for books, and a pull-out bed changes the available sleeping space. If you focus only on the design, it’s easy to overlook important details.

Common pitfalls when buying

1. Confusing the overall dimensions with the mattress size

The measurement “90 x 200 cm” usually refers to the mattress size the bed takes, not the overall size of the bed frame. The headboard, footboard or storage features can make a bed considerably longer and wider. Before buying, check the floor space it will occupy, including room for doors, drawers and walkways.

2. Storage isn’t always easy to access

A single bed with drawers sounds like a space-saving option, but you’ll need enough room to pull them out. For a bed with drawers on the side, the gap between the bed and the wall or other furniture should be at least as deep as the drawers. By contrast, a compartment in the headboard remains accessible even when the bed is close to the wall.

3. Overlooking the mattress, weight limit and what’s included

The models featured here don’t include a mattress. The slatted base or second sleeping surface may also vary from one model to another. Check:

  • the mattress size required, such as 90 x 190 cm, 90 x 200 cm or 140 x 200 cm;
  • the bed’s maximum weight capacity;
  • whether slats or a slatted base are included;
  • the recommended mattress height;
  • the number of packages and the assembly required.

The technical details that matter

Dimensions and room to move

A 90 x 200 cm storage bed is suitable for one person, a teenager, a child or a guest room. The mattress size is compact, but the overall dimensions can be considerably larger. For a 90 x 190 cm storage bed for a child, also bear in mind that a model with a bench or shelves can be up to 230 cm long overall.

With a day bed with a pull-out bed, there’s another detail to check: is the second sleeping surface designed for one 180 x 200 cm mattress or two 90 x 200 cm mattresses? This affects both the cost of buying mattresses and the space available when the bed is pulled out.

Materials and construction

A wooden bed with drawers may be made from solid wood, MDF, plywood or chipboard. Solid wood models, such as those made from pine, differ in construction and appearance from beds made with a combination of materials. Check the details of the frame, slats and drawer runners.

Also check whether a bed frame with a slatted base is included, or whether you’re only getting the frame. An included slatted base can make it easier to find a suitable mattress. For a bed with shelving, make sure the compartments are the right depth and height for books, alarm clocks or decorative items.

Weight capacity and everyday use

The stated maximum user weight is an important point of comparison, but it doesn’t replace proper use. Jumping, climbing and concentrated pressure can put more strain on a bed than normal use. Drawers on castors should run on an even floor. If children will be using the bed, take care with small parts during assembly and don’t leave a pull-out trundle bed extended unsupervised.

A white bed has a subtle look that works well in smaller rooms. For coated surfaces, use a dry or slightly damp cloth to clean them and avoid abrasive products. An upholstered model also needs regular care suited to the covering material.

Our picks for different needs

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
vidaXL Solid Pine Wood Bed Frame with Storage Drawers - White, 90x200 cm

vidaXL Solid Pine Wood Bed Frame with Storage Drawers - White, 90x200 cm

Why this product suits this profile: This 90x200 cm single bed has a simple design and two built-in drawers. It’s a good fit for a bedroom, children’s room or guest room where space is limited.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The mattress size, overall dimensions of 203.5 x 96 x 48.5 cm and included slats are all clearly specified. You’ll need to buy a mattress separately.

Key benefit and strengths

Solid pine frame, two drawers and a white finish; takes a 90 x 200 cm mattress.

Ideal for: Buyers looking for quality
Solid Wood Single Bed with Drawers and Slatted Base, Bookshelf, for Kids, Teens, and Adults, 90x200cm, White

Solid Wood Single Bed with Drawers and Slatted Base, Bookshelf, for Kids, Teens, and Adults, 90x200cm, White

Why this product suits this profile: This model combines a single bed with drawers and a bookshelf in the headboard. It gives you somewhere to keep books and smaller items without needing an extra bedside table.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The six compartments in the headboard have clearly specified dimensions. The drawers can be fitted on either side and removed completely for cleaning.

Key benefit and strengths

Solid pine combined with MDF, a slatted base, six shelving compartments and drawers on castors; maximum user weight 120 kg.

Ideal for: Specific needs and frequent use
Storage Bed 90x200 cm White – Day Bed with Pull-Out Bed, Wooden Bed with Double Doors & USB/USB-C Ports

Storage Bed 90x200 cm White – Day Bed with Pull-Out Bed, Wooden Bed with Double Doors & USB/USB-C Ports

Why this product suits this profile: This day bed is a practical choice for a guest room, studio flat or any room you want to keep clear during the day. The pull-out bed makes room for two 90 x 200 cm mattresses.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The overall width when extended, up to 217 cm, and the recommended mattress thickness of 20 cm are specified. This makes it easier to plan the space you’ll need.

Key benefit and strengths

Pull-out second sleeping surface, 35 cm-deep compartment with adjustable shelves, USB and USB-C ports, and a reading light; maximum user weight 150 kg.

Ideal for: Couples and small bedrooms
GTIMEX Upholstered Bed 140x200 cm with Slatted Frame, Beige

GTIMEX Upholstered Bed 140x200 cm with Slatted Frame, Beige

Why this product suits this profile: A 140 x 200 cm upholstered bed gives two people a compact sleeping space. The padded headboard provides a comfortable place to lean back while reading or watching TV.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product is described as a bed frame with a slatted base. Check the mattress and the space needed for the 140 x 200 cm bed separately before ordering.

Key benefit and strengths

140 x 200 cm sleeping area, padded headboard, metal frame with wooden slats and a stated static load capacity of 390 kg.

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.

Frequently asked questions about storage beds

What mattress fits a storage bed?

The key measurement is the sleeping area specified by the manufacturer. Single beds commonly take a 90 x 200 cm or 90 x 190 cm mattress, while a double bed may take a 140 x 200 cm mattress. Check the recommended mattress height too, so the surround, pull-out mechanism or headboard works as intended.

How much space does a bed with drawers need?

As well as the overall dimensions, allow room for the drawers to pull out. The side with the drawers shouldn’t be placed directly against a wall. For a pull-out bed, the maximum width when extended is what matters; for the day bed featured above, it can be up to 217 cm.

Does a storage bed include a mattress?

The offers described here don’t include a mattress. Some do include a bed frame, slatted base and drawers. Before buying, check the product page, mattress size and recommended mattress thickness.