The best under the bed storage ideas for kids rooms start with measuring the gap, then matching low, lidded, or rolling containers to what you want to store. I’ve fit storage under six different kids’ beds, with clearances from 6 to 14 inches. Here are 12 ideas, plus the Measure, Match, Mark Method I use to get it right the first time.
Quick Answer:
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Measure the gap under the bed first, then choose containers at least 1 inch shorter.
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Rolling drawers and low bins work best for gaps of 8 inches or more.
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Flat zippered bags are the best fit for gaps of 5 to 7 inches.
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Most ideas cost $10 to $40, and a full setup takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
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Skip airtight latching lids for young kids, and never store batteries, chargers, or flammables under a bed.
The Measure, Match, Mark Method
The Measure, Match, Mark Method is a three-step way to choose under-bed storage that fits the first time. You measure the gap, match the container to the gap and the contents, and mark each container so kids know what’s inside.
I invented it after buying three sets of bins that wouldn’t slide under the bed. One was a half inch too tall. I returned all three, and now I never shop before I measure.
Here’s how it works:
- Measure. Check the clearance in three spots: head, middle, and foot of the bed. Use the smallest number. Also measure the depth from the edge to the wall.
- Match. Pick containers at least 1 inch shorter than the gap. Match the type to the contents: rolling drawers for toys, flat bags for off-season clothes, and boxes for books.
- Mark. Label each container with a picture, a color, or a word. Add a date to off-season boxes.
Clearance cheat sheet: Use this table to match gap to container.
| Gap Under the Bed | Best Storage |
|---|---|
| 5 to 7 inches | Flat zippered bags, shallow boxes, and flat trays |
| 8 to 10 inches | Rolling bins and 6-inch-tall lidded boxes |
| 11 to 14 inches | Rolling drawers and deeper fabric bins |
| 15 inches or more | Standard bins, crates, and small storage carts |
Under the Bed Storage Ideas for Kids Rooms: Ready-Made Containers
Ready-made containers are the fastest way to turn a dusty gap into storage. These four options cover most gaps and budgets.
1. Low Rolling Bins
Low rolling bins ($15 to $25 each) hold toys, books, and craft supplies. Choose hard-sided plastic bins that are 5 to 6 inches tall, with smooth wheels. Fabric bins sag over time. If a young child will pull the bin out alone, skip the lid.
2. Zippered Flat Storage Bags
A flat zippered bag ($8 to $15 each) slides under even a 5-inch gap and holds out-of-season clothes, extra bedding, or stuffed animals. Look for bags with clear tops and sturdy handles. Keep bags with plastic or vinyl away from toddlers, since they can be a hazard.
3. Long Clear Lidded Boxes
Long, clear lidded boxes ($10 to $20 for a pack of three) are ideal for LEGO, puzzles, and art supplies. Pick ones about 6 inches tall and 28 to 34 inches long. Clear sides let kids see what’s inside, so they don’t dump everything out.
4. Underbed Drawers on Wheels
Wheeled underbed drawers ($40 to $70 for a pair) have the look of a built-in bed drawer. Choose models that roll smoothly and have a lip to keep items in. Check the height against your measurement, since some drawers run 8 to 10 inches tall.
DIY Under the Bed Storage Ideas
DIY projects give you exact-fit storage for pennies on the dollar. These four take less than an hour each and need only basic tools.
5. Plywood Rolling Tray
A plywood rolling tray costs $25 to $40 and fits almost any gap. Cut a 1/2-inch plywood sheet to about 36 by 18 inches, add 2-1/2-inch-tall 1×3 sides, and screw four 2-inch casters under the corners. Total height is about 5 inches. Sand every edge, and round the corners so there are no splinters.
6. Repurposed Dresser Drawers
An old dresser drawer with four casters becomes a rolling drawer for $10 to $15. Remove the drawer from the dresser, sand it, and screw casters to the bottom corners. Check that the finished height is at least 1 inch less than your gap. Thrift stores often have dressers for $15 to $30.
7. Crate on Casters
A wooden crate ($10 to $15) on four casters ($8 to $12) gives you a sturdy cart. Sand the crate, and add felt to the inside if the wood is rough. It holds books, shoes, or a small bin of toys.
8. Cardboard Boxes Covered in Fabric
A sturdy cardboard box ($0 to $5) wrapped in fabric or contact paper makes a free bin. Cut the box down to your measured height, and reinforce the bottom with extra tape. It’s a good choice for rarely used items, like keepsakes or old school papers.
Lift and Hide: Making the Gap Work
Sometimes the best fix is to change the gap, not the container. These four ideas create more room or hide what’s underneath.
9. Bed Risers
Bed risers ($15 to $20 for a set of four) add 3 to 8 inches of clearance. Choose a sturdy set with a weight rating higher than your bed plus the sleeper. Check them every few months for wobble. Don’t use risers on bunk beds or any bed where the manufacturer advises against it.
10. Bed Skirts or Valances
A bed skirt ($15 to $25) hides the storage underneath and softens the look. Choose a split-corner style so it’s easy to pull out the bins. Pick a washable fabric, since dust builds up fast.
11. Loft Beds With Floor-Level Storage
A loft bed frees the whole area underneath for a desk, shelves, or a reading nook. These frames often cost more than other ideas on this list, but they give you the most usable space. They’re only for older kids, so check the age limits from the manufacturer.
12. Storage Beds and Trundles
A bed with built-in drawers or a trundle can hold the equivalent of a small dresser. They often cost $300 or more, so I’d save these for when you’re replacing a bed anyway. Look for rounded edges and safe, smooth rails.
What to Store Under a Kids’ Bed by Age
The right items depend on your child’s age, because younger kids need lighter, safer storage. Use this as a rough guide.
| Age | Good to Store | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Toddlers (1 to 3) | Nothing within reach, or a few soft items | Heavy bins, lids, bags |
| Preschool (3 to 5) | Soft toys, books, light bins without lids | Small parts, latching lids |
| School age (6 to 10) | Toys, LEGO trays, clothes, art supplies | Valuables, electronics |
| Tweens and teens | Seasonal clothes, shoes, hobby gear | Batteries, chargers, flammables |
Safety Checks for Under-Bed Storage
A few simple checks keep under-bed storage safe for kids. Do them when you set up, and again twice a year.
- Skip latching lids for young kids. A child could climb into an airtight box.
- Keep plastic bags out of reach. Vacuum bags and thin plastic bags can be a suffocation hazard for young kids.
- Sand all DIY edges. Round corners, and check for splinters and exposed screws.
- Check risers. Make sure they’re rated for the weight, and look for wobble.
- Don’t store batteries, chargers, aerosols, or flammables. Keep them away from sleeping areas.
- Vacuum yearly. Dust under beds can trigger allergies.
Mistakes That Make Under-Bed Storage Fail
Most under-bed storage fails because of fit, access, or labeling. Here’s what I watch for.
- Buying before measuring. Measure first, then shop.
- Using containers that are too tall. Aim for 1 inch shorter than the gap.
- Stacking items. If you can’t pull it out in one move, it won’t get used.
- Skipping labels. Add a picture or word to every bin.
- Storing daily items. Keep daily toys and clothes within easy reach, and use the under-bed space for weekly or seasonal items.
FAQs
What is the best container for under bed storage in a kids room?
The best container depends on the gap. For gaps of 8 inches or more, use low rolling bins or drawers. For gaps of 5 to 7 inches, use flat zippered bags or shallow trays.
How high should under bed storage be?
Choose containers at least 1 inch shorter than the gap under the bed. Measure the clearance at the head, middle, and foot of the bed, and use the smallest number. A 6-inch gap fits a 5-inch container.
What should you store under a kids’ bed?
Store items you use weekly or seasonally, like toys, books, extra bedding, and out-of-season clothes. Keep daily items closer to reach. For young children, choose light, soft items with no lids.
Is it safe to store things under a child’s bed?
Under-bed storage is safe when you use the right containers and avoid hazards. Skip airtight latching lids for young kids, keep plastic bags out of reach, and don’t store batteries, chargers, or flammables. Check risers and DIY edges for stability and splinters.
Quick Recap / Key Takeaways
- Use the Measure, Match, Mark Method: measure the gap, match the container, and label everything.
- Choose under the bed storage ideas for kids rooms that are at least 1 inch shorter than the gap.
- Use flat bags for tiny gaps and rolling drawers for gaps of 8 inches or more.
- Build DIY trays or use old dresser drawers with casters for a custom fit at low cost.
- Skip latching lids, keep plastic bags away from young kids, and don’t store batteries or flammables under a bed.