Can you sit on a storage bench?

The answer to whether you can sit on a storage bench is yes! "One of the best aspects of using a storage bench in your home is its functionality and versatility," states Murphy. The only exception to this rule is if the storage bench offers a maximum weight limit below that of the average person. You run the risk of hurting yourself or damaging the item if you don't take this into account.

What can you store in a storage bench?

You can essentially conceal anything inside a storage bench. From shoes to clothes and other knick-knacks, the possibilities are endless. "We recommend storing items that make sense based on their location in your home. For example, a bench near the front door might be a great place to store outdoor shoes or dog leashes, while a storage bench in a child's playroom might be the perfect place to house toys ," emphasizes Hagmeyer. Its multi-functionality is what makes it the perfect organization piece for your interiors.

How high should a storage bench be?

Functionality is at the core of a storage bench, so the overall dimensions play a significant role in selecting the right pick for you. "We recommend that if this is going to be used as additional seating, it is equivalent to your average chair height," outlines Murphy. The bottom line: Make sure you read the overall specs before heading to checkout.

The 11 Best Storage Benches of 2023

Best Storage Benches To Liven Up Your Home — Article

Maximizing space in your home by neatly storing away all of your clothes and other knick-knacks has never been more aesthetically pleasing than it is today. This design-obsessed organizer's dream comes true, thanks to the countless storage bench solutions on the market. "Storage benches are completely customizable to the space you are looking to fill," explain Ashley Murphy and Marissa Hagmeyer, co-founders of The NEAT Method.

We spent several days researching the top storage benches, considering functionality, price point, and general aesthetic.

Read on for the best storage benches to shop now.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Article Thari Storage Bench at Article.com

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

17 Stories Flip Top Storage Bench at Wayfair

Jump to Review

Best for Teens:

Urban Outfitters Upholstered Bamboo Storage Bench at Urban Outfitters

Jump to Review

Best for Entryway:

Birch Lane Hall Tree Storage Bench at Birchlane.com

Jump to Review

Best for Outdoors:

Alpulon Acacia Wood Deck Outdoor Storage Bench at Home Depot

Jump to Review

Best for Shoes:

SONGMICS Shoe Rack Bench at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Small Spaces:

Pottery Barn Aubrey Entryway Storage Bench at Pottery Barn

Jump to Review

Best Farmhouse:

Welwick Designs Reclaimed Barnwood Entry Bench at Home Depot

Jump to Review

Best for the Bedroom:

West Elm Bacall Curved Storage Bench at West Elm

Jump to Review

Best Fabric:

Crate & Barrel Brighton Upholstered Bench at Crate & Barrel

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust The Spruce

Article

View On Article.com

What We Like

Aesthetically pleasing
Ample storage space

What We Don't Like

Minimal color variations
Higher price point

Our editors were instantly smitten with the Article Thari Bench's sleek and modern design, hidden storage, and a dedicated spot for catch-all dishes or coffee table books. With a choice between a classic and walnut stain on this veneered American white oak, this piece feels in harmony with most furniture on the market.

Key features like a controlled hinge mechanism mean that opening and closing the flip-top bench is smooth and easy, with a silent closing that won't compromise the bench's overall integrity. With no assembly required, the only drawback to this stellar piece is the slightly elevated price point. Article is truly one of our favorite places for home furniture.

Price at time of publish: $649

_{Dimensions: 25 x 21 x 58 inches | Weight: 69.5 pounds | Material: Veneered American black walnut, MDF, powder-coated iron legs, polyester | Storage: Yes | Type: Flip top}

Wayfair

View On Wayfair

What We Like

Affordable
Aesthetically pleasing

What We Don't Like

Shallow storage
Might be uncomfortable to sit on

A more affordable and industrial option is found in the Arturs Flip Top by 17 Stories. With a hidden storage compartment that doubles as a trusty seat and an undercarriage perfect for shoes, this lightweight bench is great for your home's entryway. Don't forget to buy a cushion or throw pillow to give the top of the storage solution a more inviting feel.

Price at time of publish: $120

_{Dimensions: 24 x 35.38 x 15.5 inches | Weight: 38 pounds | Material: Manufactured wood, metal | Storage: Yes | Type: Flip top}

Urban Outfitters

View On Urban Outfitters

What We Like

Affordable
Minimalist design

What We Don't Like

Shallow storage
Some difficulty assembling

If your teen’s room is in need of some extra storage, this no-fuss option from Urban Outfitters is the ideal piece. With the natural tones found in the bamboo construction and the upholstered flip-top seat, this bench won't disappoint aesthetically. They'll also appreciate the additional shoe storage on the bottom of their new piece of furniture.

Price at time of publish: $129

_{Dimensions: 19.7 x 13 x 35.45 inches | Weight: 14.55 pounds | Material: Bamboo, textile | Storage: Yes | Type: Flip top}

Birch Lane

View On Birchlane.com

What We Like

Multi-functional
Aesthetically pleasing

What We Don't Like

Expensive
Might be uncomfortable to sit on

The Antique White Hall Tree from Birch Lane sits on the higher end of the price scale, but the classic design and ample storage mean it is an investment worth making. The mix of manufactured and genuine wood makes it hearty and able to withstand the typical wear-and-tear that is bound to occur by sitting at your front door. Our team sees it as a great place to store backpacks after school and outdoor accessories like scarves, hats, and gloves.

Price at time of publish: $992

_{Dimensions: 64.02 x 40 x 18 inches | Weight: 99 pounds | Material: Solid wood, manufactured wood, metal | Storage: Yes | Type: Free standing}

Alpulon Acacia Wood Deck Outdoor Storage Bench

The Home Depot

View On Home Depot

What We Like

Weather-resistant
Fade-resistant

What We Don't Like

Might be uncomfortable to sit on
No variation in wood finishes

Finding a weather-proof storage bench for your deck or backyard is not without difficulty. This option from Alpulon comes in a slated design, allowing for odors and liquids to escape, helping to preserve the item's overall longevity. It is also finished with teak oil to help keep the bench from fading in the sun and keep rain or snow from rotting the wood.

Price at time of publish: $283

_{Dimensions: 17.5 x 47.5 x 16 inches | Weight: 31 pounds | Material: Wood | Storage: Yes | Type: Flip top}

The Best Outdoor Storage That an Expert Gardener Recommends

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Affordable
Several color options

What We Don't Like

Does not feel high-quality to some owners

For anyone with a growing shoe collection, the straightforward design of the SONGMICS Shoe Rack is optimal. Offered in six different hues and coming in at an uber-affordable price, you truly can't beat it. It's worth noting that this storage bench is not one you can sit on, as it won't support a surplus of weight.

Price at time of publish: $44

_{Dimensions: ‎27.6 x 11.2 x 17.7 inches | Weight: ‎8.8 pounds | Material: Bamboo | Storage: Yes | Type: Open shelf}

The 10 Best Shoe Storage Benches of 2023

Pottery Barn

View On Pottery Barn

What We Like

Is part of a larger collection
Adjustable levelers for uneven surfaces

What We Don't Like

Expensive
Not ideal for larger spaces

Pottery Barn has copious furniture that is built to last, so it is no surprise that its Aubrey Entryway bench makes our list as the top pick for small spaces. As opposed to a flip-top solution like most benches, this choice offers a flip-down bottom compartment, an open shelf, and a smooth-gliding drawer. Discrete in size but not lacking in storage, this sharp white bench looks dazzling by the foyer of any home or apartment.

Price at time of publish: $699

_{Dimensions: 28.5 x 43 x 16 inches | Weight: 77.5 pounds | Material: Solid poplar wood and MDF | Storage: Yes | Type: Free standing}

Welwick Designs Reclaimed Barnwood Entry Bench

The Home Depot

View On Home Depot

What We Like

Affordable
Ample storage space

What We Don't Like

Might be uncomfortable

The farmhouse aesthetic is incredibly popular, so there are plenty of storage benches on the market that align with this design style. However, this option from Welwick Designs stands out. Instead of a storage space under the seating portion of the bench, this piece uses a sliding barn-style door to conceal anything from shoes to books. It's unique without sacrificing functionality.

Price at time of publish: $357

_{Dimensions: 18 x 46.5 x 15.5 inches | Weight: 55 pounds | Material: Wood | Storage: Yes | Type: Free standing}

West Elm

View On West Elm

What We Like

Customizable
Ample storage space

What We Don't Like

Price depends on customization
Takes up considerable space

West Elm doesn't disappoint with this extensively customizable Bacall Curved Storage Bench. Because benches are frequently found in the bedroom, having the option to make it as unique as your space is key to making the space you spend countless hours in feel cohesive. With a plush flip-top that conceals ample storage, this piece will keep your space tidy and chic.

Price at time of publish: $800 for storm gray color in distressed velvet

_{Dimensions: 21.5 x 60.5 x 22.5 inches | Weight: 60 pounds | Material: Varies | Storage: Yes | Type: Flip top}

Crate & Barrel

View On Crate & Barrel

What We Like

Ample storage
Sleek design

What We Don't Like

Expensive
Might be hard to keep clean

Bouclé fabric is a trend that is not going anywhere any time soon. So while this Crate&Barrel bench leans significantly into trends, the modern aesthetic won't make it dated in a few years' time. It does sit at a high price point, but considering that it is made to order and quite sizable, the initial spend seems justified. The Brighton Upholstered Bench is inviting, chic, and functional.

Price at time of publish: $999

_{Dimensions: 19 x 60.5 x 20.5 inches | Weight: Not specified | Material: Solid oak, oak veneer, engineered wood, and poly-acrylic upholstery | Storage: Yes | Type: Flip top}

AllModern

View On Wayfair View On Allmodern.com

What We Like

Affordable
Ample storage space

What We Don't Like

No color variations

A minimalist who is just looking to organize their space without making an aesthetic statement will appreciate the simplicity of the Davina from AllModern. With a flip-top-style lid, traditional design, and moderate size, this storage bench has what you've come to expect from this type of furniture. It helps that the quality is high without breaking the bank. Our editors just wished it came in a few other colors.

Price at time of publish: $528

_{Dimensions: 18 x 46 x 16 inches | Weight: 33 pounds | Material: Solid wood, rubber, polyester | Storage: Yes | Type: Flip top}

The 14 Best Coat Hooks of 2023

Final Verdict

After ample research, product vetting, and discussion with Ashley Murphy and Marissa Hagmeyer, the co-founders of The NEAT Method, our editors determined that the Article Thari Storage Bench is the product you need in your home immediately. With a modern design and top-tier functionality, it checks off every requirement that comes to mind when shopping for a storage bench. If you're in need of something a bit more budget-friendly, the Arturs Flip Top Storage Bench is another piece to consider.

Type

Just like any other piece of furniture, there are various types of storage benches. A few popular options are flip tops, free-standing, and open shelving. While each design offers unique forms of organization and overall aesthetic appeal, the main goal is to select a model optimal for your needs. For example, if you find yourself shopping for your child, a fabric storage bench with a flip-top lid is probably preferable to a solid wood bench with sharp corners and open shelves. It is the user's choice!

Height

Since you are likely looking to maximize the use of your storage bench, it's worth accounting for the overall dimension of the item, particularly the height. A storage bench in a child's playroom should be shorter so the inside is easily accessible, and the top isn't difficult to sit on. A model in a couple's room or an entryway might be significantly higher or shorter, depending on the individual’s needs.

Functionality

Several aspects go into the functionality of any item, not just a storage bench. Ashley Murphy, co-founder of The NEAT Method, prompts us to consider product price, comfort, and overall aesthetic before heading to checkout. She also explains that the NEAT Method team "recommend that you consider the frequency with which you will need to access contents in the bench, as well as the durability of what you will be storing." Many people think you have to sacrifice one of these aspects to meet the expectations in another area, but the perfect model for your needs will check off every requirement on your list.

Placement

The overall design of your storage bench can dictate where it sits in your space. An organizer that resembles a seating solution can look good at the foot of a bed, whereas a model with adornments like coat racks or cubbies looks better in an entryway. Ultimately, the placement depends on your personal tastes, the product size, and the aesthetic of the piece.

FAQ

Can you sit on a storage bench?

The answer to whether you can sit on a storage bench is yes! "One of the best aspects of using a storage bench in your home is its functionality and versatility," states Murphy. The only exception to this rule is if the storage bench offers a maximum weight limit below that of the average person. You run the risk of hurting yourself or damaging the item if you don't take this into account.
What can you store in a storage bench?

You can essentially conceal anything inside a storage bench. From shoes to clothes and other knick-knacks, the possibilities are endless. "We recommend storing items that make sense based on their location in your home. For example, a bench near the front door might be a great place to store outdoor shoes or dog leashes, while a storage bench in a child's playroom might be the perfect place to house toys," emphasizes Hagmeyer. Its multi-functionality is what makes it the perfect organization piece for your interiors.
How high should a storage bench be?

Functionality is at the core of a storage bench, so the overall dimensions play a significant role in selecting the right pick for you. "We recommend that if this is going to be used as additional seating, it is equivalent to your average chair height," outlines Murphy. The bottom line: Make sure you read the overall specs before heading to checkout.

Samantha Parsons has been a freelance writer for The Spruce since 2021, with additional bylines in publications like Real Simple, The/Thirty, and The Quality Edit. For this article, she spent hours researching the top storage benches on the market, ensuring that the pieces were functional for different home designs and needs, durable enough to withstand daily wear-and-tear, and aesthetically pleasing to both the owner and potential visitors. She also spoke with the co-founders of the NEAT Method, Ashley Murphy and Marissa Hagmeyer, for shopping and styling tips.

When not writing, Parsons works for a skincare brand and stays up to date on the latest news and releases across industries.

The 9 Best Hall Trees of 2023