The 18 Best Storage Ottomans to Hide Clutter and Maximize Space

Plus, exactly what to consider before buying one.

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Real Simple / Amelia Manley

When you live in a small home or apartment, you can never have enough storage space. Cabinets and closets need to be thoughtfully organized and maximized, so an extra spot to store your belongings is always welcome (even when you have a larger home). That's why a storage ottoman—which cleverly hides items like blankets, books, and toys—is essential for anyone who simply needs more space to put their things. Different than a pouf—which is more like a cushion than a table—an ottoman can serve as seating, storage, and a table. You can maximize the decor of a tiny spare bedroom with this type of multi-functional furniture.

To find the best storage ottomans that you can buy online, we spent hours researching the features that make these multifunctional pieces of furniture stand out. Once we determined that factors like upholstery material, size, lid style, and shipping times are the most important to consider, we were able to narrow down our list of storage ottomans and choose the recommendations below.

Find all of our recommendations for the best storage ottomans below, then keep scrolling for more details on how to choose the best one for your space and needs.

AllModern Von Faux Fur Round Storage Ottoman, Set of 2

AllModern Grayton Faux Fur Round Storage Ottoman Set

AllModern

Who it's for: People who want chic storage ottomans that double as decor.

Who it isn't for: People who only have the space for one storage ottoman in their home.

For double the storage, opt for this duo of fluffy faux-sheepskin storage ottomans. With a combination of off-white faux fur upholstery and metallic gold-painted wood, these luxe storage ottomans will make a glamorous addition to any room. Their varying heights allow them to be placed side-by-side to add depth or separately for more subtle continuity throughout the room.

We love that the lids are completely removable, which is convenient for taller, deeper ottomans like these. This allows you to reach all the way inside and make the most of the storage compartment. As for cleaning, you can easily keep the teddy material in good shape by vacuuming it. Plus, this set of storage ottomans comes with free shipping.

Dimensions: 17.3 x 14.2 x 14.2 and 15 x 12.4 x 12.4 inches | Upholstery Material: Faux sheepskin | Lid Style: Removable

Amazon Basics Upholstered Storage Ottoman and Entryway Bench

Amazon Basics Upholstered Storage Ottoman and Entryway Bench

Amazon

Who it's for: People who want a simple storage ottoman for a long and narrow spot.

Who it isn't for: People seeking a striking, high-end piece of furniture.

Ideal for a narrow space like an entryway, this bench-style storage ottoman is extremely reasonably priced. It's the perfect place to store books or magazines, board games, and even extra bedding (like throw blankets or sheets). Though its design is basic, this piece is built with a hardwood frame, plastic legs, and linen-like fabric upholstery so it can be used as extra seating while entertaining.

The top is attached by hinges, but it doesn't slam shut so you don't have to worry about little fingers getting squished. The storage ottoman bench comes in three neutral hues that will work with just about any aesthetic. It's an especially great option if you need a storage ottoman that will arrive ASAP—it's eligible for free two-day shipping for Amazon Prime members.

Dimensions: 17 x 35.5 x 16.5 inches | Upholstery Material: Linen-like fabric | Lid Style: Hinged

Nicole Crowder Malia Upholstered Storage Ottoman

Nicole Crowder Malia Upholstered Storage Ottoman

World Market

Who it's for: People who love funky pattern combinations.

Who it isn't for: People who prefer understated pieces in neutral colors.

Minneapolis-based furniture designer Nicole Crowder collaborated with World Market to create this small yet striking storage ottoman, which comes in two eclectic fabric combinations. The tropical green banana leaf motif is paired with a black-and-white swirl pattern, while the yellow and cream geometric print is matched with a paint splatter design that resembles a mural.

The patterns are inspired by the designer's young niece and her energetic personality, so it's no surprise that they're equally lively and spirited. Both options have the same features: an acacia wood base, gold powder-coated steel legs, and a removable cushioned lid that leads way to a deep storage basin.

Dimensions: 18 x 18 inches | Upholstery Material: Polyester | Lid Style: Removable

Better Homes & Gardens Round Tufted Storage Ottoman

Better Homes & Gardens Round Tufted Storage Ottoman

Walmart

Who it's for: People looking for a serious bargain that still has a traditional style.

Who it isn't for: People who want a bench-style storage ottoman.

If you're shopping on a budget, this affordable storage ottoman from Better Homes & Gardens is worth checking out (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by Real Simple’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith). Its low price doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style, because there's nothing more classic than soft button-tufted upholstery—and this storage ottoman pulls it off flawlessly.

Even though it's pretty small, the storage compartment can fit a chunky knit throw or a stack of books. Still, despite its compact size, this piece can hold up to 225 pounds, so it's supportive enough to serve as a seat in a pinch. It only comes in one color and fabric option, but the heathered gray faux linen adds just the right amount of texture to any space. Plus, Walmart's shipping is free and fast.

Dimensions: 16.5 x 17.5 x 17.5 inches | Upholstery Material: Faux linen | Lid Style: Removable

Anthropologie Beaufort Bouclé Storage Ottoman

Anthropologie Beaufort Bouclé Storage Ottoman

Anthropologie

Who it's for: People searching for a pop of color to add to their rooms.

Who it isn't for: People who want an affordable storage ottoman.

Bouclé is having a moment, and this storage ottoman proves why the textured fabric is so trendy. Little yarn loops create a popcorn-like feel that strikes the perfect balance—not as extravagant as fur, but it's still more visually interesting than smooth linen. The bouclé storage ottoman stands out thanks to the two rich colors it comes in: a marigold hue and a rosy blush tone.

The cushioned top is completely removable for easy access to cozy throws, glossy magazines, and television remotes. We especially like this ottoman's charming rounded edges, which extend from the storage compartment to the little wooden feet.

Dimensions: 18.5 x 20.75 inches | Upholstery Material: Acrylic, cotton, and polyester blend | Lid Style: Removable

CB2 Pelle Suede Storage Ottoman

CB2 Pelle Suede Storage Ottoman

CB2

Who it's for: People with a sharp eye for design and the ability to splurge.

Who it isn't for: People who don't want an ottoman with suede upholstery.

This suede storage ottoman designed by Barcelona-based Mermelada Estudio certainly isn't the most budget-friendly pick, but its chic design and high-quality materials make it worth the hefty price tag. Its solid oak legs—which are FSC-certified, so the wood comes from responsibly managed forests—are beautifully carved to cradle the bench-shaped suede ottoman.

Perhaps the biggest advantage, however, has nothing to do with aesthetics. This storage ottoman boasts a convenient hinged top and an extremely spacious compartment, with plenty of room to stow away anything you want out of sight. For minor spills, spot cleaning with a mild detergent or soapy water solution should do the trick. Just make sure you avoid any abrasive cleaners to keep the camel-colored suede upholstery in good condition.

Dimensions: 18 x 42.25 x 28.5 inches | Upholstery Material: Suede | Lid Style: Hinged

The Citizenry Torres Leather Storage Ottoman

Torres Leather Storage Ottoman

The Citizenry

Who it's for: People who care about artisanal craftsmanship.

Who it isn't for: People who don't want to pay a premium for handcrafted goods.

This leather storage ottoman from The Citizenry was handmade in Portugal at The Alcanena Leather Workshop, a family-owned operation that has been in the tanning business for generations. The artisans work in a fair-trade environment to carefully craft these storage ottomans, which are made with vegetable-tanned leather and beech wood legs.

Buttery-soft leather aside, this storage ottoman also boasts a detachable lid and a deceivingly deep storage compartment. With its flat, smooth top, the ottoman also functions well as a side table in the living room or bedroom. Just be aware that the natural leather will vary and darken over time, so we recommend keeping this ottoman out of direct sunlight to prevent it from aging too quickly.

Dimensions: 18 x 16 inches | Upholstery Material: Leather | Lid Style: Removable

Threshold Designed w/Studio McGee Woven Storage Ottoman

Threshold Designed w/Studio McGee Woven Storage Ottoman

Target

Who it's for: People who want to add bohemian flair to their home.

Who it isn't for: People who typically opt for modern home decor.

This woven seagrass storage ottoman is perfect for people who love bohemian-style home decor. This piece is part of Target's signature Threshold brand, but it was designed in collaboration with Studio McGee, a husband and wife duo known for their Netflix series Dream Home Makeover.

The wicker basket look is ideal for adding a natural element to your space, especially in a room that's already outfitted in bohemian-style decor. The storage ottoman has a fully removable lid that ensures ease of use as you store unsightly essentials. Since the top is so flat, the ottoman can seamlessly function as a side table or plant stand, too.

Dimensions: 15 x 20 x 20 inches | Upholstery Material: Woven seagrass | Lid Style: Removable

Article Maribo Ivory Bouclé 48" Storage Ottoman

Article Maribo Ivory Bouclé 48" Storage Ottoman

Article

Who it's for: People obsessed with Scandinavian minimalism.

Who it isn't for: People itching for something with more pizazz.

With sleek lines and a solid pine base, this storage ottoman will fit right into a Scandinavian minimalist home. It comes in three sizes, four colors, and two fabrics, so you can choose the combination that works best for your style. We're partial to the ivory bouclé, which looks like a cloud, but all of the options can be spot cleaned with a damp cloth when spills inevitably happen.

When it comes to the different sizes, the shape and features vary slightly. The smallest version is cube-shaped and has a removable top, while the medium and large have a bench-like design—they're more rectangular and have hinged tops that close gently.

Dimensions: 18.5 x 19 x 19, 18.5 x 32 x 15.5, or 18.5 x 48 x 15.5 inches | Upholstery Material: Polyester or polyester-acrylic bouclé | Lid Style: Removable (small), hinged (medium and large)

Lulu and Georgia Kamila Ottoman

Lulu and Georgia Kamila Ottoman

Lulu and Georgia

Who it's for: People interested in a custom round ottoman with a reasonable turnaround time.

Who it isn't for: People who want a bench-style storage ottoman.

For a custom piece with a reasonable turnaround time, this round storage ottoman from Lulu and Georgia is a great choice. Even though it's made to order, the ottoman ships in five to seven weeks, which is pretty quick when compared to the months that other manufacturers estimate. This round ottoman comes in 17 fabric options, including emerald velvet and gold linen, and it's available in two different sizes.

The smaller version is 24 inches in diameter, and it has a more cylindrical shape. The bigger option, which measures 34 inches in diameter, is low-slung so it somewhat resembles a coffee table. Both sizes have spherical pine feet and a plush detachable top for access to the generously sized storage space.

Dimensions: 18 x 24 inches or 16.5 x 34 inches | Upholstery Material: Multiple options available | Lid Style: Removable

Frontgate Berkeley Storage Ottoman

Frontgate Berkeley Storage Ottoman

Frontgate 

Who it's for: People who aren't in a rush to get their dream storage ottoman.

Who it isn't for: People who need an ottoman for a small space.

Another custom storage ottoman, this rectangular piece from Frontgate is available in over 100 different fabrics. No matter what your style is, there's an option available for you. Choices include solid colors in velvet and performance leather materials, as well as patterns like vintage floral designs and nautical stripes. Since it's on the larger side, it's probably not the best ottoman for people with limited amounts of floor space.

Like with all custom-made furniture, this storage ottoman can take a while to get produced, so it may not arrive at your doorstep until early next year. But because it has extremely comfortable foam cushions wrapped in feather and down, this plush storage ottoman might be worth the wait.

Dimensions: 19 x 42 x 30 inches | Upholstery Material: Multiple options available | Lid Style: Hinged

HomePop Cole Classics Square Storage Ottoman

HomePop Cole Classics Square Storage Ottoman

Amazon

Who it's for: People interested in a classic square ottoman that won't break the bank.

Who it isn't for: People who are looking for high-end furniture.

Looking for a bargain? Consider this small, square-shaped storage ottoman. The exact price varies depending on the fabric you choose, but they're all on the affordable side compared to other options on this list. It's available in a handful of solid colors (even faux leather) as well as eye-catching patterns, like paisley and black-and-white plaid. And since the ottoman is made with polyester or cotton, you can spot clean it as needed.

The lift-off top makes it easy to quickly stash away clutter, while the dark walnut finish on the wooden legs gives a refined quality to the piece. We can't imagine you'd be able to find a better storage ottoman for such a reasonable price.

Dimensions: 16.5 x 17.5 x 17.5 inches | Upholstery Material: Polyester or cotton | Lid Style: Removable

Crate & Barrel Infiniti Oval Storage Ottoman

Crate & Barrel Infiniti Oval Storage Ottoman

Crate & Barrel

Who it's for: People seeking a large, custom statement piece.

Who it isn't for: People with limited space and budgets.

If you have a specific look in mind, then a custom storage ottoman is the way to go. This big, oval-shaped piece can be made to order in over 200 different fabrics, so you can pick the exact color and texture you had imagined. The possibilities are practically endless, with options including teal chenille, clay-toned velvet, and winter-white shearling. Complete with a lift-up seat cushion and plenty of storage space, this storage ottoman is pretty much everything you could ask for.

The downside? Since your custom ottoman will be produced from scratch (rather than plucked from warehouse inventory), it can take months to receive your finished product. If you aren't in a rush, we think the long timeline is worth it for the 1930s Hollywood-inspired design. But if you're pressed for time, you can keep an eye out for "quick ship" options that are already in stock.

Dimensions: 16.5 x 40.5 x 27 inches | Upholstery Material: Multiple options available | Lid Style: Removable

The Inside Skirted Storage Ottoman

The Inside Skirted Storage Ottoman

The Inside

Who it's for: People who want a custom ottoman that ships fast.

Who it isn't for: People who have a more modern design style.

With a regal skirt and comfortable square cushion, this storage ottoman has an extremely traditional style. But what really makes it stand out is that it has the quickest turnaround time that we've seen for a custom piece. In under six weeks, you can receive a custom storage ottoman in the fabric of your choice, from canary yellow velvet to leopard printed cotton to sea glass-colored linen.

Best of all, the custom storage ottoman will be handmade by talented sewers, upholsterers, and woodworkers throughout North America. And unlike most other made-to-order furniture, this ottoman can still be returned within 30 days if you end up wanting something different.

Dimensions: 19 x 20 x 20 inches | Upholstery Material: Multiple options available | Lid Style: Removable

Pottery Barn Big Sur Upholstered Storage Ottoman With Pull-Out Table

Pottery Barn Big Sur Upholstered Storage Ottoman with Pull Out Table

Pottery Barn

Who it's for: People who are willing to spend more on a dual-purpose investment piece.

Who it isn't for: People who already have a separate coffee table.

This storage ottoman from Pottery Barn is not like the others on our list. What sets it apart is the wooden pull-out table, which pops up from inside the compartment whenever you wish you had an extra table near the couch. The sturdy surface features a locking mechanism for safety and is perfect for your morning coffee, dinners in front of the TV, or whenever you need a break from your desk during the workday.

Luckily, the table doesn't take up precious storage space so there's still plenty of room inside the compartment for cozy throws and board games. Plus, this is a customizable ottoman that can be made to order in a wide variety of materials. It's even available in performance fabrics, like basketweave and chenille, which are built to withstand the wear and tear of everyday life.

Dimensions: 19 x 42 x 25 inches | Upholstery Material: Multiple options available | Lid Style: Hinged

Wade Logan Jamil Wide Tufted Square Storage Ottoman

Wade Logan Jamil Wide Tufted Square Storage Ottoman

Wayfair

Who it's for: People who are all-in on tufted upholstery.

Who it isn't for: People looking for a more modern style.

If you love the stately tufted look, you can make it prominent in your home with this large square storage ottoman. The combination of clean lines and classic polyester upholstery is ideal for people who have a modern traditional aesthetic, which is a popular style right now. We also like that the accentuated seams give this ottoman a stylish accent.

The hinged lid is well-cushioned, so you can kick up your feet while you're watching a movie or reading a good book. It's also equipped with a shock feature that prevents it from slamming down, so the expansive storage space is safe for the entire family to use. The color options are a bit limited—it's available in four different shades of blue and gray—but some of them are pretty versatile.

Dimensions: 18.5 x 35 x 35 inches | Upholstery Material: Polyester | Lid Style: Hinged

West Elm Upholstered Round Storage Ottoman

West Elm Upholstered Round Storage Ottoman

West Elm

Who it's for: People who need their ottoman to double as a side table.

Who it isn't for: People who want a cushioned spot to rest their feet.

Hybrid furniture is always a great way to save space in small apartments, and this storage ottoman-meets-side table from West Elm is no exception. It has all the useful storage space of an ottoman, along with the flat wood surface of a table. With this piece, you can stash your blankets and set down a glass of water, which would be risky without the support of a tray on even the firmest upholstered surface. But because of its tabletop, this ottoman is probably not the best choice for people whose main priority is a cushioned surface to rest their feet.

This round storage ottoman is available in three sizes ranging from 19 to 30 inches in diameter, and you can also take your pick of the 52 gorgeous fabric options. And if you need your ottoman shipped quickly, certain material and color combinations will ship in five weeks or less.

Dimensions: 19.3 x 19.3, 17.7 x 25, and 16.1 x 30.3 inches | Upholstery Material: Multiple options available | Lid Style: Removable

Joybird Dee Bench with Storage

Joybird Dee Bench with Storage

Joybird

Who it's for: People who can afford to splurge on an extravagant storage ottoman.

Who it isn't for: People looking for an option that matches rustic decor.

This chic storage ottoman from Joybird would look perfect in your entryway or at the foot of your bed. It's available in dozens of beautiful fabrics, including pet-friendly and velvet-like materials. Whether you're looking for a bold pop of color (like cobalt velvet) or a neutral hue (like off-white jacquard), this storage ottoman is available in many options to suit your style. Our favorite detail is the gold L-shaped legs that bring a bit of mid-century glam to the piece.

This storage ottoman is also a winner in terms of function. The tailored bench silhouette slides effortlessly into narrow spaces, while the hinged top reveals a deep storage compartment that can accommodate extra linens, reading materials, reusable grocery bags, and any other items you need to stow away but still keep at arm's length.

Dimensions: 21 x 46 x 22 inches | Upholstery Material: Multiple options available | Lid Style: Hinged

How to Shop for a Storage Ottoman

Size

The most important factor to consider when shopping for a storage ottoman is size because it influences the flow of your room and how much space you'll have in the compartment. If your home is really small, opt for a storage ottoman that's taller and deeper. That way, you won't have to sacrifice too much floor space but you'll still have a deep compartment for your items.

In larger areas, it's crucial to pay attention to scale. Even if you have enough space for a huge ottoman, it might not be the right choice if it looks too big next to your other furniture. Likewise, a smaller ottoman might appear minuscule next giant L-shaped sectional. Before ordering furniture online, measure the space you're looking to fill and make sure the dimensions of your desired storage ottoman will fit and look appropriate.

Upholstery

Upholstery choices are mostly about personal style, so if vibrant velvet speaks to you, then that's the fabric you should buy. It is worth noting, however, that performance fabrics are specifically engineered to withstand everyday wear and tear, so they're great if you're worried about spills and other types of damage. If you don't have messy kids or pets in your home, then there's much less risk when choosing a buttery leather or white shearling piece.

Lid Style

Some storage ottomans have completely removable (or detached) lids, so you can take the top off and easily reach inside the compartment. Others have hinged lids, so the top opens up but is always attached to the base. Both styles can be very easy to use depending on the scenario, so just take note of this while shopping If you have a strong preference.

Function

While all storage ottomans are designed to hold items and keep them out of sight, some styles can also have secondary functions. Plush, lower-slung ottomans can double as a footrest or extra seating, while taller, firmer ottomans can take the place of a side table. Keep these purposes in mind while shopping to make sure you pick the right style.

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Morgan Goldberg, a freelance writer with seven years of editorial experience writing about interior design, food, and travel. She put together this list after spending hours scouring the internet for the best storage ottomans. Morgan considered factors like upholstery materials, size, and overall value while deciding which storage ottomans to include.

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