The Best Benches with Storage

Homemaking poses a lot of challenges esp. when it comes to storage and organization. In this day and age most apartment houses have limited space. A good way to save on space is to implement a minimalist design in your home. Another way is to have home furnishings that serve dual purposes -- storage space and some extra space to sit on.

Back in the old days, most people used a chest to store fine clothes, weapons, foods and other valuable items. Low chests were also often used as benches in Medieval and early Renaissance times in Europe. I actually dreamed of owning one when I was younger. Due to limited space in my home apartment, I probably would have to settle for a storage bench instead.

What is a storage bench?

A storage bench is simply a bench that one can sit on that has a storage compartment for throw pillows, blankets, and other stuff you want to put away. This helps de-clutter your hallway, living room, or anywhere you want to place the storage bench.

Let's take a look at some of the best storage benches that one can find at Amazon.

1. Sheridan Faux Leather Storage Bench with 2 Side Ottomans, Espresso

This item is by Convenience Concepts, Inc. I'm not surprised that it is the top item on the list as it consists of a bench, coffee table, storage and two footrests all packed into one. The underside of the removable lid of the bench also contains a built-in tray with two cut-out handles for easy transport.The item is also fully assembled upon shipment.

The storage bench measures 35-1/4 inches wide by 17-3/4 inches deep by 17-3/4 inches high and weighs 37 pounds.

On Amazon, it garnered 102 customer reviews totaling 4.3 out of 5 stars.

2. Storage Bench with Baskets

This item is by Winsome. It is built with sturdy beechwood and has an antique walnut stain finish. The nice thing about it is that it comes with 3 espresso-colored wicker storage baskets that are perfect for storing shoes, hats, scarves, mittens, etc. The baskets also fit underneath the wide-open storage space.

The bench measures 14 x 40 x 22". Each basket has the following dimensions: 10 x 11 x 9".

On Amazon, it garnered 33 customer reviews totaling 4.6 out of 5 stars.

3. Lift Top Storage Bench

This item is by Homelegance. This rectangular storage ottoman offers the dual function of storage and seating. It is covered in dark brown faux leather and features baseball stitching. It is ideal for smaller living spaces.

The bench measures 43 x 17 x 18" and weighs 26 pounds.

On Amazon, it garnered 18 customer reviews totaling 4.6 out of 5 stars.

4. Wood Storage Hall Bench

This item is by Winsome. It is simple, sturdy, and sports a rich Antique Walnut finish. The over-sized seat has low, raised sides so you can top it off with some comfy cushions or simply leave it bare. There are two deep shelves beneath the bench and you can store anything from books and magazines to baskets of other stuff.

The bench measures 14.2 x 40 x 22" and weighs 44 pounds.

It garnered 25 customer reviews totaling 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon.

5. Shoe Storage Cubbie Bench

This item is by Prepac Furniture. It comes in black or white. This storage bench is best placed in the hallway or front entrance way. It has 18 individual cubbies for shoe storage.The item ships ready to assemble and comes with an instruction booklet for easy assembly.

The bench measures 16 x 48 x 24". Each individual shoe cubby measures 6w x 5h x 13d (enough for a pair of size 13 men's shoes).

It garnered 26 customer reviews totaling 4.2 out of 5 stars on Amazon.

Choosing the best storage bench depends on a number of factors that include space, budget, furniture color, use and purpose. Whatever you decide on, keep in mind that your objective is to maximize small space and remove clutter from your home. Learn to reduce, reuse, and recycle.

Overall, I learned much about storage and organizing while working on this hub. I need to do a lot of organizing myself to lessen the clutter in our little apartment. After all, I wouldn't want to be a candidate to be featured on Hoarders.