Ottomans: more than just decorative, they're a practical lifesaver in the world of home storage. With their cozy, tufted tops hiding a cavernous hollow inside, ottomans are perfect for decluttering, organizing, and maximizing your living space. So, what should you store in an ottoman to make the most of this versatile furniture piece? Let's dive in.
First, let's address the elephant in the room: no, you shouldn't store your elephant in your ottoman. But with that out of the way, let's explore some practical and stylish item suggestions that will make the most of your ottoman's space.
Everyday Essentials
Ottomans are ideal for storing items you use daily but might not have a dedicated home. For instance, remote controls can often get lost in couch cushions, but a quick toss into your ottoman keeps them handy yet out of sight.
Other everyday essentials that can find a home in your ottoman include:
- Magazines and books
- Throw blanket and pillows
- Board games and puzzles
.Buffered Storage
Taking care to avoid overstuffing, you can store lighter, compressible items like extra throw pillows, blankets, or even a spare comforter. This not only declutters your room but keeps these items within easy reach for movie nights or chilly evenings.
Pro tip: Consider using storage bags or boxes to keep contents organized and prevent them from shifting around too much.
Kids' Playroom in a Box
If you have young ones at home, an ottoman can serve as an extra toy box. Small, lightweight toys, art supplies, or even costumes can be neatly tucked away. Just remember to scoop out any wayward Legos or Lincoln Logs before sitting down!
For a bit of whimsy, you could even transform your ottoman into a toy chest by adding a wooden handle and decorative hinges to make opening it a fun adventure for the little ones.
Seasonal Switch-ups
Ottomans aren't just for everyday items. With some strategic planning, they can also store seasonal decor, helping you maintain a clutter-free home year-round.
Here's how to make the most of your ottoman's seasonal storage potential:
Holiday Decor
Those string lights, paper garlands, and a few spare ornaments can find a cozy home in your ottoman until it's time to decorate again. Just be sure to secure any sharp or delicate items first to prevent damage.
Pro tip: Use plastic bins or dividers to separate items by holiday or theme, making it easier to find what you need when the time comes.
Off-Season Clothing
Out with the old, in with the new—except instead of old clothes cluttering your closet, they can be stored away in your ottoman. Layers of clothing are ideal for stuffing into ottomans, ready to be traded out with the changing seasons.
For a more organized approach, use vacuum-sealed bags to compress clothing and maximize space. Just be sure not to overstuff, as this could strain your ottoman's internal structure.
In the end, an ottoman's true value lies in its versatility. Whether you're stashing board games or seasonal clutter, it's a flexible storage solution that adapts to your unique needs. So, go ahead—find your storage sweet spot, and enjoy your newly clutter-free space!