Woodworking Projects For Under Bed Storage: Genius Solutions

Quick Summary
Transform unused space with simple woodworking projects for under bed storage. Build custom drawers, rolling bins, or lift-up platforms tailored to your needs, maximizing bedroom organization efficiently and affordably. These beginner-friendly projects add valuable storage without clutter.

Hey there, fellow DIYers! Jack Shaffer here from Nailerguy. Is your bedroom crying out for more storage? We all love a tidy space, but sometimes, it feels like there’s just never enough room for everything. That hidden space right under your bed is a goldmine waiting to be tapped. It’s the perfect spot for storing seasonal clothes, extra linens, or even your favorite hobby gear. But how do you make the most of it? You’ve come to the right place!

Don’t worry if you’re new to woodworking; I’m going to guide you through some fantastic, beginner-friendly projects that will turn that dusty void into organized bliss. We’ll keep it simple, use readily available materials, and focus on creating solutions that are both practical and look great. Ready to tackle some clever woodworking projects for under bed storage and reclaim your room? Let’s get building!

Table of Contents

Why Under Bed Storage is a Woodworker’s Best Friend

That space under your bed is often one of the most neglected areas in a home. It’s an easy place to shove things, but that just leads to more clutter. With a few simple woodworking projects, you can transform it into efficient, accessible storage.

Think about it: instead of buying expensive, generic plastic bins that might not fit perfectly, you can build solutions tailored exactly to your bed frame and your storage needs. This not only saves money but also allows you to customize the look and functionality. Plus, building something yourself is incredibly rewarding!

Getting Started: Tools and Materials for Under Bed Storage Projects

Before we dive into specific projects, let’s talk about the essentials. You don’t need a professional workshop for these ideas. Most of these projects can be tackled with basic tools that many DIYers already have or can easily acquire. Safety is always my top priority, so always wear safety glasses and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your tools.

Essential Tools for Beginners

Here’s a list of tools that will serve you well for most of these under bed storage projects. If you’re just starting out, consider seeing if a friend has some of these you can borrow or look into rental options. Investing in a good quality tool is always worthwhile, though!

Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements. You can’t build accurately without measuring precisely!
Pencil: To mark your cuts.
Hand Saw or Circular Saw: A circular saw makes cutting faster but a good hand saw is perfectly fine for smaller projects. For precise cuts, especially with thinner plywood, a circular saw with a guide can be very helpful. Check out resources like ToolReviews.com’s guide to circular saws for some great tips on choosing one.
Drill/Driver: Essential for pre-drilling holes and driving screws. A cordless drill offers great freedom.
Screwdriver Set: For any screws that aren’t driven by the drill.
Clamps: To hold pieces together while you’re working on them, especially when gluing or screwing.
Safety Glasses: Non-negotiable for protecting your eyes!
Sandpaper (various grits): For smoothing surfaces.
Paint or Wood Finish (optional): To protect the wood and make it look nice.

Commonly Used Materials

For most under bed storage projects, you’ll want to use materials that are sturdy but also easy to work with. Plywood and common pine boards are excellent choices for beginners.

Plywood: ¾-inch plywood is great for the main structure of boxes and drawers. ½-inch plywood can also work for less load-bearing parts or smaller bins. Birch or pine plywood are good, affordable options.
Pine Boards: 1x4s or 1x6s are useful for making frames, drawer fronts, or decorative elements.
Screws: Wood screws are your best friend for joining pieces. Choose a length appropriate for the thickness of your wood (e.g., 1 ¼-inch screws for joining ¾-inch plywood).
Wood Glue: Adds significant strength to your joints.
Drawer Slides (optional): For a smoother, more professional drawer-gliding experience, though not strictly necessary for basic rolling bins.
Casters/Wheels (optional): For rolling bins or drawers.
Handles/Knobs (optional): To make it easier to pull out your storage.

Project 1: Simple Rolling Storage Bins

This is one of the easiest woodworking projects for under bed storage. You’re essentially building a sturdy wooden box on wheels. Perfect for bulky items or things you need to access frequently.

Materials for Rolling Bins:

¾-inch plywood (cut to your desired dimensions)
1 ¼-inch wood screws
Wood glue
Four casters (wheels), with screws or bolts appropriate for attaching them
Sandpaper
Wood finish (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide:

Measure Your Space: First, accurately measure the height, width, and depth of the space under your bed. Remember to account for any legs or center supports. You’ll want your bins to be a few inches shorter in height than your bed frame to allow for easy access and the wheels.
Cut Your Wood: Based on your measurements, cut your plywood. You’ll need:
- Two side pieces (e.g., 30 inches long x 6 inches high)
- Two end pieces (e.g., 15 inches long x 6 inches high)
- One bottom piece (e.g., 30 inches long x 15 inches wide)
Note: Adjust these dimensions to fit your specific bed and desired bin size.
Assemble the Box: Apply wood glue to the edges of the end pieces that will join with the side pieces. Attach the side pieces to the end pieces using wood screws. Pre-drill your holes to prevent the plywood from splitting. Repeat for all four sides to form a rectangular open-top box.
Attach the Bottom: Apply wood glue to the bottom edges of the assembled box. Place the bottom piece of plywood onto the glued edges and secure it with wood screws. Again, pre-drill to ensure a clean fit.
Add the Wheels: Flip your assembled box upside down. Decide where you want your casters placed – generally, one near each corner. Mark the screw holes for the casters. Pre-drill if necessary, then attach the casters securely using screws or bolts. Aim for swivel casters for easier maneuverability.
Sand and Finish: Once everything is assembled, sand all edges and surfaces smooth. Pay attention to any rough spots. If you plan to stain or paint, now is the time. Applying a clear coat or a nice wood stain can really elevate the look and protect the wood.

These bins are fantastic because you can customize the height to store different items. For example, you could build a set of shorter ones for shoes and a taller set for blankets.

Project 2: Simple Under Bed Drawers with Handles

For a more finished look and easier access without having to lift a lid, building drawers is a great step up. These can be designed to slide directly on the floor or, if you’re feeling ambitious, you could add drawer slides. For beginners, let’s focus on a design that slides easily on the floor, possibly with a sacrificial strip or integrated casters on the drawer base.

Materials for Under Bed Drawers:

¾-inch plywood for the drawer box
½-inch plywood or thinner material for the drawer bottom
1×4 or 1×6 pine boards for the drawer front and optional support strips
1 ¼-inch wood screws
Wood glue
Two drawer pulls or handles
Sandpaper
Wood finish
Optional: Small, low-profile wheels or slides

Step-by-Step Guide:

Measure and Plan: Measure your under-bed space very precisely, considering the height clearance and the footprint of the drawer. You’ll want the drawer width and depth to fit comfortably, leaving a little wiggle room. Determine the desired height.
Cut Drawer Box Components:
- Two side pieces (e.g., 30 inches long x 5 inches high)
- Two end pieces (e.g., 14 inches long x 5 inches high)
- One bottom piece (e.g., 30 inches long x 14 inches wide) – this can be ½-inch plywood for lighter weight.
Remember to account for the thickness of the wood when calculating dimensions so the drawer box outer dimensions fit your space.
Assemble Drawer Box: Just like the rolling bins, apply wood glue to the edges and screw the side and end pieces together. Then, attach the ½-inch plywood bottom. Make sure the box is square.
Cut and Attach Drawer Front: Cut a piece of 1×4 or 1×6 pine to serve as the drawer front. It should be the same width as your drawer box, but a little taller and slightly wider to create an overlap. Attach this to the front of the drawer box using glue and screws from the inside of the box.
Add Handles: Decide where you want your drawer pulls. Mark the screw holes, drill through the drawer front, and attach the handles.
Consider Drawer Slides or Wheels (Optional but Recommended):
- For minimal friction: You can attach small felt pads to the bottom corners to help it slide.
- For rolling: Screw a few small, low-profile caster wheels to the underside of the drawer box, near the corners. Ensure they don’t add too much height.
- For a smoother glide: Invest in a set of budget-friendly epoxy or ball-bearing drawer slides. You’ll need to attach one part to the underside of your drawer box (or sides) and the corresponding part to the bed frame or a cleat on the floor near the bed. This requires more precise placement and might be a project for slightly more experienced woodworkers, but the result is excellent. Always check the weight capacity when picking drawer slides. For guidance, resources like Woodsmith Shop’s tutorial on drawer slide installation can be very helpful.
Sand and Finish: Sand all surfaces and edges smooth. Apply your chosen stain or paint for a polished look.

These drawers offer a much tidier appearance than open bins, hiding the contents and giving a more built-in feel to your bedroom.

Project 3: Lift-Up Platform Bed Storage

This project is a bit more involved but offers a massive amount of hidden storage. Instead of building storage under the bed, you’re building a whole new bed frame that lifts up, revealing a large storage area underneath. This is ideal if you have a lot of items to store or a very large under-bed space.

Materials for Lift-Up Platform:

Heavy-duty plywood (¾-inch for structure, ½-inch for top surface)
2×4 lumber for frame support
Strong hinges (piano hinge or heavy-duty gate hinges)
Gas springs or heavy-duty pneumatic lifts (these are crucial for easy lifting)
Wood screws (1 ¼-inch and possibly 2 ½-inch for stronger joints)
Wood glue
Sandpaper
Wood finish
Tools for measurement, cutting, and assembly

Step-by-Step Guide:

Build a Sturdy Base Box: This will be the main structure that sits on the floor. Construct a large, reinforced box using 2x4s for the frame and ¾-inch plywood for the sides and ends. The dimensions will be the full size of your mattress plus a few inches for clearance.
Reinforce the Top Frame: On top of the base box, build another frame using 2x4s where the mattress will sit. This frame needs to be strong and well-supported.
Create the Lifting Platform: Cut your ¾-inch plywood to create the platform that will lift up. This piece needs to be strong enough to support the mattress and any items placed on it. Attach this to the reinforced 2×4 top frame.
Install Hinges: Choose one side of the base box (usually the foot of the bed) to attach your heavy-duty hinges. Attach one side of the hinge to the base box and the other to the lifting platform/top frame. Ensure they are aligned and secure. A good quality piano hinge spanning the entire width is often best.
Attach Gas Springs/Lifts: This is where the magic happens. You’ll need to carefully plan the placement of your gas springs. They attach between the base box and the lifting platform. The goal is to have them support the weight of the platform and mattress, making it easy to lift with one hand. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for placement and mounting – this is critical for safety and functionality. You can find guides on proper gas spring installation for beds online or from the manufacturer. Check out this resource on Rockler’s guide to gas spring sizing for valuable insights.
Add a Support Mechanism: It’s crucial to have a way to prop the lid open safely while you’re accessing the storage. This could be a prop rod or reinforcing the gas springs to hold position.
Sand and Finish: Sand everything down thoroughly. Finish the visible parts of the frame and platform with your desired stain or paint.

This type of storage is a significant woodworking project, but the payoff in terms of hidden storage is enormous. It essentially replaces traditional box springs and provides a massive, easily accessible storage void.

Tips for Success in Your Under Bed Storage Projects

No matter which project you choose, here are some tips to make your woodworking experience smooth and successful:

Measure Twice, Cut Once: This old adage is true for a reason. Accurate measurements are key to a good fit.
Pre-Drill Your Holes: Especially with plywood, pre-drilling pilot holes for your screws will prevent the wood from splitting.
Use Wood Glue: Glue adds significant strength to your joints, making your storage solutions more durable.
Sand for a Smooth Finish: A little sanding goes a long way in making your projects look professionally made and preventing splinters.
Consider the Weight: If you plan to store heavy items, ensure your materials and construction are robust enough. For drawers, consider using drawer slides rated for the weight you expect.
Safety First: Always wear safety glasses and be mindful of your surroundings when using power tools. Read your tool manuals.

Under Bed Storage Project Comparison Table

To help you decide which project is right for you, here’s a quick comparison:

Project Type	Difficulty Level	Approximate Cost	Storage Capacity	Access Ease	Aesthetics
Rolling Bins	Beginner	$ – $$	Moderate	High (pull out)	Functional, can be customized
Drawers with Handles	Beginner-Intermediate	$$	Moderate to High	Very High (slide 0ut)	Neat, hides contents
Lift-Up Platform Bed	Intermediate-Advanced	$$$	Very High	Moderate (requires lifting)	Sleek, integrated look

The cost can vary greatly depending on the size of the project, the type of wood you choose, and whether you opt for additional hardware like drawer slides or gas springs. But even the most involved project will likely be more affordable than buying custom furniture.

FAQ: Your Under Bed Storage Questions Answered

Here are some common questions beginners have about woodworking projects for under bed storage.

Q1: How do I measure the space under my bed accurately?

A: Use a reliable measuring tape. Measure the width from wall to wall (or frame edge to frame edge), the depth from the wall/edge to the bed frame support, and the height from the floor to the bottom of the bed frame. Account for any legs or obstructions. It’s often best to measure in several spots as older beds or frames might not be perfectly square.

Q2: What kind of wood is best for under bed storage?

A: For most projects, ¾-inch plywood (like birch or pine) is a great choice for strength and stability. For drawer bottoms or less structural parts, ½-inch plywood can be used to save weight and cost. Pine boards (like 1×4 or 1×6) are excellent for drawer fronts and decorative trim.

Q3: Do I need special tools to build these projects?

A: For the most basic projects like rolling bins, a hand saw, measuring tape, pencil, drill, screws, and sandpaper are sufficient. A circular saw or miter saw will make cuts faster and more accurate, but they aren’t strictly mandatory for a beginner’s first project. Investing in a good cordless drill/driver is highly recommended for any DIYer.

Q4: How can I make my storage look nicer?

A: Sanding all surfaces and edges smooth is the first step. You can then paint them, stain them to match your existing decor, or even add decorative elements like trim or stylish handles. A clear coat of polyurethane will protect the finish and the wood from moisture.

Q5: What if I don’t have much woodworking experience?

A: Start with the simplest project, like the rolling storage bins. Watch tutorial videos online for specific techniques like cutting or assembling. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; they are part of the learning process! Measure carefully, pre-drill holes, and use wood glue for stronger joints.

Q6: How important are casters or drawer slides?

A: Casters make it incredibly easy to pull bins in and out, especially if they will be heavy. Drawer slides provide the smoothest and most professional-looking operation for drawers, but they require more precise installation. For a budget-friendly and simple approach, you can attach felt pads or even small, low-profile furniture sliders to the bottom of drawers and bins to reduce friction.

Conclusion

There you have it – a few fantastic woodworking projects for under bed storage that are achievable for beginners and can seriously upgrade your bedroom’s organization. From simple rolling bins perfect for stashing extra shoes to more involved drawers that slide out like a dream, there’s a solution for every need and skill level.

Tackling these projects will not only declutter your space but also give you a sense of accomplishment. You’ve learned how to measure, cut, and assemble pieces to create something truly useful for your home. Remember, the best part about DIY is making it your own. Customize dimensions, finishes, and features to perfectly suit your room and your style.

So, grab your tools, head to the lumberyard, and start transforming that under-bed space. Happy building, and may your rooms always be tidy and well-organized!