A storage ottoman is not just a stylish piece of furniture but also an incredibly versatile storage solution. Whether you’re looking to keep your living room organized or need a hidden place to store essentials, a storage ottoman can serve multiple purposes. This comprehensive guide explores the best ways to use your ottoman, offering creative and practical ideas for maximizing space, reducing clutter, and maintaining a clean and tidy home.

1. Blankets and Pillows

Storage ottomans are perfect for storing extra blankets, throw pillows, and cushions. These items quickly pile up and clutter living spaces, especially in cooler months.

• Fold or roll blankets to conserve space.
• Store them in pillowcases or breathable fabric bags to prevent dust buildup.
• Rotate items every few weeks to keep them fresh and evenly used.
• Choose ottomans with easy-lift lids for quick access.
  

Best For: Living rooms, bedrooms, or family rooms where coziness meets convenience.

2. Books and Magazines

If you’re an avid reader or collector, a storage ottoman can help keep your literary treasures from taking over every surface.

• Sort books by size or genre using bins or cardboard dividers.
• Stack magazines neatly and use holders to maintain condition.
• Rotate content to match current reads or seasonal themes.
• Consider using fabric inserts for added structure.

Best For: Living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices.

3. Toys and Games

Parents know that toys and games can create chaos. A storage ottoman offers an easy cleanup solution.

• Use mesh bags or clear plastic containers inside to separate toys.
• Label compartments for quick cleanup and better child engagement.
• Stack board games horizontally and secure boxes with elastic straps.
• Include a favorite toy on top for quick grab-and-go access.

Best For: Kids’ rooms, play areas, or family rooms.

4. Shoes

Keep entryways and bedrooms tidy by using your ottoman to store shoes.

• Store shoes in fabric bags or clear boxes to reduce scuffing and dirt transfer.
• Place frequently used shoes on top for easy access.
• Use a shoe deodorizer or cedar balls to control odors.
• Store seasonally: sandals in summer, boots in winter.

Best For: Entryways, mudrooms, or small apartments with limited closets.

5. Seasonal Items

Seasonal decor and gear can clutter your closet or garage. A storage ottoman keeps these items out of sight yet close at hand.

• Use labeled bags like “Winter Hats” or “Spring Decor.”
• Vacuum-sealed bags save space and protect contents from dust or moisture.
• Rotate contents every 3–4 months to match the season.
• Consider a washable cover on your ottoman if storing outdoor gear.

Best For: Closets, under-bed storage, or unused corners of the home.

6. Office Supplies and Paperwork

Working from home often results in scattered papers. A storage ottoman can help contain the clutter.

• Organize documents in folders or expanding file organizers.
• Store smaller items like pens and chargers in zip pouches.
• Place heavier items like staplers or labelers at the bottom.
• Include a removable tray to hold frequently accessed items.

Best For: Home offices, living room workstations, or shared study spaces.

7. Extra Bedding

Spare linens, comforters, and pillows often have nowhere to go. An ottoman solves this storage dilemma.

• Fold neatly and store bedding in breathable cotton bags.
• Use scent sachets like lavender or cedar to maintain freshness.
• Store guest sheets near guest beds for easy access.
• Vacuum-sealed bags are great for bulky duvets.

Best For: Guest rooms, small bedrooms, or homes without linen closets.

8. DVDs, CDs, and Electronics Accessories

Digital may be the norm, but many still own physical media and device extras.

• Store DVDs and CDs in sleeves or original cases using dividers.
• Use small pouches or boxes for gaming controllers, HDMI cables, and remotes.
• Label sections clearly: “Movies,” “Chargers,” “Game Gear.”
• Add an anti-static cloth or dryer sheet to reduce dust buildup.

Best For: Entertainment centers, media rooms, or tech-filled living rooms.

9. Baby Supplies

Keep baby essentials close without making your home look like a nursery.

• Use baskets or bins inside the ottoman to separate diapers, wipes, and clothing.
• Store pacifiers, toys, and burp cloths within easy reach.
• Keep emergency or night-time change kits right on top.
• Airtight containers preserve freshness of wipes and creams.

10. Craft Supplies and Hobbies

If you enjoy DIY projects, knitting, painting, or any kind of hobby, your storage ottoman can become a dedicated craft station—organized and hidden in plain sight.

• Store yarn, needles, or small canvases in stackable pouches or boxes.
• Use clear zipper bags for smaller items like scissors, glue sticks, or beads.
• Add a foldable lap tray or small cutting mat on top for portable crafting.
• Label sections by hobby type or project stage (e.g., “In Progress,” “Tools,” “Scrap Materials”).

Best For: Living rooms, hobby corners, or shared spaces where creativity meets convenience.

A Storage Ottoman is more than a seat or footrest; it’s a stylish solution to your biggest storage struggles. Whether it’s blankets, electronics, toys, or documents, a well-organized ottoman can help transform clutter into calm.

By choosing the right items to store, using dividers, rotating contents, and labeling clearly, you’ll maximize every inch of space while keeping your home effortlessly organized. Start today and enjoy the convenience of having everything you need tucked neatly out of sight.

FAQs

1. What are the best ways to store extra pillows and blankets in a storage ottoman?

To maximize space, roll or fold blankets and store them in pillowcases or fabric bags. This keeps them organized and dust-free. Rotate your items periodically for even use.

2. How can I store books and magazines in a storage ottoman without damaging them?

Sort your books by size or genre and use dividers or bins to keep them organized. For magazines, use holders to prevent bending and preserve condition. Rotate the content to match your reading preferences.

3. What’s the best way to store toys and games in a storage ottoman for kids?

Use mesh bags or clear plastic containers for toys, and label compartments for easy organization. Stack board games horizontally with elastic straps to keep boxes intact. Place frequently used toys on top for quick access.

4. How do I store shoes in a storage ottoman without creating a mess?

Use fabric bags or clear boxes to store shoes and prevent dirt transfer. Keep frequently used shoes on top for easy access, and use deodorizing products to maintain freshness. Store seasonal shoes separately.

5. How do I organize seasonal items in a storage ottoman?

Use labeled bags or vacuum-sealed bags to save space and protect items from moisture. Rotate contents every few months to keep your items in season. A washable ottoman cover helps if you’re storing outdoor gear.