Our style editor’s selection of stylish storage ottomans will keep your home looking both chic and tidy

Storage ottomans can be a highly versatile addition to a space, and they are great for creating hidden extra storage; these are my favorites new designs

Three panel image of ottoman lifestyle images
(Image credit: West Elm | Wayfair| Anthropologie)

Spring cleaning can be fun – that is, until you uncover tons of stuff that you want to keep, but have no idea how. After all, what will you do with all your cozy throw blankets when spring rolls around? Well, after dealing with my own similar dilemma recently, I have the answer: a chic storage ottoman.

In general, I believe that ottomans are one of the most versatile pieces of furniture out there, and they are a great storage idea for the home. You can use them as footstools, extra seating, side tables, and so much more. Plus, once you add the storage component to it, the design can be used to store loose clothes, blankets, toys, books, and just generally all the items that tend to cause a mess in your living room or bedroom.

After perusing all of my favorite home retailers, I realized that there are so many incredible types of ottomans out there that hide extra storage, and they’re available in multiple sizes, materials, price points, and design styles.

Explore my favorite storage ottoman picks

Whether it’s a high-end leather piece or a more simple linen number, these ottoman ideas will help you store all your items with ease.

FAQs

What is the difference between a pouf and an ottoman?

While the words are used interchangeably, there are some slight differences between a pouf and an ottoman. 

An ottoman is a low, upholstered stool, usually with legs, and it can also be used as a footrest, coffee table, or seat. Ottomans are much firmer than poufs: poufs are cushioned, pillow-like seats that stay low to the ground. They can function as makeshift chairs, footstools, or side tables, but note that they generally sit lower and are softer than ottomans.


Perfect for placing in a living room beside a sofa or armchair, or for use in a cozy corner of a bedroom; no matter the size of style of your home, a storage ottoman can bring both charming character and functional storage to your space.

Nikhita Mahtani
Style Editor

Nikhita is the Style Editor for Homes & Gardens, making sure our home-savvy readers are always aware of the latest trends and deepening their knowledge of classic design. Nikhita graduated with her Master of Arts in Magazine Journalism from New York University, and has spent a decade in interior design and shopping roles at shelter publications ELLE DECOR and Domino Magazine.