by Sleigh beds are bulky and heavy, which may prevent other pieces of furniture from fitting inside a room. Luckily, manufacturers have found a solution for limited spaces. They incorporated a storage area into some sleigh bed designs, which is convenient, especially for small apartments that lack drawers and storage spaces. Storage beds are available in different styles. Some have large bookcase headboards for storage, while others have drawers in the lower part of the bed. Other models have a platform that lifts up to reveal storage beneath the mattress. We’ll discuss different lift up storage sleigh beds in this article.
Different types of lift up storage sleigh beds include hydraulic lift up storage sleigh beds, ottoman lift up storage sleigh beds and pull up storage sleigh beds.
What Is a Sleigh Bed?
Storage sleigh beds are both practical and stylish, because of their unique silhouette. Lacking storage space in a room doesn’t mean that you have to rule out having the stylish look of a sleigh bed. If the artistic style of a sleigh bed appeals to you then have a look at our article on 7 sleigh bed ideas to enhance your bedroom.
A sleigh bed is a type of bed that is modeled after a sled and curves outward at the headboard and footboard. Sleigh beds were traditionally made of wood with ornate carving on the head and footboards. Nowadays, modern sleigh beds can be made of metal, wicker or can be covered in upholstery fabric.
Sleigh beds are available in different sizes, styles, colors, and materials to suit your needs and preferences. Make sure to reference our separate guide that answers the somewhat simple question, what is a sleigh bed? When shopping for a sleigh bed, it is particularly important to consider the overall size of the bed and how much storage space you need. You can either benefit from under bed storage, or choose a sleigh bed that includes a built-in storage area as part of the frame that lifts up. Read our article on how to use sleigh beds in a small apartment to learn easy space-saving hacks. For more information, take a look at our detailed guide to sleigh bed dimensions too.
Types of Lift Up Storage Sleigh Beds
Some sleigh beds include drawers below the bed like this one from Amazon, while other models feature storage space under the mattress that requires you to lift the mattress to access the storage.
Different types of lift up storage sleigh beds include beds with hydraulic pistons, storage sleigh beds with ottoman designs, and pull up sleigh beds.
Hydraulic Lift Up Storage Sleigh Bed
A hydraulic lift up storage sleigh bed—also known as gas-lift storage bed—is designed with the aid of lifting mechanisms to allow easy access to storage spaces under the mattress.
To open a hydraulic lift up storage sleigh bed, simply lift the bottom of the bed and the gas spring assisted arms will raise the entire bed platform and mattress with the bedding intact, without any physical effort to let you access the space.
Hydraulic lift up storage sleigh beds open up to an enormous storing space, which is kept hidden and clean from external dirt. There are no compartments or sections so the storage capacity is maximized and can accommodate large items.
Hydraulic lift up storage beds come in various designs, styles and sizes. So you can pick the units that match the storage needs and decor of your room.
This upholstered hydraulic lift up sleigh bed keeps the mess out of sight, making your room clean and organized. This design is more modern since it doesn’t have a footboard. The large headboard still exists and makes the bed seem grand like traditional sleigh beds. Image from Amazon.You might also be interested in learning some tips to sleigh bed mattress height. Make sure to check out our related article to find them.
Ottoman Lift Up Storage Sleigh Bed
Ottoman sleigh beds are another ideal option for those looking to expand their floor space with hidden storage solutions. They utilize a similar lifting mechanism as the hydraulic lift up storage sleigh beds but have a different bed design which matches closer to traditional sleigh beds.
They make use of the entire bed base to provide maximum space-saving potential. They use gas to easily lift up their base from either the foot end or from one side of the bed, and reveal the in-built storage space within. Gas lift systems utilize gas (based on the name) vs. oil (which is used in in hydraulic systems).
They are also sturdy, durable, and available in a range of sizes and coloured fabric options to suit any space. This unique ottoman storage bed from Amazon has several ottomans built into the bed for attractive storage.
This ottoman bed features a large underbed storage area that is accessed from the side. Notice how this sleigh bed has a traditional curved headboard and footboard. Image from Amazon.Pull Up Storage Sleigh Bed
A pull up storage sleigh bed gives you spacious storage without taking up more floor space. The integrated lift mechanism made of a gas piston and spring system make it easy and safe to open and close the bed without putting strain on your back. The main difference here is that the mechanism utilizes springs in addition to the gas pistons to lift the bed.
Simply pull the strap and the base lifts smoothly and easily to flip up the bed base and mattress.
This pull up storage bed allows you to access your hidden belongings under the bed thanks to the integrated lift mechanism. Image from Ikea.Below is a summary of the different types of lift up storage sleigh beds with their prominent features:
| Type of Lift Up Storage Sleigh Bed | Key Features of This Type | Typical Price Range | Amazon Product Example |
| Hydraulic lift up storage sleigh beds | Uses a hydraulic lift that compresses and transfers oil to lift the bed. | $350-$1000 | WangLX Wooden hydraulic lifting storage bed |
| Ottoman lift up storage sleigh beds | They use gas-lifts to easily lift up their base and expose the in-built storage space within. They are also elegant, sturdy, and durable. | $400-$1500 | South Shore step one ottoman storage bed |
| Pull up storage sleigh beds | Uses a spring + gas piston. | $200-$800 | Ztozz Pull up Storage Sleigh Bed |
Traditional vs. Lift Up Storage Sleigh Beds
A traditional sleigh bed features wooden curved foot and headboards with beautiful carved designs for a vintage and authentic feel. While most traditional sleigh beds provide open underbed storage space like this one, some models also offer drawers in the lower part of the bed frame to keep items out of sight.
When comparing traditional storage sleigh beds vs. lift up storage sleigh beds, traditional sleigh beds have limited underbed storage whereas storage sleigh beds are designed to maximize under bed storage.
The pros of traditional sleigh beds include a classic and timeless design, which can work equally well in either a traditional or contemporary design scheme. The footboard gives a sophisticated and polished look, which helps to keep a bedroom neat by preventing bedding from falling off the bed. Models that feature drawers in the lower part of the bed frame like this one keep your items organized and neatly stored at all times.
The cons of traditional sleigh beds include that they have less storage space than other bed types. Storage space is actually decreased to make space for the ‘sleigh-like’ side panels. Sleigh beds stand on four feet, and some may feature a gap big enough to store very small or flat items underneath. Open underbed space enables the accumulation of dust and dirt and keeps your items visible which creates visual clutter in the bedroom. This article from Sage Journals investigates the effects of clutter in domestic spaces and how it affects a person’s well-being.
Lift up storage sleigh beds are designed to help maximize storage in the bedroom. They are multi-purpose pieces of furniture, space-efficient, and easy to operate.
The pros of lift up storage sleigh beds include storage solutions incorporated into the bed frame. The bed frame is one cohesive unit, which opens easily with the aid of lift mechanisms to store everything you need.
The cons of lift up storage sleigh beds are that they are difficult to move, as they’re often built as one large piece. They can also be more expensive than other bed types, and you need to maintain the hardware and hydraulic arms that are built into the storage units underneath the bed. Over time, these can become loose and require repair or replacement. If you need to replace the hydraulic arms of your lift up storage sleigh bed then these gas struts from Amazon will be ideal.
You may also find interest in our definitive guide to sleigh bed pros and cons – so make sure to check that article out as well.
Lift Up Storage Sleigh Bed Heights
The style and design of a sleigh bed is crucial in determining the final overall size of the bed. Typical bed height (from the floor to the top of the mattress) can range from 18 to 36 inches tall from the floor. Platform beds for example will be around 20 inches or less. The height of lift up storage sleigh beds range from 25 to 36 inches high. While ottoman sleigh beds, which offer more storage space than a traditional bed frame, will be around 30 inches tall.
Lift up storage sleigh beds come in low, standard, and high profile. A low profile storage sleigh bed is approximately 25 inches tall and provides less storage space than other types of storage sleigh beds. A standard storage sleigh bed height ranges from 28 to 33 inches tall. A high profile storage sleigh bed is up to 36 inches tall or sometimes higher.
The height of your bed merely comes down to personal preferences. In terms of style, a high bed can create a decadent feel, while low beds are more suited to a modern look. Read our sleigh bed height guide for more information about the dimensions of different types of sleigh beds.
An older person needs a low bed height, which they can easily get in and out of without straining their joints and body. To find the ideal bed height specifically for your height, sit at the edge of the bed—your feet should be flat against the floor and your knees in line with your hips. This article from the Journal of Gerontological Nursing discusses bed height safety for older adults in case you’re interested in exploring bed heights further.
Below are 3 different Amazon products and their dimensions:
| Product Example | Height of Lift Up Storage Sleigh Bed Including Headboard | Storage Space Dimensions |
| Upholstered Dhp Cambridge Bed with Storage | 42.5 Inches | 80.5″L x 60.5″W x 9.5″H |
| Ztozz Queen Bed with Gas Lift Up Storage | 50 Inches | 85”L x 65”W x 10”H |
| Queen Pj Lift Storage Bed | 45 Inches | 88″L x 60″W x 10″H |
If you’re ever looking to repurpose your sleigh bed, make sure to take a look at our article describing 5 methods to turn a sleigh bed into a bench as well.
Different Sleigh Bed Dimensions for Lift Up Sleigh Beds
Lift up sleigh beds come in various lengths and widths. Once you have determined your sleigh bed size be sure to check out our article on mattress sizes to ensure you get a mattress that properly fits your bed frame.
A king lift up storage sleigh bed measures 80 by 76 inches, a queen sleigh bed measures 80 by 60 inches, a twin size sleigh bed measures 38 by 75 inches, a double sleigh bed measures 74 by 54 inches and the full lift up storage sleigh bed measures 75 by 53 inches. The height of storage sleigh beds can vary from 25-36 inches tall.
King Size Storage Beds
A king size storage sleigh bed offers the most storage space and sleeping space for couples. It is approximately 80” long and 76” wide. You can store all types of bedding, pajamas, shoes, seasonal clothes and other items, which you do not use every day. This king-size comforter from Amazon is the right size for a larger bed. Read our article on comforter ideas for sleigh beds for more ideas on how to adorn your sleigh bed.
Queen Size Storage Beds
A queen storage sleigh bed is 80” long and 60” wide. This size is ideal for two sleepers who would like to save living space, when comparing it to a king bed. It is also popular for accommodating a single person who likes to spread out. It offers plenty of storage space under the mattress for clothes and bed sheets. This black faux leather queen storage bed from Amazon has a wide storage area for packing away extra bedding and decor.
Twin Size Storage Beds
A twin size storage sleigh bed is the smallest bed size option. It is approximately 38” wide and 75” long. This size typically accommodates children or a single adult. Taller sleepers should consider a twin-XL which is 38” wide and 80” long. The storage space within the bed base is ideal for shoes, books, or toys.
Double Size Storage Beds
A double size storage sleigh bed is generally 74” long and 54” wide. Sometimes the storage space under the bed base is compartmentalized with wooden boards. This allows you to divide and organize your belongings in a tidier manner. This wooden lift up storage bed has a divider down the middle to section off stored items.
Full Size Storage Beds
A full size lift up storage sleigh bed is 53” wide and 75” long. It is just a couple of inches wider than the twin size bed and provides enough space to store seasonal clothes, shoes, bedding and towels.
You may also be interested in learning how to disassemble a sleigh bed. Make sure to take a look at our related article to find out.