Style & Shopping

8 Under-$50 Seating Options That Double as Storage

published Oct 11, 2023
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Product photo from left to right, Adeco Velvet Round Storage Stool Gold Plating Base Storage Ottoman, 
HOOBRO Ottoman with Storage, Round Stool with Sponge, Supports 287 lb Multipurpose Footrest Sofa Stool and CUYOCA Storage Ottoman Bench Foldable Seat Footrest Shoe Bench End of Bed Storage
Credit: Bed Bath & Beyond, CUYOCA, HOOBRO

It’s no secret that space is limited in a dorm room (or any kind of college home, for that matter). Your entire life essentially needs to be crammed into one small area, and I know I don’t always have the time, stamina, or motivation to keep my space clutter-free. That’s why I’m spreading the good news about one of my favorite small-space solutions: Seating that doubles as storage.  

Combining two elements that most college homes lack — storage and places to sit — is key to making your room more functional and more comfortable. Let’s face it: Your closet isn’t going to magically expand to fit all your junk, and only so many visitors can sit on your bed at once. So here are eight seating options that also have room to hold your stuff — all for under $50 each.

1 / 8
Amazon
$39.99

This cushioned bench is a simple piece that lives a double life: It’s a comfortable seating option for studying or socializing and a clever storage solution all in one. Pretty innovative, right? Its roomy storage compartment can be used to stash away textbooks, extra bedding, and other college necessities on the bulkier side.

2 / 8
Wayfair
$37.99
was $48.99

You can never have too many shoes, right? This bench-meets-shoe organizer is a great place to put all the extra footwear you brought to college while also offering a functional seating spot. Now you can host your friends and give them a place to keep their shoes.

3 / 8
Amazon
$49.99

This folding chair looks like a standard desk or vanity seating option, but it also has a built-in storage box attached to the bottom. Think of it as your own super-secret compartment.

4 / 8
Bed Bath & Beyond
$47.43
was $53.99

If your space is pretty cramped already, this compact velvet storage ottoman will fit right in. The gold rim at the bottom gives it an elevated look — even though no one will know what messes may lie beneath the lid.

5 / 8
Amazon
$30.99

This gorgeous pink stool proves it’s 100% possible to find chic pieces without breaking the bank. Just throw your clutter into the built-in storage compartment, sit on the stool, and look pretty — or, you know, do some homework.

6 / 8
Walmart
$49.88

If you're into a boho or cottagecore look, add this mushroom-shaped upholstered ottoman that provides a little extra storage to your living space.

7 / 8
Amazon
$47.90

A swivel chair is always fun, but what’s more fun is when it can also hold your stuff inside it. This stool is perfect for your vanity when putting on makeup, or your desk when hitting the books. The velvet upholstery adds a sophisticated touch — and there are tons of colors to choose from!

8 / 8
Amazon
$35.99
was $43.99

This faux fur storage stool is a glam option that looks more expensive than it is. It comes in 19 different colors, so you can customize it to suit your unique style.

Raniya Fatteh

Contributor

Raniya is a 19-year-old community college student living in the Bay Area. She is studying sociology and wants to use it to pursue digital marketing or data analytics. She hopes to transfer to a four-year school in 2024. She was on the color guard team in high school and was part of a competitive civics team called We the People. She also developed a passion for statistics during her first semester of college and now works as a statistics tutor. She loves to travel and has visited over 30 countries so far.

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