Storage Bed Buying Guide: Hydraulic Lift vs Drawer Storage

Why a Storage Bed Is One of the Smartest Bedroom Investments

Think about the square footage sitting idle beneath your standard bed right now. In a Canadian home — especially a condo or townhouse — wasted space is a real cost.

A storage bed converts that dead space into usable storage for:

  • Off-season clothing and bedding
  • Extra pillows and blankets
  • Books and personal items
  • Holiday decorations and suitcases (in a queen or king hydraulic lift, there's a surprising amount of room)

A storage bed can also eliminate the need for additional furniture — fewer dressers, ottomans, and storage boxes cluttering your bedroom.

How Hydraulic Lift Storage Beds Work

A hydraulic lift storage bed (also called a gas-lift bed) uses gas-assisted pistons embedded in the frame. When you lift the mattress platform — which pivots from one end — the mechanism supports the weight so you can raise and lower it with one hand.

Underneath is a large, open storage cavity that runs the full length and width of the bed.

Pros of Hydraulic Lift Storage Beds

  • Maximum storage volume: The open cavity spans the entire bed — ideal for large, bulky items
  • Easy access: The gas-lift mechanism makes opening and closing effortless
  • Clean look: No visible drawer fronts on the sides of the frame
  • Flexible storage: Items aren't confined to drawer dimensions

Cons of Hydraulic Lift Storage Beds

  • You must move off the bed to access storage
  • Requires 18–24 inches of clearance at the foot end to fully open the lift
  • Not ideal when a wall is positioned at the lift end

How Drawer Storage Beds Work

Drawer storage beds have built-in drawers that pull out from the sides of the frame. Depending on the model, there may be 2 drawers (one per side) or 4 drawers (two per side). Some styles have end drawers that pull from the foot of the bed.

Pros of Drawer Storage Beds

  • Access without disturbing the mattress: Open drawers without lifting anything
  • Everyday convenience: Ideal for items you access regularly — pyjamas, extra pillows, bedside books
  • No clearance requirement at the foot of the bed
  • Great for small bedrooms — can reduce the need for a dresser

Cons of Drawer Storage Beds

  • Less total storage volume than a full lift cavity
  • Requires 18–24 inches of side clearance to pull drawers fully open
  • Bulky items like suitcases or large duvets don't fit

Which Type Is Right for Your Bedroom?

Choose a hydraulic lift storage bed if:

  • You want to maximize storage volume
  • You store large or bulky items like suitcases or seasonal bedding
  • You don't need daily access to what's stored underneath
  • You have clearance at the foot of the bed

Choose a drawer storage bed if:

  • You want quick, convenient daily access to stored items
  • You're using the storage for everyday items (clothing, accessories)
  • Your room has limited side clearance
  • You have kids or family members who may find the lift mechanism difficult

What to Look for in a Quality Storage Bed

  • Frame material: Solid wood or metal outlasts particleboard by years. Look for hardwood slats.
  • Gas-lift quality: The lift should open smoothly and hold the platform firmly without sagging.
  • Drawer glide quality: Full-extension glides with a soft-close mechanism prevent sticking and wear.
  • Storage dimensions: Ask for the exact interior measurements to plan what you'll store.
  • Mattress compatibility: Check the maximum mattress weight and thickness the frame supports.

Shop Storage Beds at Marty's Furniture

At Marty's Furniture, we carry a range of queen and king storage beds in both hydraulic lift and drawer configurations — all in stock with free delivery across the GTA.

Browse our collections: Storage Beds | All Beds | Bedroom Furniture

Back to blog