Three Places I Hid My Merach Mini Stepper in My Tiny Apartment (and Three That Didn’t Work)
When I first got the Merach Mini Stepper , I had visions of yet another bulky piece of exercise equipment that would take over my already cramped Brooklyn apartment. You know the drill — another “compact” fitness gadget that somehow still manages to become the uninvited center of attention in your living room, silently judging you from the corner.
As I wrote in my first Mini Stepper review , I think this device is best thought of as an “anti-sedentary device” rather than a legitimate piece of exercise equipment — perfect for modest fitness goals or for those trying to sneak some light movement into their day. But here’s the real question: does it actually disappear into your living space without becoming an eyesore? At 14.57”L x 13.39”W x 7.28”H and 14.3 pounds, it’s certainly portable enough to move around.
After living with this little guy for a few weeks, I put him to the ultimate test of small-apartment living: finding hiding spots that actually work. If you’re considering one of these devices but aren’t sure if it’ll fit in your space, this might help.
Good hiding places for the Merach Mini Stepper
After some trial and error (more on the errors below), I found five ideal spots where my little stepper device works best.
Between the furniture in my living room
The living room has become my home for this guy. The mini stepper fits perfectly into that awkward gap between furniture that usually just collects dust. It’s easily accessible when I want to take a few steps while studying classic movies . When I’m done, it’s tucked out of the way. The slim profile means it doesn’t get in the way, and I can pull it out with one hand when the mood strikes.
Under the bed (storage version)
My bed lifts up for storage, so this may not work for everyone. But if you have a platform bed or a decent amount of clearance, the Mini Stepper fits surprisingly well underneath. At 7.28 inches tall, it fits under most standard bed frames with room to spare. It’s completely hidden from view and easy to pull out when needed.
Under my table
This is where the Mini Stepper really shines as an office-adjacent tool. It fits perfectly under my desk, and if I had a standing desk, I could use it while I work, although I wouldn’t recommend trying to type anything important while walking. The compact size means it doesn’t interfere with the movement of my desk chair, and it’s right there when I need a break from sitting.
Where the mini-stepper couldn’t hide
A few nooks and crannies in my apartment were promising, but not quite suitable for storing my mini stepper.
Next to my roommate’s PS4
I had high hopes for it, but the Mini Stepper is a bit too wide and tall for most entertainment center bays. It looks awkward and blocks access to gaming systems and cable boxes. Unless you have an unusually spacious media console, skip this space entirely.
Next to my roommate’s shoes.
The idea seemed logical—it was foot equipment, after all. But the Mini Stepper was too big for my modest shoe rack. Plus, it looked a little awkward, like I was trying to train my shoes.
The Mysterious Gap Next to My Refrigerator
That gap between the refrigerator and the kitchen wall, known as “the crevice,” is my white whale. This maddening bit of space seems destined for storing something useful. That something is not the Merach Mini Stepper. It’s about two inches wider than it needs to be—so close, yet so far.
The Verdict on How to Hide Your Mini Stepper
The Merach Mini Stepper lives up to its space-saving promises. It’s really easy to move and put away.
So, yes, for the $50 price tag, it offers portability and easy storage. Just remember what you’re getting: a gentle, anti-sedentary movement tool, not serious exercise equipment. If your fitness goals are modest and you primarily want something that counteracts prolonged sitting, the Mini Stepper’s peek-a-boo capabilities may be worth the investment.
For those with more substantial fitness ambitions, that $50 might be better saved for adjustable dumbbells , quality resistance bands , or a monthly gym membership. But if you’re committed to living with a mini stepper, at least you know it won’t completely take over your tiny apartment.