The Best Ways to Add Storage to Your Living Room for Under $175
I’m always looking for ways to increase storage space in my home, which makes me a big proponent of storage furniture —pieces that serve one purpose but open up to reveal an interior space perfect for placing other things out of sight. And there’s one room you probably spend a lot of time in that you don’t use enough for storage: the living room.
Ottomans for storage
An ottoman is the best option for storage in a living room, and while it can be expensive depending on how fancy you want it to look, a reliable standard ottoman is usually affordable. For example, this one is durable and large and retails for $44.99. Some other options:
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This round tufted ottoman costs $82.49 and looks stylish as a footstool.
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I also love these wicker storage ottomans , $100, because they add a rustic vibe.
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The wide hinged ottoman , similar to a coffee table, is currently on sale at Target, but only in this brown color for $172.79 (and other colors can cost over $400, so if you like brown, don’t wait).
Storage mirrors
I’m also a big proponent of using mirrors for storage in the bedroom. I typically advocate for full-size models that open up shelves and pockets for storage, but they also come in smaller wall-mounted versions ($54.99) and are the perfect upgrade for a living room. You probably already decorate the space with a mirror, so replace it with one that can serve you better, storing remote controls, decorations, or anything else. Feeling fashionable? The diamond option , better suited for a “living room decor” vibe, costs $62.99.
Likewise, you can purchase a simple mirror with containers and attached hooks ($133.92). This is a more standard storage solution that doesn’t hold as much stuff, but makes things like keys and wallets more accessible.
Storage baskets
Sometimes you can’t hide everything in the name of storage—that’s where decorative baskets come in. They’re perfect for things like extra blankets or kids’ toys, and you can get some really nice decorative baskets for about $25. . Try this too:
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I like this set of three woven baskets for $39.99 because having matching baskets creates a more cohesive look, which is useful when you store your items outdoors.
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This 20″ x 13″ size ($23.98) is great for larger size blankets and pillows.
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A toy box like this ($129.99) also counts as a storage basket because it’s not exactly functional furniture, but it hides its contents better than an open container, which is sometimes a necessity.
Side tables
Finally, there are surprisingly few options for inexpensive side tables, but I recommend this one for $84.99 because it has a dedicated section for fabrics. It can be used for towels in a (very large) bathroom, but it’s also perfect for conveniently storing blankets in the living room. Other considerations:
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This Multi-Container Side Table ($47.79), which has a USB port in addition to various storage options, is on a limited-time offer.
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With a flat top, cube shelves , and built-in shelves for books and magazines, $139.99 is a pretty reasonable price for this side table , plus it swivels so you don’t even have to get up from the couch to grab anything from it.
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I also really like this set of two mini tables ($75) because they are wire baskets with flat lids that are tall enough to serve as tables, so they make a fun way to store pillows, kids’ toys, or family games