Ditch Baskets & Bins: The Versatile Solution For Storing Blankets In A Small Space

For those of us who love the cozy things in life, blankets are absolutely everywhere at home. Eventually, they dominate our sofas and armchairs, and even storage solutions like baskets and bins start overflowing with extra throws. That's where a storage ottoman can become especially useful. Unlike open baskets or bins, ottomans help hide clutter behind closed storage. Plus, they're roomy enough to store up to a few blankets. They're kept out of sight, but are at arm's length when you're entertaining or having a movie night in, making them especially useful in living rooms and bedrooms. 

While baskets can overflow, ottomans will hide and store blankets, which makes your space feel cleaner. Their hidden storage compartments also help maximize space in smaller homes or apartments. Plus, they can be used for more than one purpose in tighter areas that can't accommodate a lot of furniture. Many ottomans can double as footrests, coffee tables, or additional seating for guests. In other words, a stylish ottoman can really spruce up your space. Ottomans are available in a variety of materials, including leather, faux leather, velvet, and woven fabrics. They also come in several shapes, including round, square, and rectangular styles. 

Ottomans are quite popular, and you can find affordable ones through retailers like IKEA, Amazon, or Wayfair. Higher-end options can often be found at stores like West Elm or Crate & Barrel. More playful or novelty-inspired ottomans can also work well in casual spaces. Marketplaces like Etsy may offer more unconventional storage ottoman designs, such as this Hamburger Ottoman with Hidden Storage. 

Depending on where you need blanket storage most, ottomans can be helpful in a variety of ways. Place a long, rectangular one at the end of your bed for a streamlined look. These are ideal for storing seasonal blankets or extra bedding. This can include heavy throws for winter or even just extra bedding between laundry days.

In smaller living rooms, round ottomans can also function as side tables while acting as a unique storage idea for keeping blankets organized. Storing them properly will depend on the shape. Folding blankets in thirds often works best for square or rectangular ottomans, while rolled blankets may fit more efficiently inside round styles. If you get your hands on an ottoman that has deep storage, fold heavier blankets on the bottom and roll lighter ones on top.