Storage beds are brilliant but not all lifts are equal
Storage beds are sexy and we said what we said.
They hide clutter.
They free up floor space.
They make bedrooms calmer.
But here’s the bit people forget.
The way your bed opens matters.
End lift and side lift storage beds both do the job, but they suit very different rooms and lifestyles.
This Funkybedz Bed Buying Guide will help you choose the right one first time.
What is an end lift storage bed
An end lift bed opens from the foot end.
The mattress lifts upwards lengthways.
Storage is accessed from the bottom of the bed.
Simple.
Effective.
Very popular in UK bedrooms.
Explore our end lift storage beds to see the full range.
What is a side lift storage bed
A side lift bed opens from the left or right side.
The mattress lifts sideways.
Storage is accessed from the side of the bed.
Perfect when foot space is limited.
Have a look at our side lift storage beds for clever layouts.
Which lift style is easier to use
Both use gas lift mechanisms.
Both are smooth and easy.
The difference is how often you access the storage and from where.
If you stand at the foot of the bed, end lift feels natural.
If your bed is against a wall, side lift is far more practical.
Bedroom layout decides everything
End lift beds suit these rooms
- Bedrooms with clear space at the foot
- Centred bed layouts
- Larger master bedrooms
Side lift beds suit these rooms
- Small bedrooms
- Beds placed against walls
- Rooms with tight foot clearance
Storage access and organisation
End lift beds give a full birds-eye view of storage.
Great for bulky items.
Spare bedding.
Suitcases.
Side lift beds make it easier to grab things quickly.
Ideal for everyday storage.
Both work brilliantly with ottoman storage boxes to keep things organised.
Which one feels more luxurious
Honestly.
Both.
Luxury comes from smooth lifting, solid frames and clutter-free floors.
When storage works effortlessly, your bedroom instantly feels premium.
Mattress compatibility matters
Storage beds need the right mattress weight.
Too heavy and lifting feels awkward.
Too light and support can feel off.
Our storage beds pair perfectly with options from the Funkybedz mattress collection.
Couples and lift direction
If two people use the storage, side lift beds often win.
Both sides can access storage easily.
End lift beds are fine too, but require foot access.
Think about how you actually live, not just how the bed looks.
TV beds and lift styles
Most TV beds use end lift mechanisms.
This keeps the TV system balanced.
It also avoids wall clashes.
Browse our TV beds with storage for smart multi-function designs.
Assembly and everyday use
Both lift types assemble similarly.
Both are designed for daily use.
Gas lifts are tested for durability.
They are not delicate.
They are built to be used.
Common mistakes when choosing lift style
Ignoring wall placement
A side lift bed against the wrong wall is a nightmare.
Forgetting foot clearance
End lift beds need space to open fully.
Choosing without measuring
Always measure. Always.
Why Funkybedz storage beds stand out
Strong frames.
Reliable gas lifts.
Designed for real UK bedrooms.
Handcrafted in Yorkshire.
Built to last.
Final thoughts pick the lift that fits your life
There is no wrong choice.
Only the wrong fit.
Choose end lift if you have space at the foot.
Choose side lift if your room is tight.
Either way, storage beds will change your bedroom for the better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is one lift type stronger than the other
No both use heavy-duty gas lift systems.
Can I choose left or right side lift
Yes most side lift beds allow orientation choice.
Do end lift beds hold more storage
No storage capacity is usually the same.
Are storage beds hard to lift
No they are designed for smooth daily use.
Which lift style is best for small bedrooms
Side lift beds usually work best.
