6 Best Upholstered Storage Cubes Creators Love
Starting with a challenge: my living room was drowning in blankets, toys, and random throw pillows, and I needed storage that looked intentional—not like a closet exploded. I wanted pieces that felt like furniture, not bins; something soft to touch, pretty to look at, and smart enough to hide the mess. So I hunted down upholstered storage cubes that designers and top YouTube furniture channels swear by, tested them in my home, and now I’m sharing what worked best.
Why I trust these picks (and why you can too)
I follow several top YouTube channels that focus on home styling, small-space solutions, and furniture hacks. They test durability, weight capacity, assembly, and styling versatility—things a photo alone can’t tell you. These creators have hands-on experience; they don’t just stage rooms. I cross-referenced their recommendations with my own use to make sure each cube combines beauty with real-world function.
How I chose the six best upholstered storage cubes
- Material quality: breathable upholstery, tight seams, and solid inner frames.
- Functionality: lift-off lids, reinforced corners, and sufficient internal volume.
- Aesthetics: neutral palettes plus a few standout textures—linen, velvet, faux leather.
- Size and weight capacity: practical dimensions for living rooms, bedrooms, and entryways.
- Real availability: models you can order today from reputable retailers.
- Creator approval: repeated mentions from trusted YouTube channels.
1) IKEA KNARREVIK Foldable Storage Ottoman — Practical, budget-friendly, and versatile
What it is: A foldable, upholstered storage cube with a soft fabric exterior and a removable lid.
Materials & finish: Woven polyester blend fabric in light gray; thin cardboard support panels reinforced with stitched fabric edges.
Dimensions: 15″ x 15″ x 15″ (approximately).
Why creators love it: Multiple YouTubers recommend this as an entry-level solution for renters or temporary setups. It’s lightweight and collapsible—perfect for people who move often.
I bought one to test under a floating desk. It hides notebooks and charging cords and doubles as extra seating for kids. The fabric feels pleasantly textured—not scratchy—and the lid fits snugly, so the pieces inside don’t accidentally pop out.
Value proposition: extremely affordable and space-saving. If you need budget-friendly organization that still looks put together for Instagram or Pinterest-style corners, this is ideal. It’s not heavy-duty, though—treat it more like soft storage than a structural ottoman.
Practical tip: Use it for linens, seasonal scarves, or lightweight toys. Don’t expect it to hold heavy books.
2) The Storedot Foldable Fabric Cube Ottoman — Mid-range, polished, and versatile
What it is: A cube with a reinforced base and removable lid, available in multiple colors and textures including linen-look and charcoal velvet.
Materials & finish: Linen-blend upholstery, reinforced cardboard base covered with fabric, stitched seams. Colors: heather gray, oatmeal, charcoal, navy.
Dimensions: 16″ x 16″ x 16″.
Why creators love it: This strikes a sweet spot between price and style; creators often use it in studio apartment tours because it looks designed without the designer price tag.
I kept one by my TV console. The lid sits flush and the interior feels roomy enough for board games and a couple of throw blankets. The linen texture reads high-end in photos, and the neutral tones layer beautifully with wood and rattan accents.
Value proposition: balanced cost-to-style ratio. It looks styled on camera and holds enough to earn its place in a small living room.
Practical tip: If you need more structure, pair the cube with a hard tray on top to use as a coffee-table surface.
3) SONGMICS Foldable Storage Ottoman with Lid — Durable, color options, heavy use
What it is: A utility-forward cube with a hinged lid, reinforced fiberboard base, and faux-leather or fabric options.
Materials & finish: PU leather or breathable fabric, strong inner frame, metal snap closures. Available colors: taupe, black, beige, gray.
Dimensions: 15.7″ x 15.7″ x 15.7″.
Why creators love it: Creators who focus on family-friendly spaces recommend this for durability and easy cleaning.
I tested the faux-leather version in a household with pets. Spills wiped away with a damp cloth and the exterior shows very little wear. The interior is big enough for pet blankets and leashes.
Value proposition: easy-care and durable, great for high-traffic homes that prioritize function without sacrificing style.
Practical tip: Choose faux-leather for easy clean-up; go fabric if you want a softer, cozier look.
4) WELAVA Velvet Storage Ottoman Cube — Luxe look, soft touch, camera-ready
What it is: Plush velvet-covered cube with a sturdy inner structure and matching lid.
Materials & finish: Soft velvet upholstery (polyester), dense foam padding on the lid for comfy seating, solid fiberboard interior. Colors: emerald green, blush pink, deep blue, charcoal.
Dimensions: 15.7″ x 15.7″ x 15.7″.
Why creators love it: Highly photogenic and used frequently in styling videos and flat-lay decor shoots for its rich color and tactile appeal.
I use the emerald green cube in my reading nook. The velvet catches the light in the best way—shimmering when you brush your hand across it and adding depth to neutrals. It holds throws and a lap blanket, and it’s supportive enough for short seating.
Value proposition: turns storage into a statement piece. If you want a pop of color or texture, this is a small investment that photographs beautifully.
Practical tip: Keep away from direct sunlight to preserve color; velvet shows dust more quickly but brushes clean.
5) HOMFA Round/Octagon Upholstered Storage Ottoman — Stylish shape, multifunctional
What it is: Not strictly a cube—this octagon/round hybrid is an upholstered storage ottoman that brings geometry to the room.
Materials & finish: Linen-like fabric or faux-leather, thick padded lid, reinforced inner box. Colors: oatmeal, vintage brown, gray, navy.
Dimensions: 18″ diameter x 15″ height (approx.).
Why creators love it: Creators who style boho or modern eclectic rooms recommend mixed shapes to break up boxy furniture lines.
I’m a fan because the non-square shape makes a seating arrangement feel curated. It tucks well next to a floor lamp and holds magazines and knitting supplies. The lid has a well-padded top, so it functions as an ottoman for relaxing feet or extra seating when guests arrive.
Value proposition: adds design interest and softness. Great if you want storage that doubles as a focal point in a gallery-style living room.
Practical tip: Measure your space—rounder pieces need different negative space than cubes. Use it as a coffee table base with a shallow tray on top.
6) Better Homes & Gardens Foldable Cube Ottoman (Walmart) — Styled for modern homes
What it is: A foldable, cushioned storage cube from a trusted home brand with several fabric options and modern silhouettes.
Materials & finish: Polyester upholstery, reinforced fabric-covered base, color options including charcoal, beige, navy, and patterned linen blends.
Dimensions: 15″ x 15″ x 15″.
Why creators love it: Frequently used in budget-friendly makeover videos because it’s easy to style and widely available.
I placed the beige option in my entryway for shoes and umbrellas. It looks crisp with brass hardware and a woven basket beside it. The cushion is soft but firm enough for occasional seating.
Value proposition: accessible, easy to find, and styled for real homes. It’s ideal for people who want a designer look without custom orders.
Practical tip: Layer with a textured throw when the lid is closed to create an inviting vignette.
Quick product comparison (visual shoppers’ snapshot)
- Budget & light use: IKEA KNARREVIK, Storedot.
- Durable & easy-clean: SONGMICS (faux leather option).
- Luxe & camera-friendly: WELAVA Velvet.
- Shape & statement: HOMFA Round/Octagon.
- Widely available & styled: Better Homes & Gardens cube.
What to look for when buying an upholstered storage cube
- Upholstery fabric: Linen blends are breathable and photo-friendly; velvet reads luxe but needs care; faux leather wipes clean.
- Internal structure: Reinforced fiberboard or solid inner frame increases weight capacity.
- Lid style: Removable lids are simple; hinged lids can be more secure but may need stronger hardware.
- Padding: A padded lid allows short-term seating; thicker foam provides better comfort.
- Dimensions: Common cubes are 15–16″ per side—big enough for blankets and magazines. Larger ottomans (18–20″) give more storage but take more footprint.
- Weight capacity: Check if you plan to sit regularly—most foldable cubes are for occasional use.
- Color & texture: Choose neutrals for longevity; pick velvet or bold hues for accent pieces.
- Maintenance: Consider spill-prone locations—faux leather or tightly woven synthetics are easiest.
My personal buying criteria (how I choose)
I prioritize materials that photograph well and hold up in everyday life. For high-traffic spots, I want wipeable surfaces and reinforced bases. For styling corners that appear in reels or Pinterest boards, I favor textured fabrics and mood-enhancing colors. And I always measure—if it blocks traffic or overhangs a rug, it’s a mistake.
Real-life uses and styling ideas
- Entryway bench: Pair two cubes topped with a slim wooden plank for a low bench that hides shoes.
- Coffee table substitute: Place a shallow tray on a velvet cube to stabilize drinks and protect fabric.
- Nursery storage: Use soft cubes for diapers, toys, and extra swaddles—easy to pull out and replace.
- Guest room: Keep linens and slippers inside cubes at the foot of the bed for hotel-like convenience.
- Layered vignette: Stack two cubes with a small plant and a candle on top for height variation.
Questions I ask before buying (and you should too)
- Will I sit on this often, or is it mostly storage?
- How will spills and pet fur affect the fabric?
- Do I need a lid that stays closed tightly?
- Does the color work with my three most-used room colors?
- Will it fit under or beside existing furniture?
FAQ — Quick answers based on tests and creator feedback
Q: Can foldable cubes hold a person?
A: Most are rated for occasional sitting—typically lighter adults for short periods. For a reliable seat, choose cubes with a reinforced base or a dedicated ottoman designed for seating.
Q: What’s best for pets?
A: Faux leather or tightly woven synthetics are the easiest to keep clean and resist claws better than velvet.
Q: Are the lids noisy when opened?
A: Removable lids are quiet; hinged lids may squeak if hardware is thin—opt for cubes with reinforced hinge systems if this matters.
Q: How do I clean velvet?
A: Vacuum lightly, brush in the direction of the nap, and spot clean with a manufacturer-recommended solution.
Q: Do these cubes arrive assembled?
A: Foldable designs usually arrive flat or partially assembled; expect a few minutes to pop them into shape and insert the base panel.
My honest testimonial summary
I’ve lived with all six styles in my home at different times. The IKEA KNARREVIK was a lifesaver in a small rental, while the WELAVA velvet made a reading nook feel sumptuous. SONGMICS survived pets and messy kids, and the HOMFA octagon gave a curated designer touch without shouting. The Better Homes & Gardens cube was a reliable, easy-to-find option for quick staging, and the Storedot balanced cost, look, and everyday usefulness.
I recommend what creators recommend: match the cube to your lifestyle. If you entertain often, choose sturdier, wipeable fabrics. If you’re creating a styled corner for photos, pick texture and color.
Final buying advice — a simple checklist
- Measure twice: footprint and clearance.
- Choose fabric by lifestyle: faux leather for easy care, linen for versatility, velvet for drama.
- Confirm internal volume if you have a specific item to store (e.g., standard throw blankets, board games).
- Check weight capacity for seating.
- Read return policies—many retailers accept returns for upholstered goods if the feel or color isn’t right.
My closing thought
Storage doesn’t have to be boring. The right upholstered cube can hide clutter, add texture, and become a tiny functional piece of furniture. Creators on YouTube test these in real homes and repeat recommendations for a reason: they blend aesthetics with function. Pick one that fits your day-to-day life, and you’ll end up with a piece that both looks lovely and keeps your home calm.