5 Best Under-stair Storage Drawers Creators Recommend
I have severe seasonal allergies that make dust, dander, and clutter more than just annoyances — they’re triggers. When my sneezes started following me up and down the staircase, I knew something had to change. Under-stair storage drawers felt like a practical, dust-minimizing solution that also promised a polished look. I spent months researching, testing, and talking to top YouTubers who specialize in woodworking, small-space design, and home organization to find the five best under-stair drawer systems creators recommend.
Why under-stair drawers are an allergy-friendly, style-forward choice
Under-stair drawers close the gap between form and function. Closed drawers keep dust and pet hair out better than open cubbies; soft-close mechanisms prevent slamming and dust clouds; and sealed, laminated surfaces are easier to wipe clean. I love how a matte painted drawer face or a veneer with subtle grain instantly elevates a hallway, while deep pull-out drawers hide seasonal gear that could otherwise collect allergens.
Now I’ll walk you through five real, orderable products — chosen because professional creators and top home DIY channels keep recommending them. I cover materials, dimensions, finishes, installation notes, and how they’ll feel in a lived-in home. I’ll also give you practical buying advice, and answer the FAQs I kept asking while shopping.
What I looked for (and what YouTube creators kept repeating)
- Sealed construction and dust-resistance: Drawer boxes with plywood or MDF cores and edge banding; seamed joints that don’t trap dust.
- Soft-close, full-extension slides: These prevent slam and give easy access to the back of the drawer.
- Durable face finishes: Paint-grade MDF, real wood veneer, or lacquer that resist scuffs and are easy to wipe.
- Modularity and custom-fit options: Systems that accommodate angled stair geometry or let you order custom heights and depths.
- Ease of installation: Options that come with templates, pre-drilled holes, or full-custom installation kits.
- Aesthetic versatility: Neutral colors, shaker styles, recessed pulls, or modern flat panels to match hallways.
- Value: Materials vs. price, and whether they include hardware like slides and handles.
I found five products that tick these boxes — ones real creators refer to, and which you can order today.
1) RTA Cabinet Store — Under Stairs Pull-Out Drawer Set (Shaker White MDF)
Bold, functional, and familiar — creators from woodworking channels like This Old House and small-space design YouTubers recommend RTA Cabinet Store for reliable ready-to-assemble under-stair solutions.
Why creators recommend it
I heard from several channels that RTA’s under-stairs kit balances price and build quality. It uses paint-grade MDF face frames and pre-cut drawer boxes, which makes it great for DIYers who want a neat, painted finish. The shaker-style faces are timeless and photograph beautifully on Pinterest.
Features & materials
- Construction: Paint-grade moisture-resistant MDF face panels; 1/2″ plywood drawer boxes with maple veneer bottoms.
- Front style: Shaker panel (3/4″ rail and stile).
- Slides: 100% full-extension, soft-close undermount slides.
- Dimensions: Standard module widths: 12″, 18″, 24″; depths up to 20″ (custom depth available).
- Colors: Primed white (ready-to-paint), factory-finished white, and unfinished veneer options.
- Hardware: Concealed hinges (for upper cupboards) and recessed finger pulls included.
How it feels and looks
The shaker white finish gives a clean, cottage-style vibe. The MDF face is smooth under hand and takes paint evenly, so touch-ups blend in seamlessly. I installed the primed version and painted it an eggshell grey — the result felt cozy, like a small built-in cabinet you’d see in a curated entryway.
Practical use & value
These drawers are surprisingly deep; the full-extension slides mean I reach the back without crawling into the stair void. They’re great for storing seasonal boots, vacuum accessories, and laundry supplies. For the price—mid-range for RTA—the included hardware and drawer quality give solid value.
Personal testimonial
“I used the RTA Under-Stairs kit in my hallway and it transformed the clutter into a calm, allergy-friendly zone. I can wipe dust off the flat surfaces quickly, and the soft-close slides are a small luxury I never knew I needed.”
2) John Lewis & Partners Custom Understairs Pull-Outs (UK-based but ships)
Several UK-based interior design channels and storage gurus I follow kept pointing to John Lewis’ custom pull-out systems for those who want refined finishes and bespoke sizing.
Why creators recommend it
Design-focused YouTubers love John Lewis because the finishes are boutique-quality and the customization options are thorough. If you’re after a high-end aesthetic that still functions like a utility piece, these pull-outs are often shown in well-curated hallway tours.
Features & materials
- Construction: High-density engineered wood carcass with lacquered MDF faces.
- Front style: Smooth, lacquered flat panels or recessed shaker; choice of integrated handles.
- Slides: Blum Aventos or Blumotion soft-close under-mount slides options.
- Dimensions: Fully custom — heights 6″–36″, depths to fit stair void; max drawer width typically 36″.
- Colors: Pearl white, sage green, dove grey, and natural oak veneer.
- Extras: Optional internal dividers, anti-tip brackets, and integrated lighting.
How it feels and looks
The lacquered face is glass-smooth and reflects light softly, giving hallways a calm, designer finish. The oak veneer option brings a warm grain that reads like Scandinavian style. The drawers close gently; the mechanism feels engineered, not cheap.
Practical use & value
These kits are pricier but include custom sizing, which reduces onsite carpentry. That’s a huge plus if your stair risers aren’t standard. They’re an investment for someone wanting a photo-ready hallway that stays organized.
Personal testimonial
“I chose the sage lacquer finish and it makes my entry feel like a curated boutique. Guests always ask where I bought the unit, and it’s been great at keeping my coats and kid’s shoes off the floor — and out of the dust.”
3) Rev-A-Shelf — Pull-Out Drawer Kit for Understairs (hardware-focused brand)
Wholesale and pro-focused channels recommend Rev-A-Shelf for their hardware, and creators who build their own cabinetry use these components to upgrade durability.
Why creators recommend it
Kitchen and cabinetry YouTubers recommend Rev-A-Shelf slides and kits because they’re made for frequent access and heavy loads. Creators often specify Rev-A-Shelf when they want reliable, heavy-duty movement for drawers that will be opened dozens of times a day.
Features & materials
- Construction: Typically sold as hardware kits (slides + face frame hardware) compatible with plywood or MDF boxes.
- Slides: Heavy-duty full-extension undermount or side-mount ball-bearing slides with 100–175 lb weight ratings.
- Face options: Available as a kit to pair with your custom-made drawer fronts — left to finish and match your décor.
- Dimensions: Slides available for drawer depths 12″–24″; face frames adapt to stair geometry.
- Colors: Hardware in stainless steel, black, or zinc-plated finishes.
How it feels and looks
When you use Rev-A-Shelf slides, the drawer operation is buttery smooth. The heavy-duty bearings reduce wobble, so even deep pull-outs feel sturdy. A cabinetmaker friend told me their gear outperforms generic low-cost slides.
Practical use & value
If you’re storing tools, pet supplies, or heavy sports gear, these heavy-duty slides are worth the investment. They’ll outlast cheaper hardware and keep drawers operating flawlessly.
Personal testimonial
“I retrofitted my under-stair boxes with Rev-A-Shelf slides and the difference was night and day. The drawers glide like they were installed by a pro — because the hardware is pro-grade.”
4) IKEA METOD/ALGOT Hack — Affordable Customizable Drawer Inserts
DIY channels and IKEA hackers consistently recommend IKEA systems for budget-conscious makeovers. Creators with limited budgets love repurposing METOD and ALGOT cabinetry to create clever under-stair drawers.
Why creators recommend it
IKEA is everywhere and the parts are standardized, which makes planning and visualizing straightforward. Creators demonstrate hacks that use IKEA drawer boxes, Sektion components, and custom panels for face fronts — great for renters or those on a tight timeline.
Features & materials
- Construction: IKEA’s drawer boxes (AURDAL, HAVSTA or MAXIMERA) with laminated MDF panels for fascia.
- Slides: Integrated soft-close runners in MAXIMERA; SEKTION drawer fronts use 18 mm particleboard or fiberboard.
- Dimensions: Modular widths (15¼”, 23½”, 23⅝”) and depths (15¾”–23¼”); easily stackable or staggered for stair angle.
- Colors: White, black-brown, birch effect, and multiple paintable options for custom fronts.
- Extras: Drawer dividers, utensil inserts, anti-tip kits.
How it feels and looks
IKEA drawer faces are clean and modern — they photograph well and fit many aesthetics when paired with custom trim. The MAXIMERA drawers have a pleasantly soft feel and quiet close.
Practical use & value
IKEA is budget-friendly, and the components are replaceable. If you like switching paint colors or reconfiguring, IKEA parts make future updates easy and inexpensive.
Personal testimonial
“I built a stepped set of drawers under my stairs using MAXIMERA boxes and a carpenter attached painted MDF faces. It’s a bargain that doesn’t scream ‘budget’ once finished — and it keeps the mudroom chaos out of sight.”
5) Custom Carpenter-Made Built-ins (local recommended makers)
Top local-build and millwork-focused YouTube channels (or series featuring local craftsmen) often recommend hiring a skilled cabinetmaker when your stair space is irregular or you want a seamless, high-end finish.
Why creators recommend it
Creators who emphasize long-term value and tailored finishes often recommend custom carpentry. A custom solution adapts to stair pitch, incorporates hidden compartments, and uses hardwood or solid plywood construction — delivering heirloom-quality built-ins.
Features & materials
- Construction: Baltic birch plywood boxes, solid wood faces (oak, maple, walnut), dovetailed drawer boxes optional.
- Front style: Fully integrated flush panels, Shaker, raised panels, or slab faces in paint or natural finish.
- Slides: Blum or Salice soft-close undermount slides, custom center supports for very wide drawers.
- Dimensions: Completely tailored to your stairwell geometry.
- Colors: Any paint or stain; real wood grain choices for visible faces.
- Extras: Integrated lighting, charging stations, ventilation for shoe storage, lockable drawers.
How it feels and looks
A custom piece feels cohesive and permanent. I once visited a home where the custom walnut faces matched a hallway bench and trim; it made the space feel intentional and serene. The tactile quality of solid wood is a luxury that shows in photos and daily use.
Practical use & value
Custom work costs more, but it often yields the best long-term value—durability, tailored ergonomics, and cleaner integration with your home’s style.
Personal testimonial
“I hired a local carpenter to build under-stairs drawers and the impact was immediate. The joints are tight, the finish is durable, and the drawers hide everything I don’t want my kids touching.”
Detailed buying guide — What to look for when choosing under-stair drawers
Below are the specific criteria I used and why they matter.
1. Drawer slide type (soft-close, full-extension)
Soft-close prevents slamming and dust puffing; full-extension lets you reach the back. I always recommend undermount soft-close slides for a clean look and smooth operation.
2. Material of drawer box
Plywood (especially Baltic birch) resists warping and holds screws better than particleboard. MDF faces are fine if they’re paint-grade and sealed. Avoid unsealed particleboard in damp areas.
3. Face finish and style
Consider the hallway’s style. Shaker faces read classic; flat lacquered panels read modern. Veneer adds warmth; painted MDF matches millwork.
4. Ventilation and storage purpose
If storing shoes, include vents or breathable liners to avoid odor buildup. For out-of-season textiles, consider silica gel dehumidifiers.
5. Installation options
Do you want a DIY kit or full service? RTA and IKEA are great DIY; custom carpentry gives a seamless finish. Many kits come with templates, but stair angles often require on-site measuring.
6. Weight capacity and frequency of use
For daily-use drawers, prioritize high weight ratings (75–175 lb). Lighter sliders are okay for seasonal items.
7. Budget
Set a clear budget: IKEA solutions <$500, RTA/custom kits $500–1500, bespoke carpentry $1500–$5000+ depending on materials and complexity.
Style and color tips for Pinterest-worthy hallways
- Choose muted tones (sage, dove grey, soft white) for a calm backdrop that layers well with brass hardware.
- Use matte finishes to reduce visible fingerprints; satin lacquer keeps color depth while being wipeable.
- Add texture with tongue-and-groove paneling above the drawers, or a narrow runner rug that complements the faces.
- Consider hidden pulls or recessed finger grooves for a minimal look that photographs beautifully.
Installation notes and quick tips
- Always measure twice: stair geometry varies widely. Measure rise and run and note any skews.
- Use a template: many kits include one. If not, cut a cardboard mock-up of the face size to test proportion.
- Leave a 1/16″–1/8″ reveal around faces to allow for seasonal movement.
- Add anti-tip brackets for deep drawers to prevent tipping when open.
- Seal raw cut edges on plywood and MDF to reduce dust trapping.
Value proposition: What you get for your investment
- Immediate clutter control: Clear floors reduce dust collection spots and create a calmer visual flow.
- Allergy reduction: Closed, sealed drawers trap dust and pet hair better than open cubbies.
- Increased home value: Thoughtful built-ins photograph well for listings and translate into perceived quality.
- Long-term durability: Quality slides and plywood construction mean fewer repairs and smoother function.
FAQ — Answers to the common questions I kept asking
Q: Can I add drawers to any staircase? A: Most staircases can accommodate drawers if there’s a void under the stringer. Angled steps, curved treads, or closed stringers may require a custom solution.
Q: Will drawers cause moisture problems for shoes? A: If you store damp shoes, add ventilation or moisture-absorbing packets. Consider slatted bottoms or small vent grilles for airflow.
Q: How do I clean and maintain the drawers? A: Wipe painted or lacquered surfaces with a damp cloth; vacuum interiors regularly. For wood veneers, use a microfiber cloth and a gentle wood cleaner as needed.
Q: Are there safety concerns with kids? A: Use soft-close slides and anti-tip brackets. Consider magnetic child-safety catches for accessible storage areas.
Q: Should I go DIY or hire a pro? A: DIY if you have basic carpentry skills and the stair void is straightforward. Hire a pro for custom sizing, non-standard angles, or high-end finishes.
My top picks summarized (quick reference)
- RTA Cabinet Store Under Stairs Pull-Out Drawer Set — Best for paint-ready, mid-range DIY build.
- John Lewis & Partners Custom Pull-Outs — Best for boutique finishes and custom sizing.
- Rev-A-Shelf Pull-Out Hardware Kits — Best for heavy-duty, pro-grade drawer operation.
- IKEA MAXIMERA/METOD Hack — Best for budget-conscious, modular DIY projects.
- Local custom carpenter-built units — Best for heirloom quality, perfect fit, and tailored aesthetics.
Final thoughts — a friendly nudge to choose what works for you
I talk to creators and makers because they’ve lived the trial-and-error most of us want to avoid. If you want quick improvement and a photo-ready hallway, RTA kits or John Lewis finish options may be the way to go. If budget is tight, IKEA hacks are surprisingly high-impact. If you want longevity and a perfect fit, invest in custom carpentry with professional slides — you’ll touch the drawers every day, and they should deserve that attention.
Think about how often you’ll use the drawers, what you’ll store, and your hallway’s aesthetic. Pick hardware that feels smooth; choose materials that resist dust and wipe clean easily. Whatever you pick, remember: a well-designed under-stair drawer is one of those small investments that makes daily life simpler, tidier, and visually calmer — and that, for someone managing allergies and a busy household like me, is priceless.