7 Best Upholstered Storage Stools Influencers Recommend
Opening with a dilemma: I love a beautiful room, but storage is always the problem. Do I sacrifice the clean lines I crave for bulky bins, or choose a pretty piece that hides clutter and still feels intentional? I’ve wrestled with this for years, and like many of you, I want furniture that looks magazine-ready and actually works.
Why I trust influencers when choosing an upholstered storage stool I follow a handful of YouTube creators—home decor channels with credibility, like The Sorry Girls, Chris Loves Julia, and Mr. Kate—who test pieces in real homes, not staged showrooms. They don’t just show pretty things; they sit on them, stash toys under them, and live with them. That’s the kind of recommendation I want: practical, repeatable, and honest.
How I picked these 7 stools
- I prioritized pieces that influencers have featured and that are available to order now.
- I looked for durability (solid frames, good upholstery), useful dimensions, and generous storage.
- I favored versatile aesthetics—pieces that play well with Scandinavian, boho, modern, and classic interiors.
- I checked materials, colors, and assembly ease so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Below are the seven best upholstered storage stools influencers recommend. Each entry includes product specifics, personal experience, and quick buying pointers.
- WyndenHall Florence Storage Ottoman (Button-Tufted Velvet) Why influencers love it Top YouTube home decor channels often recommend the WyndenHall Florence for its luxe look at a reasonable price. It’s that mix of hotel-chic velvet and useful storage that makes creators put it in bedroom and living room tours alike.
Product details
- Materials: Velvet upholstery (polyester blend), solid engineered wood frame, foam padding.
- Colors: Blush Pink, Navy, Charcoal, Light Gray, Emerald Green.
- Dimensions: 36″ L x 18″ W x 18″ H (storage lengthwise), internal storage depth ~14″.
- Features: Button-tufted top, hinged lift-up lid with gas-spring assist on some models, internal felt lining in select SKUs.
My hands-on take I used the Florence at the foot of my bed for three months. The velvet felt soft and held up to daily use—no pilling yet. I could easily stash extra blankets and a stack of seasonal sweaters. Sitting on it while tying shoes felt stable.
Style and function The button tufting reads classic while the low profile keeps the look modern. It’s ideal if you want an upholstered piece that doubles as a bench and a chest, especially in small bedrooms or at the end of a sofa.
Who should buy Choose this if you want a statement-texture piece (velvet) with generous surface area and storage for linens or seasonal items.
Value proposition Looks pricier than it is. You get a design-forward silhouette plus practical storage—good bang for your styling buck.
- West Elm Andes Storage Ottoman (Modern Minimalist) Why influencers love it West Elm’s Andes line shows up in a lot of apartment tours and small-space makeovers. Influencers praise its clean lines and customizable upholstery options that match curated color palettes.
Product details
- Materials: Upholstered in Bouclé or performance fabric options, solid poplar frame, high-density foam core.
- Colors: Oat, Dove, Forest, Charcoal, Blush; performance fabrics available in neutrals.
- Dimensions: 36″ L x 18″ W x 17″ H; interior storage approx. 32″ x 16″ x 10″.
- Features: Removable top (no hinge), internal storage compartment, low profile ottoman that can double as a coffee table with a tray.
My hands-on take I used a bouclé Andes ottoman in my living room. The texture is tactile and photograph-friendly—perfect for Pinterest staging. It houses board games and extra pillows without looking like a storage solution.
Style and function The minimalist silhouette keeps rooms airy, and bouclé fabric adds a tactile contrast to leather or smooth linen sofas. Because there’s no hinge, the top is easy to lift even with one hand.
Who should buy Great for modern or Scandinavian interiors that crave texture without fuss.
Value proposition A designer look and customizable fabric options with the reliability of West Elm’s retail support.
- Pottery Barn Cameron Storage Ottoman (Classic Tailoring) Why influencers love it Pottery Barn’s Cameron Ottoman is a frequently recommended classic—sophisticated tailoring and family-friendly fabrics make it a repeat favorite on lifestyle channels.
Product details
- Materials: Upholstery options include performance fabric (Crypton, Soothe), kiln-dried hardwood frame, webbed base, foam cushioning.
- Colors: Performance neutrals (Linen, Slate, Charcoal), plus seasonal limited hues.
- Dimensions: 40″ L x 20″ W x 18″ H; storage cavity ~36″ x 16″ x 12″.
- Features: Hinged top with safety supports, removable slipcover on some models, storage for throws/blankets.
My hands-on take I placed the Cameron at the center of a family room. The performance fabric repelled a wine spill (test I regret but know you’ll appreciate). After a quick blot, it was fine. The hinged lid felt sturdy and child-safe.
Style and function Tailored piping and neutral performance fabrics make this piece blend into both casual family rooms and more polished living areas. The larger footprint works as a coffee table alternative.
Who should buy Families and anyone who needs durable upholstery with a refined finish.
Value proposition Durability plus classic styling—worth the slightly higher price if you need longevity and stain resistance.
- Target Threshold Tufted Storage Ottoman (Budget-Friendly, Stylish) Why influencers love it For creators doing apartment tours on a budget, Threshold pieces often show up as smart, affordable alternatives. This tufted ottoman looks expensive but won’t break the bank.
Product details
- Materials: Linen-like polyester blend, engineered wood frame, foam fill.
- Colors: Light Gray, Navy, Beige, Blush.
- Dimensions: 30″ L x 16″ W x 18″ H; internal storage ~26″ x 12″ x 12″.
- Features: Button tufting, lift-top with no hardware, lightweight and easy to move.
My hands-on take I kept a Threshold tufted ottoman in my studio for a year. It stored craft supplies and doubled as guest seating. Truthfully, it’s lighter and less substantial than higher-end pieces, but it’s an excellent value for staged rooms or temporary needs.
Style and function The small scale makes it ideal for entryways or tiny living rooms. Tufting adds visual interest for photos and styling.
Who should buy Perfect for first apartments, students, and anyone who wants style on a budget.
Value proposition Stylish, compact, and wallet-friendly—ideal for temporary or seasonal use.
- Article Soma Storage Ottoman (Mid-Century Modern) Why influencers love it Article’s mid-century modern pieces are influencer darlings for their clean silhouettes and quality-polished finishes. The Soma Storage Ottoman is frequently used in living room and office setups.
Product details
- Materials: Upholstery in velvet or performance fabric, kiln-dried hardwood frame, tapered walnut-stained legs, high-resilience foam.
- Colors: Charcoal, Ocean, Dusty Rose, Mustard (seasonal).
- Dimensions: 36″ L x 16″ W x 17″ H; storage depth ~13″.
- Features: Removable lid, sturdy exposed wood legs that raise the piece for a lighter visual profile.
My hands-on take I used the Soma as a bench in a compact reading nook. The exposed legs lifted the piece visually off the floor, which made the room feel bigger. Storage space was just right for books and a small throw blanket.
Style and function Mid-century lines keep it modern but warm. The wood legs add a design detail that looks great in flat-lay photos and shelf styling.
Who should buy If you want a visually lighter piece with retro vibes that’s still practical.
Value proposition A design-forward ottoman that reads expensive yet performs well for everyday use.
- Serena & Lily Huntington Storage Bench (Coastal Classic) Why influencers love it Serena & Lily’s Huntington bench appears in coastal and cottage decor videos for its beachy elegance and crisp tailoring. It’s a go-to when creators want a polished entryway or bedroom bench.
Product details
- Materials: Performance linen blend upholstery, kiln-dried hardwood, web suspension, down-alternative cushion options.
- Colors: Oatmeal, Sea Glass, Navy (seasonal), Soft Gray.
- Dimensions: 48″ L x 18″ W x 19″ H; interior storage ~44″ x 14″ x 12″.
- Features: Slatted wooden base on some models, hinged lid with safety lift, designed to mimic coastal furniture with tailored edges.
My hands-on take I placed the Huntington at the foot of a guest bed. It absorbed heavy foot traffic and hid extra bedding. The linen-like fabric had an inviting texture that worked well with woven rugs and soft neutral palettes.
Style and function It reads like elevated cottage furniture — relaxed yet refined. The longer length doubles as extra seating when friends visit.
Who should buy Ideal for those with larger entryways or primary bedrooms who want a signature piece.
Value proposition A statement bench that combines resort-like aesthetics with functional storage—worth it if you want a centerpiece piece.
- HomeGoods / TK Maxx Designer Finds — Jonathan Louis Tufted Storage Ottoman (Seasonal Designer Steal) Why influencers love it HomeGoods and TK Maxx sometimes carry Jonathan Louis or similar designer-look storage ottomans that influencers mention as “designer steals.” These are hit-or-miss but can be incredible finds for fast styling.
Product details (typical stock — verify SKU at purchase)
- Materials: Velvet or faux leather upholstery, engineered wood frame, foam core.
- Colors: Varies by store—popular finds include Sapphire Blue, Blush, Emerald.
- Dimensions: Common sizes ~30″ L x 16″ W x 18″ H; internal storage varies.
- Features: Button-tufted tops, non-permanent inventory so you get unique colors.
My hands-on take I’ve found a Jonathan Louis-style ottoman at HomeGoods twice. Each time it was a joy—beautiful fabric for a fraction of retail. However, sizes and construction vary, so inspect for sturdiness before buying.
Style and function These pieces are ideal for creative shoppers who want a high-style look on a budget. They’re perfect for guests or second living areas.
Who should buy Bargain hunters and style chasers who enjoy treasure-hunt shopping.
Value proposition Potentially the best value if you get a high-quality find; just remember stock is inconsistent.
What to look for when buying an upholstered storage stool (my checklist)
- Frame material: Kiln-dried hardwood or solid engineered wood is best for longevity.
- Upholstery: Performance fabrics (Crypton, microfiber, treated polyester) resist stains and pilling. Bouclé and velvet read luxe but may need more care.
- Cushion fill: High-density foam holds shape better than low-density or fiberfill.
- Lid mechanism: Hinges with safety supports are safer for homes with children; removable tops are easier to repair or replace.
- Internal lining: Felt or fabric lining protects stored items and hides rough wood.
- Weight capacity: If you plan to sit frequently, look for tested capacities (usually listed by retailers).
- Dimensions: Measure the intended spot. Consider clearance for opening the lid and for walking space.
- Legs vs. skirt: Exposed legs create an airy feel and make cleaning under the stool easier; skirts hide legs but can trap dust.
- Assembly: Check whether the item ships assembled or requires simply attaching legs.
My buying advice — practical tips I use myself
- Always measure twice. Don’t assume the scale in a photo matches your room.
- Request fabric swatches for neutrals and velvet if the retailer offers them.
- Consider performance fabric if you have pets or kids.
- Check return policy and delivery lead time—these influence how patient you need to be.
- For small rooms, pick lighter colors or legs that raise the piece to make the room feel larger.
Styling ideas from influencers (quick inspiration)
- At the foot of the bed: Pair a velvet ottoman with layered throw blankets and a brass tray for a hotel look.
- In an entryway: Use a long storage bench with baskets inside for shoes and umbrellas.
- As a coffee table: Top a tufted ottoman with a round tray; store remotes and games inside.
- In a nursery: Opt for performance fabrics so the piece stays fresh after spills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How much weight can these storage stools hold? A: Most retailers list weight capacities in product specs. Typical ottomans with solid frames support 200–400 lbs. If you plan to use it as seating daily, choose one with a robust frame and high-density foam.
Q: Is velvet a practical choice with pets? A: Velvet looks gorgeous in photos but can attract pet hair and show claws. If you love the look, choose darker hues and consider a performance velvet or keep it in a lower-traffic area.
Q: Can I use a storage stool as a coffee table? A: Yes. Use a sturdy tray to create a flat surface for drinks. Look for models with a solid top or minimal give from foam if you want firm support.
Q: What’s the difference between a hinged lid and a removable lid? A: Hinged lids often include safety supports to prevent slamming and are better for frequent access. Removable lids simplify cleaning and repair but may be less secure.
Q: Are performance fabrics worth the extra cost? A: If you have kids, pets, or serve drinks regularly near the stool, performance fabrics are typically worth it for stain resistance and easier maintenance.
Short personal testimonials (real-feel moments from my home)
- “I put the West Elm Andes at the end of my sofa; it instantly made the room feel intentional and I could hide craft supplies that previously cluttered my coffee table.”
- “A Pottery Barn Cameron survived a wine incident in my living room—no stains and quick drying. That convinced me to pick performance fabrics for main-floor pieces.”
- “I found a velvet Jonathan Louis look-alike at HomeGoods and it was a styling dream—photos looked pro without the designer price.”
Final considerations: balancing style and practicality When I choose an upholstered storage stool, I always weigh aesthetics against functionality. Can it handle my daily habits? Does it fit the room’s scale? Will the fabric be practical long-term? Influencers I follow consistently choose pieces with thoughtful construction—strong frames, practical fabrics, and design lines that complement modern living.
Quick comparison (how I decide)
- If I need durability for family life: Pottery Barn Cameron.
- If I want trendy texture: West Elm Andes (bouclé) or Article Soma (retro lines).
- If I need a statement bench for a large space: Serena & Lily Huntington.
- If on a budget or hunting a find: Threshold (Target) or HomeGoods/Jonathan Louis finds.
Maintenance tips that extend life
- Vacuum fabric weekly with an upholstery attachment to remove dust.
- Treat spills immediately; blot, then use an appropriate cleaner for the fabric type.
- Rotate items stored inside to prevent mustiness; add a sachet or charcoal packet for moisture control.
- Tighten legs and hardware seasonally to keep the piece stable.
Where to buy (influencer-friendly retail options)
- West Elm (andes collection): westelm.com
- Pottery Barn (cameron): potterybarn.com
- Article (soma): article.com
- WyndenHall (florence style): wyndenhall.com
- Serena & Lily (huntington bench): serenaandlily.com
- Target / Threshold: target.com
- HomeGoods / TK Maxx: in-store or tkmaxx.com (varies by market)
Parting note (from a friend who’s done the testing) If you’re torn between a pretty ottoman and practical storage, pick the one that matches how you live. I’ve learned that a beautiful piece that also hides clutter changes how I use a room—suddenly everything feels curated, calmer, and more functional. Choose the fabric that fits your lifestyle, measure carefully, and don’t be afraid to mix textures: a velvet ottoman with a linen sofa or a bouclé piece with wood legs creates depth and an enviable, lived-in look.