Storage Chests

Best Storage Chests in the UK: Stylish & Practical Picks from Nordic Nest, Menkind and More

Why a storage chest is one of the smartest buys for your home

Think of a storage chest as the Swiss Army knife of home furnishings: it tucks clutter away, doubles as seating or a table, and adds personality without taking up extra space. Whether you live in a compact city flat or a roomy country house, a good chest helps you reclaim floor space and create calm. Plus, storing items in a chest often looks far neater than piles of boxes—it's an instant style upgrade with the practical benefit of hiding toys, blankets, seasonal clothing, or keepsakes.

Top UK stores for storage chests

If you're shopping in the UK, a few stores consistently stand out for variety, quality, and design. Nordic Nest brings Scandinavian minimalism and quality finishes; Menkind is perfect if you want themed or novelty trunks that double as gifts; John Lewis and Habitat offer classic, durable home options; Wayfair UK and Overstock-style sellers are great for breadth and budget-friendly choices; and independent boutique makers deliver handcrafted charm. Each retailer brings a slightly different angle—so think about whether you want sleek design, bold novelty, or value-for-money.

Nordic Nest: Scandinavian simplicity with clean lines

Nordic Nest has made a name for offering clean, minimalist storage chests that feel light and timeless. Their pieces often use pale woods, white finishes, and muted fabrics, making them ideal for modern, Nordic, or minimalist interiors. If your home leans towards light colours and airy spaces, a chest from Nordic Nest will blend in while making your storage problems disappear.

Menkind: novelty, pop culture and themed trunks

Menkind stands out because it mixes practical storage with personalities—think themed coffins or character trunks inspired by movies and TV. These are not just chests; they’re conversation starters. If you're furnishing a kid’s room, a geek-themed den, or buying an unusual gift, Menkind’s playful designs make storage fun and visually exciting.

High-street and online alternatives: John Lewis, Wayfair, IKEA

John Lewis serves shoppers who want trusted quality and classic designs; their chests often feature sturdy construction and neutral styles. Wayfair UK offers a huge catalogue to cover different price points and styles, making it easy to compare many options. IKEA, known for flat-pack convenience, provides budget-friendly chests that are perfect for temporary solutions or those on a tight budget. Exploring these options helps you see how materials, finishes, and price compare across the market.

Featured styles and when to choose them

Storage chests come in many styles—each suited to a different room, function, or visual taste. Choosing the right style can transform the way a space feels and functions. Below are the main styles you’ll encounter and the scenarios where they shine, from rustic wooden trunks to fabric-upholstered benches.

Traditional wooden chests: timeless and robust

Wooden chests are like classic novels—durable, rich in character, and they age well. A solid pine or oak chest will usually weigh more and feel substantial, but that muscle brings longevity. These chests often work best in halls, bedrooms, or living rooms where they can sit as a focal point. Expect lengths ranging from about 30 inches to 60 inches for main storage chests, and heights around 18 to 24 inches for comfortable bench seating.

Kids’ themed chests: playful and practical

For children’s rooms, themed chests—like the quirky coffins or movie-inspired trunks from Menkind—make tidying up feel like play. These chests are often lighter, with colourful finishes and fun shapes that encourage kids to use them. Smaller toy chests commonly measure roughly 24 to 36 inches long and about 16 to 18 inches high, which fits nicely under windows or at the foot of a bed.

Fabric and rattan chests: lightweight and flexible

Fabric or woven rattan chests are the go-to when you want something easy to move and softer in appearance. These work well in bedrooms and lounges where you might want a less imposing look. Expect them to be lighter than wood—often under 44 pounds—so they can be repositioned without hassle. They’re also great for apartments where versatility matters.

How to choose the right size for your space

Size matters—but not in an abstract way. Measure the space first and imagine how the chest will be used. Will it be a bench at the foot of the bed, a coffee-table alternative in the living room, or a toy box by the play area? That decision helps determine length, depth, and height. Think in inches and feet: a bench chest for a twin or single bed often sits around 36 inches long and 18 inches high, while a chest used as a living-room coffee table might be closer to 48 inches long and 16 inches high. Leave at least 18 inches of walking clearance in front of the chest so doors and movement aren’t impeded.

Practical features to prioritize

Not all chests are created equal. Some have thoughtful features that make daily life easier and safer. Here’s what to look for so you don’t get surprised after delivery.

Safety: soft-close hinges and lid supports

One of the most important safety features is a lid that won’t slam shut. Soft-close hinges or lid supports prevent small fingers from getting trapped and give the chest a more premium feel. If you’re buying for a child’s room, this should be non-negotiable. Also check that the chest has a sturdy base and non-slip feet to keep it stable on wooden floors.

Internal organization: compartments and removable dividers

Some chests include compartments, trays, or removable dividers that help sort items like socks, toys, or electronics. If you plan to store mixed items—say blankets and matters of sentimental value—internal sections help keep things tidy and accessible. Look for trays that lift out easily, and consider whether you want open space for bulky items or lots of small compartments for better organization.

Materials and finish: indoor vs. porch use

If the chest might live on a covered porch or utility room, choose materials that withstand humidity and temperature swings. Treated wood or weather-resistant rattan are better for such spots than untreated pine. For indoor use, finishes that resist scuffs—paint, lacquer, or oil—help the chest look good as the years roll by.

Styling tips: how to make a chest part of the room

A chest can be utilitarian, but it’s also a powerful decor element. Here are simple styling moves to make a chest feel intentional rather than an afterthought.

Living room: use it as a coffee table

Swap a coffee table for a low storage chest to add hidden storage while keeping a surface for trays, books, and a vase. Choose a chest about 16 to 18 inches tall so it aligns comfortably with sofas. Add a flat tray on top to create a steady surface for cups and decor, and voila—you have function and form in one.

Bedroom: bench at the foot of the bed

A chest makes an excellent bench for putting on shoes or storing extra bedding. Aim for a chest roughly the same width as the bed—around 54 inches for a double, 60 inches for a queen—so it anchors the foot of the bed visually. A padded top or cushion can make it comfier for sitting.

Kids’ room: make it part of the play scene

In a child’s room, place themed trunks near play zones and style them with bold stickers or a personalised nameplate. Use the chest to store toys in sections: one side for building blocks, another for soft toys. This not only keeps the room tidy but teaches children easy sorting skills.

Maintenance and care: extend the life of your chest

Proper care will keep your chest looking fresh for years. Maintenance varies by material, but simple habits go a long way.

Wood care: dust, oil, and protect

Wipe wooden chests with a soft, dry cloth and avoid harsh chemicals that strip finish. For unfinished or oiled wood, reapply oil once a year to maintain moisture resistance and sheen. Use coasters on the top if you use the chest as a coffee table to prevent stains from cups or vases.

Fabric and rattan: vacuum and spot-clean

Fabric-topped chests benefit from regular vacuuming using a soft brush attachment. Spot-clean spills quickly with a damp cloth and mild soap. For rattan, dust between weaves with a soft brush and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sun to prevent fading. If you keep the chest in a room that drops to cool temperatures, consider a dehumidifier to preserve woven materials.

Price ranges and where to buy in the UK

Storage chests come in a range of prices depending on size, materials, and brand. Budget fabric or flat-pack chests can start under £50, while solid hardwood chests from quality makers can reach several hundred pounds. Brands like Nordic Nest often sit in the mid-to-premium range because of their design and finishes, while Menkind novelty pieces can vary widely depending on licensing and build. For bargains, check out seasonal sales at Wayfair UK and department stores, or browse local artisans for unique, handcrafted pieces that may offer better long-term value.

Why you might pick Nordic Nest or Menkind

If your style is understated, Nordic Nest is a strong choice—clean finishes, sensible storage solutions, and designs that blend into modern homes. If you want character and a bit of whimsy, Menkind playful, giftable trunks are a clever pick. Both retailers cater to different needs: one focuses on calm minimalism, the other on personality and novelty. Mixing pieces from different retailers—say a Nordic Nest bench in the hall and a Menkind themed chest in a playroom—lets you balance function with fun.

Final thoughts before you buy

Choosing the right storage chest is about matching function, size, and style to your life. Measure your space in inches and feet, decide what you’ll store, and pick materials that suit the room’s conditions. Think about practical features like lid supports and compartments, and don’t be shy about using a chest as furniture: benches, coffee tables, and toy stations are all smart, space-saving uses. With the wide range available—from Nordic Nest minimalist pieces to Menkind charming trunks—there’s a chest out there ready to tidy your home and add personality at the same time.

Conclusion

Storage chests are deceptively powerful: they tidy clutter, offer extra seating, and can be a focal point in any room. From the sleek, subdued aesthetic of Nordic Nest to the playful designs at Menkind, the UK market offers options to suit every taste and budget. Measure your space in inches, decide on the primary function, and choose materials that fit your lifestyle. With the right choice, a chest becomes more than storage—it becomes a practical piece of decor that saves your sanity and looks good doing it.