How to Make Under the Bed Storage from Vintage Suitcases

Last week Erica and I checked out a new thrift store in Knoxville, TN called Nostalgia. I brought home several items, all for my son’s bedroom makeover.

The biggest ticket purchase I made was this vintage suitcase, at $25. Nostalgia had a wide array of suitcases throughout the store; but I was specifically looking for ones that were fairly large and blue. This one totally fit the bill — even if it might cost a bit more than one you might find at a Yard Sale or Goodwill, for example {of course, you also have to go searching a bit more often to find those steals}.

This suitcase has already been put to work, as storage for toys that fit easily under my son’s bed.

If you’ve never bought a vintage suitcase before, here are a few tips:

• Check to ensure it unlocks and locks correctly
• Check for any stains or damage — specifically on the inside of the suitcase
• Smell the inside of the suitcase, it will most likely be a little musty; but some can be very strong {here’s a link from Apartment Therapy with some tips on how to remove musty smells}

The nice thing about using a suitcase for storage is that it’s attractive. This suitcase will slide out from under a bed, but they can be placed out in the open, as well.

Have you ever used an old suitcase for storage? What do you stash inside it? Does it sit out in the open or is it tucked away?