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What Is a Captains Bed? (Difference Between Captains Beds & Storage Beds)

An increasingly popular trend for families with children and young adults is the practical, comfortable captains bed. You might have heard about it, and if so, you're probably wondering just what it is. The answer is fairly straightforward, and it goes back to the time of sailing ships making months-long voyages around the world.

What Is a Captains Bed? An Overview

A captains bed makes use of the space between your mattress and the floor with several storage compartments. It's a great fit for any age, since the storage space is just as well-suited to toys, games, and stuffed animals as it is for your casual wardrobe. This space-efficient bed was a constant fixture of the Captain's Quarters of a sailing vessel, which is where it gets its name from.

History of the Captains Bed

While modern sailing is fairly comfortable, it wasn't always the case. In the past, the interior of a ship was cramped, uncomfortable, and lacked much in the way of amenities. A captains bed was a small luxury that the leader of the vessel would have, affording him a bit more space for his personal belongings.

From the Ship to Your Home

A captains bed is a smart, economical way to make the most of a space and keep things orderly. As such, it was inevitable that it would find its way into homes like yours. However, a modern captains bed is a far cry from the spartan bedframe that a Victorian captain would make do with. You can count on your bed being stylish and comfy as well as practical.

Captains Beds vs. Storage Beds

Besides captains beds, it's likely that you've heard of storage beds. While there are similarities between the two, the terms aren't synonymous. Storage beds are a broad category that contains numerous different styles of beds that include storage space. On the other hand, a captains bed is a specific type of storage-equipped platform that seeks to maximize the efficient use of your space. They typically try to use as much of the space within the bed as possible for storage, whereas many storage beds might just offer a small cupboard or two. Some captains beds are so dedicated to maximizing space that they even make the headboard double as a bookshelf!

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Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.