Rattan Storage Benches

Rattan storage benches are available in a variety of styles:

• The entryway bench has a basic, backless and armless design that’s perfect for small, narrow spaces. Have an unused corner in the patio? This one will fit right in.
• If used in an entryway, there’s no better option to reduce shoe clutter. It also gives you a surface to sit on while wearing your boots.
• The living room styled bench, on the other hand, has a more elaborate design with slatted or an upholstered back. You can buy these with or without arms depending on the comfort you seek and the available space. Living room storage benches typically have separate compartments for organizing your stuff.
• The bedroom bench is identical to the entryway bench in its design. The notable difference is the lush padded upholstery. Also, these usually have a single storage compartment.

Natural rattan is considered to be a better choice for indoor use whereas synthetic rattan is better suited for outdoor use. Both materials are lightweight and weather resistant.

Having said that, these things are subjective and it all boils down to your personal preferences over anything else. If you don’t care a hoot about adding a synthetic product indoors, then do it by all means.

Does the bench have wooden or metal frames? If yes, then the frames should be treated and sealed to compete with the elements.

How many people will be using the bench at a time? Check the maximum permitted weight/load rating.

Traditionally, storage benches have always had flip-top storage compartments. Not only are these capacious, they are also easy to access. You can lift up a single lid or two halves to reveal a large compartment.

However, if you have a lush padded cushion, then the lids might be heavier than they look. Check for lids with a gas-piston hinge system. It makes it effortless to open even the heaviest flip-top lid.

An open cubby design is rare but not uncommon in rattan benches. These are better suited for indoor use and allow quick access to your frequently used stuff. These can also be used for displaying your décor, houseplants and books.

Pull-out drawers look aesthetically pleasing. But limit the size of things that you can store in them.

Lastly, you have cabinets with conventional doors which will keep the clutter out of sight. The caveat is that you’d have to sit on your haunches to grab things from the cabinets.

Your options are cotton-canvas, duck cloth, textilene and polypropylene. PVC or Vinyl was one of the most popular options. But it seems to have fallen from grace lately due to concerns about toxic chemicals. Upholstery is an optional addition to your storage bench. But one, that will make your shindigs a lot more comfortable than sitting on a bare rattan surface. Irrespective of whether you will be placing the rattan bench next to the pool or under the awning, it pays to select a fabric and filling that can stand up to the elements.