In New Zealand’s tighter floorplans, every square metre should work harder. A gas-lift bed turns hidden under-bed space into clean, dust-shielded storage—without giving up comfort or style. This guide gives you the numbers, layout rules, and maintenance tips to get it right the first time.
Why gas-lift beds suit small rooms
- Big concealed capacity: typical internal volume ~700–900 L (often 3× 70 L storage boxes).
- Up-swing access: no drawer swing clearance needed—ideal for beds placed against walls or next to rugs.
- Cleaner space: sealed base reduces dust build-up compared with open slats.
- Daily usability: quality hydraulic struts mean smooth opening and soft closing.
Reality check: Drawer beds usually offer ~⅓ of this capacity and require side clearance. Gas-lift opens upwards, so the footprint is more wall-friendly.
Volume math & size planning
Don’t just buy by mattress size—plan for opening clearance and internal volume.
| Size | Min room width | Est. internal volume | Rear clearance to open | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Double (137 × 190 cm) | ≥ 2.4 m | ~650 L | ~50 cm | Teen room / compact bedrooms |
| Queen (152 × 203 cm) | ≥ 2.6 m | ~850 L | ~55 cm | Typical NZ master bedroom |
| King (168 × 203 cm) | ≥ 2.8 m | ~950 L | ~60 cm | Wider master / ensuite suites |
Quick formula: Volume (L) ≈ internal length × width × height × 0.001. For example, a Queen internal cavity of 150 × 195 × 30 cm ≈ 878 L.
Mattress pairing (don’t lose lift performance)
- Weight: aim ≤ 45 kg for easier lifting and longer strut life.
- Type: pocket-spring or hybrid latex are ideal (support + breathability).
- Height: 25–30 cm is the sweet spot; >35 cm may reduce open angle.
- Breathability: sealed bases love breathable mattresses to avoid moisture build-up.
Avoid: very heavy full-foam mattresses (>40 kg). They stress struts and feel sluggish to lift.
Layout & traffic flow
- Keep ~60 cm at the foot of the bed for opening and cleaning.
- Bedside tables ≤ 45 cm high to avoid hinge interference.
- Left or right side walkway: ≥ 55 cm (sheet changes, daily access).
- Leave 5–8 cm gap between footboard and wall to prevent scuffing when lifting.
- Wardrobe door to bed corner: ≥ 65 cm for smooth circulation.
What to store & how to organise
Turn ~800 L into a neat, low-effort system with layers, moisture control and labels.
| Zone | Store | Method | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top (quick access) | Duvets, seasonal clothing | Vacuum bags / lidded boxes | Label by season & size |
| Middle | Suitcases, spare sheets | Rigid plastic bins | Air out quarterly |
| Bottom (long-term) | Keepsakes, documents, spare appliances | Hard cases + dust covers | Desiccant for humidity control |
Gas strut care & frame maintenance
- Lubricate strut rods lightly with silicone spray every 6 months (avoid mattress contact).
- Respect load limits: keep total stored weight sensible (rule-of-thumb ≤ ~60 kg).
- Tighten hardware (hinges, slats, fasteners) during seasonal cleans.
If the bed self-closes or lifts unevenly, the struts may be ageing—contact support for replacement (typical life 3–5 years depending on use and load).
Recommended ranges & where to shop
Shop Gas-Lift Beds
Sealed bases, sturdy mechanisms, easy everyday lifting.
Shop Mattresses
Pocket-spring & hybrid picks that won’t weigh down the lift.
Bedroom Furniture
Scale-right bedside tables, wardrobes and smart storage.
Ready to reclaim floor space?
FAQ
Do gas-lift beds need any electrical components?
No. Our frames use mechanical hydraulic struts—safe, quiet and reliable.
How heavy can I load the under-bed storage?
Keep total stored weight sensible (rule-of-thumb ≤ ~60 kg) to protect the struts and hinges.
Will a sealed base trap moisture?
Pair with a breathable mattress and air out bedding regularly. Desiccants help in humid rooms.
Can I place the bed flush against the wall?
Leave a small gap (about 5–8 cm) at the foot end to prevent scuffing when lifting.
