How to Turn a Steamer Trunk Into an Ottoman

While steamer trunks were designed with storage in mind, they can also be distinctive decorative accents. An iconic piece like a steamer trunk is not only a conversation piece, but it can also serve as an ottoman, giving you concealed storage in your living room and a flat, sturdy place to rest your feet, drinks or remote controls. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Dust off the exterior of your steamer trunk with a dry cloth, making sure to get inside the crevices around its embellishments.

2

Mix a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the outside of the trunk and spread the solution with a clean cloth.

3

Allow the solution to soak in for a few minutes, then wipe off the exterior of the trunk with a clean, damp cloth.

4

Open the trunk and assess its condition. Antique trunks may have a mildew scent inside from years of storage. If this is the case, remove the lining. Cloth lining may simply be cut out with a sharp knife, while paper lining will likely need to be dampened and scraped out with a 2- to 3-inch scraping tool.

5

Clean the inside of the trunk using the same combination of bleach solution followed by water with which you cleaned the outside of the trunk.

6

Leave the trunk open for several days to allow it to completely dry.

7

Lightly sand the inside of the trunk and wipe it out with a damp cloth.

8

Apply two coats of oil-based polyurethane with a paintbrush to seal the interior of the trunk. Leave the trunk open until it dries.

9

Fill the trunk with anything that needs to be stored in your living room, like throw blankets or remote controls. Place it in front of a couch or chair so that you may use it as an ottoman or coffee table.