The styles, shapes, sizes, features, and materials used to make entryway storage benches can vary significantly according to the manufacturer's specifications. Wood is most commonly used to build entryway storage benches, and many types of wood are available, but other materials can be used as well, including metal, plastic, and wicker. Some benches are very simple designs with a flip-up seat for accessing contents, while others are more elaborate and feature backs, mirrors, hooks for hanging coats or hats, shelves, and so on. Some benches are very ornately carved or otherwise decorated, while others are more austere.
The materials used to construct the entryway storage benches available will have an impact both on aesthetics and strength. Some types of woods, for example, are resistant to water damage such as rot, mold, and mildew, making them a good choice for use near a doorway, while other woods are less expensive but more susceptible to damage from moisture. The finish of the wood will also have an impact on the appearance of the bench as well as the durability of the unit. Since wood is easily shaped and cut to size, these entryway storage benches are likely to feature more ornate carvings and designs than other materials that are more difficult to work with.
A consumer can choose from bare benches with no padding, or benches that feature upholstery and padding for added comfort. The pattern or color of the upholstery will vary, and it is usually chosen to avoid clashing with the tone of the wood or other materials used to construct the bench. Most entryway storage benches do not feature backs at all, since these benches are intended only for short periods of sitting, but some do feature backs for added comfort. Other benches feature mirrors as the seat back for convenience and aesthetics.
An increasingly common style of storage bench features cubbies or storage bins for shoes. This allows guests and family members to store their shoes in the bench rather than on the floor, potentially saving the floor from damage from water, snow, dirt, road salt, and so on. These cubbies also help keep the entryway neater and less cluttered, thereby cutting down on safety hazards as well as eyesores. Other entryway storage benches may simply feature a low shelf beneath the bench for storage of shoes, or no storage shelves at all aside from the storage inside the bench itself.
