Quick Guide: Building An Ottoman Bed
1. Check The Parts
Lay out the frame panels, base components, fixings, hinges and gas-lift parts before starting.
2. Build The Frame
Assemble the main frame and make sure each joint is aligned before fully tightening the fixings.
3. Fit The Lift
Attach the lifting arms and gas struts exactly as shown in the manufacturer's instructions.
4. Test The Bed
Check the base opens and closes correctly before adding the mattress and using the storage.
Before You Start
Ottoman beds have more moving parts than a standard bed frame, so take your time and follow the instructions supplied with your specific model. The gas-lift mechanism is particularly important: incorrect installation can affect how safely and smoothly the base opens and closes. Having a second person available is strongly recommended when fitting or positioning the lifting mechanism.
What Do You Need To Build An Ottoman Bed?
Screwdriver
A Phillips or flathead screwdriver may be required for securing screws and fittings.
Allen Key
Many ottoman frames use hex bolts. An Allen key is often supplied with the bed.
Spanner Or Wrench
Useful for tightening nuts and bolts, particularly around the lifting mechanism.
Rubber Mallet
Can help components slot together without marking or damaging the frame.
How To Build An Ottoman Bed Step By Step
1. Unpack And Identify The Components
Remove the components from their packaging and compare everything with the supplied instructions. Separate the side panels, headboard and footboard if included, base panels, brackets, hinges, bolts and gas-lift components. Do not throw away the packaging until assembly is complete.
2. Assemble The Main Frame
Connect the side rails and end panels according to the manufacturer's instructions. Start each fixing before fully tightening so you can make small alignment adjustments as the frame comes together.
3. Attach The Headboard And Footboard
If your ottoman bed includes a headboard or footboard, attach these once the main frame is correctly aligned. Check that the fixing points sit flush and that the frame remains square.
4. Fit The Base
Install the base panels, slats or platform supplied with your bed. Make sure every panel is sitting correctly and that all required screws, brackets or supports are fitted before moving on to the lifting system.
5. Install The Hinges And Gas Lift
Attach the lifting arms and hinges to the designated fixing points. Then connect the gas struts in the orientation shown in the manufacturer's instructions. Do not improvise with the position of the struts or force the mechanism into place.
6. Check Every Fixing
Once the frame is assembled, go around the bed and check all bolts, screws, brackets and support points. The frame should feel rigid and stable with no obvious movement at the joints.
7. Test The Lifting Mechanism
Carefully raise and lower the base while keeping hands, bedding and other objects away from the moving parts. The mechanism should move smoothly without catching, twisting or making unusual noises.
8. Add The Mattress
Once the frame and lift have been checked, place the correct-size mattress on the bed. The mattress forms part of the operating balance of many ottoman mechanisms, so follow the manufacturer's mattress-weight requirements before testing the lift with the mattress in place.
Pay Particular Attention To The Gas-Lift Mechanism
The lifting mechanism is what makes an ottoman bed different from a standard bed frame. It helps raise the mattress platform and provides access to the storage area underneath.
Do not assume the gas struts can be fitted in either direction. Their position, fixing points and operation vary between models. If the base feels unusually heavy, does not stay in position or will not close correctly, stop and check the installation rather than forcing it.
Check The Mattress Weight Before Using The Ottoman
Mattress weight can affect how an ottoman lifting mechanism operates. Mattresses365 states that its ottoman bed frames require a mattress weighing at least 30kg so the lifting mechanism can operate correctly and the base can remain securely closed. Always check the specification of your particular bed before choosing a mattress.
Correct Size
The mattress must match the required size of the ottoman frame.
Suitable Weight
Check the minimum and maximum mattress-weight guidance for your specific lifting system.
Suitable Depth
A very deep mattress can alter the proportions and clearance of an ottoman bed.
Common Ottoman Bed Assembly Mistakes
Fitting The Gas Struts Incorrectly
Always use the supplied instructions and designated fixing points.
Fully Tightening Too Early
Leaving some adjustment until the frame is aligned can make assembly easier.
Forcing The Base
If the lift catches or feels wrong, check the mechanism instead of forcing it.
Ignoring Obstructions
Make sure bedding, packaging and stored items cannot interfere with the moving parts.
A Stable Build Makes The Lift Work Better
An ottoman mechanism relies on the frame and lifting components being correctly aligned. Before loading the storage area, make sure the bed is level, the frame is secure and the base moves evenly. If the bed rocks, the base twists or the mechanism catches, stop using the lift until the cause has been identified.
Ottoman Bed Assembly Checklist
✓ All frame components have been identified
✓ Side rails and end panels are securely connected
✓ Base panels or slats are correctly fitted
✓ Hinges and lifting arms are attached correctly
✓ Gas struts are fitted in the correct orientation
✓ All bolts, screws and brackets have been checked
✓ The base opens and closes smoothly
✓ The mattress meets the bed's size and weight requirements
Choose The Right Mattress For Your Ottoman Bed
The mattress is part of the overall setup, so check its size, depth, weight and compatibility before buying. A mattress that is too heavy or unsuitable for the lifting mechanism can affect how the ottoman operates.
How To Build An Ottoman Bed FAQs
Is an ottoman bed difficult to assemble?
Ottoman beds are usually more involved than standard bed frames because they include a lifting mechanism. With the correct instructions and basic tools, most can be assembled at home. Having a second person is particularly useful when fitting the lifting components.
How long does it take to build an ottoman bed?
Assembly time varies by design and experience, but around 1.5 to 3 hours is a reasonable guide for many ottoman beds. More complex frames may take longer.
Can one person build an ottoman bed?
Some of the assembly can be completed by one person, but assistance is recommended when positioning the frame and installing the gas-lift mechanism. This makes the heavier components easier to control and reduces the risk of incorrect installation.
Why won't my ottoman bed lift properly?
Check that the gas struts are installed in the correct orientation, the bolts are secure and there are no obstructions. Also check that the mattress meets the manufacturer's weight requirements. Do not force the mechanism if it feels unusually heavy or catches.
Why won't my ottoman bed close properly?
Check for bedding or stored items obstructing the mechanism and make sure the lifting arms and gas struts are correctly installed. If the problem continues, consult the manufacturer's instructions rather than forcing the base closed.
What mattress can I use on an ottoman bed?
The mattress must be the correct size and compatible with the bed's lifting mechanism. Mattress weight can be particularly important because it affects how the gas-assisted lift operates. Always check the individual bed specification before choosing a mattress.
Are ottoman beds suitable for small bedrooms?
Yes. Ottoman beds provide access to a large storage area underneath the mattress without needing drawers to slide into the room. They can therefore make better use of limited floor space.
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Visit Help & Advice →Ready To Complete Your Ottoman Bed?
Take your time during assembly, check the lifting mechanism carefully and make sure your mattress meets the bed's requirements. A correctly assembled ottoman bed can provide both everyday sleeping comfort and valuable hidden storage.