What Is an Ottoman Bed?
An ottoman bed is a bed frame with a large storage compartment built into the base. The mattress platform lifts upwards, usually with the help of gas-lift struts, giving you access to the storage space underneath.
Unlike traditional drawers, ottoman storage uses much of the space beneath the mattress, making it particularly useful in bedrooms where floor space and storage are limited.
What Are the Benefits of an Ottoman Bed?
An ottoman bed can be a practical choice if you want to make better use of the space in your bedroom.
Maximise Your Space
Make use of the space beneath your mattress to store bedding, clothing, shoes and other bedroom essentials.
Ideal for Smaller Rooms
Hidden under-bed storage can reduce the need for additional wardrobes, drawers and storage boxes.
Easy Access
Gas-lift mechanisms make it easier to raise the mattress platform and access the storage compartment.
Stylish Designs
Choose from different fabrics, colours, finishes and headboard styles to complement your bedroom.
Different Bed Sizes
Ottoman beds are available in sizes from single through to larger double, king and super king options.
Keep Clutter Hidden
The enclosed storage area provides a convenient place to keep less frequently used items out of sight.
How Does an Ottoman Bed Work?
Most ottoman beds use a lifting mechanism, often incorporating gas struts, to raise the mattress platform and provide access to the storage space below.
The mattress and platform are lifted using the bed's integrated mechanism.
Once raised, the large compartment underneath the mattress can be accessed.
Lower the platform carefully once you've finished accessing your stored items.
What Should You Consider When Buying an Ottoman Bed?
The right ottoman bed should provide the storage, sleeping space and design you need while fitting comfortably into your bedroom.
Bed Size
Choose a mattress and bed size that provides enough sleeping space while leaving sufficient room around the bed.
Storage Capacity
Think about what you want to store underneath the bed and whether the available storage space will meet your needs.
Opening Mechanism
Consider how the lifting system operates and whether you can comfortably access the storage area.
Style & Material
Choose a finish that works with your existing bedroom furniture, from upholstered fabrics to other contemporary finishes.
Ottoman Bed vs Storage Bed
Both options provide useful under-bed storage, but the type of access is different.
Ottoman Bed
- Large storage compartment beneath the mattress
- Storage accessed by lifting the mattress platform
- Uses the full area beneath the bed
- Particularly useful where floor space is limited
Drawer Storage Bed
- Storage accessed through built-in drawers
- Drawers can be convenient for frequently used items
- Requires sufficient floor space around the bed
- Storage is divided into separate compartments
The best option depends on your bedroom layout, how often you need to access your stored items and the type of storage you prefer.
Choosing a Mattress for an Ottoman Bed
Not every mattress is necessarily suitable for every ottoman bed. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations for mattress type and maximum weight before purchasing.
The lifting mechanism may have a recommended mattress weight range.
The mattress dimensions should match the ottoman bed frame correctly.
Consider the mattress depth and overall sleeping height when choosing your mattress.
Common Ottoman Bed Buying Mistakes
- Not measuring the bedroom before buying
- Forgetting to check the mattress size and weight requirements
- Not considering how much clearance is needed to lift the bed
- Choosing a bed without considering how much storage you actually need
- Ignoring the quality and operation of the lifting mechanism
- Choosing a style without considering the rest of the bedroom
Ottoman Bed Buying Checklist
Before ordering your new ottoman bed, make sure you've considered:
- Bed size – make sure it fits your mattress and bedroom
- Storage – consider what you want to store underneath
- Opening mechanism – check how the lifting system operates
- Mattress compatibility – check the recommended mattress weight and size
- Bedroom space – allow enough room to access the storage
- Style – choose a finish that suits your bedroom
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ottoman bed?
An ottoman bed is a bed frame with a storage compartment beneath the mattress. The mattress platform lifts to provide access to the storage area underneath.
Are ottoman beds good for storage?
Yes. Ottoman beds can provide a large amount of hidden storage beneath the mattress, making them particularly useful in bedrooms where storage space is limited.
Are ottoman beds easy to lift?
Many ottoman beds use gas-lift mechanisms designed to make raising the mattress platform easier. Always check the specifications of the individual bed before purchasing.
Can you use any mattress on an ottoman bed?
Not necessarily. Always check the manufacturer's recommended mattress size, type and weight limit to ensure the mattress is compatible with the lifting mechanism.
Are ottoman beds suitable for small bedrooms?
Yes. Their built-in storage can be particularly useful in smaller bedrooms because it makes use of otherwise unused space beneath the bed.
Explore Our Bed & Mattress Buying Guides
Looking for more advice? Explore our related buying guides for help choosing the right bed, divan and mattress.
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