Quick Guide to Ottoman Storage Care
Good ottoman storage care comes down to four things: keep it clean, keep contents dry, avoid overfilling and keep the lifting mechanism clear.
Keep It Clean
Empty the compartment periodically and vacuum away dust, hair and loose debris.
Keep It Dry
Only store clean, completely dry belongings to reduce the risk of damp and unpleasant odours.
Avoid Overfilling
Leave enough room so stored items cannot interfere with the lifting base or moving components.
Stay Organised
Use bags and storage boxes where useful so belongings remain easy to find and do not become tightly packed.
Why Does Ottoman Storage Need Care?
Ottoman beds provide a large enclosed storage area beneath the mattress, making them useful when bedroom floor space is limited. However, because the compartment is enclosed, dust and stale air can build up if it is rarely opened or cleaned.
Poor organisation can also cause problems if belongings become trapped around the lifting mechanism or are packed so tightly that the base cannot move freely. Regular checks help keep the storage area practical and protect the bed from unnecessary strain.
What Should You Store in an Ottoman Bed?
Ottoman storage is particularly useful for soft, dry belongings that are not needed every day. Keeping similar items together makes the space easier to manage.
| Good Storage Choices | Avoid or Use With Care |
|---|---|
| Spare duvets and pillows | Damp bedding or clothing |
| Blankets and throws | Heavy items that exceed the manufacturer's guidance |
| Seasonal clothing | Sharp or abrasive objects |
| Seasonal bedding | Items that could leak or spill |
| Soft furnishings | Anything that could obstruct hinges, struts or other moving parts |
How to Organise Ottoman Storage
The large storage capacity of an ottoman bed makes it tempting to fill every available space. A better approach is to organise belongings so they remain accessible without interfering with the bed mechanism.
Group Similar Items
Keep bedding, clothing and other belongings together rather than mixing everything into one large pile.
Use Storage Bags
Fabric or breathable storage bags can make seasonal items easier to organise and retrieve.
Keep Frequently Used Items Accessible
Place items you use more often where they can be reached without emptying the entire storage area.
Do Not Pack to the Top
Leave clearance around the underside of the lifting base and any moving components.
How to Clean Ottoman Storage
Start with dry cleaning whenever possible. The exact materials used inside an ottoman bed vary, so check the manufacturer's care instructions before using cleaning products or moisture.
1. Empty the Storage Area
Remove all belongings so you can inspect the entire compartment and reach the corners.
2. Vacuum Thoroughly
Vacuum the base and sides to remove dust, hair, lint and other loose debris.
3. Deal With Marks
If the storage surface has a mark, use a suitable cleaning method recommended for that material.
4. Dry Before Refilling
Any cleaned area should be completely dry before belongings are returned to storage.
How to Prevent Damp and Odours
An enclosed storage compartment can become stale when it is packed tightly and rarely aired. Simple habits can help keep the space fresher.
- Only store completely dry clothing, bedding and soft furnishings.
- Avoid tightly compressing every available space.
- Empty and inspect the storage compartment periodically.
- Allow the compartment to air when carrying out routine cleaning.
- Investigate persistent damp smells rather than simply masking them with air fresheners.
Keep the Lifting Mechanism Clear
Ottoman storage should never interfere with the parts that allow the bed base to lift. Before closing the bed, make sure stored items are safely contained within the storage area.
Keep Hinges Clear
Do not allow clothing, bedding or storage containers to become trapped around hinges or other moving components.
Watch the Height
Do not stack belongings so high that they press against the underside of the lifting base.
Check Before Closing
A quick check before lowering the base can prevent items becoming trapped or interfering with the mechanism.
Never Force the Base
If the base does not move normally, stop and check for an obstruction rather than applying additional force.
Ottoman Storage vs Divan Drawers
Both provide useful under-bed storage, but they suit different storage habits.
| Feature | Ottoman Storage | Divan Drawers |
|---|---|---|
| Access | Large opening gives access to the main storage compartment. | Individual drawers provide access to separate sections. |
| Best For | Bulky bedding, blankets and larger items. | Smaller everyday belongings that benefit from separate compartments. |
| Care Focus | Storage organisation and keeping the lifting mechanism clear. | Drawer cleanliness, loading and smooth movement. |
| Space Efficiency | Makes use of the area beneath the mattress without requiring drawers to pull into the room. | Requires sufficient space for the drawers to open. |
What Should You Avoid Storing?
Damp Items
Moist clothing, towels or bedding can introduce unwanted moisture into an enclosed storage space.
Leaking Items
Avoid storing anything that could leak liquid onto the storage base or your other belongings.
Excessively Heavy Items
Do not exceed the storage or operating limits specified by the manufacturer.
Sharp Objects
Sharp or abrasive objects can damage the storage lining or base if they move around during use.
Simple Ottoman Storage Care Routine
| How Often | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Weekly | Check that stored items are not obstructing the lifting mechanism. |
| Monthly | Check for signs of dust, clutter or damp and reorganise items if necessary. |
| Every Few Months | Empty the storage compartment, vacuum thoroughly and inspect the storage base. |
| When Needed | Deal promptly with spills, damp smells, damaged storage materials or anything interfering with the bed mechanism. |
Ottoman Storage Care Checklist
Ottoman Storage Care FAQs
How often should I clean my ottoman storage?
Empty and vacuum the storage compartment every few months as a general routine, or sooner if you notice dust, debris or a spill.
Can I store bedding in an ottoman bed?
Yes. Spare duvets, pillows, blankets and seasonal bedding are practical choices, provided they are clean and completely dry before being stored.
How do I stop my ottoman storage smelling?
Keep stored items dry, avoid overfilling the compartment and empty and clean the storage area periodically. Persistent damp smells should be investigated rather than simply covered with fragrance.
Can I put heavy items in an ottoman bed?
Only within the limits specified by the manufacturer. Avoid unnecessarily heavy items, particularly if they could interfere with the lifting mechanism.
Can storage items touch the lifting mechanism?
No. Keep belongings clear of hinges, struts and other moving parts so they cannot become trapped or interfere with the operation of the bed.
What should I do if the ottoman bed will not close properly?
Open the bed safely and check whether stored belongings are too high, overloaded or caught around the mechanism. Do not force the base closed. If the problem remains, follow the manufacturer's instructions or contact the retailer.
More Bed & Mattress Guides
Make the Most of Your Ottoman Storage
Keep the storage area clean, dry and organised, and make sure nothing interferes with the lifting mechanism. A few simple habits can help keep your ottoman storage practical for years to come.
Explore the Ottoman Bed Care Guides