Are ottoman beds a good idea?
If you’re looking for a bed that comes with as much built-in storage as possible, then an ottoman is definitely your best bet. “Divan beds usually have one or two storage drawers built into their base, and are therefore best-suited to keeping clothing and smaller items,” explains Jade Crooks, Commercial Director at DUSK. But for the ultimate in clutter-free calm, only an ottoman design gives you easy access to the bed’s interior space. In fact, the average ottoman bed can store up to four times more than a divan bed – and the clever gas-hydraulic mechanisms mean you’re also going to be less likely to injure yourself when accessing your storage. Win, win!
What size ottoman is best?
As you won’t need room either side of your bed – with an end-opening ottoman, that is – to open any bed drawers, ottoman beds allow you to take advantage of the full width of small bedrooms, should you need. So it’s important to measure your room and visualise whether you’ll want bedside tables, room for a foot rug or any other accessories.
For singles, we’d recommend a small double or double for ultimate comfort and, likewise a king or super king will provide ample space for couples. Of course, it’s important to consider the size of your existing mattress too, and check that you haven’t owned a small double all this time under the impression you were kipping on a double.
Top tip – ottoman beds usually come up larger than your standard divans and platform top bed frames, so you really can’t make do with the wrong mattress size!
What is the best base for an ottoman bed?
Ottoman beds typically have one of two bases: sprung-slatted, or a board base.
The latter is quite hard to come by and is normally featured only on more premium frames. Naturally, being a more premium interiors offering means that this type of base aims to offer buyers more longstanding security and peace of mind — knowing that their purchase will last them beyond a limited 2-year warranty.
However — in our opinion — you don’t really notice a difference in your bed base feel-wise, so it’s really a matter of how long you’re planning on seeing this purchase out. Ottoman beds with a slatted base can actually be quite affordable, and should still see you through many years of use.
“A sprung-slatted bed base is made up of a series of curved wooden slats that are set within a frame,” Jade explains. “The design of the slats provides a slight give, which can enhance comfort by offering better support and cushioning compared to a bed with a solid base.”
Is a side opening or end opening ottoman better?
Choosing between an end opening ottoman and a less common side opening ottoman really comes down to your space and how you’ll use it. Both are brilliant for giving you that hidden storage we all need, but the way they open can make a big difference depending on your bedroom layout.
An end opening ottoman is the go-to for most people. It lifts from the foot of the bed, making it super easy to access the full storage compartment. This style works best if you’ve got plenty of room at the end of your bed to manoeuvre. It’s ideal for larger bedrooms or if your bed is in the centre of the room with easy access from all sides.
On the other hand, a side opening ottoman is a clever choice for tighter spaces. If your bed is pushed against a wall or you don’t have much clearance at the foot end, a side lift gives you easy access to all that precious under-bed storage. It’s also great if you’re using your bed for extra wardrobe space or smaller bits you need to grab regularly, like spare pillows or out-of-season shoes.
So, if you’ve got the space, an end opening ottoman is a no-brainer for its full access and versatility. But if space is tight or you’re dealing with a tricky layout or a slanted ceiling of a loft room, a side opening ottoman is a total lifesaver. Either way, you can’t go wrong — both options are stylish, practical, and perfect for modern living.
What mattress is suitable for an ottoman bed?
Picking the right mattress for your ottoman bed is just as important as choosing the bed frame itself. After all, it’s not just about what looks good — it’s about getting the perfect combo of comfort, support, and practicality. The good news? Most ottoman beds are designed to work with a variety of mattresses, so you’ve got plenty of options. But to get the most out of your bed (and your sleep), there are a few things to keep in mind.
First up, consider the weight of your mattress. Ottoman storage beds rely on gas lift or piston mechanisms to open, so a lighter mattress is often easier to lift — especially if you’re accessing the storage compartment regularly. A memory foam mattress is a great choice here; it’s lighter than traditional options and offers that dreamy mix of softness and support. Plus, it pairs perfectly with slatted bases or sprung slatted frames for added comfort.
If you’re someone who loves a more traditional feel, a pocket-sprung mattress is another brilliant option. Just make sure your ottoman bed frame is built to handle the weight — this is especially important for larger sizes like king size ottoman beds or super king.
For those who crave luxury, a high-end memory foam mattress is the ultimate indulgence. It moulds to your body for unbeatable comfort, and since many ottoman beds come with reinforced bases, they’re more than up to the job.
And don’t forget the size. Whether you’re opting for a cosy small double or a sprawling super king, make sure your mattress matches the dimensions of your ottoman bed base perfectly for a snug fit and optimal support.
What does gas-lift hydraulics mean?
“Gas-lift hydraulics are the mechanisms often used in ottoman beds to assist in the lifting and holding of the mattress, so you can easily access the storage compartment underneath,” Jade explains. “The gas struts counterbalance the mattress’s weight and allow for smooth and controlled lifting and lowering. The mechanism is also vital for your safety, ensuring that the mattress stays lifted and does not accidentally close while you access the space.”
Are ottoman storage beds heavy to lift up?
In theory — no. Like how a when you pull the handle of a car boot it’s triggered to lift up at a slow and steady pace, the gas pistons and struts in an ottoman bed work the same way. This means that the whole lift mechanism should be accessible for people of all ages and physical abilities — but some people still report that they find it considerably easier to operate with assistance. To see if the system works well enough for you and your needs, we’d recommend testing some models out in-store. If you’re still not convinced, Simba is leading the charge with its electric ottoman options, giving you even more accessible storage at the touch of a button.
