What Is an Ottoman Bed and How Does It Work?
An ottoman bed is a type of storage bed that uses the space underneath the mattress to provide a large, practical storage area. Unlike a standard bed with drawers, an ottoman bed lifts upwards to give access to the full space beneath the mattress.
This makes it particularly useful in UK bedrooms where floor space is limited and additional wardrobes or cupboards may not be practical. But how does an ottoman bed actually work, how much can you store inside one, and is it the right choice for your bedroom?
What Is an Ottoman Bed?
An ottoman bed is a bed frame with a lift-up storage compartment underneath the mattress. The mattress and its supporting base are raised to reveal the storage space below.
The storage area usually extends across most of the footprint of the bed, which can make it more spacious than beds that use drawers.
Ottoman beds are available in a range of styles, including upholstered, fabric and velvet designs. They can also be found in common UK sizes such as Single, Small Double, Double, King Size and Super King Size.
The basic idea is simple: instead of leaving the space underneath the bed unused, the frame turns it into accessible storage.
How Does an Ottoman Bed Work?
An ottoman bed works using a hinged lifting mechanism connected to the bed base. The mechanism helps raise the mattress and base, allowing you to access the storage compartment underneath.
Depending on the design, the lifting mechanism may use gas struts or another assisted lifting system.
What Happens When You Lift the Bed?
The process is generally straightforward:
- The mattress remains on the bed base.
- You lift the mattress and base using the designated lifting point.
- The assisted mechanism helps raise the base.
- The base stays raised while you access the storage area.
- Once you have finished, the base is lowered back into position.
The lifting mechanism is important because a mattress and bed base can be heavy. An assisted system makes opening the storage compartment considerably easier than trying to lift the entire weight manually.
Where Is the Storage?
Most ottoman beds provide storage underneath the main sleeping surface.
Because the storage is accessed by lifting the base rather than pulling out drawers, the available space can extend across a large proportion of the bed's footprint.
The exact usable storage area depends on the construction of the bed, the internal frame and the clearance available beneath the mattress.
What Can You Store in an Ottoman Bed?
An ottoman bed can be useful for storing items that you do not need every day.
Common examples include:
- Spare bedding
- Duvets
- Pillows
- Blankets
- Towels
- Seasonal clothing
- Shoes
- Suitcases
- Storage boxes
- Occasionally used bedroom accessories
It is generally sensible to keep frequently used items somewhere easier to reach. The storage compartment underneath an ottoman bed is particularly convenient for belongings that can remain stored for weeks or months.
Should You Use Storage Boxes?
Storage boxes can help keep the compartment organised, particularly if you store several different types of belongings underneath the bed.
However, check the internal dimensions and the available clearance before buying boxes. The outside dimensions of an ottoman bed do not necessarily represent the exact usable storage dimensions inside.
Ottoman Bed vs Divan Bed With Drawers
Both ottoman beds and divan beds can provide valuable under-bed storage, but they work differently.
| Feature | Ottoman Bed | Divan With Drawers |
|---|---|---|
| Storage access | Lift-up base | Pull-out drawers |
| Storage area | Often spread across the bed's footprint | Divided into individual drawers |
| Access | Lift the base | Open individual drawers |
| Floor clearance | Less important for storage access | Drawers need room to open |
| Best suited to | Maximising accessible under-bed storage | Keeping frequently used items organised |
| Bedroom layout | Useful where drawer clearance is restricted | Requires space beside the bed |
An ottoman can be particularly useful when there isn't enough room beside the bed to open conventional storage drawers.
For example, if a bed is positioned close to a wardrobe or wall, drawers may be difficult to use. A lift-up storage system can avoid this particular problem because the storage is accessed from above.
What Are the Main Benefits of an Ottoman Bed?
Ottoman beds can offer several practical advantages.
Large Under-Bed Storage Area
The biggest attraction is the amount of storage available underneath the sleeping area.
Rather than using separate drawers, the design can make use of a much larger section underneath the mattress.
Useful in Smaller Bedrooms
Storage can be especially valuable in smaller bedrooms.
An ottoman bed can provide additional storage without requiring another large piece of furniture such as a chest of drawers.
No Side Clearance for Drawers
Because the storage compartment opens by lifting the bed base, you do not need the same amount of clear floor space beside the bed that you would need for drawers.
This can make an ottoman practical in certain bedroom layouts.
Available in Different Styles
Ottoman beds are not limited to one particular appearance. Upholstered and fabric designs can complement a range of bedroom interiors, while different colours and headboard styles allow you to choose a look that suits the room.
Are There Any Disadvantages to Ottoman Beds?
An ottoman bed isn't automatically the best choice for every bedroom.
You Need Space Above the Bed
Although an ottoman doesn't require room for drawers to slide out, you still need sufficient space to lift the base.
Consider whether the bed is positioned beneath low shelves, cabinets or other furniture that could interfere with the lifting movement.
Access Is Different From Drawers
If you regularly need something stored underneath the bed, opening the entire base may be less convenient than simply opening one drawer.
Ottoman storage tends to work particularly well for items that are accessed occasionally rather than several times a day.
The Mechanism Adds Complexity
An ottoman bed contains hinges and a lifting mechanism that a basic bed frame does not have.
The quality and construction of these components matter, so check the product's specifications and assembly instructions before buying.
What Should You Check Before Buying an Ottoman Bed?
Before choosing an ottoman bed, look beyond the external appearance.
Check the Overall Bed Dimensions
A UK mattress size tells you the size of mattress the bed accommodates, but the overall bed dimensions can be larger because of the frame and headboard.
Always check the manufacturer's external measurements and compare them with the available space in your bedroom.
Check the Internal Storage Dimensions
Do not assume that the entire space beneath the mattress is usable storage.
Internal construction can reduce the available space, so check the stated storage dimensions if these are provided.
Consider the Mattress
The mattress is an important part of the overall setup.
Consider the mattress size, thickness and weight alongside the bed's specifications. The lifting mechanism needs to be suitable for the mattress and base configuration specified by the manufacturer.
If you're replacing both the bed and mattress, it is worth checking compatibility before ordering.
Consider the Room Layout
Measure the bedroom carefully before buying.
Pay attention to:
- The available floor space
- Door openings
- Wardrobe doors
- Bedside tables
- Windows
- Low shelves or cupboards
- Walking space around the bed
- Clearance required to lift the base
A bed can fit within the room's floor area but still be impractical if there isn't enough space to use it comfortably.
What Size Ottoman Bed Should You Choose?
The right size depends on the number of people using the bed, the available bedroom space and how much sleeping area you need.
Common UK options include:
- Single: suitable for one person and smaller bedrooms.
- Small Double: useful where more sleeping width is wanted but bedroom space is limited.
- Double: a popular option for couples or individuals wanting additional space.
- King Size: provides more sleeping width and length than a standard Double.
- Super King Size: offers a particularly generous sleeping area but requires more bedroom space.
Remember that the mattress size and the overall dimensions of the complete bed are not necessarily identical.
Are Ottoman Beds Suitable for Small Bedrooms?
They can be, particularly when storage space is limited.
One of the main advantages is that the storage does not require drawers to extend sideways. This can make an ottoman bed easier to use in a room where furniture is positioned close to the sides of the bed.
However, a small bedroom still needs enough room for the bed base to lift safely and comfortably.
A useful approach is to measure the available space first and then check the bed's complete dimensions and lifting requirements.
Ottoman Beds With Different Upholstery Styles
The storage mechanism doesn't determine the appearance of the bed.
Ottoman beds can be available with different upholstery and headboard designs, including:
- Plain fabric upholstery
- Velvet upholstery
- Upholstered headboards
- Chesterfield-style detailing
- Contemporary designs
- Traditional-inspired designs
This means you can prioritise storage without necessarily compromising on the overall style you want for your bedroom.
How Do You Keep Ottoman Bed Storage Organised?
Because ottoman storage can provide a large open compartment, organisation makes a noticeable difference.
Consider grouping similar items together. For example, you could keep bedding in one section and seasonal clothing in another.
Vacuum storage bags can also be useful for suitable textiles, particularly bulky seasonal items, although you should follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid overloading the storage compartment.
It is also worth leaving enough room to close the bed base properly rather than filling the compartment beyond its intended capacity.
Is an Ottoman Bed Worth It?
For many people, the main reason to choose an ottoman bed is straightforward: it combines a normal sleeping area with accessible under-bed storage.
It can be a particularly practical option if:
- Your bedroom has limited storage
- You do not have enough space for bedside drawers to open
- You want to store bulky bedding
- You prefer hidden storage
- You want to make better use of the space underneath the bed
On the other hand, if you need very quick access to individual items throughout the day, a drawer-based storage bed may be more convenient.
The best choice ultimately depends on your bedroom layout, storage requirements, mattress choice and preferred style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an ottoman bed the same as a storage bed?
An ottoman bed is a type of storage bed. The main difference is that an ottoman normally provides storage by lifting the mattress base, whereas other storage beds may use drawers or other compartments.
Do you lift the mattress on an ottoman bed?
The lifting mechanism normally raises the bed base together with the mattress. The exact lifting method varies between designs, so always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Can you put any mattress on an ottoman bed?
Not necessarily. Mattress compatibility depends on the bed's construction and lifting mechanism. Check the manufacturer's recommended mattress specifications, including size and any weight limitations, before purchasing.
Are ottoman beds difficult to lift?
An assisted lifting mechanism is designed to make raising the bed base easier. However, the operation and mechanism can vary between products, so check the manufacturer's instructions for the specific bed.
Do ottoman beds have more storage than beds with drawers?
They can provide a larger continuous storage area because access is usually through the lift-up base rather than individual drawers. The actual usable capacity depends on the bed's internal construction.
Can an ottoman bed work in a small bedroom?
Yes, provided there is enough room for the bed itself and sufficient clearance for the base to lift. One advantage is that you do not need the same side clearance required by pull-out drawers.
Conclusion
An ottoman bed is essentially a bed and storage solution combined into one piece of furniture. Its lift-up base provides access to the space underneath the mattress, allowing you to use an otherwise overlooked area for bedding, clothing and other belongings.
When choosing one, don't focus solely on appearance or mattress size. Check the overall dimensions, internal storage space, lifting mechanism, mattress compatibility and the amount of room available around and above the bed.
For bedrooms where storage is limited or side clearance is restricted, an ottoman bed can be a practical alternative to a conventional bed with drawers. The right choice will depend on how you use your bedroom and what you need to store.
