Ottoman Bed Problems: Common Causes, Fixes & Troubleshooting Guide

An ottoman bed is a great way to add storage without taking up extra room. However, its lift mechanism has several moving parts, so problems can happen over time.

Common ottoman bed problems include a bed that will not close, a base that keeps popping up, weak lifting, squeaking, uneven movement, or a gas lift that no longer works properly.

The good news is that many problems have a simple cause. The issue could be the mattress weight, storage load, gas struts, loose fixings, an obstruction, or incorrect assembly.

This guide explains what to check first, how to identify the likely cause, and when a repair should be left to a professional.

Important: People often call an ottoman lift a "hydraulic" system or "piston." Many beds actually use gas struts or gas springs. We use both the common search terms and the correct technical terms throughout this guide.

Ottoman Bed Problems at a Glance

If you are trying to find the cause quickly, start here.

The key is to find the cause before replacing a part. For example, an ottoman bed won't close problem does not always mean the gas struts have failed.

Why Won't My Ottoman Bed Close or Go Down?

If your ottoman bed won't close or ottoman bed won't go down, there are several things to check.

The most common causes are an incorrect load, strong gas struts, an obstruction, incorrect assembly, or a misaligned frame.

The Mattress Is Too Light or Missing

The mattress is an important part of the load placed on an ottoman lift system.

When the bed is designed, the gas lift mechanism is normally matched to a particular range of mattress weight. If you try to close the bed without its mattress, the struts may have enough force to keep pushing the base upwards.

This is especially common with a newly assembled bed.

A similar problem can happen if you replace a heavy mattress with a much lighter one. The lifting system has not changed, but the load working against it has.

What to check:

• Is the correct mattress fitted?

• Is it the recommended size?

• Is its weight within the manufacturer's guidance?

• Did the problem start after changing the mattress?

Don't force the base down just because it feels too strong.

The Gas Struts Are Too Strong

If your ottoman bed keeps rising after you try to close it, the gas struts may be providing too much lifting force for the current load.

This can happen when the wrong replacement struts have been fitted.

Gas struts are commonly rated in Newtons (N). A higher rating is not automatically better. The correct force depends on the bed design, base weight, mattress and lifting geometry.

If you recently replaced the struts and the problem started afterwards, compare their specification with the original parts or the manufacturer's instructions.

Do not try to release or adjust pressure from a sealed gas strut yourself.

Storage Is Overloaded or Something Is Blocking the Base

The storage compartment is another common source of trouble.

Too much storage weight can change how the bed lifts and closes. But even a light object can cause a problem if it gets caught in the moving parts.

Check for:

• Overloaded storage

• Blankets sticking above the storage area

• Boxes touching the lift mechanism

• Clothing caught around the hinges

• Items trapped underneath the bed base

• Anything preventing the base from sitting flat

Remove anything that may be blocking movement and try the mechanism again carefully.

Never exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit.

The Gas Struts Are Installed Incorrectly

If the bed is new and will not close properly, check the assembly before assuming there is a faulty part.

Common ottoman bed assembly problems include:

• Gas struts fitted the wrong way

• Incorrect mounting holes

• Wrong mounting brackets

• Incorrect fixing points

• A safety or transit clip still being fitted

• Parts installed on the wrong side

The position of a strut affects the leverage of the whole lift mechanism. Even if the strut itself is working, an incorrect mounting position can change how the bed moves.

Always check the manufacturer's assembly instructions rather than copying the setup from another ottoman bed.

The Frame or Lift Mechanism Is Misaligned

A misaligned ottoman bed may struggle to close even when the gas struts are working correctly.

Look for:

• One side sitting higher than the other

• Uneven gaps around the base

• Loose bolts

• Bent mounting brackets

• A hinge that does not move freely

• The base rubbing against the frame

If the frame looks bent or the mechanism is binding, don't use force to close it.

Forcing a damaged mechanism can put more stress on the frame, hinges and struts.

How to Close an Ottoman Bed Safely

If you are searching for how to close an ottoman bed, don't simply push down as hard as possible.

Use these basic checks:

1. Remove anything blocking the storage area.

2. Make sure bedding is not trapped around the frame.

3. Check that the mattress is positioned correctly.

4. Keep your hands away from hinges, brackets and moving parts.

5. Lower the base using controlled pressure.

6. Stop if the bed jams, bends or moves unexpectedly.

Never place your hands, head or body under an unsupported raised bed base.

If the mechanism does not move normally, find the cause before trying again.

Why Does My Ottoman Bed Keep Popping Up or Staying Open?

An ottoman bed that keeps popping up can be confusing, especially when everything looks correctly assembled.

In most cases, the issue is related to the balance between the gas lift mechanism and the weight it is lifting.

The Mattress Is Too Light

A mattress provides part of the weight needed to balance the lifting force.

If you have recently changed to a lighter mattress, the bed may suddenly become more difficult to close.

This does not necessarily mean the gas struts are faulty.

For example, a bed that worked normally with a heavier mattress may stay open or pop back up with a much lighter mattress.

The Gas Struts Are Too Strong

Another possibility is that the gas struts for ottoman bed use are not correctly matched to the bed.

This is particularly important if replacement struts were recently installed.

A stronger strut can provide more lifting force, but that does not mean the bed will work better. If the force is too high for the load, the base may resist closing.

Check the original Newton rating and other specifications before replacing the struts.

The Struts Are Mounted Incorrectly

The mounting position can affect how much force reaches the bed base.

Check:

• Strut direction

• Mounting holes

• Brackets

• Attachment points

• Whether both sides are installed consistently

If the problem appeared immediately after assembly, installation should be one of your first checks.

What Should You Check Before Replacing the Struts?

Before buying a new gas strut replacement, check the simple things first:

• Is the correct mattress fitted?

• Has the mattress recently changed?

• Is the storage compartment overloaded?

• Is something blocking the base?

• Are the struts correctly installed?

• Are the mounting points secure?

• Is one side behaving differently?

This simple process can help prevent you from replacing a part that is actually working correctly.

Why Is My Ottoman Bed Gas Lift or Hydraulic Mechanism Not Working?

An ottoman bed hydraulic problem can appear in several ways.

The bed might be difficult to lift, refuse to stay open, drop unexpectedly, or move unevenly.

One important point is terminology. Many ottoman beds use pressurised gas struts or gas springs, rather than a traditional hydraulic cylinder.

So when someone searches for an ottoman bed gas lift not working, ottoman bed hydraulic problem, or ottoman bed piston problem, they may be describing the same general lifting system.

The Gas Struts Have Lost Pressure

A gas strut depends on pressurised gas to provide lifting assistance.

As a strut wears or fails, it may no longer provide enough force.

Common signs include:

• The base is harder to lift.

• The bed no longer stays open.

• The platform slowly falls.

• The lift feels weaker than before.

If this happens, inspect the gas struts before assuming the entire lift mechanism has failed.

A Gas Strut Is Damaged or Leaking

A damaged gas strut may have visible signs of failure.

Look for:

• Bent components

• Damaged piston rods

• Corrosion

• Damage around the cylinder

• Signs of leakage

A pressurised gas strut should not be opened, drilled, heated or punctured.

It is not a component that should be repaired by releasing its internal pressure. If it has failed, replace it with a correctly matched part.

One Strut Is Performing Differently

Many ottoman beds use two struts to help lift the base.

If one becomes weaker than the other, you may notice:

• One side rises faster.

• The base twists slightly.

• One side sits higher.

• The bed feels uneven when lifting.

• The mechanism makes unusual noises.

Don't keep operating a badly uneven mechanism. Unequal force can put additional stress on hinges, brackets and the frame.

The Lift Mechanism or Mounting Point Is Damaged

Not every ottoman bed gas struts not working problem is actually a gas-strut problem.

The fault could be with the:

• Lift mechanism

• Mounting brackets

• Hinge pivots

• Frame

• Strut attachment points

For example, a loose bracket can prevent a perfectly good strut from working as intended.

If you can see a bent bracket, cracked frame or damaged mounting point, stop using the bed until it has been properly assessed.

Ottoman Bed Gas Struts: Problems, Checks & Replacement

Gas struts, gas springs and gas pistons are important parts of many ottoman lift systems.

They provide controlled lifting assistance and help hold the base open.

Like any mechanical component, they can wear or fail.

Signs Your Gas Struts May Need Replacing

Your gas struts may need attention if:

• The bed will not stay open.

• The base drops unexpectedly.

• Lifting has become much harder.

• One side behaves differently.

• The strut has visible damage.

• The lifting action has changed without a change in mattress or storage weight.

However, don't immediately order replacement parts.

First check the mattress weight, storage load and assembly because these can produce similar symptoms.

What Is the Newton Rating of a Gas Strut?

The Newton rating describes the force produced by a gas strut.

If the original bed requires a particular force, fitting a much stronger or weaker strut can change how the bed behaves.

For example:

• Too much force can make the bed difficult to close.

• Too little force can make it difficult to lift or keep open.

This is why choosing a strut based only on its physical size is not enough.

Always match the manufacturer's specification where possible.

Can You Replace Just One Gas Strut?

This depends on the bed and the manufacturer's instructions.

If two struts work together, replacing only one can leave the lifting system with different levels of force on each side.

That may cause uneven movement.

Before carrying out an ottoman bed piston replacement, check whether the manufacturer recommends replacing one component or a matching pair.

How to Choose Replacement Gas Struts

When buying gas struts for ottoman bed use, check all of the important specifications.

These may include:

• Newton rating

• Extended length

• Compressed length

• End fittings

• Mounting points

• Model compatibility

• Manufacturer specification

A replacement that looks similar may still be unsuitable.

Never try to increase, reduce or release the pressure inside a sealed gas strut yourself.

How Mattress and Storage Weight Affect an Ottoman Bed

The weight on an ottoman bed can have a major effect on its lifting action.

The mechanism has to work with the combined load of the mattress, bed base and stored items.

Mattress Weight Matters

Changing the mattress can change how your ottoman bed behaves.

A lighter mattress reduces the load working against the gas struts. This can make the base more likely to rise or make closing more difficult.

A much heavier mattress can create the opposite problem and make the base harder to lift.

This is why a mattress change can sometimes look like an ottoman bed gas lift not working issue when the struts themselves are fine.

Storage Weight Can Change How the Bed Moves

The storage area should not be overloaded.

Too much storage weight can make the bed harder to lift and place additional stress on the gas struts, hinges and frame.

Keep stored items below the safe level and make sure nothing can touch the moving parts.

Don't Confuse Weight Problems With a Failed Gas Strut

Before ordering an ottoman bed piston replacement or gas strut replacement, think about what changed.

Did you recently:

• Change the mattress?

• Add a thick mattress topper?

• Fill the storage compartment?

• Move heavy items into storage?

• Remove most of the stored items?

If the problem started after one of these changes, the load may be part of the explanation.

Can You Use an Ottoman Bed Without the Mattress?

An ottoman lift system is generally designed around a specific load.

Without the normal mattress, the gas struts may overpower the lighter base and make the bed behave differently.

If the manufacturer's instructions require the mattress to be fitted before operating the mechanism normally, follow those instructions.

Do not force the bed closed simply because it works differently when unloaded.

Other Common Ottoman Bed Problems

Not every ottoman bed problem is related to closing. You may also notice that the bed is hard to lift, drops too quickly, moves unevenly, or makes unusual sounds.

These symptoms can help you work out which part needs attention.

Ottoman Bed Is Hard or Slow to Lift

If your ottoman bed has become harder to lift, start by checking the total load.

A heavy mattress, too much storage weight, or items pressing against the lift mechanism can make the bed feel heavier than normal.

If the load has not changed, the gas struts may have become weak. A stiff hinge, loose bracket or damaged mounting point can also create resistance.

Before replacing anything, remove unnecessary storage items and check for obvious obstructions.

If the bed is still unusually difficult to lift, have the gas lift mechanism inspected.

Ottoman Bed Drops or Slams Down

An ottoman bed should not suddenly fall when the base is raised.

If the platform drops quickly or slams down, a gas strut may have lost pressure or another part of the lifting system may have failed.

This is more than a comfort issue. A falling base can cause an injury or damage the frame.

Stop using the lift until the problem has been checked. Never rely on a weak gas strut to hold the base above you.

One Side Lifts Higher Than the Other

If one side of the base rises faster or sits higher, the lifting system may not be working evenly.

Possible causes include:

• One gas strut is weaker.

• A bracket is loose.

• A hinge is damaged.

• The frame is out of alignment.

• The struts were installed incorrectly.

Don't repeatedly open and close the bed to see if the problem disappears. Uneven movement can put extra stress on the frame and lift mechanism.

Ottoman Bed Is Squeaking, Creaking or Grinding

A small squeak can come from normal movement around hinge pivots, bolts or other moving joints.

Start by checking visible fixings and make sure nothing is loose.

However, grinding or scraping should not be ignored. It can point to a damaged hinge, bracket or part of the lift mechanism.

If the sound is accompanied by uneven movement, rubbing or visible damage, stop using the mechanism until it has been inspected.

Only lubricate moving parts if the manufacturer's instructions allow it and use a suitable lubricant.

Newly Assembled Ottoman Bed Won't Close? Check These First

A newly assembled ottoman bed that will not close does not always have a faulty part.

In many cases, the problem comes from assembly, the mattress not being fitted, or something still interfering with the mechanism.

Gas Struts Are Fitted the Wrong Way

Check the direction of the gas struts against the manufacturer's instructions.

The position of the cylinder and piston rod can affect how the mechanism moves. Do not assume that every ottoman bed uses the same arrangement.

If the bed worked differently before the struts were installed, review this part of the assembly first.

The Wrong Mounting Holes Were Used

Ottoman beds can have several holes or mounting positions for their gas lift mechanism.

Using the wrong one can change the angle and leverage of the strut.

This may cause the bed to:

• Stay open.

• Be difficult to close.

• Lift unevenly.

• Feel too strong or too weak.

Check the assembly instructions carefully before moving any brackets.

A Transit Clip or Safety Catch Is Still Fitted

Some ottoman mechanisms include a temporary transit clip or safety component to hold the mechanism in position during transport.

If your instructions say this part should be removed after assembly, check that it has been dealt with correctly.

Never remove an unfamiliar component simply because you think it is preventing the bed from closing. Confirm its purpose first.

The Frame Isn't Square

If the frame was not assembled evenly, the base may rub against one side.

Check for:

• Uneven gaps

• Loose bolts

• Corners that do not line up

• A base sitting at an angle

• One side touching the frame

Correct obvious assembly issues according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Don't force the frame into position if it appears bent or damaged.

Packaging or Bedding Is Fouling the Mechanism

Check the entire storage area for anything that could interfere with movement.

This includes:

• Packaging

• Plastic wrapping

• Labels

• Bedding

• Blankets

• Boxes

• Clothes

Even a small obstruction around a hinge, bracket or lift arm can prevent the base from closing fully.

The Mattress Hasn't Been Added Yet

If the bed is designed to operate with a mattress fitted, don't assume something is wrong because the empty base behaves differently.

The mattress adds weight to the system and can change how the gas struts behave.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for initial setup and testing.

How to Fix a Misaligned Ottoman Bed

A misaligned ottoman bed may show uneven gaps, rubbing, twisting or different movement on each side.

The safest approach is to start with simple checks rather than forcing the frame.

Check the Frame Alignment

Look around the bed and compare the gaps between the base and frame.

If one side has a much smaller gap, the frame or base may not be sitting correctly.

Compare Both Sides of the Lift Mechanism

Watch the two sides while operating the bed carefully.

One side should not suddenly move much faster or higher than the other.

Inspect Hinges, Brackets and Bolts

Check visible:

• Hinges

• Mounting brackets

• Bolts

• Strut attachment points

• Frame connections

A loose bolt can sometimes cause movement that looks like a bigger mechanism problem.

Check the Mounting Points

Look for cracked wood, bent metal, loose fittings or other visible damage around the strut attachment points.

Don't continue operating the bed if a mounting point is pulling away from the frame.

Know When Alignment Is Beyond a DIY Fix

If the frame is bent, cracked or badly distorted, don't try to straighten it while the lifting system is under tension.

A professional should assess the bed before it is used again.

Are Ottoman Beds Prone to Breaking?

Ottoman beds are not automatically more likely to break simply because they have storage.

However, they contain more moving parts than a standard fixed bed. The gas struts, hinges, brackets, bolts and lift mechanism all experience movement when the storage base is opened and closed.

Problems can become more likely when the bed is:

• Overloaded

• Incorrectly assembled

• Used with an unsuitable mattress

• Forced when it is already sticking

• Used with damaged components

• Poorly maintained

A failed gas strut also does not necessarily mean the entire bed is unusable.

If the frame and main structure are sound, a faulty gas strut replacement or other compatible component may solve the problem.

How Long Should an Ottoman Bed Last?

There is no single lifespan that applies to every ottoman bed.

The useful life depends on factors such as frame construction, material quality, frequency of use, mattress weight, storage load and care.

The best way to protect the bed is to stay within the manufacturer's weight limits and follow the assembly and maintenance instructions.

If a component begins to fail, dealing with it early can also prevent additional stress on the frame.

Ottoman Bed Safety: When to DIY and When to Get Help

Basic visual checks can help you identify an ottoman bed problem, but the lifting system can contain strong and pressurised components.

Safety should come before saving the cost of a repair.

Checks You Can Usually Do Safely

Start with simple checks such as:

• Removing storage items.

• Checking for obstructions.

• Checking the mattress position.

• Looking for loose visible bolts.

• Checking obvious frame alignment.

• Inspecting the gas struts for visible damage.

If you need to work around the mechanism, make sure the raised base is properly supported.

Never rely on the gas struts alone to hold the platform above you.

When You Should Stop Using the Bed

Stop using the lift mechanism if you notice:

• A cracked frame

• A bent hinge

• A damaged mounting point

• A broken bracket

• A damaged or leaking gas strut

• Unexpected dropping

• Severe grinding

• Sudden or uncontrolled movement

These problems can create a safety risk and may become worse if the bed continues to be used.

Safety Around Gas Struts

Gas struts are pressurised components.

Never:

• Drill into a strut.

• Puncture the cylinder.

• Heat it.

• Open it.

• Try to release its pressure.

• Attempt to recharge it yourself.

If a gas strut has failed, replace it with the correct specification or have the bed repaired by someone qualified to do so.

How to Prevent Common Ottoman Bed Problems

Good use and simple checks can help reduce unnecessary wear on an ottoman bed.

Stay Within the Recommended Weight Limit

Don't overload the storage compartment or use a mattress outside the manufacturer's recommended range.

The combined weight affects the lift mechanism, so both mattress and storage load matter.

Use the Correct Mattress

A large change in mattress weight can affect how easily the bed opens and closes.

If you change your mattress, check whether its size and weight are suitable for your ottoman mechanism.

Don't Overload the Storage Area

Keep storage items below the level where they can touch the moving base.

Avoid placing heavy objects directly against the hinges, lift arms or other moving components.

Check Bolts and Mountings

Loose fixings can affect alignment and create squeaking or movement.

Check visible mounting points, bolts and brackets from time to time, especially if you notice a new noise or uneven movement.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions when tightening any fixings.

Keep Hinges and Moving Parts Clean

Dust, fabric and stored items can interfere with moving components.

Keep the storage area reasonably clean and remove anything that could become trapped around the hinge pivots or lift arms.

Only lubricate components where the manufacturer recommends it.

Inspect Gas Struts

Give the gas struts a visual check occasionally.

Look for:

• Physical damage

• Corrosion

• Bent rods

• Leakage

• Loose attachments

If a strut looks damaged, don't test it repeatedly. Replace it with the correct part or seek professional advice.

Keep the Storage Area Dry

Ottoman storage areas have limited airflow because they remain closed for long periods.

Damp bedding, wet items and high room humidity can increase the risk of moisture and mould.

To reduce this risk:

• Store only dry items.

• Air the storage compartment occasionally.

• Avoid putting damp bedding inside.

• Improve room ventilation where possible.

• Check stored items regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an Ottoman Bed Damage the Mattress if the Lift Mechanism Is Faulty?

A faulty or misaligned mechanism can cause rubbing, uneven movement or trapped bedding, which may put extra stress on the mattress. If the base is rubbing against the mattress or closing unevenly, stop using the lift until the cause is checked.

Should an Ottoman Bed Be Completely Empty When Checking the Lift Mechanism?

Remove stored items that could block the mechanism or add unnecessary weight, but follow the manufacturer's instructions about whether the mattress should remain fitted. Never place yourself underneath a raised base while testing the mechanism.

Why Does My Ottoman Bed Work Differently After Changing the Mattress?

A different mattress changes the load working against the gas struts. A lighter mattress can make the base harder to keep closed, while a heavier mattress can make lifting more difficult.

Can Adding Storage Weight Make an Ottoman Bed Easier or Harder to Close?

Adding weight can change the balance of the lifting system and may make the base easier to lower in some situations. However, too much storage weight can overload the mechanism, so always stay within the manufacturer's recommended limit.

How Can I Tell Whether the Problem Is the Gas Strut or the Hinge Mechanism?

A weak gas strut often causes poor lifting support or a base that will not stay open. A hinge or frame problem is more likely to cause grinding, binding, uneven movement or visible structural damage, so both areas should be checked.

Conclusion

Most ottoman bed problems have a clear cause once you look at the way the bed is behaving.

If the bed will not close, check the mattress weight, storage load, obstructions, gas struts, mounting positions and frame alignment before replacing anything. If the bed is newly assembled, review the assembly instructions carefully.

For an ottoman bed hydraulic problem, remember that many modern ottoman beds use gas struts or gas springs rather than traditional hydraulic cylinders. If a strut has failed, use the correct gas strut replacement instead of modifying or repairing a pressurised cylinder yourself.

Most importantly, never force a damaged or stuck mechanism. If the base drops unexpectedly, the frame is bent, or a gas strut is damaged, stop using the lift and get the right repair or replacement.

With the correct mattress, sensible storage weight and basic maintenance, you can reduce many common lift and storage-bed problems and keep your ottoman bed working safely.