What Is an Ottoman Bed? How It Works, Benefits & Storage Explained

An ottoman bed is a bed frame with a lift-up base that opens to reveal a hidden storage compartment underneath the mattress. Most models use gas struts or gas springs to make lifting the base easier. Unlike drawer storage beds, an ottoman bed can use much of the space beneath the mattress for storing bedding, clothes and other bulky items.

If you are searching for what is an ottoman bed exactly, the idea is simple: it is a bed and storage solution combined into one piece of furniture. Instead of pulling out drawers, you lift the mattress base to reach the storage area underneath.

In this guide, we will explain how an ottoman bed works, the different types available, what you can store inside, its main advantages and disadvantages, and whether it is a good choice for your bedroom.

What Is an Ottoman Bed?

An ottoman bed is a type of storage bed with a hinged base that lifts upwards. When the base is raised, it gives you access to the otherwise unused space underneath the mattress.

The main difference between an ottoman bed and a standard bed is the built-in storage. A normal bed may leave the area underneath empty, while an ottoman design turns this space into a useful under-bed storage compartment.

Unlike a bed with drawers, there are usually no separate drawers taking up space around the sides. Instead, the lifting base gives you access to a larger storage area.

This makes an ottoman bed especially useful in a small bedroom, guest room or home where cupboard space is limited.

What Is an Ottoman Bed Exactly?

So, what is an ottoman bed exactly?

It is a bed with a lifting mattress platform and storage space below it. The platform is attached to the frame with hinges and a lifting system. When you raise the platform, the mattress normally moves up with it, exposing the storage area.

The lifting mechanism is an important part of the design. A mattress and bed base can be heavy, so many ottoman beds use gas struts, also known as gas springs, to help make the lifting action easier.

Ottoman beds are available in different designs. Some lift from the foot of the bed, while others open from the side. Some have a large full-lift platform, while others have a smaller half-lift section.

So, an ottoman bed is not just a bed with a box underneath it. The lifting platform, storage compartment and supporting mechanism are designed to work together.

What Is an Ottoman Bed Frame?

An ottoman bed frame is the main structure that supports the mattress, lifting platform and storage compartment.

The exact construction varies between models. You may find upholstered frames, wooden designs and frames made using a combination of different materials.

A good ottoman bed frame needs more than an attractive appearance. The frame should be strong enough for its intended use, while the hinged base, hinges and lifting mechanism should work smoothly.

When comparing ottoman bed frames, look beyond the headboard and fabric. Check the frame construction, mattress compatibility, maximum weight guidance and information about the lifting system.

This is particularly important because the lifting mechanism has to support the weight of the mattress and platform every time you open the bed.

What Is an Ottoman Storage Bed?

An ottoman storage bed is an ottoman bed that uses the space below the mattress as a storage compartment.

The storage area is usually hidden when the bed is closed. This gives you a place to keep items without adding another visible storage unit to the room.

For example, you could use the space for spare bedding, duvets, pillows, blankets, towels or seasonal clothing.

One major benefit is the size of the storage area. Because the base lifts rather than using several small drawers, you can often store larger items that would be difficult to fit into ordinary drawers.

How Does an Ottoman Bed Work?

An ottoman bed works through a simple lifting system.

The mattress platform is connected to the frame with hinges. When you lift the platform, the mechanism helps raise and support it, giving you access to the storage compartment below.

Many models use gas-assisted lifting. This reduces the effort needed to raise the mattress and base.

The exact mechanism differs between manufacturers and models, so you should always follow the instructions supplied with your particular bed.

How Do Gas Struts Help Lift an Ottoman Bed?

Gas struts are one of the most important parts of many ottoman beds.

They are designed to provide lifting assistance by using pressurised gas inside the strut. Instead of you having to lift the entire weight of the mattress and base alone, the struts help counter some of that weight.

This is why a large ottoman bed can often be opened with less effort than you might expect.

You may see several different terms when looking at products, including gas struts, gas springs, gas pistons and gas lift. Some retailers may also describe the system as a hydraulic mechanism. However, the exact technology can vary, so it is better to check the manufacturer's product information.

The weight of the mattress also matters. The lifting system is designed to work within a particular range, which means replacing your mattress with a significantly heavier model could affect how the bed operates.

For this reason, always check the manufacturer's mattress weight and compatibility guidance before changing your mattress.

How Do You Open and Close an Ottoman Bed?

Opening an ottoman bed is usually straightforward, but you should use the handle, strap or lifting point provided by the manufacturer.

Raise the lift-up base carefully and allow the gas-assisted mechanism to help with the movement. Once the platform is open and supported, you can access the storage compartment.

Before closing the bed, make sure nothing is sticking above the storage area. Large or loose objects could interfere with the base or lifting components.

Lower the platform using the intended method and keep your hands away from the hinges and other moving parts.

Children and pets should also be kept away while the bed is being opened or closed.

If the bed suddenly becomes difficult to lift, drops unexpectedly or makes an unusual noise, do not force it. Check the manufacturer's guidance and have the mechanism inspected if necessary.

What Types of Ottoman Beds Are Available?

There are several types of ottoman beds, and the best choice depends on your bedroom layout, available space and storage needs.

The main differences are where the bed opens and how much of the storage area can be accessed.

End-Lift Ottoman Beds

An end-lift ottoman bed opens from the foot of the bed.

This can be useful when the sides of your bed are close to a wall, wardrobe or other furniture. Instead of needing space beside the mattress, you use the area at the foot of the bed to operate the lifting mechanism.

An end-opening design can therefore work well in some compact bedrooms.

However, you still need enough foot clearance for the base to lift safely. Before buying, check the manufacturer's opening requirements and measure the space at the end of your bed.

Side-Lift Ottoman Beds

A side-lift ottoman bed opens from one side rather than the foot.

This can be useful when there is plenty of space beside the bed but limited room at the foot.

For example, if your bed is positioned in a way that leaves more usable space along one side, a side-opening ottoman bed may be easier to operate.

However, the opening side needs enough side clearance. A bed placed directly against a wall may not be suitable for a side-lift mechanism unless the design allows it.

Think about the real position of the bed in your room before choosing between side-lift and end-lift.

Full-Lift vs Half-Lift Ottoman Beds

A full-lift ottoman bed generally gives access to a larger area underneath the mattress.

This can be a good choice if your main reason for buying the bed is maximum storage capacity. You have more usable access for large items such as duvets, blankets and suitcases.

A half-lift design has a smaller lifting section. Depending on the model, it may combine the lift-up storage area with another storage option.

A full-lift design is not automatically the best choice for everyone. Consider how much storage you need and how the bed will fit into your room.

How Much Storage Does an Ottoman Bed Have?

The amount of storage in an ottoman bed depends on its size, frame design and internal construction.

A larger bed will usually have more space beneath the mattress, but storage dimensions can vary between models. Two beds with the same mattress size may not have exactly the same usable storage area.

For this reason, don't judge storage capacity only by the outside dimensions of the bed. If storage is important to you, check the manufacturer's stated internal dimensions.

One of the biggest advantages of an ottoman bed is that it can make use of a large part of the space beneath the mattress.

This is especially useful for larger bed sizes where the storage area can hold items that would otherwise take up valuable wardrobe or cupboard space.

What Can You Store in an Ottoman Bed?

An ottoman bed is best for belongings that you don't need to access several times a day.

Common examples include:

• Duvets

• Pillows

• Blankets

• Spare bedding

• Bed sheets

• Towels

• Seasonal clothing

• Spare cushions

• Suitcases

• Guest bedding

• Other occasional items

The open storage compartment can be particularly useful for bulky items that don't fit well inside normal drawers.

For example, a thick winter duvet can take up a lot of wardrobe space. Keeping it inside an ottoman bed when it is not needed can free up room elsewhere.

However, avoid treating the storage area like a general-purpose box. Keep the gas struts, hinges and other parts of the lifting system clear.

You should also follow the manufacturer's storage and weight guidance. Filling the compartment with very heavy items may affect how the bed operates.

How to Organise Ottoman Bed Storage

A large storage compartment is useful, but it can become messy if everything is placed inside without a plan.

Use fabric storage bags, boxes or containers to group similar items together.

For example, you could keep:

• Winter bedding in one bag

• Guest bedding in another

• Seasonal clothes in a separate container

• Spare pillows together in one area

Labelled containers can make it much easier to find something later.

Place frequently used items where you can reach them easily, and keep rarely used belongings further inside the storage space.

Most importantly, don't block the lifting mechanism with bags or boxes. Items should sit within the intended storage area and should not interfere with the base when it closes.

What Are the Benefits of an Ottoman Bed?

The biggest benefit of an ottoman bed is the amount of hidden storage it can provide without requiring extra floor space for drawers.

Here are the main reasons people choose this type of bed.

1. Large Hidden Storage

An ottoman bed can turn the space underneath your mattress into a useful storage compartment.

Instead of leaving this area empty, you can use it for bedding, clothing, suitcases and other belongings.

This can be especially useful if your bedroom has a small wardrobe or limited cupboards.

2. No Drawer Clearance

Drawer storage beds need room around the sides for the drawers to open.

An ottoman bed does not use pull-out drawers, so you don't need the same type of drawer clearance.

This can be helpful in a small bedroom where every bit of floor space matters.

You still need enough room for the lifting movement, but furniture does not have to be moved out of the way every time you want to open a drawer.

3. Good for Bulky Items

Large storage compartments are useful for items that are difficult to fit into standard drawers.

Things such as duvets, blankets, pillows and suitcases can take up a lot of cupboard space.

An ottoman bed gives these items a dedicated place underneath the mattress.

4. Helps Reduce Bedroom Clutter

Because the storage is hidden, belongings can be kept out of sight.

This can make it easier to maintain a tidy bedroom without adding another large piece of storage furniture.

Instead of having spare bedding sitting on top of a wardrobe or taking up space in a cupboard, you can keep it underneath the bed.

5. Useful in Smaller Homes

An ottoman bed can be a smart option for flats, guest rooms, compact bedrooms and homes where storage space is limited.

It combines a sleeping area and storage solution in one footprint.

That doesn't mean every small room needs an ottoman bed. You still need to check how the bed opens and whether there is enough clearance around it.

What Are the Disadvantages of an Ottoman Bed?

Ottoman beds can solve a storage problem, but they also have a few drawbacks.

Understanding these before buying can help you decide whether the design is right for you.

1. Storage Is Less Convenient for Everyday Items

The biggest trade-off is access.

You need to lift the mattress platform to reach the storage compartment. This is not as quick as opening a drawer.

For this reason, an ottoman bed is often better for spare bedding, seasonal clothes and occasional items than things you use every day.

2. They Can Be Heavier

An ottoman bed has a lifting platform, hinges and a lifting mechanism in addition to the main frame.

This can make it heavier than a simple fixed bed frame.

If you move house regularly or like to rearrange your bedroom often, the extra weight is worth considering.

3. They Need Suitable Opening Space

Ottoman beds don't need drawer clearance, but they do need enough space for the lifting action.

An end-lift model needs suitable space at the foot of the bed. A side-lift model needs suitable space along the opening side.

Always consider the full movement of the base, not just the floor area occupied by the closed bed.

4. More Moving Parts

A basic fixed bed frame has relatively few moving parts.

An ottoman bed has hinges, struts and a lifting platform. These components need to be assembled correctly and used according to the manufacturer's instructions.

A quality mechanism should work smoothly, but no mechanical component should be treated as maintenance-free forever.

5. Mattress Weight Can Affect the Mechanism

The lifting system is designed around particular weight requirements.

A mattress that is too heavy or outside the manufacturer's recommended range may make the base harder to lift or affect how it stays open.

That's why mattress compatibility should be checked before buying or replacing a mattress.

Are Ottoman Beds Good?

Yes, ottoman beds are good for people who want a lot of hidden storage without taking up extra floor space with drawers or cabinets.

They are particularly useful for small bedrooms, flats, guest rooms and homes where wardrobe or cupboard space is limited.

The large storage area also makes them useful for bulky items such as duvets, blankets, pillows and suitcases.

However, they are not the perfect solution for everyone.

If you regularly need to access the items underneath your bed, a drawer-based storage bed may be more convenient. If your room has very little space at the foot or side of the bed, you also need to choose the opening style carefully.

So, are ottoman beds good? Yes, when their storage benefits match the way you use your bedroom.

The Bed Boss's range can be considered alongside other bed styles, but the best choice should always come down to your room layout, storage needs, mattress requirements and budget.

Ottoman Bed vs Divan Bed: What's the Difference?

Both an ottoman bed and a divan bed can give you useful under-bed storage, but they work in different ways.

An ottoman bed normally uses a lift-up base, so you raise the mattress platform to reach a larger storage compartment. A divan bed usually has drawers that slide out from the sides, although some divans can also have an ottoman-style lifting section.

The better choice depends on whether you want maximum storage capacity or easier access to smaller items.

Ottoman Divan vs Standard Divan

An ottoman divan combines the appearance or structure of a divan with a lift-up storage system.

This can give you the benefits of a divan-style bed while providing a larger hidden storage compartment.

However, don't assume every divan is an ottoman divan. Some divans use drawers, while others may offer different storage combinations.

If you are comparing ottoman vs divan, think about what you will actually store.

For spare duvets and suitcases, the large open area of an ottoman can be very useful. For socks, clothes or small everyday items, drawers may be easier to access.

What Size Ottoman Bed Should You Choose?

Choosing the right bed size is about more than the space available for sleeping.

You also need to think about the storage space, room layout and clearance needed to open the bed.

In the UK, the most common options include Single, Small Double, Double, King and Super King.

Single Ottoman Bed

A single ottoman bed is a useful option for one person, a child's bedroom or a guest room.

It takes up less floor space than larger beds while still giving you storage underneath.

It can be particularly useful when the room has limited cupboard space.

Small Double Ottoman Bed

A Small Double can provide more sleeping space than a Single without taking up as much room as a standard Double.

It can work well in compact bedrooms where you want both sleeping space and hidden storage.

Always measure the complete bed dimensions rather than relying only on the mattress size.

Double Ottoman Bed

A Double ottoman bed is a popular choice for couples and larger bedrooms.

Because the bed has a larger footprint, it can provide a useful amount of storage underneath the mattress.

Before choosing one, make sure there is enough space around the bed for walking and for the lifting mechanism to operate properly.

King Size Ottoman Bed

A King size ottoman bed gives you more sleeping room and can also offer substantial storage.

However, a larger bed needs a larger bedroom. Don't choose a King simply because it gives you more storage if doing so leaves very little space to move around the room.

Check both the closed dimensions and the required opening clearance.

Super King Ottoman Bed

A Super King is the largest common UK size in this range and is best suited to larger bedrooms.

It can provide a very generous storage area, making it useful for people with lots of bedding or bulky belongings.

Before buying, measure the room carefully and consider wardrobes, bedside tables, doors and other furniture.

What Is the Best Mattress for an Ottoman Bed?

There is no single best mattress for an ottoman bed.

The right mattress depends on your comfort preferences, the bed's design and the weight limits specified by the manufacturer.

The most important point is mattress compatibility.

An ottoman lifting mechanism has to move the mattress and base together. If the mattress is much heavier than the mechanism is designed to handle, the bed may become difficult to lift or may not operate as intended.

Check the Mattress Weight

Don't look only at mattress size.

Two Double mattresses can have very different weights depending on their construction and materials.

Before buying a new mattress for an existing ottoman bed, check the manufacturer's maximum and minimum weight guidance where provided.

Choose Comfort Based on Your Needs

Your mattress should also provide the level of comfort and support you need.

Options can include pocket-sprung, foam and hybrid mattresses, but the best choice depends on the sleeper.

Think about:

• Firmness preference

• Sleeping position

• Body support

• Mattress height

• Mattress weight

• Compatibility with the bed base

There is no reason to choose an uncomfortable mattress simply because it is lighter.

The better approach is to find a mattress that gives you the comfort you want while staying within the ottoman bed's specifications.

Are Ottoman Beds Comfortable, Safe and Durable?

An ottoman bed can be comfortable, safe and long-lasting, but these qualities depend on the mattress, frame, lifting mechanism, assembly and how the bed is used.

A good-looking bed is not automatically a good-quality bed. Look at the complete construction before making a decision.

Are Ottoman Beds Comfortable?

Yes, an ottoman bed can be just as comfortable as other types of beds.

The lifting mechanism itself does not determine how comfortable you sleep. Comfort is mainly affected by the mattress, support system and overall bed construction.

A suitable mattress placed on a properly assembled platform should provide the support you expect from a normal bed.

If you are choosing a mattress separately, check that its size, weight and construction are suitable for the ottoman frame.

Are Ottoman Beds Safe?

Are ottoman beds safe? They can be, provided they are properly assembled and used according to the manufacturer's instructions.

The main areas to pay attention to are the lifting mechanism, hinges and moving parts.

Always follow the supplied assembly instructions and respect the stated weight capacity.

Keep children and pets away when opening or closing the bed. Never put fingers near hinges or other areas where the frame moves.

If a gas strut looks damaged, the frame becomes unstable, or the base does not stay in its intended position, stop using the lifting function until the problem has been checked.

Safety also means not overloading the storage compartment. The bed has limits for the sleepers, mattress and stored items, and these should not be ignored.

Do Ottoman Beds Break Easily?

Do ottoman beds break easily? Not necessarily.

The durability of an ottoman bed depends on the quality of the frame construction, hinges, gas struts and other components, as well as correct assembly and everyday use.

A mechanism that is repeatedly overloaded or forced can wear out faster than one used within its recommended limits.

When buying, look for clear information about the frame, lifting mechanism, maximum weight and warranty.

It is also worth checking that replacement components or support are available if a mechanical part eventually needs attention.

How to Choose the Right Ottoman Bed

Choosing an ottoman bed should start with your room rather than the product photograph.

A bed may look perfect online but still be difficult to use if the room does not have enough space for the lifting mechanism.

Use this checklist before buying.

1. Measure Your Bedroom

Measure the area where the bed will sit.

Don't measure only the mattress area. Include the full bed frame dimensions and leave enough space to walk around it.

Also consider wardrobes, doors, bedside tables and radiators.

2. Choose the Opening Direction

Decide whether you need an end-lift or side-lift design.

If the sides are tight but there is plenty of room at the foot, an end-opening bed may work better.

If the foot of the bed is restricted but one side is open, a side-lift model may be more practical.

3. Check the Storage Dimensions

If storage is your main reason for buying an ottoman bed, check the actual internal dimensions.

Don't assume that two beds with the same mattress size have exactly the same storage capacity.

Look at the usable depth, width and available opening.

4. Check Mattress Compatibility

Before buying a mattress, check the manufacturer's requirements.

Pay attention to:

• Mattress size

• Mattress weight

• Recommended mattress type

• Maximum load

• Base compatibility

This can help prevent problems with the lifting system.

5. Look at Frame Construction

Check what the frame is made from and how it is constructed.

Pay attention to the joints, platform, hinges and other areas that carry weight.

A strong ottoman bed frame should be designed to handle normal everyday use without feeling unstable.

6. Check the Lifting Mechanism

The gas struts and hinges are central to the bed's operation.

Look for clear product information about the mechanism and its intended weight range.

Avoid treating the lifting system as an afterthought.

7. Check Assembly Requirements

Some ottoman beds require more assembly than a simple bed frame.

Make sure you have enough space to assemble the bed properly and follow the supplied instructions.

If you are not confident assembling a lifting mechanism, professional assembly can be worth considering.

8. Check Warranty and Manufacturer Guidance

A warranty can give you useful information about the manufacturer's confidence in the product.

Also check what is covered and whether there are specific conditions relating to assembly, weight limits or the lifting mechanism.

Clear instructions and support are valuable when buying furniture with moving parts.

Who Is an Ottoman Bed Best For?

An ottoman bed can be a strong choice for people who want to make better use of their existing bedroom space.

It can be especially useful for:

Small bedrooms:
An ottoman bed doesn't need pull-out drawers, so you don't need to leave drawer space around the sides.

Flats and compact homes:
If your home has limited cupboards, the area underneath the bed can become valuable extra storage.

Guest bedrooms:
You can store spare duvets, pillows, sheets and towels underneath the bed until guests arrive.

People with bulky bedding:
Large duvets and blankets can be difficult to fit into normal drawers.

People who prefer hidden storage:
The storage is hidden when the bed is closed, helping the room look less cluttered.

However, an ottoman bed may not be ideal if you need to access your stored items several times a day.

In that situation, drawers may be more convenient because you can reach smaller items without lifting the mattress base.

Is an Ottoman Bed Worth It?

For many people, an ottoman bed is worth it because it solves two problems with one piece of furniture: sleeping space and storage.

The biggest value comes from using an area that would otherwise be wasted.

An Ottoman Bed Is Worth It If:

• You need more bedroom storage

• Your wardrobe or cupboards are already full

• You have bulky items to store

• You want hidden storage

• You have limited room for storage furniture

• You don't need to access the stored items every day

• You prefer a clean-looking bedroom

It May Not Be Right If:

• You need very quick access to stored items

• Your bedroom has limited opening clearance

• You frequently move your furniture

• You prefer simple furniture with fewer moving components

• Drawer storage would be more convenient for you

The best choice is not necessarily the bed with the biggest storage compartment.

It is the one that fits your bedroom layout, mattress, storage habits and budget while giving you the level of comfort and support you expect.

FAQs

Can You Sit on an Ottoman Bed While the Storage Is Empty?

Yes, you can normally use an ottoman bed as a regular bed when it is fully assembled and the base is in its normal closed position. The important point is to stay within the manufacturer's stated weight capacity.

Never sit or place weight on a raised base unless the manufacturer specifically states that it is designed for that use.

Can an Ottoman Bed Be Placed Against a Wall?

It depends on the type of ottoman bed. An end-lift model can often work better when the sides are close to walls because it opens from the foot end.

A side-lift model needs enough side clearance on its opening side. Always check the required clearance before placing the bed against a wall.

Can You Put an Ottoman Bed on a Carpet?

Yes, many ottoman beds can be used on carpet, provided the floor is suitable, level and able to support the bed correctly.

However, very thick or uneven carpet can affect how some bed components sit or move. Follow the manufacturer's installation guidance for your specific model.

How Do You Stop Things From Moving Around Inside an Ottoman Bed?

Use fabric storage bags, boxes or zipped containers to keep belongings grouped together. This is especially useful when the storage compartment is large.

Keep bags and boxes away from the hinges, gas struts and other moving components, and don't store items above the recommended level if they could stop the base from closing properly.

Can You Move an Ottoman Bed After It Has Been Assembled?

You can move an assembled ottoman bed in some situations, but its size, weight and lifting mechanism can make this difficult.

For a major move, follow the manufacturer's instructions about disassembly rather than dragging the fully assembled bed. Get help when moving a heavy frame to reduce the risk of damage or injury.

Conclusion

An ottoman bed is more than just a bed with storage underneath. Its lift-up base, gas-assisted mechanism and large storage compartment make it a practical option for bedrooms where storage space matters.

It can be especially useful for storing bulky bedding, seasonal clothes and suitcases without taking up extra floor space with drawers or cabinets.

Before buying, focus on the things that matter most: room measurements, opening clearance, storage dimensions, mattress compatibility, weight limits, frame construction and lifting mechanism.

If those factors suit your bedroom and how you use storage, an ottoman bed can be a smart and practical addition to your home.