Have you ever wished for extra storage that doesn’t take up precious floor space? Ottoman beds are the answer you’ve been looking for! With roots tracing back to the Ottoman Empire, these clever beds have become a storage superstar in modern homes.
What makes ottoman beds worth shouting about? They use every inch of space beneath your mattress – perfect if your bedroom is on the smaller side. The smooth gas-lift hydraulics let you lift the base with minimal effort, revealing a storage area that puts traditional drawer beds to shame. Just imagine all those seasonal clothes, spare bedding, and extra pillows tucked neatly away out of sight!
Your bedroom should be your own personal sanctuary, and ottoman beds help keep it that way. Whether you’re after a single ottoman bed for a compact guest room or a king size for your master bedroom, you’ll find styles and fabrics to match any décor. From plush velvet to sleek leather, there’s something to suit your personal taste.
Why choose an ottoman bed? Simply put, they’re a game-changer for anyone struggling with storage. With these practical yet stylish designs, your days of storage headaches could soon be over.
Ready to see how an ottoman bed could give your bedroom a storage boost? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about these space-saving champions!
What Are Ottoman Beds and How Do They Work?
Unlike standard beds, ottoman beds are clever space-savers that do double duty – providing both a comfy place to sleep and a brilliant storage solution underneath. These practical beds feature a lifting mechanism that reveals a generous storage area beneath your mattress, making them perfect for bedrooms where every inch counts.
The Mechanics Behind Ottoman Bed Storage
How do ottoman beds actually lift up? It’s all thanks to clever gas-powered hydraulics that make lifting even heavy mattresses feel like a breeze. When you grab the handle and begin to lift, the gas struts kick in, taking over most of the mattress weight and holding the bed platform securely in position. This smart system works because the pistons store energy when compressed, while oil ensures everything moves smoothly during operation.
Think of the gas lift system as the heart of your ottoman bed. Without these carefully engineered struts, you’d find it practically impossible to lift your mattress on your own! Quality ottoman beds typically come with 800-Newton gas struts – that’s the technical way of describing how much force and weight the mechanisms can handle. This clever engineering allows you to lift even heavier mattresses with minimal effort, while preventing any sudden drops or unsafe closures.
Side-Lifting vs. Foot-End Opening Systems
Which way should your ottoman bed open? You’ve got two main options to choose from. End-lift ottomans open from the foot of the bed, while side-lift ottomans provide access from one of the longer sides.
Pictured: Chesterfield Side Lift Ottoman Bed Frame – Grey. Priced from £399 (Bedstar)
Your bedroom layout should guide your choice here. Side-lifting ottomans are perfect for smaller rooms where your bed sits against a wall. The lifting mechanism works along the bed’s length, so you can place one side flush against a wall while still accessing your storage from the opposite side.
On the flip side, end-lift ottomans work best when your bed sits away from walls or with just the headboard against a wall. This design gives you access from the foot of the bed – ideal for floating bed arrangements. As a bonus, many people find that end-lift designs look more seamless when closed.
Weight Capacity and Structural Support
How much can your ottoman bed actually hold? The structural strength of ottoman beds matters a lot, especially since they need to support both your mattress and all those stored items. Always check the manufacturer’s weight limits to avoid damaging your bed frame or lifting mechanism.
Weight capacities vary depending on bed size. Double ottoman beds typically support around 45kg when lifted up, while king and super king sizes can handle approximately 50kg. When the bed is lowered, many ottoman beds can support up to 300kg in total weight, though reinforced models might accommodate up to 450kg.
The materials used make a big difference to durability and support. Quality models feature solid corner-jointed boxes made from substantial veneered MDF, giving essential support to the lifting mechanism. Well-designed ottomans also include anti-slip tops that prevent your mattress from sliding around during lifting, ensuring safe operation every time you access your storage space.
Got a heavier mattress? Don’t worry! Manufacturers offer upgraded gas piston options ranging from 800N to 1200N, which can lift mattresses weighing up to 125kg. This means ottoman beds can work with virtually any mattress type without compromising on that all-important storage function.
Choosing the Right Size: From Single Ottoman Beds to Superkings
Finding the perfect ottoman bed size is crucial for both a good night’s sleep and making the most of your storage space. The right dimensions ensure you’re comfortable while sleeping and can store everything you need underneath.
Single Ottoman Beds for Compact Spaces
Single ottoman beds measure 190cm x 90cm (L x W) in the UK, making them the perfect fit for children’s bedrooms, guest rooms, or any space where square footage is at a premium. These space-saving beds typically come with a side-lift mechanism, so don’t forget to leave enough room for someone to stand beside the bed when accessing the storage.
Don’t let their compact size fool you! Single ottoman beds pack an impressive storage punch—many models offer up to 24cm of storage depth, giving you plenty of room for seasonal clothes, spare bedding, or personal belongings.
Also known as 3′ x 6’3″ beds, single ottomans work brilliantly for solo sleepers of any age. Need something even smaller? Small single ottoman beds (2’6″) offer an even more compact solution, perfect for younger children making the move from toddler beds.
Double Ottoman Beds: The Popular Choice
Double ottoman beds are the go-to choice for many UK couples. Measuring 135cm x 190cm (W x L), or 4’6″ x 6’3″, these beds strike that sweet spot between generous sleeping space and fitting comfortably into average-sized master bedrooms.
Looking for something in between a single and a double? Small double ottoman beds at 120cm x 190cm (W x L) offer the perfect middle ground. They’re ideal for solo sleepers who like to spread out or couples working with particularly tight floor plans.
When it comes to storage, double ottoman beds don’t disappoint, with depth dimensions typically ranging from 10cm to 30cm. This makes them versatile enough for any bedroom setup—whether it’s your master bedroom or a well-appointed guest room.
Pictured: Timberland Wooden Ottoman Bed – Natural. Priced from £299 (Bedstar)
King Size Ottoman Beds for Maximum Storage
When a double bed just isn’t quite cutting it, a king size ottoman bed delivers a serious upgrade. At 150cm x 200cm (W x L) or 5′ x 6’6″, these beds give you an extra 10cm in length and 15cm in width compared to standard doubles.
King size ottoman beds have become the top pick for many couples, offering both luxurious sleeping space and impressive storage capacity. The extra room is particularly handy for parents whose little ones occasionally hop in during the night.
The larger area beneath a king size ottoman bed makes it perfect for storing bulkier items. You’ll find these beds in all sorts of styles—from upholstered and wooden frames to fancy TV ottomans with built-in entertainment features.
Measuring Your Space Correctly
Before you click that “buy now” button, taking proper measurements of your space is essential. Ideally, you should have at least 50cm of clearance on each side of the bed, though you can get away with 30cm if space is tight.
Takeaway Tip: Mark out your chosen bed’s dimensions on the floor using masking tape to visualize how it will fit in your room.
Remember that unlike divan beds with outward-opening drawers, ottoman beds don’t need that extra access space around the sides, but you do need room to operate the lifting mechanism. If you have a loft bedroom, don’t forget to check your ceiling height, as ottoman beds lift upward when opened.
When measuring, think about door clearance too—make sure doors can open fully without bumping into your new bed frame. Keep in mind that integrated headboards will add approximately 6cm to the bed’s overall length, while the storage depth typically ranges from 15-30cm depending on the model.
One last thing to consider: can your new ottoman bed actually make it into your bedroom? Measure doorways, hallways, and stairwells to ensure smooth delivery. The good news is that most ottoman beds come in sections for easier transport, with the largest piece typically being half the mechanism size.
Storage Capacity and Organization Solutions
When it comes to storage, ottoman beds are the champions of hidden space! They turn that unused area beneath your mattress into a practical storage solution that works for any home, whether you’re in a compact flat or a spacious house.
Maximum Weight Limits Explained
Your ottoman bed comes with specific weight restrictions that you should definitely keep an eye on. For double ottoman beds, the recommended maximum weight when lifted is around 45kg, while king and super king sizes can typically handle up to 50kg. When the bed is lowered, most standard models can support a total weight of approximately 300kg.
Not all ottoman beds are created equal when it comes to weight capacity. Some IKEA models specify a maximum mattress weight of just 40kg, while reinforced ottoman beds can safely lift mattresses weighing up to 100kg. Got a particularly heavy mattress? Don’t worry – bespoke options with stronger struts and higher-pressure hydraulic systems are available for those who need them.
It’s worth checking the detailed specifications from your manufacturer. Tempur, for example, recommends a maximum storage weight capacity of approximately 20kg per base board section, totaling 40kg. Following these guidelines will help keep your ottoman bed working smoothly for years to come.
Smart Organization Systems for Bed Storage
How can you make the most of all that space? Investing in the right organization tools is the key to ottoman bed bliss! Clear plastic bins are brilliant – they let you see exactly what’s inside without having to rummage through everything. Stackable containers are another smart choice, helping you utilize that vertical space effectively.
Creating designated “zones” within your storage area works wonders. Divide your space by item type or season, and you’ll never have to hunt for that winter jumper again! Be strategic about placement too – items you need regularly should be positioned closer to the opening edge for easy access.
For those of you sharing a bedroom, why not split the storage space in half? This gives each person their own dedicated area – no more arguments about whose stuff is whose! You can also try strategic layering – place less frequently used items at the bottom and those needed more often at the top. Your future self will thank you when you’re not digging through layers of stuff to find what you need!
Seasonal Item Storage Strategies
Ottoman beds are perfect for managing seasonal items – all those bulky winter coats and thick duvets that take up so much wardrobe space! Vacuum-sealed bags are your secret weapon here. They compress bulky winter clothing and bedding to a fraction of their original size while protecting against moisture and pests.
Takeaway Tip: Create a practical rotation system for your ottoman bed storage. Store off-season clothing and linens in vacuum-sealed bags toward the back or bottom of your storage space, then rotate them forward as seasons change.
This clever approach keeps your seasonal items protected yet easily accessible when you need them. Your bedroom should be your own personal sanctuary, and keeping seasonal clutter at bay is a big part of creating that peaceful space.
Before packing away your seasonal décor, make sure to thoroughly clean and properly pack textiles to prevent damage from dust, moisture, or pests. For seasonal bedding, breathable cotton bags with lavender sachets work brilliantly to maintain freshness between uses – plus, they’ll give your items a lovely scent when you bring them out again!
Comparing Ottoman Beds to Other Storage Bed Options
Wondering how ottoman beds measure up against other storage options? Let’s look at the differences to help you make the right choice for your bedroom. Different bed types offer unique storage solutions, each with their own advantages depending on what you’re looking for.
Ottoman vs. Divan Beds: Key Differences
How do ottoman beds differ from divans? These two popular storage beds couldn’t be more different in their approach to storage. Ottoman beds lift upward to reveal one large compartment spanning almost the entire mattress area, while divans typically come with slide-out drawers built into the base.
When it comes to sheer storage space, ottoman beds are the clear champions. They use practically the entire area beneath your mattress (minus the frame itself), giving you substantially more room than divan drawers that only use portions of the underbed area. This makes ottoman beds perfect for bulky items like suitcases, sports equipment, or those extra winter duvets.
But divans do have their own advantages! They excel in accessibility – you can easily pull out individual drawers without having to lift your entire mattress. They’re also typically easier to assemble and more practical to move once set up, thanks to their more compact design.
Ottoman vs. Drawer Storage Beds
The differences between ottoman lift systems and drawer mechanisms go beyond just divans. While drawer storage beds offer nicely compartmentalized organization, they can be tricky to access – especially when you’ve got bedside tables that block those top-end drawers.
What about durability? Most drawer storage beds use lightweight wooden frames that might not stand up to regular use as well as ottoman mechanisms. The quality gas piston systems in good ottoman beds tend to outlast drawer slides, giving you better longevity for your investment.
Mattress compatibility is another factor worth considering. Drawer beds generally work well with various mattress types regardless of weight, while ottoman beds need careful matching between your mattress weight and the strength of the gas pistons.
Cost-Benefit Analysis Across Bed Types
Let’s talk about value for money. Storage beds typically cost more than standard frames due to their complex designs and extra features. Among the storage options, ottoman beds usually represent the bigger investment, mainly because of their sophisticated lifting mechanisms and structural requirements.
Takeaway Tip: If you’re working with a smaller bedroom where space is at a premium, the extra investment in an ottoman bed can pay off through the substantial additional storage you gain.
The higher price of ottoman beds often justifies itself through practical benefits. They provide maximum storage capacity, which is perfect if you’re dealing with limited living space. Looking at long-term value, the superior durability of gas piston systems may balance out that higher initial price.
If you’re someone who prioritizes easy assembly and might need to move your bed frequently, divans could prove more economical and practical for your lifestyle. But if your ultimate goal is to maximize every inch of storage space, ottoman beds deliver unbeatable capacity, even with their premium price tag.
Your bedroom should be your own personal sanctuary, and choosing the right storage bed plays a big part in creating that perfect space. The best choice depends on your specific needs – whether that’s maximum storage, easy access, or flexibility for the future.
Mattress Compatibility and Performance
Choosing the right mattress for your ottoman bed isn’t just about getting a good night’s sleep – it also affects how easily you can access all that wonderful storage space underneath! Let’s look at which mattress types work best with your new ottoman bed.
Which Mattress Types Work Best with Ottoman Beds
Memory foam mattresses are a brilliant match for ottoman beds. They tend to be lighter while still giving you excellent support for a comfortable night’s sleep. Their body-contouring properties provide personalized comfort without adding too much weight to the lifting mechanism. This means you’ll find it much easier to access your storage space compared to using traditional heavier mattresses.
Hybrid mattresses offer another fantastic option for your ottoman bed. These clever designs combine supportive coils with comfort layers, giving you the best of both worlds. They maintain their shape brilliantly while in storage positions and provide well-balanced support. The ideal mattress for your ottoman bed should compress efficiently when stored but still bounce back to give you all the support you need for sleeping.
Some of the most loved mattress choices for ottoman beds include memory foam and hybrid options, but pocket sprung mattresses can work well too. Just opt for a thinner version to keep the weight down. The pocket spring design gives you tailored support as each spring works independently to support your body exactly where you need it most.
Weight Considerations for Lifting Mechanism
Your ottoman bed will come with specific weight restrictions for mattresses that you should definitely pay attention to. Basic ottoman bed models might struggle with heavier mattresses, while quality models can comfortably lift between 40-80kg. If you’ve fallen in love with a heavier mattress, look for beds with stronger pistons that can accommodate mattresses up to 90kg.
The weight of your mattress directly impacts how easily you can operate the lifting mechanism. Mattresses that weigh too much may strain those gas struts, potentially causing damage over time. For the smoothest operation, aim for mattresses weighing between 20-40kg. Your bed will thank you for it!
Pictured: Limelight Rosa Ottoman Bed – Dark Grey. Priced £379 (Bedstar)
How Mattress Choice Affects Ottoman Functionality
Mattress thickness matters more than you might think! To prevent any headboard issues when lifting, choose mattresses no thicker than 32cm in depth. This ensures smooth operation without your mattress becoming squashed against the headboard when you lift it.
Different mattress types have different ventilation needs. Memory foam tends to retain heat, so slatted ottoman bases are preferable as they allow better air circulation. This helps keep you cool during those warm summer nights. Another practical consideration: mattresses covered in soft, smooth materials may slide around when operating the lifting mechanism—not ideal! Opt for options with better grip to prevent this frustration.
Takeaway Tip: If you’re using a slippery mattress, consider adding a non-slip mattress pad between your mattress and the ottoman base to prevent sliding when operating the lifting mechanism.
The quality of your mattress directly affects how well your ottoman bed functions over the long term. A well-matched pairing ensures you can easily access your storage without compromising on sleep comfort or putting unnecessary strain on your bed’s lifting mechanism. Your bedroom should be your own personal sanctuary, and getting this combination right is key to creating that perfect space!
Conclusion
Ottoman beds are worth shouting about! These clever space-savers blend practicality with comfort in a way that traditional beds simply can’t match. They offer significantly more storage than standard alternatives, making them perfect for homes where every inch of space counts. While you might raise an eyebrow at the initial price tag, the extensive storage capacity and durable gas-lift mechanism deliver fantastic value over the years.
What should you consider when choosing your ottoman bed? Your available space, preferred mattress type, and storage needs all play crucial roles in finding your perfect match. Quality models with appropriate gas struts can safely handle mattresses up to 90kg while providing smooth operation for years to come.
Your bedroom should be your own personal sanctuary, and smart organization is key to making the most of your ottoman bed’s storage space. Clear containers let you see what’s inside at a glance, vacuum bags compress bulky items, and strategic placement of seasonal items helps create an efficient system that works for YOUR lifestyle. Yes, these beds cost more than standard frames, but their practical advantages often justify the investment, especially in smaller living spaces where storage is like gold dust!
Takeaway Tip: For the best experience, pair your ottoman bed with a compatible mattress. Memory foam and hybrid options typically work best, offering balanced support without putting too much strain on the lifting mechanism.
Ottoman beds truly shine when matched with the right mattress and loaded with proper weight distribution. Don’t forget to check manufacturer guidelines to ensure your mattress weight works with your bed’s gas struts!
Ultimately, these brilliant beds deliver a practical solution for modern homes where both comfort and storage matter equally. Whether you’re in a compact city flat or just looking to declutter your bedroom, an ottoman bed could be the storage superstar you’ve been searching for!
FAQs
Q1. What are the main advantages of ottoman beds? Ottoman beds offer substantial hidden storage space without compromising on style or comfort. They’re particularly beneficial for smaller bedrooms, providing ample room to store bedding, clothes, and other items while maintaining a sleek appearance.
Q2. How can I effectively organize the storage space in an ottoman bed? To maximize ottoman bed storage, create designated zones for specific items or seasons. Use clear containers for easy visibility, employ vacuum bags for bulky items, and arrange things based on frequency of use. This approach helps maintain an organized and efficient storage system.
Q3. Are there any drawbacks to using ottoman storage beds? While ottoman beds offer great storage solutions, they can be heavier and bulkier than standard beds, especially when filled with items. This might make it more challenging to move the bed for cleaning or rearranging the room. Additionally, accessing stored items requires lifting the entire mattress.
Q4. Why do ottoman beds tend to be more expensive than other bed types? Ottoman beds are often pricier due to their complex design and manufacturing process. They feature sophisticated piston-assisted lift mechanisms and require sturdy construction to support the lifting function. The additional storage capacity and convenience factor also contribute to their higher cost.
Q5. What type of mattress works best with an ottoman bed? Memory foam and hybrid mattresses are often recommended for ottoman beds. They tend to be lighter while still providing excellent support, making it easier to lift the bed and access the storage area. It’s important to choose a mattress that doesn’t exceed the bed’s weight capacity to ensure smooth operation of the lifting mechanism.
