Are Ottoman Beds Good

 Yes, ottoman beds are often an excellent choice because they combine a comfortable sleeping surface with large hidden storage, making them perfect for small bedrooms or anyone needing extra storage. However, you should consider mattress weight and piston quality before buying.

Ever struggled for space in a small bedroom? Clothes, bedding, and boxes keep piling up, and you still don’t have enough storage. Ottoman beds might seem like a magic fix, but are they truly good in the long run? If you’re wondering whether an ottoman bed is worth it, you’re not alone.

What “Good” Means — Storage, Comfort, and Convenience

To decide if an ottoman bed is good, we need to look at what matters: storage space, ease of use, comfort, and durability.

Hidden Storage Space

One of the biggest strengths of an ottoman bed is the ample storage under the mattress, a full-height compartment rather than small drawers.
This makes it ideal for bedding, clothes, luggage, and bulky items.

Ease of Access with Gas-Lift Mechanism

Most ottoman beds use gas-lift hydraulics, meaning even heavy mattresses can be lifted easily with minimal effort, and the storage stays open until you close it.
This is much easier than lifting a heavy mattress manually or reaching into under-bed drawers.

Saves Up Room Space

Because storage is built into the bed itself, you may not need extra wardrobes or under-bed drawers. For small rooms or flats, this is a huge plus.

Benefits of Ottoman Beds — Why They’re Considered Good

Large Hidden Storage — Maximises Space

You get more storage per square foot compared to traditional beds + wardrobe/drawers. Great for seasonal clothes, bedding, or items you don’t use every day.

Declutters the Room — Cleaner, Neater Look

No visible drawers or clutter, everything is tucked away under the bed, helping your room look tidy.

Versatile and Works With Most Mattresses

Ottoman beds usually support standard mattresses (foam, spring, etc.), so you don’t need a special type.

Ideal for Small Apartments or Shared Bedrooms

In compact living spaces, an ottoman bed gives you storage without sacrificing floor space.

When Ottoman Beds May Not Be Ideal

Heavy Mattress Means More Load

Because the mattress sits on a lift frame, heavier mattresses can place strain on the pistons.

• If pistons are weak, lifting may become difficult.
• Sometimes limits the mattress types or weight.

Storage Access Means Lifting Every Time

To access storage, you must lift the mattress, might not be convenient if you need frequent access.
Also, if storage is very deep and packed, items can be hard to reach.

Cost and Mechanism Maintenance

Ottoman beds can be more expensive than standard beds because of hydraulic components and heavier frame.
Hydraulics may need maintenance or replacement over time.

Mattress Height — May Feel Higher

With the lifting frame, mattress may sit higher than ordinary bed frames, which can be an issue in small rooms or for shorter people.

Real-Life Example

One family living in a small apartment replaced their standard bed with an ottoman bed. They stored bulky winter bedding and seasonal clothes under it, freeing up their wardrobe and making their room feel more spacious. On the downside, they noticed lifting felt heavier with their thick mattress, so they later replaced it with a lighter one to keep the bed easy to use.

Stats, Facts & Useful Considerations

• Many ottoman beds can store 3–4 times more than a standard bed + under-bed drawers.
• If the hydraulics are well-built, they can last 5–10 years before needing replacement.
• For individuals in small homes or shared flats, built-in storage can reduce the need for extra furniture by up to 50%.

Comparison Table: Ottoman Bed vs Standard Bed vs Drawer Bed

Quick Tips Before Choosing an Ottoman Bed

• Choose the right size and mattress weight, lighter mattresses keep lifting easy.
• Ensure pistons are high-quality for smooth operation.
• Avoid overloading the storage.
• If you access storage often, organise smartly, so you don’t have to unpack everything.
• Get a bed with good build quality and warranty on hydraulics.

FAQs 

Are ottoman beds worth the money?

Yes, especially if you need extra storage and don’t have much space. The convenience and storage space often justify the cost.

Do ottoman beds last long?

With good-quality pistons and a sturdy frame, they can last many years, though pistons may need replacement over time.

Can you use any mattress on an ottoman bed?

Generally yes. But a heavy mattress might make lifting harder, a medium-weight mattress is often the best choice.

Is lifting an ottoman bed difficult?

Not really, gas-lift systems help a lot. But after years of use or with heavy mattresses, it can become harder.

Is storage under an ottoman bed fully accessible?

Yes, the full bed base lifts up, giving you wide and deep storage space.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a practical solution to save space and add hidden storage, an ottoman bed may be one of the best investments you can make. Evaluate your space, mattress type, and storage needs, and choose one that fits your lifestyle. Start browsing ottoman bed options today and transform your bedroom into a neat, clutter-free haven.