Assembling an ottoman bed can feel challenging, especially if it’s your first time. However, with the right steps, you can build a safe, sturdy, and long-lasting storage bed at home. This guide explains exactly how to assemble an ottoman bed, from unpacking the parts to safely fitting the gas-lift mechanism. Whether you’ve purchased a single, double, king, or super king ottoman bed, the process remains almost the same.
Prepare Your Space and Unpack All Parts
Before assembly begins, preparing your room makes the process smoother and prevents mistakes. Clearing enough floor space allows you to lay out each frame part properly. Once unpacked, check that all components are present, including the frame, gas-lift pistons, slats, fixings, bolts, and headboard. A clean, organised workspace helps avoid losing screws and ensures a quicker, stress-free assembly.
Make sure you:
- Lay all parts flat on the floor.
- Check the instruction manual for your bed size.
- Separate bolts and hardware into small groups.
- Keep tools such as a screwdriver, Allen key, and rubber mallet ready.
Assemble the Bed Frame
The bed frame acts as the foundation of your ottoman bed, so assembling it correctly is essential. This stage usually includes connecting the side rails, headboard, and footboard. Make sure all joints are tightened securely but avoid over-tightening, as this can damage wooden parts. Larger beds such as king and super king may need two people due to the size and weight of the panels.
Frame assembly steps:
- Attach both side rails to the headboard.
- Connect the side rails to the footboard.
- Insert metal corner brackets if included.
- Tighten all bolts using the provided tool.
Install the Ottoman Gas-Lift Mechanism
This step is important because the gas-lift mechanism allows the ottoman bed to open and close smoothly. When fitting the pistons, handle them carefully, they can feel stiff at first but loosen once in use. Aligning them correctly with the lifting arms ensures safe operation. Most models, whether single or super king, follow the same design, so the installation process is similar for all sizes.
To install the mechanism:
- Attach the lifting arms to the side rail brackets.
- Secure the gas-lift pistons to the metal arms.
- Ensure both sides match evenly.
- Test the movement gently without forcing it.
Fix the Base Platform to the Lifting Arms
The base platform is the part that lifts when accessing storage. Once the gas-lift arms are secure, fitting the platform becomes easier. Position it correctly over both arms and make sure all fixing points align. Once connected, the platform should open and close smoothly. If you purchased a bed with storage from any size collection, this process is the same.
Base platform fitting steps:
- Lay the platform inside the frame.
- Align its hinge brackets with the lifting arms.
- Secure all screws tightly.
- Open and close the platform to test movement.
Add and Secure the Bed Slats
Slats support your mattress and allow airflow. Most ottoman beds include sprung wooden slats, which offer comfort and flexibility. Start attaching them from one side and work across the frame. Ensure every slat is pushed firmly into its plastic holders. For double, king, and super king beds, you may have two slat rows with a centre support beam.
Slat installation checklist:
- Fit the centre support beam if included.
- Insert slats evenly across both sides.
- Check for gaps or loose fittings.
- Press down to make sure each slat locks properly.
Attach the Headboard (If Not Already Fitted)
Some ottoman beds include a headboard that attaches later in the process. Fixing the headboard correctly adds stability and improves the finished look. Depending on your model, the headboard may bolt directly into the frame or attach using pre-drilled holes. Aligning it correctly ensures the bed sits straight against the wall.
Key steps:
- Position headboard behind the frame.
- Line up bolt holes accurately.
- Insert bolts and tighten gradually.
- Check that the headboard stands evenly.
Test the Opening and Closing Mechanism
Once the bed is built, testing the lift system ensures everything works safely. Lift the platform slowly and let the gas pistons assist. The movement should feel controlled, without sudden drops or resistance. Make sure nothing rubs against the frame. Testing the mechanism before placing the mattress helps avoid misalignment issues.
Always check:
- The platform lifts smoothly.
- Both sides rise at the same height.
- There are no loose screws.
- Pistons are firmly secured.
Place the Mattress and Finalise Your Setup
After confirming your ottoman bed works correctly, place the mattress on top. The added weight will help the gas-lift mechanism operate more smoothly. Lightly open and close the bed with the mattress fitted to ensure everything moves properly. Depending on size, single, double, king, or super king, the lift movement may feel slightly different but should always remain secure.
Final steps:
- Position the mattress evenly on the slats.
- Test opening and closing again.
- Add bedding and accessories.
- Enjoy your fully assembled ottoman bed.
Conclusion
Assembling an ottoman bed becomes simple when you follow the correct steps. By preparing your space, securing the frame, fitting the gas-lift system, attaching the platform, and testing the mechanism, you ensure a safe and durable setup. Whether you choose a Single Ottoman, Double Ottoman, King Size Ottoman, or Super King Ottoman, the assembly method remains straightforward with the right guidance.
FAQs
1. How do I assemble an ottoman bed with storage?
Assembling an ottoman bed with storage involves connecting the bed frame, installing the gas-lift mechanism, securing the storage base, and adding slats. Start by laying out all parts, then build the frame, attach the lifting arms, fit the hydraulic pistons, and finally secure the storage platform. Always test the lift system before placing the mattress.
2. How do I assemble a king size ottoman bed?
A king size ottoman bed assembles the same way as smaller sizes but may require two people due to its weight. Build the frame first, attach the lifting system, fix the base platform, and add slats. Because king size panels are larger, ensure each bracket and bolt is aligned correctly to prevent movement.
3. How do I fit a hydraulic bed?
Fitting a hydraulic bed means attaching the hydraulic (gas-lift) pistons to the lifting arms and bed frame. Secure the metal arms in place, then clip the pistons onto the joints. The gas pistons may feel stiff at first, this is normal. Once the platform is attached, lift it gently to check the hydraulics are working smoothly.
4. How do I dismantle a hydraulic bed?
To dismantle a hydraulic bed, start by removing the mattress, slats, and storage platform. Carefully detach the gas pistons by releasing them from their joints, then unscrew the lifting arms from the frame. Once the hydraulic parts are removed, you can take apart the side rails, headboard, and footboard in reverse order of assembly.
5. How do I dismantle an ottoman bed safely?
The safest way to dismantle an ottoman bed is to release pressure from the lift system first. Open the bed slightly, support the platform, and unclip the pistons carefully. Remove all slats and the platform, then take the frame apart piece by piece. Keep screws and bolts organised to make reassembly easier.