How to Assemble an Ottoman Bed (Step-by-Step + Mistakes to Avoid)

Most ottoman beds arrive flat-packed in 2–4 boxes and go together with basic tools in around 45–90 minutes with two people. Here's how to make it painless.

What you'll need

• A Phillips screwdriver or power drill (usually all that's required)
• A second pair of hands — the base and headboard are heavy and awkward solo
• A clear, carpeted or soft-flooring area to protect components while building

Step-by-step assembly order

Build in this order to avoid having to undo work later:

1. Frame sides and slats first — assemble the base frame flat on the floor before attaching legs
2. Attach the legs once the frame is square and all bolts are hand-tight
3. Fit the gas struts to the frame and the lifting platform — check the strut orientation matches the instructions exactly
4. Attach the headboard last, once the base is stable and can take the weight
5. Fully tighten every bolt only after the whole frame is together and square

Common assembly mistakes

• Tightening bolts too early — keep everything loose until the frame is square, then tighten last
• Fitting struts the wrong way round — this causes the base to feel stuck or reversed when lifting
• Skipping the printed torque/bolt sequence — frames are engineered to tighten in a specific order
• Building on a hard floor without protection —ottoman-bed's bouclé or fabric can mark on tile or bare wood

Is it easy to put together?

Most people manage it without a professional, but if your room is tight or you'd rather not risk it, our free in-room assembly option removes the hassle entirely — ask at checkout.

Related reading

Need to take it apart again later? See how to dismantle and move an ottoman bed. New to ottoman beds? Start with what is an ottoman bed? Shop our ottoman storage beds.