Struggling with limited bedroom storage? You’re not alone, most people run out of space faster than they expect. If your wardrobes and drawers are overflowing, an ottoman bed might be exactly what you need. But what is an ottoman bed, and why is it so popular? Here’s the simple answer.
An ottoman bed is a storage bed with a gas-lift mechanism that allows the mattress to lift up, revealing a large hidden storage compartment underneath. It provides more storage than drawers and is ideal for small or cluttered bedrooms.
What Is an Ottoman Bed? (Full Explanation)
An ottoman bed is a type of bed frame designed with built-in under-bed storage. Instead of drawers, the entire mattress platform lifts upwards using hydraulic pistons, giving you full access to the spacious compartment underneath.
How an Ottoman Bed Works
Ottoman beds use high-quality gas-lift hydraulics similar to those found in car boots. When you lift the handle at the foot or side of the bed, the pistons take the weight and raise the mattress smoothly. This makes it easy to access storage without heavy lifting.
Types of Ottoman Beds (Side-Lift vs End-Lift)
End-Lift Ottoman Beds
The mattress lifts from the foot end.
Best for rooms with space at the front of the bed.
Benefits:
- Easy to use
- Great for narrow bedrooms
- Typically offers maximum storage
Side-Lift Ottoman Beds
The mattress lifts from either the left or right side.
Benefits:
- Perfect for rooms with limited foot-end space
- Convenient for single beds or corner layouts
- Easy to open from the bedside
Why Choose an Ottoman Bed? (Top Benefits)
An ottoman bed offers more storage than any other bed type, making it ideal for small homes, flats, and minimal bedrooms. Whether you need extra space for bedding, clothes, or seasonal items, the storage is both huge and easy to access.
Key Benefits
- Maximises your under-bed space
- Keeps bedrooms neat and clutter-free
- Suitable for all mattress types
- Ideal for small rooms or shared spaces
- Strong and durable build structure
What Can You Store in an Ottoman Bed?
People often underestimate how much an ottoman can hold. The storage depth is usually 20–30cm, giving plenty of space for bulky items.
Common Items Stored
- Suitcases
- Spare bedding
- Towels
- Clothes
- Shoes
- Kids’ toys
- Seasonal items
Real-Life Example
One customer shared that switching to an ottoman bed freed up half their wardrobe. They stored winter clothing, blankets, and old documents under the bed, instantly making their small bedroom feel twice as spacious.
Helpful Facts & Stats
- Ottoman beds offer up to 4x more storage than drawer beds.
- Around 65% of UK buyers choose ottoman beds for space-saving reasons.
- Most ottoman beds can hold 40–70kg of stored items depending on the frame.
Comparison Table (Optional but Powerful)
|
Feature |
Ottoman Bed |
Drawer Bed |
Standard Bed |
|
Storage Space |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐ |
|
Lifting Mechanism |
Gas-Lift |
None |
None |
|
Best for Small Rooms |
Yes |
Limited |
No |
|
Access |
Full Platform |
Partial |
None |
|
Price |
Medium |
Medium |
Low |
Quick Tips (Scannable Bullets)
- Choose the lifting side based on your room layout
- Avoid overloading the storage area
- Keep frequently used items towards the front
- Ensure the pistons are good quality for smooth lifting
- Check frame strength for heavier mattresses
FAQs
Is an ottoman bed easy to lift?
Yes, the gas-lift pistons carry most of the weight, making it smooth and easy to raise.
Do ottoman beds need special mattresses?
No, they work with any standard mattress, including memory foam and pocket-sprung.
Is the storage fully usable?
Yes, the entire base becomes a large, open storage space with no wasted room.
Are ottoman beds durable?
Good-quality ottoman beds are extremely durable due to strong frames and metal lift mechanisms.
Can an ottoman bed replace a chest of drawers?
For many people, yes, it provides enough space for bulky and seasonal items, reducing the need for extra furniture.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know exactly what an ottoman bed is and why it’s such a smart storage solution, explore the best styles and designs to make your bedroom more practical and clutter-free. Upgrade your space today with a modern ottoman bed.