Space is often at a premium in British homes. Whether you live in a Victorian terrace, a modern flat, or a countryside cottage, finding enough room for everything can feel like a constant challenge. Ottoman beds offer a practical solution by combining a comfortable sleeping surface with generous hidden storage beneath the mattress.
Unlike traditional divan beds with drawers, ottoman beds feature a gas lift mechanism that raises the entire mattress base, revealing a spacious compartment underneath. This design means you can access the full width and length of the bed for storage, making it far more efficient than drawer systems that only use part of the available space.
The heart of any ottoman bed is its lifting system. Quality ottoman beds use gas struts similar to those found in car boots, allowing you to raise even a heavy mattress with minimal effort. When shopping for an ottoman bed, pay attention to the strength rating of the gas lifts. A well made ottoman should lift smoothly and hold the mattress securely in the open position while you access your belongings.
Most ottoman beds open from the foot end, though side opening designs are also available. Foot opening models tend to offer easier access in rooms where the bed sits against walls on either side. Side opening versions can work better in spaces where there is limited clearance at the foot of the bed.
The storage space inside an ottoman bed is surprisingly generous. A standard double ottoman can hold the equivalent of several large suitcases worth of items. This makes them particularly useful for storing seasonal items like winter duvets, extra pillows, and spare bedding. Many people also use the space for luggage, shoes, or out of season clothing.
Because the storage area is enclosed, your belongings stay protected from dust. This is especially helpful for items you do not use every day but want to keep clean and accessible. Some ottoman beds include dividers or compartments to help organise the space, though most feature a single open cavity that you can arrange however suits you best.
Ottoman beds come in various materials, each offering different aesthetics and durability levels. Fabric upholstered ottomans remain popular for their soft appearance and wide colour range. Velvet, linen, and chenille are common choices that can complement most bedroom schemes.
Leather and faux leather ottoman beds offer a more contemporary look and are generally easier to wipe clean. They tend to suit modern bedroom settings and coordinate well with minimalist furniture styles. At Furniture in Fashion, we offer a comprehensive selection of ottoman beds in both fabric and leather finishes to suit different tastes and budgets.
The frame itself is typically constructed from solid timber or engineered wood with metal reinforcements around the gas lift attachment points. A sturdy frame is essential, as it needs to support both the mattress and the weight of the items stored below while withstanding regular opening and closing.
Ottoman beds are available in all standard UK sizes, from single through to super king. When selecting a size, remember that you will need clearance above the bed for the mattress to lift fully. Measure the height from your floor to the ceiling and ensure there is at least 30cm of space above where the raised mattress will reach.
For smaller bedrooms, a double fabric bed often provides the right balance of sleeping space and storage without overwhelming the room. Larger master bedrooms can accommodate king or super king sizes, which offer even more storage capacity beneath.
Almost any mattress works with an ottoman bed, provided it is not excessively heavy. Memory foam, pocket sprung, and hybrid mattresses are all suitable choices. However, very thick or particularly dense mattresses may make the lifting mechanism feel heavier to operate.
Most manufacturers recommend mattresses up to 25cm in depth for optimal performance of the gas lift system. Thicker mattresses can still work but may require stronger gas struts. If you already own a mattress you love, check its weight against the ottoman bed specifications before purchasing.
Ottoman beds typically arrive flat packed and require assembly. The process usually takes one to two hours with two people. Instructions vary by manufacturer, but the basic steps involve constructing the base frame, attaching the gas lifts, and fitting the mattress platform.
Once assembled, positioning is important. Ensure you have enough room to fully open the ottoman without hitting walls, wardrobes, or bedside cabinets. Some people find it helpful to leave a small gap between the foot of the bed and any furniture to allow comfortable access to the storage area.
Maintenance requirements are minimal. Fabric upholstery benefits from occasional vacuuming to remove dust. Leather and faux leather can be wiped with a damp cloth and treated with appropriate conditioner to prevent cracking. The gas lift mechanisms rarely need attention, though a light application of silicone spray to the pivot points can keep the action smooth over many years of use.
Avoid overloading the storage compartment. While ottoman beds can hold significant weight, consistently filling them beyond capacity may strain the gas lifts over time. Distribute heavier items evenly across the base rather than piling everything in one area.
Yes, most mattresses work well with ottoman beds. Check the weight of your mattress against the specifications provided, as very heavy mattresses may require beds with stronger gas lift systems.
Storage capacity varies by model, but most quality ottoman beds can safely hold between 30kg and 50kg of items. Always refer to the manufacturer guidelines for your specific bed.
Assembly typically requires two people and takes between one and two hours. The process involves basic tools and following step by step instructions provided with the bed.
A well constructed ottoman bed should operate quietly. Occasional squeaking can occur if the frame loosens over time, which is usually resolved by tightening the bolts.
Ottoman beds can work in children’s rooms, though younger children may need supervision when opening and closing the mechanism. Many families find them useful for storing toys and extra bedding.
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