What Is an Ottoman Bed and How Does It Work?

An ottoman bed is a practical choice for anyone who wants a comfortable place to sleep without losing valuable bedroom storage space. At first glance, it looks much like a standard bed, but there is a useful feature hidden beneath the mattress: a spacious compartment that can be accessed by lifting the bed base.

This design makes an ottoman storage bed particularly useful in homes where wardrobes and cupboards are already full. Instead of adding more furniture to the room, you can use the space beneath your mattress to keep spare bedding, blankets, seasonal clothes and other belongings neatly stored away.

However, there is more to an ottoman bed than its storage capacity. The lifting mechanism, opening direction, mattress weight and available room space all affect how convenient it will be to use.

In this guide, we will explain what an ottoman bed is, how its mechanism works, what you can store inside and what to consider before choosing one for your bedroom.

What Is an Ottoman Bed?

An ottoman bed is a type of storage bed designed with a lifting mattress platform. When the platform is raised, it reveals a storage compartment built into the bed frame.

Unlike a conventional bed, which may leave the space underneath unused, an ottoman bed turns this area into a practical place to keep household items. The storage is hidden from view, helping the bedroom look tidier without requiring additional cabinets or drawers.

Most ottoman beds feature a hinged base supported by a lifting mechanism. Many use gas struts to make raising and lowering the platform easier, although the exact mechanism depends on the design.

Ottoman beds are available in different sizes, materials and styles. Some have upholstered frames and padded headboards, while others feature simpler designs. This means you can choose a bed that suits your bedroom’s appearance as well as your storage needs.

How Does an Ottoman Bed Work?

The working principle is straightforward. The mattress rests on a movable platform connected to the bed frame by hinges and a lifting mechanism. When you lift the platform, the mattress rises with it, exposing the storage space underneath.

The main components are the lifting platform, hinges, supporting mechanism and enclosed storage compartment.

1. The Mattress Platform Lifts Upwards

Unlike a bed with built-in drawers, an ottoman bed opens from above. You lift the mattress platform from the designated opening point, allowing access to the space beneath it.

The mattress normally stays on the platform while it opens, so you do not have to remove it every time you need something from storage.

2. Gas Struts Help Lift the Base

Many modern ottoman beds use gas struts, also known as gas springs. These components assist the lifting movement by helping counterbalance the weight of the mattress and platform.

This makes opening the bed easier than lifting the entire structure without assistance. The effort required still depends on the mechanism, mattress weight and individual bed design.

3. The Storage Compartment Becomes Accessible

Once the platform is raised, you can reach the storage area inside the bed frame. Depending on the design, this compartment may extend across much of the space beneath the mattress.

You can organise your belongings in storage bags or suitable containers to make items easier to find.

4. The Base Lowers Back into Position

After you have finished, lower the platform carefully according to the bed’s instructions. The mechanism helps guide the movement as the base returns to its closed position.

Always keep your hands and fingers clear of hinges and moving parts. Never leave the bed raised without using the mechanism as intended.

What Are the Different Types of Ottoman Beds?

The main difference between ottoman bed designs is the direction in which the mattress platform opens. Choosing the right type can make a noticeable difference to how easily you access the storage.

End-Opening Ottoman Bed

An end-opening ottoman bed lifts from the foot of the bed. The mattress platform rises towards the headboard, giving you access to the storage compartment from the front.

This design can work well in bedrooms where both sides of the bed are close to walls or bedside tables. However, you need enough space at the foot of the bed to operate the lifting mechanism comfortably.

Side-Opening Ottoman Bed

A side-opening ottoman bed lifts along one of its longer sides. This allows you to access the storage compartment from the side rather than the foot.

It may be a convenient option if the foot of your bed faces a wardrobe or another piece of furniture. Before choosing this design, consider whether you have enough room along the opening side to lift the platform and reach inside.

Neither option is automatically better. The most suitable choice depends on your bedroom layout and where you can comfortably access the bed.

What Can You Store in an Ottoman Bed?

One of the biggest advantages of an ottoman bed is that it provides hidden storage without requiring extra floor space for drawers.

The compartment is particularly useful for items that you want to keep out of sight but still need to access occasionally.

Common items to store include:

• Spare bedding: Duvets, pillows, sheets and pillowcases.
• Seasonal clothing: Winter coats, jumpers and clothes that are not currently in use.
• Blankets and throws: Extra layers for colder weather or visiting guests.
• Suitcases and travel bags: Luggage that would otherwise take up wardrobe space.
• Towels and household linen: Clean towels and spare bedding for guest rooms.
• Occasionally used belongings: Items you want to keep organised without displaying them around the bedroom.

Before storing anything, check the available space and any storage weight limits specified for your bed. Avoid packing the compartment so tightly that items interfere with the lifting mechanism.

It is also sensible to store clean, completely dry belongings in suitable bags or containers. This helps protect fabrics from dust and unwanted moisture.

What Are the Benefits of an Ottoman Bed?

An ottoman bed offers several practical advantages, particularly if you want to make better use of your bedroom.

Makes Better Use of Available Space

The area beneath a bed often goes unused or becomes difficult to organise. An ottoman design turns this space into built-in storage, helping you make more use of the furniture you already have.

This can be especially helpful in smaller bedrooms, flats and guest rooms where every bit of space matters.

Keeps Clutter Out of Sight

Extra blankets, spare pillows and seasonal clothing can quickly make a bedroom feel untidy. Storing these items inside the bed keeps them hidden while leaving wardrobes and other storage furniture available for everyday essentials.

Does Not Require Drawer Clearance

Traditional storage beds with drawers need enough space around their sides for the drawers to open. An ottoman bed avoids this particular requirement because its storage is accessed by lifting the platform.

You still need adequate room to operate the bed, but you may have more flexibility when arranging bedside furniture.

Offers a Practical Storage Solution

An ottoman bed combines two everyday functions in one piece of furniture. You get a sleeping surface and a storage compartment without needing to buy separate storage units.

For households with limited cupboard space, this can make bedroom organisation considerably easier.

Are There Any Disadvantages to Ottoman Beds?

Although ottoman beds can be very useful, they may not suit every household.

Access takes a little more effort. You need to raise the mattress platform whenever you want something from the compartment. Items used several times a day may be better kept in an easily accessible drawer.

The mechanism needs proper care. Hinges and lifting components must be assembled correctly and used according to the instructions. A fault can affect how easily the bed opens and closes.

Room layout still matters. An end-opening bed needs suitable clearance at the foot, while a side-opening version needs accessible space along its opening side. You should also consider overhead obstructions.

The mattress must be suitable. A mattress that is too heavy or incompatible with the bed’s lifting mechanism may make operation difficult. Always check the recommended mattress specifications before making a decision.

Understanding these limitations beforehand can help you choose a design that fits your everyday needs.

Ottoman Bed vs Standard Bed: What Is the Difference?

The main difference is how each bed uses the space beneath the mattress.

Feature	Ottoman bed	Standard bed
Built-in storage	Yes, beneath the lifting base	Usually not included
Access	Lift the mattress platform	Depends on the design
Extra floor space	No drawer clearance needed	Depends on the frame
Best suited for	Bedrooms needing hidden storage	Bedrooms where storage is not a priority

An ottoman bed is worth considering if you want to keep extra belongings in your bedroom without adding another piece of furniture. A standard bed may be more suitable if you already have sufficient storage and prefer a simpler frame.

How to Choose the Right Ottoman Bed

Before buying an ottoman storage bed, consider how it will fit into your room and whether its features suit your daily routine.

Measure Your Bedroom

Measure the available floor space before choosing a bed size. Remember to account for bedside tables, wardrobes, doors and walking routes.

Check the opening direction, too. A bed that fits comfortably when closed may be more difficult to operate if furniture blocks its lifting path.

Check the Lifting Mechanism

Look for a mechanism that is designed for the bed’s size and intended mattress weight. Read the operating instructions and check whether the platform is designed to remain raised while you access the storage.

If possible, ask about the mechanism’s maintenance requirements and how replacement parts can be obtained.

Choose a Suitable Mattress

Not every mattress is equally suitable for every lifting bed. Check the permitted mattress dimensions and weight range before purchasing one.

A mattress that exceeds the recommended weight may make the platform difficult to raise. Do not assume that a mattress will be suitable simply because it matches the bed’s dimensions.

Consider the Available Storage

Think about what you actually plan to store. If you mainly need somewhere for spare duvets and seasonal clothes, a large compartment may be ideal. If you frequently need access to small everyday items, a drawer-based solution could be more convenient.

Check the Assembly Requirements

Ottoman beds have moving parts that need to be fitted correctly. Review the assembly instructions and consider professional assembly if you are not confident putting the mechanism together yourself.

Never modify the lifting components or attempt to repair a faulty mechanism without appropriate guidance.

How to Use an Ottoman Bed Safely

Correct use helps keep the bed practical and reduces the risk of injury.

• Follow the instructions supplied with the bed when opening and closing the base.
• Keep children and pets away from the moving platform while it is operating.
• Never place your hands beneath a raised platform or rely on an improvised support to hold it open.
• Avoid exceeding the storage compartment’s specified weight limit.
• Keep belongings clear of the hinges and lifting components.
• If the platform suddenly becomes difficult to lift, will not remain open as intended or begins to move unevenly, stop using the mechanism and seek appropriate assistance.

These precautions are particularly important because the lifting mechanism supports a substantial amount of weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an ottoman bed easy to lift?

Most gas-assisted ottoman beds are designed to make lifting easier. However, the effort required depends on the mattress weight, the mechanism and the bed’s construction. Follow the instructions for the specific model.

Do you have to remove the mattress to open an ottoman bed?

Usually, no. The mattress normally lifts with the platform, allowing access to the storage compartment underneath. Always follow the bed’s operating instructions.

Can you put any mattress on an ottoman bed?

Not necessarily. The mattress must match the bed’s dimensions and comply with its specified weight requirements. Check compatibility before buying a mattress or replacing an existing one.

Is an ottoman bed suitable for a small bedroom?

Yes, it can be a useful option because it provides hidden storage without requiring space for drawers to slide open. However, you must still have enough clearance to lift the platform safely.

Does an ottoman bed need maintenance?

The frame and lifting mechanism should be checked according to the care instructions. Keep moving parts clear of obstructions and contact a suitable professional if the mechanism develops a fault.

Conclusion

An ottoman bed is a practical way to combine sleeping comfort with additional bedroom storage. Its lifting platform reveals a hidden compartment beneath the mattress, providing space for spare bedding, seasonal clothing, luggage and other household essentials.

The key to choosing the right ottoman storage bed is understanding how it will work in your room. Consider the opening direction, mattress weight, available clearance and storage requirements before making your decision.

If you want to keep your bedroom organised without filling it with extra furniture, an ottoman bed could be a sensible option. With the right design and proper use, it can help you make better use of the space you already have.