Ottoman Beds Pros and Cons: Everything You Should Know Before Buying

Ottoman beds are one of the most talked-about furniture choices in UK bedrooms right now. They look sleek, they promise hidden storage, and they seem like the perfect solution for smaller spaces. But are they really worth it? I want to give you an honest answer. In this guide, I walk you through the real Ottoman beds pros and cons so you can decide with confidence.

Whether you're furnishing a new home or upgrading your current bedroom, understanding what an ottoman bed actually delivers, and where it falls short, will save you time, money, and disappointment.

What Is an Ottoman Bed?

An ottoman bed is a storage bed with a lift-up base. The mattress and base lift upward, either from the foot end or the side, to reveal a large storage compartment underneath. Our Ottoman beds collection at Solace Beds includes a wide range of styles, from contemporary fabric upholstery to classic designs, all crafted with quality British manufacturing.

Unlike a standard divan bed with pull-out drawers, an ottoman uses the entire under-bed space as one continuous storage area. This makes it one of the most space-efficient beds available today.

According to a 2023 survey by Furniture Today, 58% of UK homeowners say under-bed storage is their primary reason for choosing a storage bed. Ottoman beds answer that need better than almost any other design.

The Pros of Ottoman Beds

1. Exceptional Storage Capacity

The biggest selling point is storage. A king-size ottoman bed can offer up to 1,200 litres of storage space beneath the mattress. That's enough for bedding, seasonal clothes, luggage, or anything else cluttering your bedroom.

Unlike drawer divans, there's no awkward split in the middle. The entire cavity is open, making it easy to store large, bulky items like duvets, suitcases, or pillows in one clean space.

2. Perfect for Smaller UK Bedrooms

UK homes are amongst the smallest in Europe. The average UK bedroom measures just 11.5 square metres, according to LABC research. Ottoman beds eliminate the need for bulky wardrobes or under-bed boxes. They keep the floor clear and the room feeling open.

If you're working with a compact bedroom and need smart solutions, you might also want to explore our divan beds collection, which offers drawer storage options as an alternative for tighter spaces.

3. Clean, Streamlined Aesthetic

Ottoman beds have a low-profile, contemporary look. The base is fully enclosed, meaning there's no visible gap between the bed frame and the floor. This gives the bedroom a cleaner, more intentional appearance compared to traditional slatted or legged frames.

They're available in a wide range of upholstery options including linen, velvet, and faux leather, making them easy to coordinate with modern bedroom interiors.

4. Gas-Lift Mechanism Makes Access Easy

Modern Ottoman beds use a gas-lift hydraulic system. This means the base rises smoothly with minimal effort, even on heavier models. You don't need to strain your back to access the storage underneath. Most quality ottoman beds hold the base open securely without any props or latches.

5. No Wasted Space

Every centimetre of under-bed space is usable. There are no dividers, no runners, and no depth restrictions the way drawer divans sometimes have. For maximising bedroom storage, it's one of the most efficient designs on the market.

The Cons of Ottoman Beds

1. They Require Clearance Space to Open

This is the most important practical limitation. Ottoman beds need clear floor space in front of or beside the bed to allow the base to lift fully. If your bedroom is very tight, or if your bed is positioned between two walls, an ottoman may not open properly.

Always measure your room before buying. You need at least 60 to 80 cm of clearance on the lift side. Check whether the model opens from the foot end or the side, as this affects where you need that space.

2. Heavier Than Standard Beds

The hydraulic mechanism, reinforced base, and enclosed structure make ottoman beds heavier than open-frame or slatted options. Moving an ottoman bed between rooms or homes requires more effort and ideally two people. This is worth considering if you move frequently.

3. Higher Price Point

Ottoman beds cost more than standard bed frames. The gas-lift mechanism, the enclosed base construction, and the upholstery all contribute to a higher price. However, when you factor in the storage value, they often replace the need for additional bedroom furniture, which can make them cost-effective overall.

4. Mattress Access Takes a Few Seconds

Unlike a bed you can slide a box or bag under instantly, an ottoman requires you to lift the base each time. This is minor for most people, but if you access under-bed storage very frequently throughout the day, it may feel slightly less convenient than open-access drawers.

5. Mechanism Needs Occasional Maintenance

The gas-lift pistons are durable but not permanent. Over years of regular use, they may need replacing. Quality manufacturers like Solace Beds use high-grade pistons built to last, but it is a moving component that a cheap model may not maintain well over time. Always check the warranty before purchasing.

Ottoman Beds vs Divan Beds: Quick Comparison

 

Is an Ottoman Bed Right for You?

An ottoman bed is an excellent choice if you answer yes to most of these questions.

●     Do you need large storage space? Ottoman beds outperform drawers for bulky items.

●     Is your bedroom on the smaller side? The clean enclosed base keeps the room feeling spacious.

●     Do you prefer a modern bedroom aesthetic? The upholstered design suits contemporary interiors perfectly.

●     Can you allow clearance space beside or at the foot of the bed? This is non-negotiable for the lift mechanism to work.

If storage isn't a priority and you want the most budget-friendly option, a standard divan or bed frame may suit you better. But if storage and style matter, an ottoman is hard to beat.

What the Experts Say About Bedroom Storage

The Sleep Foundation notes that a clutter-free bedroom environment directly supports better sleep quality. Reducing visible mess and organising storage efficiently has measurable benefits for sleep onset and sleep depth. You can explore their bedroom environment guidance at the Sleep Foundation's bedroom environment guide.

Ottoman beds align with this principle well. Because all storage is hidden beneath the mattress, your bedroom stays visually calm and tidy, which research consistently links to better rest.

Why Choose a Solace Beds Ottoman?

At Solace Beds, every ottoman bed is manufactured in our own UK warehouse. We use high-grade gas-lift pistons, reinforced base panels, and quality upholstery fabrics across our range. Each bed comes with a 12-month warranty covering any faults in materials or workmanship.

Browse our full ottoman beds collection to find the right size, colour, and style for your bedroom. We deliver across the UK within 5 to 15 business days, with a 30-day return policy for complete peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Ottoman beds worth the money?

Yes, for most people ottoman beds offer excellent value. The under-bed storage they provide can replace the need for additional wardrobes or storage units. When you factor in the storage value alongside the clean aesthetic, the higher price point compared to a standard bed frame is usually justified. At Solace Beds, our ottoman range is competitively priced with British-made quality built in.

Can you use any mattress on an ottoman bed?

Most mattress types work well on an ottoman bed, including memory foam, pocket sprung, and orthopaedic mattresses. However, very thick or heavy mattresses can make the lift mechanism feel stiffer over time. A mattress between 20 and 30 cm thick is the ideal range for comfortable and easy lifting. Always check the weight guidance provided by the manufacturer.

Do Ottoman beds break easily?

Quality ottoman beds with robust gas-lift pistons are very durable. The mechanism on well-made models is built to open and close thousands of times without failure. Cheaper models can experience piston fatigue or base warping after heavy use. Always buy from a reputable manufacturer with a warranty. Solace Beds offers a 12-month guarantee on all ottoman beds against faults in materials and workmanship.

Which is better: side-opening or foot-opening ottoman beds?

It depends on your bedroom layout. Foot-opening ottoman beds are ideal when you have space at the end of the bed but walls on either side. Side-opening models work better when the foot of the bed faces a wall or a wardrobe. Measure your room carefully before deciding. At Solace Beds, our team can advise you on which opening direction suits your specific room layout.