Ottoman beds have become one of the most popular choices for modern bedrooms, especially for homes where storage space is limited. Instead of wasting the space underneath the mattress, an ottoman bed lifts up to reveal hidden storage inside the base.
At Emerald Rest, our Ottoman Beds are designed for customers across Ireland who want a stylish bed, practical storage and everyday comfort in one complete setup. Whether you are furnishing a main bedroom, apartment, guest room or spare room, an ottoman bed can be one of the smartest ways to make better use of your space.
In this guide, we explain what an ottoman bed is, how ottoman storage works, the difference between side opening and end opening ottoman beds, who they are best for, and whether an ottoman bed is worth it for your bedroom.
What Is an Ottoman Bed?
An ottoman bed is a bed with hidden storage underneath the mattress. The mattress and base lift up using a gas-lift mechanism, allowing you to access the storage space inside the bed frame.
This makes ottoman beds different from standard bed frames, where the space underneath the bed is often unused or difficult to access. With an ottoman storage bed, you can keep spare bedding, pillows, duvets, towels, clothes, shoes or seasonal items neatly hidden away.
For many customers, an ottoman bed is a practical alternative to adding extra drawers, wardrobes or storage boxes around the room.
Are Ottoman Beds Worth It?
Yes, ottoman beds are worth it for many bedrooms, especially if storage is important. They give you a comfortable bed and a large hidden storage area in the same footprint as the mattress.
This is one of the biggest advantages of an ottoman bed. You are not taking up extra floor space with bulky bedroom furniture, but you still gain a useful storage area underneath the bed.
An ottoman bed can be especially worthwhile if you:
- Need more bedroom storage
- Want to reduce clutter in the room
- Live in an apartment or smaller home
- Have limited wardrobe or drawer space
- Want somewhere to store spare bedding and seasonal items
- Prefer a clean, tidy bedroom without visible storage boxes
- Want a stylish upholstered bed with practical storage built in
If you only need a simple bed and already have plenty of storage, a standard upholstered bed frame or divan bed set may be enough. But if you want maximum hidden storage, an ottoman bed is one of the best options available.
How Does Ottoman Bed Storage Work?
Ottoman bed storage works by lifting the mattress platform upwards. Gas-lift pistons help support the weight of the mattress and frame, making it easier to open and close the storage area.
Once lifted, the space inside the base can be used for items you do not need every day. Many customers use ottoman storage for spare duvets, blankets, pillows, bed linen, towels, winter clothes, shoes and suitcases.
The storage is hidden when the bed is closed, so the bedroom still looks neat and uncluttered.
Side Opening vs End Opening Ottoman Beds
Ottoman beds usually open in one of two ways: from the side or from the end. The best option depends on your bedroom layout and where you have the most space to stand when opening the bed.
| Opening Type | How It Opens | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Side Opening Ottoman Bed | The bed lifts from one side | Rooms where one side of the bed is easier to access |
| End Opening Ottoman Bed | The bed lifts from the foot end | Rooms with clear space at the foot of the bed |
A side opening ottoman bed can work well if the foot of the bed is close to a wall, wardrobe or chest of drawers. An end opening ottoman bed can be better if you have more open space at the bottom of the bed.
Before choosing, think about your room layout. Make sure you can comfortably stand where the bed opens and access the storage without furniture getting in the way.
Ottoman Beds vs Divan Beds With Storage
Both ottoman beds and storage divan beds can help you make better use of bedroom space, but they work differently.
A storage divan bed usually uses drawers built into the base. This is useful for items you want easy access to, such as bedding, clothes or smaller bedroom essentials.
An ottoman bed lifts up to reveal a larger storage area underneath the mattress. This is often better for bulkier items such as duvets, pillows, blankets, luggage or seasonal clothing.
| Bed Type | Storage Style | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Ottoman Bed | Large hidden under-bed compartment | Maximum storage and a tidy bedroom look |
| Divan Bed Set With Storage | Drawer storage in the divan base | Easy-access storage and complete bed packages |
| Divan Base Only | Base storage, depending on the option selected | Customers keeping their existing mattress |
If you want the most storage possible, an ottoman bed is usually the stronger choice. If you want a complete bed with mattress and headboard included, a divan bed set may be more suitable.
Ottoman Beds vs Standard Bed Frames
A standard bed frame can look stylish, but it may not offer much practical storage. Some frames have space underneath, but it is often exposed, dusty or awkward to use.
An ottoman bed gives you the style of a bed frame with the added benefit of hidden storage. This makes it ideal for customers who want a more polished bedroom look without losing practical storage space.
If you like the look of upholstered beds but need extra storage, an upholstered ottoman bed can be a strong choice.
What Can You Store in an Ottoman Bed?
Ottoman beds are useful for storing items that take up space elsewhere in the home. The storage area is hidden, spacious and ideal for items you do not need to access several times a day.
Common items to store in an ottoman bed include:
- Spare duvets and pillows
- Bed linen and fitted sheets
- Blankets and throws
- Seasonal clothes
- Towels
- Shoes and bags
- Suitcases and travel items
- Children’s bedding or spare guest bedding
For best results, use storage bags or boxes inside the ottoman compartment. This keeps items organised and makes it easier to lift things in and out.
Are Ottoman Beds Good for Small Bedrooms?
Yes, ottoman beds are excellent for small bedrooms because they give you storage without taking up extra floor space. The storage is built into the bed, so you may be able to reduce the need for extra drawers, chests or storage boxes.
A Small Double ottoman bed can be especially useful for compact rooms where you want more sleeping space than a Single but still need practical storage. A Double ottoman bed is a popular choice for main bedrooms, guest rooms and apartments.
If your bedroom is tight for space, measure carefully before ordering. You should check both the bed size and the space needed to open the ottoman mechanism comfortably.
Are Ottoman Beds Easy to Lift?
Ottoman beds use a gas-lift mechanism to help make opening and closing the bed easier. The pistons help take some of the weight, so you are not lifting the full mattress and base platform on your own.
The exact feel can depend on the mattress weight and bed size. Larger mattresses may naturally feel heavier than smaller ones, but the gas-lift design is there to make the storage easier to access than lifting a standard bed platform manually.
When opening an ottoman bed, always lift from the correct handle or opening point and avoid forcing the frame. This helps protect the mechanism and keeps the bed working properly.
Are Ottoman Beds Safe?
Ottoman beds are designed to be safe when assembled and used correctly. The gas-lift mechanism helps support the bed platform when open, and the storage area should close securely when not in use.
As with any bed, correct assembly is important. Always follow the instructions supplied with the bed and make sure the frame is properly secured before use.
Children should not climb inside the storage area or play with the lifting mechanism. The storage space is designed for household items, not for sitting, standing or playing inside.
Do Ottoman Beds Need a Special Mattress?
In most cases, an ottoman bed does not need a special mattress. You should choose a mattress that matches the size of the bed frame and suits your comfort needs.
For example, a Double ottoman bed needs a Double mattress, while a King size ottoman bed needs a King size mattress. The mattress should sit properly on the base and should not overhang the frame.
You can browse our full mattress collection if you are buying an ottoman bed frame and need a new mattress to go with it.
Which Mattress Works Best With an Ottoman Bed?
The best mattress for an ottoman bed depends on how you like to sleep. The bed frame provides the storage and support platform, while the mattress provides the comfort.
For everyday use, many customers choose a medium or medium-firm mattress because it offers a good balance of comfort and support. If you prefer a firmer feel, an orthopaedic mattress may be suitable. If you want extra cushioning, a pillow top mattress may feel more comfortable.
If you are unsure, read our Mattress Buying Guide or compare options in our Mattresses collection.
What Sizes Do Ottoman Beds Come In?
Ottoman beds are usually available in the most popular Ireland and UK bed sizes. The right size depends on your room and who will be sleeping in the bed.
| Ottoman Bed Size | Dimensions | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Single Ottoman Bed | 3ft x 6ft3 / 90cm x 190cm | Children, teenagers, guest rooms and small bedrooms |
| Small Double Ottoman Bed | 4ft x 6ft3 / 120cm x 190cm | Single adults, compact rooms and apartments |
| Double Ottoman Bed | 4ft6 x 6ft3 / 135cm x 190cm | Couples, main bedrooms and everyday use |
| King Size Ottoman Bed | 5ft x 6ft6 / 150cm x 200cm | Couples wanting extra width and length |
| Super King Size Ottoman Bed | 6ft x 6ft6 / 180cm x 200cm | Larger bedrooms and maximum sleeping space |
Before choosing your size, measure your bedroom carefully. You should leave space to walk around the bed and enough room to open wardrobes, drawers and doors.
What Colour Ottoman Bed Should You Choose?
The colour of your ottoman bed can change the whole look of the bedroom. Neutral shades are popular because they are easy to style with different bedding, flooring and wall colours.
Grey, beige, ivory and similar tones can create a calm, modern bedroom look. Darker shades can feel more dramatic and premium, while softer colours can make the room feel brighter and more relaxed.
When choosing your colour, think about the rest of the room. Your bed is usually the largest piece of furniture in the bedroom, so the fabric should work well with your walls, flooring, curtains and bedside furniture.
Are Ottoman Beds Good for Guest Rooms?
Yes, ottoman beds can be a very smart choice for guest rooms. A guest room often needs to work as both a bedroom and a storage space, especially in homes where spare rooms are used for bedding, luggage or seasonal items.
An ottoman bed keeps those items hidden while still giving guests a comfortable place to sleep. This helps the room feel more organised and welcoming.
For a guest room, a Double ottoman bed is often a practical choice if space allows. For smaller guest rooms, a Single or Small Double ottoman bed may work better.
Are Ottoman Beds Good for Main Bedrooms?
Ottoman beds are also ideal for main bedrooms, especially if you want the room to feel clean, calm and uncluttered. The hidden storage can help keep everyday bedroom items out of sight.
For couples, a King size ottoman bed can be a strong choice because it gives extra sleeping space and a larger storage area underneath. If the room is large enough, a Super King size ottoman bed can create a more luxurious bedroom setup.
If storage is important but you still want a stylish bed, an upholstered ottoman bed is one of the best options to consider.
Possible Downsides of Ottoman Beds
Ottoman beds are very practical, but there are a few things to consider before choosing one.
- They need correct assembly: the lift mechanism should be fitted properly so the bed opens and closes smoothly.
- The mattress adds weight: heavier mattresses may make the bed feel heavier to lift, even with gas-lift support.
- You need access space: make sure the bed can open without hitting furniture or walls.
- Storage needs organising: using bags or boxes helps keep the inside neat and easy to use.
For most customers, these points are easy to manage. The benefit of hidden storage usually outweighs the small extra considerations.
Who Should Choose an Ottoman Bed?
An ottoman bed is a good choice if you want a stylish bed with practical hidden storage. It is especially suitable for:
- Homes with limited storage space
- Small bedrooms and apartments
- Guest rooms that also need storage
- Main bedrooms where clutter needs reduced
- Customers storing bulky bedding or seasonal items
- Anyone wanting a clean, modern bedroom look
If you want a complete bed package with mattress and headboard included, a divan bed set may be better. If you want maximum hidden storage, an ottoman bed is usually the stronger option.
Why Choose an Ottoman Bed From Emerald Rest?
Emerald Rest supplies beds and mattresses across Ireland, with a focus on practical comfort, strong value and clean bedroom styling. Our ottoman beds are designed to help customers create a more organised bedroom without sacrificing comfort or style.
Whether you need a Double ottoman bed for everyday use, a King size ottoman bed for extra room, or a storage bed for a guest room, Emerald Rest offers practical options to suit different homes and budgets.
You can also pair your ottoman bed with one of our Mattresses or compare alternative options such as Divan Bed Sets, Divan Bases and Upholstered Beds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ottoman Beds
Are ottoman beds worth it?
Yes, ottoman beds are worth it if you need extra storage and want to keep your bedroom tidy. They provide a large hidden storage area underneath the mattress without taking up extra floor space.
Are ottoman beds good for small bedrooms?
Yes. Ottoman beds are excellent for small bedrooms because the storage is built into the bed. This can reduce the need for extra drawers, boxes or storage furniture.
Is a side opening or end opening ottoman bed better?
The best option depends on your room layout. A side opening ottoman bed is useful if the side of the bed is easiest to access. An end opening ottoman bed works well if there is clear space at the foot of the bed.
Do ottoman beds need a special mattress?
No, ottoman beds usually do not need a special mattress. You simply need a mattress that matches the bed size and suits your comfort preference.
Are ottoman beds hard to lift?
Ottoman beds use gas-lift support to make lifting easier. Larger beds and heavier mattresses may naturally feel heavier, but the gas-lift mechanism is designed to help support the opening and closing movement.
What can I store in an ottoman bed?
Ottoman beds are ideal for storing spare bedding, duvets, pillows, blankets, towels, seasonal clothes, shoes, bags and luggage.
Are ottoman beds safe?
Ottoman beds are designed to be safe when assembled and used properly. Always follow the assembly instructions and do not allow children to play inside the storage area or with the lift mechanism.
Final Thoughts
Ottoman beds are worth it for many homes because they combine comfort, style and hidden storage in one practical bed. They are especially useful for small bedrooms, apartments, guest rooms and main bedrooms where extra storage is needed.
If you want to make better use of your bedroom space, an ottoman bed is one of the best choices available. It helps keep the room tidy, makes bulky items easier to store, and gives your bedroom a clean, finished look.
Explore our full range of Ottoman Beds, or compare with our Divan Bed Sets, Mattresses, Divan Bases and Upholstered Beds to find the right option for your home.