15 of the best ottoman beds for essential extra storage
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn how we test.
The best ottoman beds are stylish, easy to operate, and have ample storage space – the perfect spot for girls with compact homes to stow away those rarely-reached for items. Think: seasonal duvets, beach towels, and spare bed linen. After all, where else could you possibly hide that massive ASOS order you forgot to return two years ago, or the Taylor Swift Halloween costume you wore in 2019? (Ahead of the curve).
These space-saving beds have been around for a while (centuries, actually), but with so many of us critically short on space in our homes, it's fair to say that their popularity levels are once again on the rise. And — as savvy and sophisticated shoppers who love nothing more than a multi-functional product — we're totally on board.
Of course, there are plenty of innovative storage options out there. But the great thing about ottoman beds – as you may have gathered – is that they provide tonnes of extra space, which you can literally sleep on. So, whether you’re looking for a traditional end-opening double, something to slot into a guest bedroom, or a design-led mid-century frame, get inspiration from these practical and stylish ottoman beds below.
SKIP TO: What size ottoman is best? | What is the best base for an ottoman bed? | Is a side opening ottoman or end ottoman better? | Is a side opening ottoman or end ottoman better? | What mattress is suitable for an ottoman bed? | What does gas-lift hydraulics mean? | Are ottoman storage beds heavy to lift up? | How did we choose the best ottoman beds? | Our picks
Are ottoman beds a good idea?
If you're looking for a bed that comes with as much built-in storage as possible, then an ottoman is definitely your best bet. “Divan beds usually have one or two storage drawers built into their base, and are therefore best-suited to keeping clothing and smaller items,” explains Jade Crooks, Commercial Director at DUSK.
The average ottoman bed can store four times more than a divan bed – and the clever. gas-hydraulic mechanisms mean you're also going to be less likely to injure yourself when accessing your storage. Win, win!
What size ottoman is best?
As you won't need room either side of your bed - with an end-opening ottoman, that is - to open any bed drawers, ottoman beds allow you to take advantage of the full width of small bedrooms, should you need. So it's important to measure your room and visualise whether you'll want bedside tables, room for a foot rug or any other accessories.
For singles, we'd recommend a small double or double for ultimate comfort and, likewise a king or super king will provide ample space for couples. Of course, it's important to consider the size of your existing mattress too, and check that you haven't owned a small double all this time under the impression you were kipping on a double.
Top tip - ottoman beds usually come up larger than your standard divans and platform top bed frames, so you really can't make do with the wrong mattress size!
What is the best base for an ottoman bed?
Ottoman beds typically have one of two bases: sprung-slatted, or a board base.
The latter is quite hard to come by and is normally featured only on more premium frames. Naturally, being a more premium interiors offering means that this type of base aims to offer buyers more longstanding security and peace of mind — knowing that their purchase will last them beyond a limited 2-year warranty.
However — in our opinion — you don't really notice a difference in your bed base feel-wise, so it's really a matter of how long you're planning on seeing this purchase out. Ottoman beds with a slatted base can actually be quite affordable, and should still see you through many years of use.
“A sprung-slatted bed base is made up of a series of curved wooden slats that are set within a frame," Jade explains. “The design of the slats provides a slight give, which can enhance comfort by offering better support and cushioning compared to a bed with a solid base.”
After more sleep content? We've got you covered. Once you've decided on a rattan bed frame or a low platform bed frame, it's time to choose a weighted blanket, mattress topper, and some anti-allergy and cooling pillows. Then comes silk bedding, the best fitted sheets, silk pillowcases and some pillow spray for the final flourish. For more from GLAMOUR UK's Commerce Writer Mayola Fernandes, follow her on Instagram @mayolafernandess.