Compact living spaces have certainly become the ‘in’ thing in the last few years. With programmes like George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces showcasing homes on boats and shipping containers, there are tons of ideas for even the smallest homes.
In Britain, nearly 60% of homeowners reported that they prefer to have multifunctional furniture pieces, particularly when they have a lack of space but want to make a room as usable as possible. Enter: the ottoman bed. These are becoming more and more popular thanks to their convenience but also their comfort.
But where on earth do you start? There are so many designs out there, all promising different storage options, different designs, feet vs. no feet. Below, I’d like to try and clear up your confusion and help you decide which double ottoman bed is right for you.
What should you consider when selecting an ottoman bed?
Okay so where do we start? An ottoman bed is one that has a built-in (but concealed) storage unit under the mattress. The entire upper section of the bed can usually be lifted to reveal plenty of space for clothes, shoes, beddings, books and whatever else you fancy. This space would otherwise be wasted, and a bed usually takes up the majority of the space in a bedroom.
When choosing an ottoman, I’d definitely take into account the design, the materials, the functionality, the craftsmanship and its features. I’d also check reviews before making a purchase, to ensure plenty of other customers were happy with their purchase, and weren’t receiving broken beds, or lying on it one night and falling through.
Material and build quality
The foundation of any good ottoman bed lies (sorry for the pun) in its construction. Typically, ottoman beds have a sturdy wooden or metal frame.
Wooden frames (usually made from solid hardwood or engineered wood) offer a more natural aesthetic and a robustnuss that is ideal for long-term use. Metal frames are usually slightly lighter than wood, meaning it’s easier to lift and access your stored items, but they can look a little more harsh.
The upholstery materials that cover the bed can also vary widely. Common options include faux leather, fabric and linen. Faux leather is popular thanks to its durability and ease of cleaning, whereas fabric options can add softness and a variety of textures to match different interior styles. When selecting small double ottoman beds, it’s advisable to check the quality of the upholstery, ensuring it resists wear and tear over time.
We purchased a pink bed for our daughter’s bedroom, but the main material on the headboard and the frame is a pink fabric. So far, it’s stood the test of time, but I’m sure it’ll need a good clean eventually.
Build quality extends beyond the materials you can see, too, and include the construction of the lifting mechanism and joints. A well-made bed should feature smooth-operating hinges or pistons that allow effortless access to storage without risking damage or sudden drops. Additionally, reinforced joints and sturdy base panels contribute to the bed’s longevity, especially considering the frequent use of the storage compartment.
Design styles and trends
Ottoman beds come in both modern and traditional designs, so the one you go for will depend largely on your taste and the decor of your bedroom. If you are looking for a classic style, beds with simple wooden frames and a neutral coloured fabric work best.
Small double ottoman beds suit a range of interior styles, from Scandinavian simplicity to industrial chic and classic elegance. It’s important to choose a bed design that complements your other furnishings and colour scheme, creating a sense of harmony throughout the room. Consider both the furniture and fixed features, as well as the tones and textures used in the space.
Storage capacity and mechanisms
There’s no point in buying an ottoman bed that isn’t going to fit all of your items in. So measure and measure again when buying an ottoman bed to make sure the capacity size is correct for what you need. Storage capacity varies depending on the bed’s size and design. A well-designed small double ottoman bed can provide ample space for bedding, seasonal clothing, or other household items, helping to declutter the bedroom. Some models feature divided compartments or additional drawers, increasing organisational options.
The mechanism by which the bed lifts to reveal the storage compartment is vital for ease of use and safety as well, so do consider this before making a purchase.
There are primarily two types of mechanisms: gas-lift pistons and manual lift systems.
Gas-lift pistons are common in modern ottoman beds because of their smooth operation and minimal effort required to open or close the bed. They assist in lifting the mattress with controlled force, reducing strain and minimising the risk of sudden drops. This type of mechanism also allows for full 360-degree access to the storage area, making it easy to organise belongings.
Manual lift systems, often simpler and more cost-effective, require lifting the mattress with hands to access the storage. While they can be durable, they may demand more effort, particularly with larger or heavier mattresses. When choosing a small double ottoman bed, it’s important to consider how frequently the storage space will be accessed and whether ease of operation aligns with daily use.
An efficient gas-lift system should be capable of holding up to repeated lifting through the years. User reviews and product specifications often contain information important for understanding how reliable and durable the storage mechanisms are.
Where can you buy an ottoman bed?
If you want to try out a bed in person, there are plenty of brick-and-mortar stores that allow you to test an ottoman bed:
- Dreams: over 200 stores in the UK
- Bensons for Beds: 150 stores nationwide
- Furniture Village
- John Lewis
- DFS
Top tip: When you visit, ask to see how the lifting mechanism works (some are heavier than others), check the depth and accessibility of the storage base, and try the mattress on top (some stores let you mix and match).
Of course, you may want to purchase the bed online and only buy your mattress in person. In that instance, there are plenty of reputable online bed retailers, or you can use the websites of the brands listed above.
Sarah is the creator and founder of Dream of Home, a website that began during Sarah’s first home renovation project. Since then, the site has grown and Sarah produces content around all things home, including home decor, DIY projects, renovation tips, inspiration and more. In her spare time, she loves to read and garden.
