Is an Upholstered Ottoman Bed Right for Your Bedroom?

A bed has a big influence on how your bedroom looks and feels. If you would like a softer, more inviting centrepiece and a place to keep spare bedding or seasonal clothes, an upholstered ottoman bed could be worth considering. It combines a fabric-covered frame with storage beneath the mattress, helping you make more use of the space you already have.

But is it the right choice for your room? Here are the main benefits, along with a few practical points to check before you buy.

What is an upholstered ottoman bed?

An upholstered ottoman bed has a fabric-covered frame and a base that lifts to reveal storage underneath. Many models use a lifting mechanism to help raise the mattress and bed base, though the opening direction and details vary between designs.

The upholstery gives the bed a softer look than a plain wooden or metal frame. You can find styles with different fabrics, colours and headboards, so it can suit anything from a calm, neutral bedroom to a richer, more traditional scheme.

Why choose an upholstered ottoman bed?

Make use of under-bed space

The storage compartment can be handy for items you do not need every day, such as spare duvets, pillows, extra blankets or out-of-season clothes. Keeping them under the bed can free up wardrobe and cupboard space and help the room feel less cluttered.

The available storage space varies by bed, so check the product dimensions and layout if you have particular items in mind.

Add a softer finishing touch

Upholstery brings texture and warmth into the room. A padded headboard can also create a comfortable spot to sit up and read or watch television. Choose a colour and fabric that works with your bedding, curtains and other furniture; a neutral shade is easy to build around, while a deeper colour can make the bed a focal point.

Keep the floor around the bed clear

Unlike a bed with pull-out drawers, an ottoman bed does not need drawer space along its sides. That can be useful in a room where bedside tables or narrow walkways make drawer access awkward. You will still need enough room to lift the base, so check whether your chosen model opens from the side or the foot of the bed.

Could it work in a small bedroom?

It can, particularly if you want extra storage but do not have room for another chest or cupboard. The key is to measure carefully. Check the bed’s overall dimensions, leave space for bedside furniture and make sure you can open the ottoman without hitting a wall, radiator or light fitting.

Think about what you will store, too. Ottoman storage is most useful for things you can put away for a while. If you need to reach an item every morning, a drawer or wardrobe may be more convenient.

What should you check before buying?

Before choosing an upholstered ottoman bed, take a moment to check:

• Opening direction: Make sure the base opens in the direction that works with your room layout.
• Mattress compatibility: Check the product guidance for suitable mattress sizes and weights, as these can affect the lifting mechanism.
• Measurements: Compare the full bed dimensions with your room, not just the mattress size.
• Fabric care: Follow the care guidance for the specific upholstery, especially if the bed will be used in a busy household.
• Access to the storage: Consider how often you will lift the base and whether the design feels practical for you.

If ease of lifting is a concern, check the product information or ask the retailer about the mechanism before ordering.

So, is an upholstered ottoman bed right for you?

An upholstered ottoman bed could be a good fit if you want a comfortable-looking bed, useful hidden storage and a bedroom with less visible clutter. It is especially worth considering when floor space is limited and you do not want drawers taking up room beside the bed.

Measure your room, check the opening direction and choose a fabric that suits your routine as well as your style. Once those details work, you can enjoy a bed that brings together comfort, storage and a more finished look.

Explore the upholstered ottoman bed collection at Beds on Legs to compare styles and find one that suits your bedroom.