An ottoman bed is one of the smartest upgrades you can make to a bedroom. Lift the base and you unlock a huge hidden storage space for duvets, suitcases and seasonal clothes, with no drawers to clear and no clutter on show. But with so many ottoman beds on sale in the UK, how do you choose the right one?
In this guide we explain exactly what to look for, which size suits your room, and the handcrafted ottoman beds our customers love most.
What is an ottoman bed?
An ottoman bed has a base that lifts up on gas-lift pistons, giving you full access to the storage space underneath your mattress. Because the whole area under the bed is used, an ottoman usually holds far more than a bed with drawers, and you don't need extra floor space to open it.
What to look for in the best ottoman beds
1. A smooth, reliable gas-lift mechanism
The lift is the heart of an ottoman bed. Good gas pistons raise the mattress platform with minimal effort and hold it open safely while you reach inside. Ask whether the mechanism is suitable for the weight of your mattress, as heavier hybrid and pocket sprung mattresses need properly rated pistons.
2. A solid, well-built frame and a proper guarantee
A strong frame stops creaks and keeps the bed level for years. Look for beds that are built to order by specialists rather than mass-produced, and check what guarantee is included. Many high-street ottoman beds come with just one year of cover. Every Elliots bed comes with a 2 year manufacturer's guarantee as standard, double the cover you'll often find elsewhere.
3. A protected storage area
A solid or fully lined base keeps dust away from what you store and protects your belongings. Our Solid Gas Lift Divan Ottoman Base is designed with this in mind.
4. Fabric you will love living with
Velvet gives a luxurious sheen, boucle adds texture and warmth, and chenille is soft and hard-wearing. Colour looks different on screen, so we always recommend you order fabric swatches to see and feel them before you buy.
5. The right size for your room
Measure your room, doorways and stairs before you order, and leave space at the foot of the bed so the base can lift fully. Use our bed size guide for exact dimensions.
6. Made to order, made to fit
Standard sizes suit most rooms, but awkward alcoves and sloping ceilings sometimes need something different. A bed maker who builds to order can often tailor the size, headboard height and finish to your space.
UK ottoman bed sizes at a glance
- Single (3ft): 90 x 190cm, ideal for children's rooms and guest rooms.
- Small double (4ft): 120 x 190cm, great for compact rooms.
- Double (4ft 6): 135 x 190cm, the UK's most popular size.
- King size (5ft): 150 x 200cm, extra room for couples.
- Super king (6ft): 180 x 200cm, maximum space and maximum storage.
A super king ottoman bed gives you the largest storage area of all, which makes it a favourite for master bedrooms where every bit of space counts.
Our most popular ottoman beds for 2026
Every Elliots bed is handcrafted to order in Yorkshire and available in a wide choice of fabrics and colours.
Zurich Bed with Storage Option
One of our best sellers, the Zurich combines a striking headboard with practical storage options. Shop the Zurich bed.
Savoy Bed with Storage Options
A true statement piece for anyone who wants a boutique-hotel feel at home. Shop the Savoy bed.
Empire Bed with Ottoman Option
Another customer favourite with a classic, elegant look and an ottoman storage option. Shop the Empire bed.
Serenity and Dusk: new for 2026
Our newest designs bring fresh styling to the range. Explore the Serenity bed and the Dusk bed, both available with storage options.
Boucle Bed with Storage Option
Soft, textured boucle fabric for a warm and cosy bedroom. Shop the Boucle bed.
Complete the look with floor-to-ceiling wall panels
Pair a gas-lift ottoman base with our luxury upholstered wall panels for a dramatic, made-to-measure headboard wall that adds depth, warmth and a true boutique-hotel feel.
Ottoman bed FAQs
Are ottoman beds worth it?
For most homes, yes. An ottoman bed gives you the largest possible storage space under your mattress without taking up extra floor space, which makes it ideal for smaller bedrooms and busy family homes.
What guarantee do Elliots beds come with?
All of our beds come with a 2 year manufacturer's guarantee as standard. Read our guarantee.
Can I see the fabrics before I order?
Yes. You can order fabric swatches to see and feel the colours in your own room.
Can I spread the cost?
Yes. We offer Buy Now Pay Later with Klarna and Clearpay at checkout.
Can you make a non-standard size?
We specialise in bespoke orders, including unusual sizes and tricky spaces. Get in touch and tell us what you need.
Find your perfect ottoman bed
Ready to transform your bedroom? Browse our full range of luxury ottoman beds, handcrafted in Yorkshire with free delivery and a 2 year guarantee. Questions? Call us on 0800 124 4846 or message us on WhatsApp at 07485 492367.