If you're shopping for a storage bed, you'll quickly come across two popular choices: the ottoman bed and the divan bed. Both save space and both can hide away bedding, clothes and clutter, but they look and work quite differently.
In this guide we compare ottoman beds and divans side by side, so you can choose the right one for your room, your storage needs and your style.
What is a divan bed?
A divan bed is made up of an upholstered base that sits low to the floor, with your mattress placed on top. The headboard is usually separate, either fixed to the base or floor-standing. Divans have a neat, compact shape, and many come with storage built into the base, such as drawers or a lift-up ottoman section.
What is an ottoman bed?
An ottoman bed is a full upholstered bed frame, with side rails, a footboard area and an integrated headboard, where the mattress platform lifts up on gas pistons. Underneath is one large storage space that runs the full length and width of the bed.
Ottoman bed vs divan at a glance
| Ottoman bed | Divan bed | |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | One large lift-up space under the whole mattress | Drawers or a lift-up ottoman base, depending on the model |
| Style | Statement bed frame with an integrated headboard | Compact, streamlined base with a separate headboard |
| Floor space | No extra space needed to open it | Drawers need clear floor space to pull out |
| Best for | Bulky items such as duvets and suitcases | Smaller items you reach for every day |
| Footprint | Slightly larger, as the frame surrounds the mattress | Sits within the mattress footprint, ideal for tight rooms |
Storage: which holds more?
For sheer capacity, an ottoman bed usually wins. Because the whole area under the mattress is one open space, it's perfect for large, bulky items like spare duvets, pillows, suitcases and out-of-season clothes.
A divan with drawers is better for things you use every day, such as socks, t-shirts or bedding, because you can open a drawer without lifting the mattress. If you want the best of both, an ottoman divan gives you a divan's compact shape with a full lift-up storage space. Our Solid Gas Lift Divan Ottoman Base is a great example.
Space: which suits a small bedroom?
In a small or narrow room, think about how you'll access your storage. Divan drawers need clear floor space beside the bed to pull out, which can be tricky if your bed is close to a wall or wardrobe. An ottoman lifts upwards, so it needs no extra floor space at all, just enough room at the foot of the bed for the base to rise.
A divan base also sits within the size of the mattress, so it takes up slightly less floor space than a framed ottoman bed. If every centimetre counts, an ottoman divan can be the perfect compromise.
Style: statement bed or streamlined base?
An ottoman bed is designed to be the centrepiece of your bedroom, with a tall, upholstered headboard and a frame that wraps around the mattress for a luxurious, boutique-hotel finish. Explore our luxury ottoman beds to see the range of headboard designs.
A divan gives a cleaner, more traditional look and lets you choose a headboard separately, so it's easy to update your style later. For a really dramatic finish, pair a divan base with our floor-to-ceiling wall panels.
Budget: which costs less?
Divan beds are often the more affordable option, especially when bought as a set with a mattress. Ottoman beds tend to cost more because of the full upholstered frame and gas-lift mechanism, but you get a statement piece and the maximum storage space in return. Both ranges at Elliots Beds are handcrafted to order in Yorkshire, come with free delivery and a 2 year guarantee, and can be spread over time with Klarna or Clearpay.
Our popular divan storage beds
Lyon Divan Bed with Storage Options
A divan storage bed with a floor-standing headboard. Shop the Lyon divan.
Hatford Bed with Storage Options
Paired with a panelled, floor-standing headboard for a modern look. Shop the Hatford divan.
Brighton Divan Storage Bed with Mattress
A complete divan storage bed set with mattress included. Shop the Brighton divan.
Our popular ottoman beds
Our best-selling ottoman storage beds include the Zurich, Savoy and Empire, plus our new 2026 Serenity and Dusk designs. Read our Best Ottoman Beds UK buyer's guide for more.
So, ottoman bed or divan?
- Choose an ottoman bed if you want maximum storage for bulky items and a statement, hotel-style bed.
- Choose a divan with drawers if you want easy everyday access to smaller items and a compact, budget-friendly bed.
- Choose an ottoman divan if you want big storage in a compact footprint.
Ottoman vs divan FAQs
Is an ottoman bed better than a divan?
Neither is better for everyone. An ottoman bed offers more storage and a more luxurious look, while a divan is usually more compact and affordable. It depends on your room and what you need to store.
Can I put any mattress on an ottoman or divan bed?
Most standard UK mattresses will fit, as long as you choose the same size as your bed. For lift-up ottoman bases, check the mattress weight suits the gas-lift mechanism. Our team can advise if you're unsure.
Can I see the fabrics first?
Yes. Order fabric swatches to see and feel the colours before you buy.
Still not sure?
Our friendly team is happy to help you choose. Call us on 0800 124 4846, message us on WhatsApp at 07485 492367, or browse our divan storage beds and ottoman beds.