Buying an Ottoman Divan Bed? Check These Key Features
Buying an Ottoman Divan Bed? Check These Key Features 
Have you ever opened your closet and had everything tumble out like a retail store during Black Friday sales? Or maybe you've tripped over shoes scattered across your bedroom floor one too many times? If storage space in your bedroom is as rare as a quiet moment in a house with kids, an ottoman divan bed might be the solution you've been dreaming about.
Ottoman divan beds have become increasingly popular in UK homes, and it's easy to see why. They combine the practical storage benefits of traditional divans with the generous space of ottoman-style storage. But with so many options available, from basic models to luxury ottoman beds, how do you know which features really matter?
Let's dive into what you should check before investing in an ottoman divan bed, so you don't end up with buyer's remorse when that beautiful new bed arrives.
What Is an Ottoman Divan Bed?
Before we get into the must-have features, let's be clear about what makes an ottoman divan bed different from other bed types.
An ottoman divan bed combines two popular bed styles: the solid base structure of a divan bed with the lift-up storage bed mechanism of an ottoman. Unlike regular divan beds that might have drawers on the sides, ottoman divan beds lift from either the end or the side to reveal a large storage area underneath the entire mattress.
The bed consists of a solid base (usually made of wood) that's upholstered in fabric, with a hydraulic lifting system that allows you to raise the mattress platform easily. This design gives you access to much more storage space than traditional drawer divans.
Essential Features to Check When Buying an Ottoman Divan Bed
1. Lifting Mechanism Type and Quality
The lifting mechanism is the heart of any ottoman storage bed. It's what transforms a regular bed into a storage powerhouse, so it's worth paying attention to this feature.
Most divan ottoman beds use gas hydraulic pistons to help you lift the weight of the mattress effortlessly. When checking this feature, look for:
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Smooth operation without jerking or sticking
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Ability to stay open without you having to hold it
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Quiet movement without squeaking or grinding noises
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Safety features that prevent sudden closing
The Furniture Industry Research Association recommends looking for mechanisms that include finger-trap prevention features, especially important in homes with children.
When testing an ottoman bed in a showroom, don't be shy about opening and closing it several times. A quality lifting mechanism should work just as smoothly on the tenth try as it did on the first.
2. Opening Direction Options
Ottoman divan beds can open in different ways, and choosing the right option for your bedroom layout is crucial.
End-lifting ottomans: The mattress lifts from the foot of the bed toward the headboard. This option works well in rooms where you have space at the foot of the bed but limited space on the sides.
Side-lifting ottomans: The mattress lifts from one side. This can be ideal if your bed is positioned against a wall on one side or if you find it easier to access from the side rather than the end.
Half ottomans: Only half the bed base lifts, which can be a good compromise if you want some ottoman storage but don't need the entire under-bed space.
Consider your bedroom layout and how you'll access the storage. If your bedroom is small, a side-lifting ottoman might be impractical if there isn't enough clearance for the mattress to lift fully. Here’s the list of best ottoman divan beds to maximize space in any room.
3. Storage Capacity and Accessibility
One of the main reasons people choose ottoman divan storage beds is for their impressive storage capacity. However, not all ottoman beds offer the same amount of usable space.
When evaluating storage capacity:
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Check the internal depth of the storage area
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Look for models with a flat, even storage floor
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Consider whether there are any internal dividers or compartments
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Check if the base has cutouts that reduce storage space
A king size divan ottoman bed can provide up to three times more storage space than a traditional drawer divan. For maximum storage, look for beds with minimal internal framing that could reduce the usable space.
Accessibility is just as important as capacity. Some ottoman beds open to a full 90 degrees, while others might only open to 45 degrees. The wider the opening angle, the easier it will be to access items stored at the far end of the bed.
4. Base Construction and Durability
The construction of the ottoman divan bed base affects both its durability and how well it protects the items stored inside.
Quality ottoman divan bed bases typically feature:
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Solid timber frames that can withstand the weight of both the mattress and stored items
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Proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup (particularly important for storing clothing or bedding)
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Sturdy corner joints that won't loosen over time
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A sealed base that prevents dust from entering the storage area
Some luxury ottoman beds include additional features like lined storage areas or cedar paneling to protect against moths. While these features add to the cost, they can be worth considering if you plan to store seasonal clothing or delicate fabrics.
5. Upholstery Options and Quality
The upholstery of your ottoman divan bed plays a dual role: it affects both the bed's appearance and its durability.
Popular upholstery options include:
Fabric ottoman beds: These offer the widest range of color and texture options. Look for high-quality fabrics with good rub counts (20,000+ for everyday use) that will withstand regular contact.
Faux leather: Easy to clean and maintain, faux leather can be ideal for homes with children or pets. Check that the material is breathable to prevent it from becoming sticky in warm weather.
Velvet: For a luxury ottoman bed look, velvet upholstery adds texture and a sense of opulence. Be aware that velvet requires more care and may show wear more quickly in high-contact areas.
When checking upholstery quality, pay attention to the evenness of the fabric application, the quality of the stitching (particularly at corners and seams), and whether the pattern (if any) is properly aligned.
6. Mattress Compatibility and Support
Not all mattresses work well with ottoman divan beds. The regular lifting and lowering can affect some mattress types over time.
Generally speaking:
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Spring mattresses tend to work well with ottoman beds
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Memory foam mattresses may be compatible but check with the manufacturer
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Very heavy mattresses might strain the lifting mechanism
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Very thick mattresses might reduce the effectiveness of the lifting mechanism
Most ottoman beds have a platform top rather than a sprung one, which provides firm, even support for your mattress. If you prefer a softer feel, you might want to consider a mattress with more inherent cushioning.
Check the weight limit of the ottoman mechanism as well as the maximum recommended mattress weight. Using a mattress that's too heavy can damage the lifting mechanism and potentially void your warranty.
7. Size and Dimensions
Ottoman divan beds come in all standard UK sizes, from single divan ottoman beds to king size divan ottoman beds. However, the overall dimensions can vary between manufacturers, even for the same nominal size.
When checking dimensions:
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Measure the available space in your bedroom, including clearance for the ottoman to open
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Check the external dimensions of the bed, not just the mattress size
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Confirm the height of the bed (ottoman divans are sometimes higher than regular beds)
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Consider whether you need clearance underneath for a vacuum cleaner
The height of ottoman divan beds can vary significantly. Some models sit quite high off the ground, which may make them difficult to get in and out of for some people. Others are designed with a lower profile. Choose a height that suits your personal preference and physical needs.
8. Assembly Requirements and Delivery Options
Nobody wants to spend hours wrestling with complicated furniture assembly, especially for something as large as a bed.
When considering ottoman divan beds:
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Check whether the bed comes fully assembled or requires home assembly
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Find out if assembly services are available and at what cost
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Ask about next day delivery ottoman beds if you need your new bed quickly
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Confirm whether the delivery includes positioning the bed in your room and removing packaging
Some retailers offer "white glove" delivery services that include setup of your new bed and removal of your old one. While this service usually comes at an additional cost, it can be worth it for the convenience, especially with larger beds like king size ottoman divan beds.
Value Considerations for Different Budgets
Ottoman divan beds are available at various price points, from budget-friendly options to high-end luxury models.
Budget-Friendly Options
If you're looking for cheap ottoman beds or discount ottoman beds, there are ways to save money without completely sacrificing quality:
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Look for ottoman beds for sale during seasonal promotions
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Consider end-of-line models or display items
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Check if retailers offer interest-free credit options
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Compare online specialists with traditional stores
While budget options may have simpler lifting mechanisms or basic upholstery, many still provide good storage and reasonable durability. Just be wary of beds that seem too cheap to be true, as the lifting mechanism might fail prematurely.
Mid-Range Options
For most people, mid-range ottoman divan beds offer the best balance of quality and value. In this price bracket, expect:
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Reliable, smooth-operating lifting mechanisms
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Good quality upholstery with a decent choice of colors
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Solid construction that will last for years
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Manufacturers' warranties of 1-5 years
This category represents the sweet spot where you get most of the features that matter without paying for unnecessary extras.
Luxury Options
Luxury ottoman beds can cost considerably more but offer additional features and benefits:
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Premium upholstery fabrics like high-grade velvet or natural wool
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Enhanced lifting mechanisms with superior stability
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Additional features like built-in lighting or USB charging ports
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Extended warranties and better after-sales service
A luxury ottoman bed can serve as a statement piece in your bedroom while providing exceptional storage and sleeping comfort.
Real-World Considerations for Everyday Use
Beyond the technical specifications, there are practical considerations that affect how well an ottoman divan bed will work in your day-to-day life.
Frequency of Access
How often will you need to access the storage space? If you'll be opening the ottoman regularly (perhaps to get clothes out daily), then a high-quality lifting mechanism becomes even more important. For less frequent access (such as seasonal storage), you might be able to compromise on this feature.
Weight of Stored Items
Consider what you plan to store in your ottoman bed. Heavy items will add to the weight that the lifting mechanism needs to support. If you're planning to store heavy items like books or files, look for beds with reinforced lifting mechanisms designed for heavier loads.
Shared Use
If you share your bed with a partner, consider how the ottoman function will work for both of you. Some couples prefer two single ottoman beds pushed together so each person can access their own storage without disturbing the other. Alternatively, a half-ottoman design can provide some storage while leaving part of the bed stable.
Making Your Final Decision
With so many factors to consider, how do you make your final choice? Here's a simple approach:
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Set your budget range based on what you can realistically afford
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Determine your non-negotiable features (size, opening direction, etc.)
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Make a shortlist of beds that meet these criteria
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Visit showrooms to test the lifting mechanisms and check upholstery quality
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Read user reviews for real-world experiences with your shortlisted models
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Check warranty terms and after-sales service
Remember that an ottoman divan bed is a long-term investment in both your sleep quality and home organization. Taking time to choose carefully will pay dividends in years of comfortable sleep and practical storage.
Caring for Your Ottoman Divan Bed
Once you've chosen and purchased your perfect ottoman divan bed, proper care will ensure it continues to function well and look good for years to come.
For the lifting mechanism:
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Open and close the ottoman regularly to keep the mechanism working smoothly
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Avoid overloading the storage area beyond the recommended weight limit
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Check and tighten any visible bolts or fittings periodically
For the upholstery:
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Vacuum regularly using an upholstery attachment
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Address spills and stains promptly following the manufacturer's guidance
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Consider using a fabric protector on new beds to prevent staining
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Keep the bed out of direct sunlight to prevent fabric fading
For the storage area:
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Use storage boxes or vacuum bags to organize smaller items
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Allow airflow around stored items to prevent moisture buildup
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Consider adding cedar blocks or lavender sachets to deter moths and keep bedding fresh
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Ottoman Divan Bed
An ottoman divan bed represents one of the most practical and space-efficient solutions for modern bedrooms. By carefully checking the key features we've discussed, you can find a bed that balances comfort, storage capacity, ease of use, and style.
Whether you choose a budget-friendly divan bed option during a seasonal sale or invest in a luxury ottoman bed with all the bells and whistles, the right ottoman divan bed will transform your bedroom into a more organized, functional space while providing a comfortable foundation for restful sleep.
Remember that the perfect bed for you is one that meets your specific needs for storage, comfort, and style. By focusing on the features that matter most for your situation, you can find an ottoman divan bed that will serve you well for many years to come. Happy bed hunting!