Ottoman Beds UK: The Ultimate Guide to Stylish Storage Beds in 2024

Shop stylish ottoman beds UK from Midland Beds Ltd. Gas-lift storage beds in double, king & super king. Cheap prices, UK delivery. Order online today.

Published by Midland Beds Ltd | Wednesbury, West Midlands

If you’ve ever wished your bedroom could do more — store more, look better, and feel like a genuine retreat — you’re not alone. Ottoman beds have quietly become one of the UK’s most sought-after bedroom furniture choices, and for good reason. They combine the comfort of a proper bed with clever, hidden storage that can transform even the most cramped bedroom.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about ottoman beds in the UK: what they are, how they work, the different styles available, and how to choose the right one for your home. Whether you’re searching for a cheap ottoman bed in the UK, a king size ottoman bed, or a luxury upholstered bed that makes a statement, this guide has you covered.

What Is an Ottoman Bed?

An ottoman bed is a bed frame with a slatted base that lifts to reveal a large, hidden storage compartment underneath. Unlike traditional divan storage beds with pull-out drawers, ottoman beds use a gas-lift mechanism — you simply lift the mattress platform and the entire base opens upward, giving you unobstructed access to the full footprint of the bed.

This makes them exceptionally practical. A double ottoman bed typically offers around 140–160 litres of storage space, while a king size ottoman bed can provide 200 litres or more — easily enough to store duvets, pillows, spare bedding, out-of-season clothing, and even suitcases.

Why Ottoman Beds Are So Popular in the UK

1. Maximising Space in Smaller UK Homes

The average UK home is among the smallest in Europe, and bedroom space is often the first casualty. Ottoman beds offer a practical solution: they use the dead space beneath your mattress — space that would otherwise be wasted — and turn it into genuinely useful, accessible storage.

For those living in flats, terraced houses, or homes without a loft, an ottoman storage bed can eliminate the need for bulky wardrobes, underbed boxes, or cluttered floor space.

2. They Look Stunning

Modern upholstered ottoman beds are available in a wide range of fabrics, colours, and panel designs. From plush velvet headboards to clean-lined linen finishes, there’s an ottoman bed to suit virtually every interior style — whether you’re going for a contemporary minimalist look, a cosy maximalist bedroom, or a classic neutral palette.

At Midland Beds Ltd, the ottoman bed range includes styles to suit every taste and budget, from understated fabric frames to statement-piece beds with winged headboards and quilted detailing.

3. Excellent Value for Money

One of the biggest misconceptions is that ottoman beds are expensive. While luxury ottoman beds with premium fabrics and brand names can command higher prices, there are plenty of cheap ottoman beds in the UK that deliver excellent quality without breaking the bank.

When you factor in the cost of additional storage furniture you won’t need to buy, an ottoman bed often pays for itself.

Types of Ottoman Beds: Which Is Right for You?

End-Opening Ottoman Beds

With an end-opening ottoman, the base lifts from the foot of the bed. This is the more common style and works well in most bedroom layouts — you’ll just need enough space at the foot of the bed to fully open the base.

Side-Opening Ottoman Beds

A side-opening ottoman lifts from one side of the bed. This design is ideal if your bedroom has limited floor space at the foot of the bed, or if your bed is positioned against a wall. Many buyers find this style more accessible day-to-day.

Upholstered Ottoman Beds

Most ottoman beds on the UK market are fully upholstered — meaning the entire frame and headboard are wrapped in fabric. Velvet, chenille, linen, and faux leather are the most popular choices. Upholstered ottoman beds tend to feel warmer and cosier than wooden alternatives, making them a natural fit for UK bedrooms.

Ottoman Beds with Mattress Included

If you’re outfitting a bedroom from scratch, an ottoman storage bed with mattress can be a convenient and cost-effective option. Many retailers, including Midland Beds Ltd, offer bed and mattress bundle deals that take the guesswork out of compatibility.

Ottoman Beds vs. Storage Beds with Drawers: What’s the Difference?

Both ottoman beds and drawer storage beds are popular storage beds in the UK, but they work quite differently.

For most buyers who prioritise maximum storage and ease of access, ottoman beds win. However, if you have very limited floor space around your bed, a divan with drawers might be more practical.

Explore Midland Beds Ltd’s full range of storage beds to compare both options side by side.

How to Choose the Right Ottoman Bed

Step 1: Decide on the Size

Ottoman beds are available in all standard UK sizes:

• Single (3ft / 90cm) — ideal for children’s rooms or guest bedrooms
• Small Double (4ft / 120cm) — a great option for smaller double rooms
• Double (4ft 6in / 135cm) — the most popular choice for couples
• King Size (5ft / 150cm) — the best-selling premium size
• Super King (6ft / 180cm) — the ultimate in luxury and storage

A double ottoman bed is typically suitable for most UK bedrooms, but if you have the room, the storage capacity of a king size ottoman bed is significantly greater and well worth the investment.

Step 2: Choose Your Opening Direction

Before you buy, measure your bedroom carefully. Decide whether an end-opening or side-opening model will work better with your layout. A bed that can’t be properly opened is a storage bed that isn’t doing its job.

Step 3: Pick Your Fabric and Colour

Think about how the bed will sit within your existing bedroom décor. Neutral tones like grey, cream, and sand are perennially popular and easy to style around. Jewel tones — emerald, navy, burnt orange — can make a real statement. Velvet finishes photograph beautifully and feel luxurious to the touch.

Step 4: Consider the Mattress

An ottoman base is only as good as the mattress on top. If you’re buying a new bed, it’s worth investing in a quality mattress at the same time. Midland Beds Ltd offers a carefully selected range of mattresses designed to complement their ottoman and storage bed frames — from memory foam to hybrid pocket sprung options.

Why Buy Your Ottoman Bed from Midland Beds Ltd?

Midland Beds Ltd is an independent beds and mattress specialist based in Wednesbury, West Midlands, serving customers across the UK. Here’s why thousands of customers choose to buy ottoman beds online from them:

• Competitive prices — a wide range of affordable options, including some of the best-value cheap ottoman beds in the UK
• Quality you can trust — every bed is hand-selected for build quality, durability, and style
• UK-wide delivery — convenient home delivery direct to your door
• Expert guidance — a team of bed specialists on hand to help you find the right fit
• Genuine reviews — a track record of happy customers across the West Midlands and beyond

Whether you’re furnishing a first flat, upgrading your master bedroom, or kitting out a guest room, Midland Beds Ltd has an ottoman bed to suit your needs and budget.

👉 Browse the full ottoman bed range at Midland Beds Ltd

Ottoman Beds: Room-by-Room Guide

Ottoman Beds for Master Bedrooms

In the master bedroom, an ottoman bed is as much a design statement as it is a storage solution. Opt for a luxury upholstered bed with a tall, winged headboard in velvet or textured fabric for maximum visual impact. A super king or king size model will anchor the room and provide ample storage for seasonal items.

Ottoman Beds for Smaller Bedrooms

In a smaller room, a small double or double ottoman with a side-opening mechanism works brilliantly. Keep the colour palette light — cream, soft grey, or blush — to prevent the room from feeling cramped. The storage underneath means you can ditch the wardrobe or under-bed boxes, freeing up valuable floor space.

Ottoman Beds for Guest Rooms

Guest rooms benefit enormously from an ottoman storage bed. Store extra bedding, pillows, and spare towels in the base, and you’ve got a practical, welcoming room that functions beautifully even when it’s not in use.

What to Look for in an Ottoman Bed: A Quality Checklist

Before you commit to a purchase, run through this checklist:

• ✅ Gas lift mechanism — should feel smooth and controlled, not jerky
• ✅ Solid frame construction — solid wood or reinforced MDF is preferable to flimsy chipboard
• ✅ Slat support — sprung or solid slats should be evenly spaced and firmly fixed
• ✅ Quality upholstery — seams should be neat, fabric taut, and no visible stapling
• ✅ Headboard stability — it should feel secure and not wobble
• ✅ Weight capacity — check the manufacturer’s maximum weight recommendation

Midland Beds Ltd’s range meets all of these standards, with each model carefully assessed before it’s listed on the site.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ottoman Beds in the UK

What is the best ottoman bed to buy in the UK?

The best ottoman bed depends on your bedroom size, storage needs, and budget. For most buyers, a double or king size gas-lift ottoman bed in a neutral upholstered fabric offers the best combination of style, storage, and value. Midland Beds Ltd offers a range of top-rated models across all price points to suit different requirements.

Are ottoman beds worth it?

Yes — ottoman beds are widely regarded as one of the best storage solutions for UK bedrooms. They offer far more storage than drawer divans, look more stylish, and are practical to use on a daily basis. For anyone with limited storage space, they are well worth the investment.

How much does an ottoman bed cost in the UK?

Ottoman bed prices in the UK vary considerably. Budget models start from around £200–£300 for a double, while mid-range options typically fall in the £400–£700 range. Premium and luxury upholstered ottoman beds can cost £800 or more. At Midland Beds Ltd, you’ll find competitively priced options across all tiers.

Can I buy an ottoman bed with a mattress included?

Yes. Many retailers, including Midland Beds Ltd, offer ottoman beds with mattress bundles. These are often better value than buying separately and ensure your mattress is compatible with your bed’s weight and slat system.

Do ottoman beds come in king size?

Yes — king size ottoman beds are widely available in the UK and are one of the most popular sizes. A king size ottoman provides considerable storage capacity and suits larger master bedrooms. Midland Beds Ltd stocks king size ottoman beds in a variety of styles and fabrics.

How does an ottoman bed open?

Ottoman beds use a gas-lift mechanism. To open the bed, you lift the mattress platform from either the foot or the side of the bed (depending on the model). The gas pistons support the weight of the mattress and base as it rises, keeping it safely open while you access the storage below. To close, simply lower it back down.

Are ottoman beds safe?

Yes, when properly constructed and used correctly, ottoman beds are very safe. Quality models include safety mechanisms that prevent the lid from falling unexpectedly. Always ensure children do not play unsupervised near the open base.

Do ottoman beds need a box spring or base?

No — ottoman beds are a complete bed system. The ottoman base replaces the need for a separate box spring or divan base. You simply place your mattress on top of the lifting platform.

Final Thoughts: Is an Ottoman Bed Right for You?

If you’re looking for a way to reclaim space, declutter your bedroom, and invest in a piece of furniture that genuinely improves your daily life, an ottoman bed is one of the smartest choices you can make.

From cheap ottoman beds that punch well above their price point to luxury upholstered beds that wouldn’t look out of place in a boutique hotel, there’s something for every home and budget.

Midland Beds Ltd, based in Wednesbury, West Midlands, has built a reputation on offering high-quality beds at honest prices — with the expertise to match. Whether you want to browse online or speak to a specialist, they’re ready to help you find the perfect bed.

Ready to upgrade your bedroom? 👉 Shop Ottoman Beds at Midland Beds Ltd 👉 Explore All Storage Beds 👉 Find the Perfect Mattress

Midland Beds Ltd | Wednesbury, West Midlands | Beds, Mattresses & Storage Beds | UK-Wide Delivery