Do Ottoman Beds Need Special Mattresses? Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy

One of the most common questions people ask after deciding to buy an ottoman bed has nothing to do with storage, lifting mechanisms or even bedroom design.

Instead, it is surprisingly simple:

Do ottoman beds need special mattresses?

It is an understandable question. Ottoman beds are different from traditional bedsteads and divan bases because the mattress lifts with the bed every time you access the storage underneath. Naturally, many buyers wonder whether that movement means they need to purchase a particular type of mattress or avoid certain materials altogether.

The good news is that, in most cases, the answer is no.

Most modern ottoman beds are designed to work with a wide range of mattress types, including memory foam, pocket spring and hybrid mattresses. What matters is not whether the mattress is "special", but whether it complements the lifting mechanism, provides the right level of support for your sleeping style and sits comfortably within the manufacturer's recommended weight guidelines.

In this guide, we'll explain everything you need to know about choosing the right mattress for an ottoman bed, including which mattress types work best, what to avoid and how to create a sleeping setup that combines comfort, practicality and long-term durability.

Quick Answer: Do Ottoman Beds Need Special Mattresses?

No. Ottoman beds do not usually require a special mattress. Most are designed to accommodate standard UK mattress sizes and work well with memory foam, pocket spring and hybrid mattresses.

The key considerations are:

• Choosing the correct mattress size

• Selecting an appropriate weight for the lifting mechanism

• Matching the mattress to your preferred sleeping style

• Following the manufacturer's recommendations

As long as these points are considered, an ottoman bed functions just as effectively as any traditional bed frame.

Why People Think Ottoman Beds Need Different Mattresses

The confusion largely comes from the way ottoman beds operate. Unlike a standard divan or wooden frame, the mattress lifts together with the platform whenever you access the storage compartment underneath. Many people understandably assume that this movement requires a specially engineered mattress.

In reality, modern ottoman beds are designed specifically to accommodate everyday mattresses. Hydraulic gas struts help counterbalance the weight of the mattress, making lifting far easier than many people expect.

The mattress itself becomes part of how the lifting mechanism is designed to function.

Without the mattress in place, many ottoman beds actually feel lighter or more difficult to operate correctly because the gas struts have been engineered with mattress weight in mind.

What Matters More Than Mattress Type?

Instead of asking whether a mattress is suitable for an ottoman bed, it is more helpful to ask whether it is suitable for you.

Several factors influence how comfortable your mattress will feel over the coming years.

These include:

• Sleeping position

• Body weight

• Preferred firmness

• Temperature regulation

• Whether you share the bed

• Budget

• Long-term durability

The ottoman base supports all of these mattress types equally well when properly matched.

Can You Use a Memory Foam Mattress on an Ottoman Bed?

Absolutely.

Memory foam mattresses remain one of the most popular choices for ottoman beds because they combine excellent comfort with relatively even weight distribution.

Memory foam works by responding to body heat and pressure, gently contouring around the sleeper to relieve pressure on the shoulders, hips and lower back.

Many side sleepers particularly appreciate this cradling effect because it promotes a more cushioned sleeping experience.

Memory foam mattresses also perform extremely well at reducing motion transfer, making them particularly attractive for couples where one partner frequently changes position during the night.

Modern memory foam mattresses have also evolved considerably over recent years, with many incorporating breathable comfort layers that help improve airflow and temperature regulation.

Memory foam may be particularly suitable if you:

• Sleep on your side

• Prefer softer comfort

• Share the bed

• Wake easily when your partner moves

• Enjoy a more body-contouring feel

Can You Use a Pocket Spring Mattress on an Ottoman Bed?

Yes.

In fact, many people choose pocket spring mattresses specifically because they provide excellent support while allowing greater airflow throughout the mattress.

Pocket spring construction uses individually wrapped springs that respond independently to pressure across different parts of the body.

Rather than sinking into the mattress, many sleepers describe the feeling as being gently supported on top of it.

This creates a more responsive sleeping experience while also encouraging natural ventilation through the mattress core.

Pocket spring mattresses often suit:

• Back sleepers

• Combination sleepers

• Hot sleepers

• Couples wanting stronger edge support

• Buyers preferring traditional mattress comfort

Hybrid Mattresses: The Best of Both Worlds?

Many buyers struggle to choose between memory foam and pocket springs.

Hybrid mattresses attempt to combine the strengths of both.

Typically, they feature individually wrapped pocket springs beneath layers of memory foam or comfort foam, creating a balance between contouring pressure relief and responsive support.

For many households, this combination offers an excellent compromise.

Does Mattress Weight Matter?

Yes — although perhaps not in the way many people expect.

Every ottoman bed lifting mechanism is designed to work within a recommended mattress weight range.

If the mattress is significantly lighter than intended, the gas struts may feel unusually powerful when opening.

If it is considerably heavier than recommended, lifting may require more effort.

Fortunately, most standard mattresses sold alongside ottoman beds fall comfortably within these operating ranges.

If you're ever unsure, checking the manufacturer's recommendations is worthwhile before purchasing.

Choosing the Right Mattress for Your Sleeping Style

Side Sleepers

Pressure relief often becomes the priority.

Memory foam or softer hybrid mattresses frequently perform particularly well because they cushion shoulders and hips more effectively.

Back Sleepers

Medium to medium-firm pocket spring or hybrid mattresses often provide balanced support while helping maintain spinal alignment.

Front Sleepers

Many front sleepers prefer slightly firmer surfaces that reduce excessive sinking around the hips.

Couples

Movement, support and comfort all matter.

Memory foam reduces partner disturbance, while pocket springs often improve airflow and edge support.

Many couples ultimately choose hybrids for this reason.

Shop Mattresses here.

Best Mattresses for Ottoman Beds from Online Bed Store

Choosing an ottoman bed is only part of creating a comfortable bedroom.

Pairing it with the right mattress makes the biggest difference to how the bed feels night after night.

Explore the complete collection here:

Online Bed Store Mattress Collection

Some excellent options include:

Stafford 1000 Pocket Memory Sprung Mattress

Ideal for buyers wanting the responsive support of pocket springs combined with the comfort of memory foam.

Excellent for everyday use and couples.

Dual Season Memory Foam Sprung Mattress

Designed to offer balanced comfort throughout the year while combining supportive springs with memory foam comfort.

A great all-round option for many households.

Mayfair 2000 Pocket Hand Stitched Natural Filling Mattress

For buyers seeking a more premium sleep experience, this mattress combines individually wrapped pocket springs with luxurious natural fillings to create exceptional comfort and support.

Which Mattress Works Best with an Ottoman Bed?

There is no single winner.

Instead, consider your priorities.

The best mattress is the one that suits your sleeping habits rather than somebody else's.

Tips for Choosing the Right Ottoman Bed Mattress

Think About Your Sleep, Not Just the Bed

The ottoman mechanism simply provides storage.

The mattress determines your comfort.

Don't Buy Based on Price Alone

A mattress is used every night for many years.

Comfort is worth prioritising.

Consider Temperature

Hot sleepers often appreciate greater airflow.

Others may prioritise cushioning instead.

Replace Both Together When Possible

If your mattress is approaching the end of its life, replacing both bed and mattress together often delivers the biggest improvement in sleep quality.

Why Choose an Ottoman Bed and Mattress from Online Bed Store?

At Online Bed Store, our ottoman beds are designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of quality mattresses, making it easier to create a complete bedroom solution rather than purchasing each element separately.

Our collection offers:

• Made in Britain craftsmanship

• Over 40 years of manufacturing expertise

• 40+ fabric options

• Free two-man delivery

• 5-year warranty

• A carefully selected range of mattresses to suit different sleeping preferences and budgets

Explore our full collections:

• Ottoman Divan Bed Sets

• Mattresses

Frequently Asked Questions About Mattresses

Do ottoman beds need a special mattress?

No. Most ottoman beds are designed to work with standard UK mattresses, including memory foam, pocket spring and hybrid designs.

Can any mattress go on an ottoman bed?

Most can, provided the mattress size and weight fall within the manufacturer's recommendations.

Is memory foam or pocket spring better for an ottoman bed?

Neither is inherently better. The right choice depends on your sleeping style, comfort preferences and support needs.

Are heavy mattresses a problem?

Most standard mattresses work perfectly well. Extremely heavy mattresses may require checking against the bed's recommended operating weight.

Can I use my old mattress on a new ottoman bed?

Yes, provided it is in good condition, fits correctly and remains suitable for comfortable sleep. However, many buyers find replacing both together delivers the greatest improvement.

Choosing a mattress online

The question is not whether ottoman beds need special mattresses.

It is whether your mattress is the right one for the way you sleep.

An ottoman bed is designed to make better use of the space beneath your mattress, not to limit your mattress choice. Whether you prefer the pressure-relieving comfort of memory foam, the breathable support of pocket springs or the balanced feel of a hybrid design, today's ottoman beds are engineered to accommodate them beautifully.

Choose the right mattress, pair it with a well-made ottoman bed, and you'll enjoy not only better storage but a better night's sleep—two improvements that continue to pay dividends long after your bedroom makeover is complete.

Shop the full mattress range here