Choosing the right ottoman bed size is one of the most important decisions when upgrading your bedroom.
The bed is often the quiet centrepiece of a bedroom: the place where comfort, design, and practicality meet. In recent years, the ottoman bed has become a favourite in modern UK homes, admired not only for its refined appearance but also for the clever storage it conceals beneath its frame. It is a piece of furniture that works as beautifully as it looks, offering a seamless way to keep a bedroom calm, uncluttered, and effortlessly stylish.
Yet when considering what size ottoman bed you should buy, the decision goes far beyond aesthetics. An ottoman bed that is too large can overwhelm a room, while one that is too small may leave you wishing for more space to stretch out at the end of a long day.
In this guide, we explain the most common ottoman bed sizes available in the UK, how much space each requires, and how to choose the best option for your home.
What Is an Ottoman Bed?
An ottoman bed is a bed frame with a lift-up mattress base that reveals hidden storage underneath. Using a gas-lift mechanism, the mattress platform raises easily, giving you access to the full storage area beneath the bed.
Unlike drawer beds or traditional divan storage, ottoman beds use the entire bed base as storage space, making them one of the most efficient ways to maximise bedroom storage.
You can explore a full range of options on our Ottoman Beds collection where you’ll find different sizes, materials, and lift styles.
Standard Ottoman Bed Sizes in the UK
Ottoman beds follow the same size standards as other UK bed frames. The most common sizes include:
|
Bed Size |
Mattress Size |
Best For |
|
Small Double |
120cm x 190cm |
Compact bedrooms |
|
Double |
135cm x 190cm |
Couples or guest rooms |
|
King Size |
150cm x 200cm |
Couples wanting extra space |
|
Super King |
180cm x 200cm |
Large bedrooms |
Each size has advantages depending on your room size, storage needs, and sleeping preferences.
Double Ottoman Beds
A double ottoman bed is one of the most popular choices for UK bedrooms.
Double beds provide enough space for two people while still fitting comfortably into most standard bedrooms.
They are particularly suitable for:
• guest bedrooms
• small master bedrooms
• apartments or flats
Because ottoman beds include built-in storage, a double ottoman bed can replace additional furniture such as storage drawers or wardrobes.
If you are furnishing a guest room or smaller bedroom, a double ottoman bed offers an excellent balance between space and practicality.
King Size Ottoman Beds
King size ottoman beds are increasingly popular in modern UK homes.
They offer more sleeping space while still providing generous storage beneath the mattress.
A king size ottoman bed is ideal if you:
• share your bed with a partner
• prefer extra sleeping space
• want larger storage capacity
Many homeowners choose king size beds because the larger frame allows for more storage underneath, making them perfect for storing bedding, seasonal clothing, or spare pillows.
You can browse our Divan Bed Sets if you’re considering a complete bed and mattress combination.
Super King Ottoman Beds
For larger bedrooms, a super king ottoman bed offers the ultimate combination of comfort and storage.
Super king beds provide maximum sleeping space and a very large storage compartment beneath the bed.
They are ideal for:
• spacious master bedrooms
• couples who prefer extra room
• luxury bedroom designs
However, before choosing a super king ottoman bed, ensure that your bedroom has enough floor space for both the bed frame and surrounding furniture.
How to Choose the Right Ottoman Bed Size
Selecting the best size ottoman bed depends on three key factors.
1. Bedroom Size
Always measure your room before purchasing a bed.
You should ideally allow:
• at least 60cm of walking space around the bed
• enough clearance to open wardrobes or drawers
Ottoman beds are particularly useful in smaller bedrooms because the storage area removes the need for additional furniture.
2. Storage Needs
If you need extra storage for bedding, clothes, or seasonal items, a larger ottoman bed may be beneficial.
A king or super king ottoman bed provides significantly more storage capacity than smaller bed frames.
Many buyers choose an ottoman bed specifically to maximise storage without cluttering the room.
For more storage solutions, you can also explore our Storage Beds collection.
3. Sleeping Space
Comfort is another important factor when choosing a bed.
If you share your bed with a partner, upgrading from a double to a king size can make a noticeable difference in sleep quality.
Larger beds also reduce movement disturbance during the night.
How Much Space Do You Need Around an Ottoman Bed?
When choosing the size of your ottoman bed, it’s important to think beyond the bed itself. The surrounding space in your bedroom will affect how comfortable and practical the room feels.
A good rule of thumb is to leave at least 60–75cm of space around the bed where possible. This allows you to walk around the bed comfortably and ensures you can open wardrobes, bedside drawers, and doors without obstruction.
For example:
|
Bed Size |
Recommended Room Size |
|
Double Ottoman Bed |
2.7m x 2.7m |
|
King Size Ottoman Bed |
3m x 3m |
|
Super King Ottoman Bed |
3.5m x 3.5m |
If your bedroom is smaller than these measurements, you may want to consider a double ottoman bed rather than a king size option.
Many homeowners choose ottoman beds precisely because they allow them to reduce the amount of furniture in the room. Instead of adding extra storage cabinets or drawers, the bed itself becomes the main storage solution.
How Much Storage Space Does Each Ottoman Bed Size Provide?
Another important factor when choosing an ottoman bed size is how much storage you actually need.
Because ottoman beds lift up completely, they provide significantly more storage space than most drawer beds.
Below is a general comparison of storage capacity.
|
Bed Size |
Approximate Storage Capacity |
|
Small Double Ottoman Bed |
450–500 litres |
|
Double Ottoman Bed |
550–600 litres |
|
King Size Ottoman Bed |
700–750 litres |
|
Super King Ottoman Bed |
850–900 litres |
This means a king size ottoman bed can store almost the equivalent of a large wardrobe or storage chest.
Many customers use ottoman beds to store:
• winter clothing
• spare bedding
• pillows and duvets
• suitcases
• seasonal decorations
For homes with limited cupboard space, this additional storage can make a huge difference.
If storage is your main priority, you may want to explore our Storage collection.
End Lift vs Side Lift Ottoman Beds
When choosing an ottoman bed, you will also need to decide how the storage compartment opens.
There are two main mechanisms.
End Lift Ottoman Beds
These lift from the foot of the bed.
Advantages:
• ideal for rooms with space at the foot of the bed
• easier access to the full storage area
These lift from the side of the bed.
Advantages:
• ideal for rooms where space at the foot of the bed is limited
• useful for beds positioned against a wall
Both mechanisms use gas-lift technology that allows the mattress platform to lift smoothly.
Are Ottoman Beds Worth It?
Ottoman beds are widely considered one of the best storage solutions for bedrooms.
Their main benefits include:
• maximum storage space
• clutter reduction
• improved bedroom organisation
• stylish upholstered designs
For homes with limited storage, ottoman beds can replace several pieces of furniture while maintaining a clean and modern bedroom layout.
Which Mattress Works Best with an Ottoman Bed?
Another common question buyers ask is whether all mattresses are suitable for ottoman beds.
In most cases, the answer is yes. Ottoman beds are designed to support a wide variety of mattress types.
The most common options include:
Pocket Spring Mattresses
Pocket spring mattresses are one of the most popular choices because they provide excellent support and durability.
They work well with ottoman beds because the mattress structure allows even weight distribution across the lifting base.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses are also commonly used with ottoman beds.
They mould to the shape of your body, which can improve comfort and reduce pressure points while sleeping.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses combine pocket springs with memory foam layers.
These mattresses provide a balance of support and comfort and are increasingly popular in modern bedrooms.
You can explore compatible options in our Mattresses collection.
Real-Life Buyer Scenarios
Sometimes the easiest way to choose the right ottoman bed size is to think about your specific situation.
Here are some typical scenarios.
Scenario 1: Ottoman bed for Small Bedroom
If your bedroom is relatively compact, a double ottoman bed is usually the best option.
This size provides enough space for two people while still leaving room to move around the room comfortably.
Because the bed includes hidden storage, it can eliminate the need for extra drawers or storage boxes.
Scenario 2: Ottoman bed for Master Bedroom
For a master bedroom, many homeowners choose a king size ottoman bed.
The additional sleeping space improves comfort while the larger storage compartment provides plenty of room for bedding and clothing.
Scenario 3: Ottoman bed for Guest Bedroom
Guest bedrooms often benefit from double ottoman beds because they combine comfort with practical storage.
Guests have a comfortable bed, while the storage space can be used to keep spare bedding or pillows.
Fabric vs Wooden Ottoman Beds
The material of your ottoman bed can also influence your choice.
Most ottoman beds fall into two main categories.
Upholstered Ottoman Beds
Upholstered beds are covered in fabric such as velvet, linen, or chenille.
They tend to create a softer, more luxurious bedroom look and are often available in a wide range of colours.
Wooden Ottoman Beds
Wooden ottoman beds have a more traditional appearance and can be easier to maintain over time - Online bedstore specialise in upholstery so we do not currently have wooden versions of the ottoman beds.
They are often chosen for classic bedroom designs.
Why Ottoman Beds Are Ideal for Modern UK Homes
Modern homes often have limited storage space, particularly in new-build properties and city apartments.
Ottoman beds help solve this problem by combining two essential pieces of furniture into one:
• a comfortable bed
• a large storage compartment
Instead of filling the room with extra drawers or storage boxes, homeowners can keep everything neatly hidden beneath the bed.
This helps create a cleaner and more organised bedroom environment.
Common Mistakes When Choosing an Ottoman Bed Size
Before buying a bed, there are a few common mistakes worth avoiding.
Not Measuring the Room Properly
Many buyers focus on the mattress size but forget to consider the full dimensions of the bed frame.
Always measure the available space in your bedroom first.
Ignoring Lift Direction
Choosing the wrong lift mechanism can make the bed difficult to open in certain rooms.
Consider whether an end lift or side lift mechanism will work best in your space.
Choosing a Bed That Is Too Small
If you share your bed with a partner, upgrading from a double to a king size bed can significantly improve sleep comfort.
Choosing the right ottoman bed size
Choosing the right ottoman bed size depends on your bedroom space, storage needs, and comfort preferences.
For most UK homes:
• double ottoman beds work well in smaller bedrooms
• king size ottoman beds provide the best balance of space and comfort
• super king ottoman beds are ideal for larger master bedrooms
If you are looking to upgrade your bedroom with a practical storage solution, explore the full range of Ottoman Beds available at Online Bed Store.
Our collection includes a wide selection of sizes, fabrics, and storage styles designed to suit modern UK homes.
FAQs on Ottoman Bed size
What is the most popular ottoman bed size in the UK?
The most popular size is a king size ottoman bed, as it offers extra sleeping space while still fitting comfortably into most bedrooms.
Do ottoman beds provide more storage than divan beds?
Yes. Ottoman beds typically provide more storage because the entire base lifts up, whereas divan beds usually include drawers.
Are ottoman beds difficult to lift?
No. Modern ottoman beds use gas-lift mechanisms, making them easy to raise and lower even with a mattress in place.
Can you use any mattress on an ottoman bed?
Most mattresses are suitable for ottoman beds, including memory foam, pocket spring, and hybrid mattresses.
You can browse compatible options in our Mattresses collection.