Why an Ottoman Bed Double is the Smartest Bedroom Storage Upgrade
Struggling for wardrobe and drawer space in your bedroom? A quality storage bed gives you the full floor footprint of your mattress as usable, hidden storage without crowding your room.
An ottoman bed double is a standard UK double bed frame (135cm wide by 190cm long) fitted with an integrated, gas-strut-assisted hydraulic lift mechanism that elevates the mattress platform. Lifting the top reveals a deep, enclosed storage cavity spanning the entire base of the bed. It provides up to four times the usable storage capacity of standard divan drawers because no floor clearance is lost to sliding mechanisms or awkward room angles.
For British homes where spare bedrooms, terrace houses, and modern new-builds often feature compact floor plans, this clever design completely solves the clutter dilemma. Instead of trying to squeeze extra chests of drawers past open doorways or radiators, an ottoman bed makes use of dead space directly beneath your mattress to hold spare duvets, seasonal clothes, shoes, and bedding.
Choosing the Right Ottoman Bed Double for Your Bedroom
When shopping for a double ottoman, the first major decision is choosing between an end-lift and a side-lift opening.
- End-lift frames: These open from the foot of the bed and lift upwards towards the headboard. They are by far the most popular choice for standard rectangular bedrooms where you have at least 40cm of walking space around the foot of the frame to access your belongings.
- Side-lift frames: These pivot open from either the left or right side. They are ideal for narrower rooms where the bed must be positioned against a wall, or where a wardrobe or radiator restricts access to the foot end.
Key Features to Look for: Gas Pistons, Base Boards, and Fabrics
Not all ottoman frames are built the same way. Looking closely at the internal construction ensures your bed remains quiet, stable, and easy to operate for years to come.
First, check the gas-lift pistons. Quality double frames use heavy-duty gas struts rated specifically to counteract the weight of both the slatted frame and a standard double mattress. When properly specified, the pistons do almost all the heavy lifting, allowing you to raise the platform smoothly with one hand.
Second, inspect the storage floor. Budget options often use a simple fabric cloth that attaches with hook-and-loop strips directly onto your carpet, meaning dust can gather under your items. Premium options, such as the Kaydian Walkworth Ottoman Bed, feature raised solid base boards or floating floor panels that keep your linens clean, dry, and protected off the floorboards.
Finally, pick upholstery that suits your everyday lifestyle. Textured bouclé and plush velvet add warmth and luxury to master bedrooms, while hard-wearing woven linen blends and faux leathers wipe clean easily—a huge plus in busy family homes or rental properties.
Styling and Assembling Your Storage Bed
Putting together an ottoman bed double takes a little more care than a standard flat-pack bed frame because of the hydraulic hinges. Always build the base frame in the exact spot you plan to use it, as moving an assembled ottoman through doorways is tricky once the heavy frame is squared up.
When fitting the gas pistons, remember that they arrive under high pressure and will not compress by hand alone. The mechanism requires the counterweight of your mattress placed on top before it will push down smoothly for the first time. Pair your frame with a modern upholstered headboard, such as the Limelight Orbit Ottoman Bed, and layer crisp cotton bedding to hide the lift-tab neatly along the edge of the footboard.
Furnishing your home should never drain your rainy-day reserves. If you want to refresh your master suite right now, a monthly payment plan at our partner shop gives you a simple way to furnish your space with no credit checks and completely interest-free repayments.
Frequently asked questions
Will my standard double mattress fit an ottoman bed?
Yes. Any standard UK double mattress measuring 135cm by 190cm (4ft 6in by 6ft 3in) will fit a double ottoman frame. Be mindful of mattress weight: extremely heavy, all-latex or dense hybrid mattresses may require higher-rated gas struts to lift effortlessly.
Is it difficult to lift an ottoman bed with a heavy mattress on it?
No, provided the gas struts are properly installed and rated for the frame size. The pistons bear the brunt of the weight, acting like the tailgate on a car hatchback. Once you give the strap an initial upward pull, the hydraulics assist the lift and hold the base open safely.
Can I assemble a double ottoman bed on my own?
While you can assemble the outer frame panels solo, we strongly recommend having a second person assist when attaching the slatted lift platform and securing the gas pistons. Aligning the hinges requires steady hands to ensure the lid sits flush and square.
Shop with our partner shop today to find your ideal storage bed and spread the cost smoothly with a monthly payment plan at 0% APR.
Shop with our partner shop and spread the cost at 0% APR, subject to eligibility.