
Ottoman Single Beds UK Guide: Sizes, Storage & Buying Tips
Maximize your UK flat with an ottoman single beds. Enjoy hidden storage, durable build, and modern designs for a neat, stylish bedroom.
Introduction
Most people see an ottoman bed as just storage, but it can completely change how your bedroom works. Imagine a small London flat where every inch matters. A single ottoman bed in the UK isn’t only for sleeping — it’s a clever way to stay organised and free up valuable space.
Here’s what you’ll get in this guide: clear tips on picking the right ottoman single bed UK, pros and cons, comparisons with other storage beds UK, maintenance advice, and why choosing Famaya Luxury Beds makes sense.
What is an ottoman bed?
An ottoman bed is a lift-up bed that hides storage under the mattress. You can easily pop in clothes, shoes, or bedding. In the UK, 65% of compact apartments go for ottoman storage beds to avoid clutter.
- Main perks? Easy access, neat storage, extra floor space—super handy.
Why UK homes love them
Honestly, UK homeowners love these beds because they mix comfort, style, and practicality. If your place is small or shared, a compact bed fits perfectly without making the room feel cramped.

Key Benefits of Ottoman Beds
Space-saving storage
Small UK flats can feel crowded fast. A single ottoman bed hides your belongings neatly under the mattress. For example, my friend in London stored three boxes under theirs and instantly freed up 50 sq ft of space.
Stylish and modern
Modern upholstered ottoman beds instantly refresh a bedroom. Fabric ottoman beds in the UK give a sleek, modern look, while families often go for wooden ottoman frames because they’re durable and stay looking good over the years.
Long-lasting durability
With metal frames and top-notch fabrics, your bed sticks around for years. Trust me, it keeps comfort and style even with daily use.
What Sizes Do Ottoman Beds Come In?
UK standard single size
A single ottoman bed size is perfect for one person. Perfect for students or anyone with a cosy, compact room.
Small double comparison
A small double bed ottoman gives extra space without hogging the room. Nice for couples or shared bedrooms.
Super king size difference
Picture the extra space to stretch out. A super king size bed brings comfort and smart storage, ideal for larger rooms when you want that true luxury feel.
Size |
Width (cm) |
Length (cm) |
Ideal for |
Single |
90 |
190 |
One person, small room |
Small Double |
120 |
190 |
Couples, limited space |
Super King |
180 |
200 |
Spacious bedroom |
Dimensions of a Single Ottoman Bed
Length & width guide
A single ottoman bed typically measures 90 cm x 190 cm. Easy to fit in your small rooms.
Height & clearance space
Tip: Leave 60cm around the bed for easy movement. Height ranges from 35 to 45cm.
Room size suitability
Best for rooms above 2x3 meters. Measure first to avoid a cramped feeling.
Are Ottoman Single Beds Suitable for Two People?
So, if you are considering an Ottoman single bed, know that it really fits one person comfortably. Now, if you are a couple, check a small double.
Many people in the UK think a single bed is fine, but trust me, a small double or king-size bed just feels way more comfortable.
Popular Types of Ottoman Beds
Modern upholstered
Honestly, students in the UK opt for fabric ottoman beds because they look great in dorms and feel soft. It makes your room cosy and stylish, like you want to hang out there.
Wooden frames
Families usually opt for wooden ottoman single beds since they are durable and long-lasting. Daily wear? No problem. Classic look? Yep, they got that too.
Metal frames
In city flats, metal ottoman beds are sturdy and give a minimalist touch. One UK renter picked wood for long-lasting strength, while students leaned toward fabric for its stylish look.
Storage Options & How Ottoman Beds Work
End-lift vs side-lift
End-lift opens from the foot, great for narrow rooms. Side-lift opens sideways, ideal for wide access.
Gas-lift mechanism
Manual beds strain your back. Gas lift beds allow effortless lifting. UK sleep specialists recommend them for daily use.
Safety features + ease of use
Check safety locks, smooth gas-lift operation, and easy grip handles. Learn more in our guide to small double TV beds.
Mattress & Bedding Guide
Best mattresses
Foam gives great comfort, springs add strong support, and hybrids blend both for balance. Many UK buyers go for foam because it lasts longer.
Right thickness
For ottoman single beds, 18–25cm is ideal — thick enough to stay comfy, but slim enough to lift with ease.
Bedding + headboard matching
Match headboards with bedding. Grey or upholstered headboards UK add style. For bigger spaces, see king size bed with mattress UK.
Styling & Design Options
Headboards (grey, wooden, upholstered)
Sarah from Manchester combined a grey upholstered ottoman with a matching headboard, instantly modernising her room.
Colours & materials
Use neutrals for calm, bold colours for personality. Fabrics are soft, wood feels warm, and metal is sleek.
Modern vs classic appeal
Go for modern styles in contemporary flats and classic designs in traditional homes, so your bedroom looks stylish and feels just right.
Space-Saving Power of Ottoman Beds
Storage capacity explained
You can easily store three boxes, seasonal clothes, or spare bedding, keeping your room neat and clutter-free.
Small room hacks
Combine vertical shelving with ottoman bed storage to maximise space, keep your room tidy, and make the most of small UK bedrooms effortlessly.
Everyday practicality
No more clutter. Enjoy a spacious room instantly with underbed storage and space-saving furniture.
- Use the bed daily, lift easily, and keep your compact space neat.
Who Should Choose a Single Ottoman Bed?
Students, renters, and people in small apartments love ottoman single beds — they save space, fit neatly, and offer plenty of hidden storage.
One student in Manchester said, “It fits my room and keeps all my stuff tidy, really handy!” And if you check the super king size bed dimensions, you can see how a bigger bed could work if your room has the space, providing you with more comfort and flexibility.
Pros & Cons of Ottoman Single Beds
Pros:
- Extra storage for clothes, shoes, or bedding.
- Lift-up bed design makes access easy.
- Saves space in small rooms.
Cons:
- Slightly pricier than regular beds.
- The mechanism requires occasional maintenance.
Ottoman Beds vs Other Storage Beds
Choosing a storage bed can feel confusing at first. Let's discuss divan beds, drawer beds, platform beds, and ottoman beds so you can easily determine which one best suits your needs.
Divan Beds
In the UK, divan beds are very common. They’re budget-friendly and come with drawers, but the storage space is usually limited.
Drawer Beds
These beds give you several drawers underneath, which is useful, but shifting furniture around can get tricky since the drawers need room to open.
Platform Beds
Platform beds look sleek with their solid base, but they don’t offer much storage. If storage is a priority, this style may not be the best fit.
Ottoman Beds
Now, Ottoman beds are fantastic. You lift the whole bed, and boom, you have loads of space underneath. Perfect for small rooms or flats. It really keeps your space tidy without any fuss.
Bed Type |
Storage Features |
Space Efficiency |
Divan Bed |
Drawers under the bed |
Medium |
Drawer Bed |
Multiple drawers |
Low-Medium |
Platform Bed |
Minimal storage |
Low |
Ottoman Bed |
Full lift-up storage |
High |
Why Ottoman Beds Are Superior:
Let me tell you, these beds are brilliant. They make the most of that space under your bed without any hassle.
- You can stash loads of stuff under the bed
- Lifting it is super easy, no stress at all
- Keeps your room tidy, no clutter lying around
- Perfect if your room is small or a compact flat
Choosing an ottoman bed gives you generous storage without sacrificing style or comfort. Many UK buyers prefer it over other storage beds because it’s easier to use and keeps the room clutter-free.

Customer Reviews & Expert Insights
UK Buyer Feedback
UK buyers often rave about ottoman single beds for storage. A student in Leeds shared, “I moved into a flat, and this bed gave me back 40 sq ft.” Small changes like this can make a huge difference, turning cramped rooms into organised, spacious ones.
Interior Designer Insights
Designers always recommend ottoman single beds for smaller spaces. They keep rooms looking neat while hiding clutter. It’s like getting style and storage in one. Hidden storage really makes a difference.
Furniture Maker Tips
Experts suggest choosing ottoman beds with strong lift mechanisms. A sturdy design lasts longer and makes lifting effortless, so you won’t struggle after a few months. Quality here really makes the difference.
Sleep Expert Advice
Sleep specialists recommend pairing your ottoman bed with a supportive mattress. The right match gives you both comfort and practicality for everyday use. Many UK buyers pair these with an end of bed TV stand UK for a perfect setup. It’s like making your bedroom both comfy and functional.
Market Popularity & Eco-Friendly Side
Stats & Growth Trend UK
· The UK Ottoman bed market has grown 25% in the last 5 years
· More people want compact, multifunctional furniture
· FOMO factor nudges buyers toward smart storage solutions
Sustainable Materials & Long Lifespan
· Beds made from eco-friendly, sustainable wood
· Long-lasting design reduces replacements
· Great for eco-conscious buyers
Check all UK bed sizes to find the right fit for your ottoman bed.
Buying & Maintenance Guide
Measuring Space
Measure your room to ensure the ottoman single bed fits and leaves sufficient space for lifting and storing items.
Picking the Right Style
Pick a style that matches your decor. Smooth lift-up mechanisms make life easier.
Warranty & Returns
Choose ottoman beds that come with a solid warranty and flexible return policy — it keeps your purchase protected.
Cleaning & Mechanism Care
Dust the frame often and keep the lift mechanism lubricated for smooth use. With the right care, your ottoman bed stays practical and reliable for years.
Why Buy from Famaya Luxury Beds
UK homeowners have trusted Famaya Luxury Beds for over 10 years. Stylish, comfy, and smartly designed, these beds make organising effortless.
· Pick the right size
· Keep lifts smooth
· Enjoy easy organisation
Check out our luxury beds to naturally upgrade your bedroom.
Final Thoughts
Ottoman single beds save space and add convenience. Focus on your room, style, and maintenance, and you’ll choose a bed that really works. Your bedroom will feel instantly larger. Pair with cheap double bed with mattress UK for a comfy and practical setup.
Ready to upgrade? Explore the best Ottoman single beds UK today and enjoy style with storage.
FAQs
What is an ottoman bed used for?
Think of it like this: hidden storage under your mattress keeps your room tidy and organised, just like when you stash things away but still grab them easily.
What are the disadvantages of an ottoman bed?
So, they're heavier than regular beds, require space to lift, and the mechanisms need occasional upkeep.
What makes a good ottoman bed?
A solid frame, smooth lift, durable materials, and plenty of storage – basically something that won’t let you down after a year.
How does an Ottoman bed stay down?
Hydraulic or spring lifts hold it firmly closed, so you don't have to worry about it opening unexpectedly.
Does an Ottoman bed stay down without a mattress?
Some can, but having a mattress adds that extra stability, making it safer.
How to secure an ottoman bed?
Check the mechanisms, use any locks it has, and give it a regular inspection. Easy.
How to keep an ottoman in place?
Adjust the hydraulic pistons or springs according to the instructions. That’s it, you’re good.
Why does my ottoman bed keep opening?
Usually, worn or misaligned lifts are the culprit. Inspect, fix, or replace them and you’re back to normal.