King size Ottoman bed buyers' guide UK

What is a king size ottoman bed?

A king size ottoman bed is a storage bed with a lift-up base. The mattress sits on a platform that rises to reveal a roomy compartment beneath. It gives you a smart, tidy bedroom without adding extra furniture.

Space-saving. Hidden storage.

Space is precious. This bed hides spare bedding, luggage, and seasonal clothes under the mattress. There are no bulky chests or overflowing wardrobes—just clean floors and calm energy.

Gas-lift platform. Easy access.

Lift with one hand. The gas struts do the heavy work. The platform stays open while you sort your storage. Then it lowers smoothly and safely.

UK king size. Couples friendly.

UK king mattresses measure 150 × 200 cm. That's a generous space for two. Stretch out. Sleep better. Wake fresher.

Who should buy this

Small bedrooms. Big storage.

If floor space is tight, an king size ottoman bed is a game-changer. It can store a large chest without stealing walking room.

Style lovers. Upholstered looks.

Do you prefer a plush headboard and a designer feel? Upholstered ottoman frames come in velvet, bouclé, linen, and faux leather. The look is modern and polished.

Renters and homeowners.

Do you need storage that can move with you? The base is tidy and self-contained. It's practical in flats, houses, and guest rooms alike.

Key benefits

Clutter control.

Everything has a place—bedding, duvets, pillows, suitcases—tucked out of sight.

Smooth lift action.

Gas struts make lifting easy. No wrestling. No strain.

Better floor space.

Fewer furniture pieces. More room to walk, stretch, and breathe.

Quick takeaways

End-lift vs side-lift.

An end lift opens from the Foot of the king size ottoman bed, while a side lift opens from the side. Choose based on your room layout.

Sprung slats vs platform top.

Sprung slats add bounce. Platform tops feel firmer. Match to your sleep style.

Measure doors and stairs.

Check access before delivery. Measure doorways, landings, and stair turns.

Size and fit

UK King mattress compatibility.

Match a UK king mattress (150 × 200 cm). Avoid EU or US sizes, which differ.

Bedframe footprint and clearance.

Frames add a little to the mattress size. If possible, leave at least 60 cm of walkway on each side.

Headboard height and wall space.

Measure ceiling height and window sills. A tall headboard needs a clear wall area.

Storage capacity

What fits underneath?

Think duvets, pillows, winter coats, shoes, gym bags, and luggage. Use soft boxes to stack them neatly.

Depth, width, length.

Check the internal storage size. Deeper bases store bulkier items with ease.

Boxed vs open base.

Boxed bases have lined sides and floors, protecting contents from dust. Open bases are lighter and often cheaper.

Lift types

End-lift pros and cons.

Pros: Easy in narrow rooms. Great if space is clear at the Foot.

Cons: Foot-of-bed access needed. Bedside tables may stay put, but benches at the Foot may be in the way.

Side-lift pros and cons.

Pros: Ideal when one side has open space. Works well with foot-end furniture.

Cons: Needs side clearance. May limit large bedside cabinets.

Left or right hinge choice.

Many side-lift bed frames allow you to choose the hinge side during the build. Pick the side you access most.

Mechanism and hardware

Gas struts. Hydraulic pistons.

Quality struts make lifting smooth and safe. Look for strong, well-fitted brackets.

Safety stops and soft close.

A pause or lock keeps the platform up while you load. Soft close protects fingers and frame.

Load ratings and durability.

Check the maker's load guidance. Combine the mattress weight plus stored items within the limit.

Base and slats

Platform top. Firm feel.

A solid board base gives a stable, firmer feel. Suitable for back sleepers and heavier mattresses.

Sprung slats. Flex and bounce.

Curved slats flex under pressure. They add a little give and a lighter feel.

Centre rail and support legs.

A centre rail and mid-leg supports improve strength. They also reduce noise over time.

Frame materials

Hardwood and engineered wood.

Hardwood edges feel solid and premium. Engineered wood keeps the weight lower and costs less.

Metal frames and cross-bracing.

Metal adds rigidity with less bulk. Cross-bracing helps stop sway.

Joint quality and fixings.

Look for tight joints, metal corner brackets, and strong fixings—quality hardware matters.

Upholstery options

Velvet. Bouclé. Linen. Faux leather.

Velvet feels plush. Bouclé is textured and cosy. Linen is calm and relaxed. Faux leather wipes clean.

Stain resistance and cleaning.

Choose fabrics with stain protection. Blot spills quickly—vacuum fabric to keep dust down.

Colour picks for UK homes.

Soft neutrals calm small rooms. Deep blues and greens add depth. Charcoal hides marks well.

Comfort pairing

Mattress depth and weight.

Heavier, deeper mattresses need stronger struts. Check the maker's guidance before you buy.

Hybrid, memory foam, pocket spring.     

All work on ottomans. Pocket springs add bounce and airflow. Memory foam hugs the body. Hybrids balance both.

Edge support on ottomans.

A firm edge helps with sitting and getting up. It also keeps the platform feeling stable.

Ventilation and hygiene

Airflow under the base.

Choose bases with vents or breathable linings. Airflow helps freshness.

Moisture control and airing.

Lift the base now and then to air the storage. Rotate and air the mattress regularly.

Mattress breathability.

Look for breathable covers and side vents. Cooler sleep. Fresher feel.

Weight and safety

Maximum load guidance.

Stay within the maker's weight limits. This protects the mechanism and your warranty.

Safe lifting technique.

Use both hands on the handle. Let the struts help. Keep children clear when opening or closing.

Child and pet safety.

Close fully after use. Keep small hands and paws away from hinges.

Assembly and access

Flat-pack components.

Most Ottomans arrive flat-packed. Parts are well protected and easier to carry upstairs.

Tools and a two-person build.

Two adults make the assembly smoother and safer. A drill-driver speeds things up.

Tight hallways and stair turns.

Measure the longest box against your tightest turn. Plan the route.

Flooring and placement

Carpet, wood, vinyl.

It's all work. Add felt pads or glides to hard floors, and check for level footing on carpet.

Anti-scratch feet and glides.

Protect your floor and make small moves easier—simple, low-cost win.

Against the wall vs the centre room.

Against a wall saves space. Centre placement suits large rooms and statement headboards.

Noise and maintenance

Squeak fixes and tightening.

Tighten bolts after 2–4 weeks. Re-check every few months. A small dab of wax on joints can help.

Strut replacement timelines.

Struts are wear parts. After years of daily use, expect to replace them. Check the availability of spares.

Fabric care routines.

Vacuum upholstery on low power. Spot clean as recommended by the maker.

Style choices

Winged headboards.

Hotel looks. Adds presence and a cosy feel.

Tall headboards. Statement looks.

Go tall for drama. Great behind layered pillows.

Minimal frames for modern rooms.

Clean lines. Calm shapes. Easy to style.

Room planning

Clearance for opening.

Leave space for the lift arc. End-lift needs clear foot space. Side-lift needs clear side space.

Bedside tables and lamps.

Measure lamp height against headboard height. Ensure drawers open freely.

Wardrobes and doors swing.

Check door swings and walkway widths. Avoid clashes with the lift path.

Compare alternatives

Ottoman vs divan drawers.

Ottoman: more total storage, suits bulky items.

Divan drawers: quick access, but smaller capacity.

Ottoman vs standard storage beds.     

Ottoman: One large compartment has a cleaner look.

Standard storage: shelves or small spaces; lower capacity.

Ottoman vs bed drawers on runners.

Ottoman: No need for side clearance for drawers.

Drawers on runners: need space to pull out; easy for daily small items.

Budget and value

Entry level. Mid-range. Premium.

Entry: basic fabric, simpler hardware.

Mid: better fabric, stronger struts, improved build.

Premium: luxe upholstery, reinforced frames, quieter operation.

Where to invest.

Spend on the mechanism, frame strength, and fabric quality. These affect daily use the most.

Avoid false economy.

Ultra-cheap frames can flex, squeak, and fail early. Pay once, sleep well.

Warranty and returns

What to check in policies.

Look for clear terms on frames, mechanisms, and fabric. Keep your receipt and assembly notes.

Strut coverage details.

Struts are consumables. Check if and how long they're covered.

Trial periods and exchanges.

Some sellers offer sleep trials. Confirm collection terms and any fees.

Delivery and setup

Lead times and booking slots.

Plan for made-to-order lead times. Book a slot that suits your access.

Room of choice delivery.

Ask for carrying to the room. It saves time and effort.

Old bed removal.

Many services take away your old bed. Ask in advance.

Eco and sustainability

FSC wood and recycled fabrics.

FSC wood supports responsible forestry. Recycled fabrics cut waste.

Low-VOC finishes.

Low-VOC glues and finishes help indoor air quality.

Repairable parts and spares.

Choose brands that supply struts and fittings. Repair beats replace.

Accessibility tips

Light Mattresses for Easy Lift on a King Size Ottoman Bed

A king size ottoman bed is easier to open with a lighter mattress, making daily storage access smooth and hassle-free.

Handles and Grip Points on a King Size Ottoman Bed

Choose a king size ottoman bed with strong handles or non-slip grips to lift and close the base safely and comfortably.

Daily-Use Storage Zones in a King Size Ottoman Bed

Keep everyday items at the front of your king size ottoman bed, while storing less-used things at the back for better organisation.

For specific needs

Tall sleepers. Long limbs.

The UK king works for most. If you're very tall, consider a king size ottoman bed with a low footboard for legroom.

Back pain and firm bases.

A platform top on a king size ottoman bed with a supportive mattress can feel steadier. Always test firmness before buying.

Allergy-friendly materials.

Choose hypoallergenic fabrics and washable protectors. Vacuum regularly.

Measuring guide

Mattress, frame, and storage depth.

Check mattress depth for lift ease on a king size ottoman bed. Confirm internal storage height for bulky duvets.

Doorways, landings, stair treads.

Measure the route from the van to the bedroom. Compare the box sizes.

Lift arc and ceiling height.

Ensure the open platform clears lights, shelves, and sloped ceilings.

Styling ideas

Hotel-look bedding layers.

Crisp sheets. Plump pillows. A quilted throw. Instant luxury.

Colour palettes for calm.

Warm neutrals, soft blues, and sage greens soothe the eye.

Smart storage baskets.

Use soft bins inside the base—label for speed and order.

Checklist before buying

Measure. Plan. Access.

1.    Mattress and frame size

2.    Route through doors and stairs

3.    Clearance for the lift arc

Mechanism and build quality.

1.    Strong struts and brackets

2.    Solid frame with centre rail

3.    Ventilated or lined storage base

Warranty, delivery, aftercare.

1.    Explicit warranty on frame and struts

2.    Room-of-choice delivery

3.    Spare parts availability

Handy comparison tables

Lift type at a glance

Feature	End-lift	Side-lift
Best when	Foot is clear	One side is clear
Access	From foot	From side
Bedside impact	Minimal	Needs side space
Build choice	Common	Often reversible hinge

Base feels at a glance.

Base	Feel	Best for
Platform top	Firmer, stable	Back sleepers, heavier mattresses
Sprung slats	Softer, springy	Side sleepers, lighter feel

Alternatives at a glance

Option	Storage capacity	Space needed	Best for
Ottoman	Very high	Lift clearance	Small rooms; bulk items
Divan drawers	Medium	Drawer pull space	Daily small items
Bed drawers (runners)	Medium	Drawer pull space	Kids’ rooms; quick access

Agree: Space is tight and clutter is stressful.

Promise: This guide helps you quickly pick the right king size ottoman bed.

Preview: Measure smart, choose the right lift and base, and enjoy a tidy, stylish bedroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a king ottoman good for small rooms?

Yes. It replaces chests and boxes with one hidden space. You keep floors clear and movement easy.

Should I use an end lift or a side lift for my layout?

Choose the side with the most free space. An end lift works if the Foot of the bed is clear, while a side lift suits rooms with a free side.

What mattress works best on an ottoman?

Pocket spring, hybrid, and memory foam all work. Match firmness to your sleep style. Check weight guidance for the lift.

How much can a gas-lift hold?

Follow the manufacturer's limit. It covers the mattress and stored items. Staying within it protects the frame and warranty.

Do Ottoman beds breathe well?

They can. Choose ventilated bases and breathable mattresses. Air the storage now and then.

Are Ottomans hard to assemble?

Two adults can build in a few hours. Read the guide, take your time, and use a drill-driver if allowed.

Will it squeak over time?

Tighten bolts after settling in. Re-check a few times a year. Quality frames stay quieter.

Can I use a heavy mattress?

Yes, if the struts are rated for it. Check the spec before you buy.