One of the biggest advantages of an ottoman bed is the generous hidden storage beneath the mattress. But how much can you actually fit in there — and how does it all work? This guide covers everything parents need to know.
How Does Ottoman Bed Storage Work?
Ottoman beds use a gas-lift mechanism to raise the entire mattress and base, revealing a large storage compartment underneath. Unlike drawer beds, there are no separate pull-out drawers — the whole base lifts as one, giving you full, unobstructed access to the storage space.
End-Opening vs Side-Opening
Ottoman beds come in two opening styles:
- End-opening — the mattress lifts from the foot of the bed. Ideal if you have space at the end of the bed but walls or furniture on the sides.
- Side-opening — the mattress lifts from one side. Better suited to rooms where the end of the bed is against a wall.
Always check which opening direction suits your room layout before buying.
How Much Can You Store?
The storage capacity of an ottoman bed is significant — typically the full footprint of the mattress and around 25–30cm in depth. In a single bed, you can comfortably store:
- Spare duvets and pillows
- Seasonal clothing or bedding
- Toys, games, and books
- Boxed items and flat storage
A double ottoman bed offers even more space — equivalent to several large suitcases.
Is the Gas-Lift Safe for Children's Rooms?
Yes — all our ottoman beds use a hydraulic gas-lift mechanism that holds the base securely open without needing to be held. The base will not drop unexpectedly. However, as with all furniture, we recommend supervising young children when the storage is open.
Tips for Organising Under-Bed Storage
- Use vacuum storage bags for bulky duvets and pillows to maximise space
- Store items in labelled boxes or baskets for easy access
- Keep heavier items towards the edges so the base lifts easily
- Avoid overfilling — leave enough room for the base to close flat
Shop Our Ottoman Beds
Ready to make the most of your child's bedroom space? Browse our full range of children's ottoman beds — available in a range of sizes, fabrics, and headboard styles.
