Ottoman vs Divan Beds: Which Is Right for You?
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Ottoman beds and divan beds are two of the most popular bed types in the UK, and at first glance they look very similar: an upholstered base, a mattress on top and a headboard at the end. The real difference is how they store your things. Here's how each one works, where each one shines, and how to choose the right one for your bedroom.
What is a divan bed?
A divan bed is a mattress on a solid, upholstered base that sits close to the floor on small feet or castors. The base gives the mattress a firm, even foundation, so the whole bed feels supportive and stable.
Divan bases come with or without storage. The most common options are:
- No storage: a simple base, ideal if you'd rather keep the space under the bed clear.
- Side drawers: for example two drawers, one on either side, so each sleeper has their own.
- Continental drawers: drawers on one side only, so the other side of the bed can sit against a wall.
- End drawers: a drawer at the foot of the bed, useful when there's no room to open drawers at the sides.
Drawers are perfect for things you use often, such as spare bedding, towels and clothes, because you can reach them in a second.
What is an ottoman bed?
An ottoman bed looks like a divan, but the whole top of the base lifts up on gas struts, a bit like a car boot. Underneath is one large storage space that runs the full length and width of the bed.
The gas struts take most of the weight, so lifting the base (with the mattress on it) is easier than you might expect. Ottoman bases usually open in one of two ways:
- End opening: the base lifts from the foot of the bed. A good choice when the sides of the bed are close to a wall or furniture.
- Side opening: the base lifts from one side. Handy if there's limited space at the foot of the bed.
Ottoman vs divan at a glance
| Divan bed with drawers | Ottoman bed | |
|---|---|---|
| Storage space | Good: two to four drawers | Excellent: the whole base |
| Best for storing | Everyday items you reach for often | Bulky or seasonal items such as duvets, suitcases and winter clothes |
| Getting to your things | Pull out a drawer | Lift the base |
| Space needed around the bed | Room to pull the drawers out at the side or end | Room to lift the base from the end or side |
| Feel | Both give the mattress a firm, supportive base | |
Which one should you choose?
Choose an ottoman bed if you need as much storage as possible
If your wardrobes are full or you live in a flat without a loft, an ottoman bed is the most space-efficient bed you can buy. It turns the whole area under your mattress into storage, and because everything sits inside the base, the room stays tidy and dust-free. Ottoman beds are also great in small bedrooms, as you don't need space at the side of the bed to open drawers.
Choose a divan bed with drawers if you want quick, everyday access
If you'd like to grab a fresh pillowcase or a jumper without moving anything, drawers are more convenient. Side drawers also make it easy for two people to have their own storage. Just check there's enough space beside the bed for the drawers to open fully.
Choose a divan without storage if you want a simple, supportive bed
If storage isn't a priority, for example in a guest room, a divan base without drawers gives you the same solid support for your mattress.
Don't forget the headboard and fabric
Both ottoman and divan beds pair well with a headboard, either one that fixes to the bed or a floor-standing style. Our guide to standard and floor-standing headboards explains the difference. Upholstered bases are also available in a choice of fabrics and colours, from soft plush velvets to textured linen-look weaves, so you can match the bed to your bedroom.
Measure before you buy
Whichever bed you choose, measure your room first and allow space to walk around the bed, open the drawers or lift the base. Our UK bed and mattress sizes guide shows the size of each bed, from small single to emperor.
See them in person
The best way to decide is to try both. Visit one of our factory shops to see how the drawers and ottoman bases open, or browse our ottoman beds and divan beds online, with free delivery to the room of your choice.
