Ottoman Bed Guide: Gas Lift Storage Beds in Canada
Quick Answer: An ottoman bed is a bed frame with a gas-lift mechanism that raises the entire mattress platform to reveal deep storage underneath. Ottoman beds typically offer 20 to 30 cubic feet of hidden storage, more than any drawer-style frame. They come in twin through king sizes and cost roughly $500 to $2,500 CAD in Canada.
In This Guide
- What Is an Ottoman Bed?
- How Ottoman Beds Work
- Ottoman Bed vs Drawer Storage Bed
- Sizes and Storage Capacity
- How to Choose an Ottoman Bed
- Mattress Considerations
- Care and Maintenance
- FAQs
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What Is an Ottoman Bed?
An ottoman bed looks like a regular upholstered bed frame, but the mattress platform lifts up on gas-powered hydraulic pistons to reveal a large storage compartment underneath. The entire base of the bed becomes one big storage box, accessible by lifting the platform from the foot end or the side.
The name comes from the ottoman furniture piece (the padded footstool), which also opens to reveal storage inside. An ottoman bed applies the same concept to a full bed frame.
Ottoman beds have been popular in the UK and Europe for years and are gaining traction in Canada, particularly in cities like Toronto, Vancouver and Hamilton where condos and apartments have limited closet space. They solve a real problem: where do you put seasonal clothing, extra bedding, luggage and all the other things that do not fit in a small bedroom?
How Ottoman Beds Work
The Gas Lift Mechanism
The key to an ottoman bed is the gas strut system. Two or more hydraulic gas pistons (similar to what holds your car trunk open) are mounted between the base frame and the lifting platform. When you pull the platform up, the gas struts assist the lift, making it manageable even with a heavy mattress on top.
Most ottoman beds use a simple pull handle or strap at the foot of the bed to initiate the lift. You pull the handle, the gas struts engage and the platform rises smoothly to about 70 to 90 degrees. The struts hold it in place while you access the storage below.
Lift Orientations
End-opening (foot lift): The most common style. The platform lifts from the foot of the bed, hinging at the headboard end. You need clearance at the foot of the bed to open it fully. This is the easiest to access because you stand at the foot and everything inside is visible.
Side-opening: The platform lifts from one side, hinging along the opposite side. Useful when the foot of the bed is against a wall or another piece of furniture. Requires clearance on the opening side.
How Much Weight Can the Lift Handle?
Gas struts on quality ottoman beds are rated to assist with lifting a mattress weighing up to 60 to 80 lbs (most queen mattresses fall in this range). Heavier mattresses like thick hybrids or latex models (80 to 120 lbs) may strain the gas struts and make lifting harder. Some premium ottoman beds use stronger struts rated for heavier mattresses. Check the manufacturer's maximum mattress weight before pairing your ottoman bed with a heavy mattress.
Ottoman Bed vs Drawer Storage Bed
Both ottoman beds and drawer storage beds solve the bedroom storage problem, but they do it differently.
| Feature | Ottoman Bed | Drawer Storage Bed |
|---|---|---|
| Storage capacity | 20 to 30 cubic feet | 8 to 15 cubic feet |
| Access method | Lift entire platform | Pull out individual drawers |
| Side clearance needed | None (end-lift) or one side | Both sides (for drawers) |
| Best for storing | Large items: luggage, seasonal bedding, bins | Small items: clothing, books, accessories |
| Ease of access | Must lift mattress to reach anything | Quick access to individual drawers |
| Price range (CAD) | $500 to $2,500 | $400 to $2,000 |
Ottoman beds are better for bulk storage of items you do not need daily. Drawer beds are better for everyday items you reach for regularly. If you need maximum storage volume and your bedroom layout does not allow drawers to extend on both sides, an ottoman bed is the clear winner.
For drawer-style storage beds, see our bed frames with storage guide.
Sizes and Storage Capacity
| Bed Size | Mattress Dimensions | Storage Depth | Approx. Storage Volume |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | 38" x 75" | 10" to 14" | 12 to 18 cubic feet |
| Double (Full) | 54" x 75" | 10" to 14" | 18 to 25 cubic feet |
| Queen | 60" x 80" | 10" to 14" | 22 to 30 cubic feet |
| King | 76" x 80" | 10" to 14" | 28 to 38 cubic feet |
The storage depth (the height of the storage cavity) varies by model. Budget ottoman beds tend to be shallower (10 inches), while premium models offer 12 to 14 inches of depth. That extra 2 to 4 inches makes a meaningful difference in what you can fit inside.
To put the volume in perspective, a queen ottoman bed with 14-inch depth holds roughly the equivalent of a full-size wardrobe. That is enough for a complete set of seasonal bedding, two suitcases and several storage bins of clothing.
How to Choose an Ottoman Bed
Build Quality
The frame needs to support the mattress, the sleeper and the repeated stress of lifting and lowering. Solid wood frames or engineered wood with steel reinforcement are the most durable. Avoid ottoman beds with thin particle board bases, as these can sag or crack under the weight over time.
Gas Strut Quality
The gas struts are the most critical component. Quality struts operate smoothly, hold the platform at full open and lower it gently. Cheap struts lose pressure over time, making the lift harder and the close faster (which can slam the platform down). Look for branded gas struts with a rated lifespan of 10,000+ cycles.
Upholstery
Most ottoman beds are upholstered in fabric, velvet, faux leather or genuine leather. Fabric and velvet are the most popular in Canada. Consider durability and cleaning: performance fabrics resist staining and are easy to spot-clean. Velvet looks luxurious but shows wear patterns over time.
Headboard Style
Many ottoman beds include an upholstered headboard as part of the frame. Options range from simple flat panels to tufted or wingback designs. Some models have built-in shelves or USB charging ports in the headboard.
Storage Solutions for Ontario Homes
Older Brantford homes, Victorian-era houses in Hamilton and post-war bungalows across Ontario are notorious for small closets. An ottoman bed is one of the smartest storage upgrades you can make in a bedroom without any renovation. Come talk to us at Mattress Miracle about pairing an ottoman bed frame with the right mattress for your sleeping style.
Mattress Considerations for Ottoman Beds
Weight Matters
Unlike a regular bed frame, the mattress on an ottoman bed gets lifted every time you access the storage. A lightweight foam mattress (30 to 45 lbs for a queen) is easier to lift than a heavy hybrid or latex model (70 to 120 lbs). If you choose a heavier mattress, make sure the gas struts are rated to handle it.
Thickness
Most ottoman beds work with mattresses up to 12 inches thick. Thicker mattresses add weight but do not cause structural issues as long as the gas struts can handle the load. There is no guardrail concern as there is with loft beds.
Mattress Type Recommendations
Memory foam: Light, quiet and works well with the flat platform surface of an ottoman bed. A great all-around choice.
Hybrid: Heavier but provides better edge support and airflow. Good if you want a more traditional mattress feel and the gas struts can handle the weight.
Innerspring: Works fine but tends to be the heaviest option. Check the strut rating.
Visit our Brantford showroom to try different mattress types and find one that balances comfort with a manageable weight for your ottoman bed frame.
Care and Maintenance
Gas Struts
Gas struts typically last 5 to 10 years with regular use. If the lift becomes harder over time or the platform will not stay open on its own, the struts need replacing. Most ottoman bed manufacturers sell replacement struts, and installation is a straightforward job with basic tools.
Storage Compartment
Keep the storage area clean and dry. Vacuum the base periodically. Use breathable storage bags rather than sealed plastic bins to prevent moisture buildup. In humid Ontario summers, a small moisture absorber packet in the storage cavity helps prevent musty odours.
Upholstery
Vacuum the headboard and frame with an upholstery attachment every few weeks. Spot-clean spills immediately with a damp cloth and mild soap. For velvet or delicate fabrics, use a fabric-specific cleaner.
Shop: All Bed Frames at Mattress Miracle
Shop This Topic at Mattress Miracle
Bed frames at Mattress Miracle:
- Almonte Canadian Bed Frame
- Canadian Made Platform Bed
- Bridgewater Storage Bed Frame
- Hickory Ridge Platform Bed
Or bed frames in our Brantford showroom.
Find Your Perfect Mattress at Mattress Miracle
We are a family-owned mattress store in Brantford, helping our community sleep better since 1997. Come try mattresses in person and get honest, no-pressure advice.
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, Ontario
Call 519-770-0001Frequently Asked Questions
Are ottoman beds sturdy enough for everyday use?
Yes. A well-built ottoman bed is as sturdy as a regular bed frame. The gas lift mechanism does not affect sleep quality or mattress support. The platform sits on the base frame when closed, providing a solid, flat surface for the mattress. Choose a model with a reinforced frame and quality gas struts for the best long-term performance.
Can I use any mattress on an ottoman bed?
Most mattresses work on ottoman beds, but weight is a factor. Lighter mattresses (foam, thin hybrid) are easier to lift. Heavier mattresses (thick hybrid, latex) need stronger gas struts. Check the manufacturer's maximum mattress weight rating. Most ottoman beds support mattresses up to 80 lbs without issue.
How much storage does an ottoman bed have?
A queen ottoman bed provides roughly 22 to 30 cubic feet of storage, depending on the storage depth (10 to 14 inches). That is enough for seasonal bedding, luggage, clothing bins and more. It is roughly double the storage capacity of a comparable drawer-style storage bed.
Do ottoman beds make noise?
Quality ottoman beds operate quietly. The gas struts produce a soft hiss during lifting and lowering, similar to a car trunk. Squeaking or creaking usually indicates loose hardware or a frame issue, not the gas lift system. Tighten all bolts and screws every few months to keep the bed silent.
Where can I buy an ottoman bed mattress near Brantford?
Visit Mattress Miracle at 441 1/2 West Street in Brantford. We carry foam, hybrid and innerspring mattresses that pair well with ottoman bed frames. We can help you choose a mattress that balances comfort with a manageable weight for the gas lift system. Call (519) 770-0001 for availability.
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
Mattress Miracle
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford
Phone: (519) 770-0001
Hours: Mon-Wed 10-6, Thu-Fri 10-7, Sat 10-5, Sun 12-4
Thinking about an ottoman bed? The mattress weight matters more than you might expect. Come try different options in person and we will help you find a comfortable mattress that works with your gas-lift frame.