A Guide to Divans, Ottomans, and Gas Lift Options

Your guide to the correct storage bed 

Maximising space in your bedroom can be a game-changer, especially if you're dealing with limited square footage. Storage beds offer a brilliant solution, combining your sleeping space with cleverly integrated storage. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? This post breaks down three popular types: divan beds with drawer storage, divan ottoman beds, and gas lift beds, helping you make an informed decision.

1. Divan Beds with Drawer Storage: Classic Functionality

Divan beds with drawers are a classic choice for a reason. They consist of a sturdy base (the divan) and a mattress, with drawers built into the base itself. These drawers slide out easily, providing convenient storage for bedding, clothes, or anything else you need to tuck away.

• Pros:

  • Easy Access: Drawers offer quick and easy access to your stored items.
  • Versatility: Ideal for storing frequently used items.
  • Variety of Styles: Divan bases come in various fabrics and designs to match your décor.
  • Affordable: Often a more budget-friendly option compared to ottoman beds.

• Cons:

  • Limited Storage Space: Drawers typically offer less storage space than ottoman beds.
  • Space Required: You'll need enough space around the bed to pull the drawers out.
  • Dust Accumulation: Items in drawers can be more prone to dust.

2. Divan Ottoman Beds: Maximising Space

Divan ottoman beds take storage to the next level. The entire mattress base lifts up, revealing a vast storage compartment underneath. This "ottoman" mechanism provides significantly more storage space than drawer divans.

• Pros:

  • Maximum Storage: Offers the largest storage capacity of the three types.
  • Hidden Storage: Keeps your belongings completely out of sight.
  • Easy Lifting: Gas-powered struts make lifting the mattress base relatively effortless.

• Cons:

  • Less Convenient Access: Requires lifting the mattress to access stored items.
  • Can Be More Expensive: Typically pricier than drawer divans.
  • Requires Clearance: Needs vertical clearance above the bed for the base to lift fully.

3. Gas Lift Beds: A Stylish Alternative

Gas lift beds offer a similar storage solution to ottoman beds, but instead of a divan base, they usually have a slatted or solid base that lifts up. They often come in various styles, including upholstered and wooden frames, offering more design flexibility.

• Pros:

  • Stylish Designs: Available in a wider range of styles and materials.
  • Good Storage Capacity: Offers comparable storage to ottoman divans.
  • Easy Lifting: Gas-powered mechanisms ensure easy lifting.

• Cons:

  • Can Be More Expensive: Often more expensive than divan options.
  • Assembly Required: Usually requires more assembly than divan beds.
  • Mattress Choice: You may need to choose a lighter mattress for easier lifting.

Which Storage Bed is Right for You?

The best storage bed for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following:

• How much storage space do you need? Ottoman beds offer the most, followed by gas lift beds, then drawer divans.
• How often will you access the stored items? Drawers are ideal for frequently used items, while ottoman and gas lift beds are better for less frequently accessed belongings.
• What is your budget? Drawer divans are generally the most affordable, while gas lift beds can be the most expensive.
• What style do you prefer? Consider the overall aesthetic of your bedroom and choose a bed that complements it.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the perfect storage bed to maximise your space and create a clutter-free and stylish bedroom.