How to Choose the Perfect Storage Ottoman: Top Recommendations

Finding furniture that is both stylish and practical can feel like a constant challenge, especially when space is at a premium. Clutter from blankets, magazines and children's toys can quickly accumulate, while finding extra seating for guests is a familiar problem in many UK homes. A well-chosen storage ottoman offers a clever and elegant solution to both issues.

As the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you navigate the options and find pieces that genuinely enhance your home. This guide will walk you through what to consider when selecting an ottoman bench and highlight a few standout options that blend function with sophisticated design.

What to Look for in a Storage Ottoman

Before you start browsing, a little planning can ensure you find the perfect fit for your space and needs. Here are a few key points to consider.

1. Size and Placement

The first step is to measure the area where you plan to place your ottoman. Will it serve as a coffee table in the living room, an end of bed storage bench for spare linens or a practical hallway storage bench for shoes and bags? For a living room, a larger storage bench might be ideal, offering ample surface area and seating. In a hallway or bedroom, a more compact design may be more suitable. Always leave enough room to walk around it comfortably and to fully open the lid.

2. Material and Aesthetics

The fabric and style of your ottoman will have a big impact on your room's overall feel. A velvet ottoman can add a touch of luxury and warmth, making it a popular choice for living rooms and bedrooms. Consider the existing colour scheme and textures in your room. An upholstered ottoman in a neutral shade like grey or cream offers versatility, while a bolder colour can create an eye-catching focal point. Pay attention to details like leg material and tufting, which contribute to the piece's character.

3. Storage Capacity and Function

Think about what you plan to store. For bulky items like duvets and pillows, you will need a deep, open-plan interior. If you want to organise smaller items like remote controls, books or accessories, an ottoman with built-in dividers or accompanying storage boxes can be incredibly useful. Also, consider the lid mechanism. Some have simple lift-off lids, while others feature soft-close hinges, which can be a safer and more convenient option.

Our Product Recommendations

Here are a few recommendations that showcase the versatility and style available, selected to meet a range of different household needs.

Ochama Foldable Velvet Storage Bench

• Why It Stands Out: This ottoman bench is a masterclass in practicality. Its standout feature is the unique foldable design, which allows for incredibly quick assembly and flat-pack storage when not needed. It also comes with two extra internal boxes for organising smaller items.
• Pros:
  • Generous Capacity: Offers a substantial 131L of storage space.
  • Robust Build: Constructed with thick MDF panels and reinforced with metal corner guards on the lid, supporting a static load capacity of up to 300 kg.
  • Added Organisation: Includes two smaller storage boxes to keep clutter neatly sorted.
• Who is it for? This is an excellent choice for families or anyone in a rental property who needs a large, sturdy and flexible storage solution that can be easily moved or stored away. It's perfect for a living room or at the foot of a bed.

HOMCOM Curved Tufted Velvet Ottoman

• Why It Stands Out: This piece brings a touch of French-inspired elegance to any room. The combination of soft velvet upholstery, classic button tufting and gracefully carved rubberwood legs makes it a beautiful focal point.
• Pros:
  • Elegant Design: The curved silhouette and tufted details provide a sophisticated, high-end look.
  • Soft-Close Lid: The padded lid features a soft-close mechanism, preventing it from slamming shut.
  • Comfortable Seating: The padded top makes it a comfortable extra seat when entertaining guests.
• Who is it for? Ideal for someone looking to add a decorative and functional piece to their bedroom or living room. Its refined style complements both traditional and contemporary interiors.

Homcom Opulent Cream and Gold Storage Stool

• Why It Stands Out: This compact footstool with storage proves that good things come in small packages. Its chic combination of cream velvet-feel fabric and striking gold-coloured metal hairpin legs creates a modern, glamorous look.
• Pros:
  • Compact and Stylish: Perfect for smaller spaces, serving as a dressing table stool, a footrest or an accent seat.
  • Discreet Storage: The lift-off lid reveals a handy 5L of storage for smaller items like remote controls, chargers or cosmetics.
  • Stable Base: The metal legs are fitted with adjustable foot pads to ensure stability on uneven floors.
• Who is it for? This is a great option for those who need a touch of storage without sacrificing floor space. It’s perfectly suited for a bedroom, a dressing room or as a stylish companion to an armchair.

Looking for More Options?

The pieces highlighted here are just a starting point. If you're drawn to the luxurious feel of velvet but haven't found the exact size or shape you need, there are many other styles to explore.

? Discover our full collection of velvet footstools and ottomans to find your perfect match.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you sit on a storage ottoman? Yes, most storage ottomans are designed to be used as seating. However, it is important to check the product's specifications for its maximum weight capacity. For example, the Ochama Storage Bench mentioned above has a high capacity of 300 kg, making it very suitable for seating, while others might be designed for lighter use.

2. How can I style a storage ottoman in my living room? A storage ottoman is incredibly versatile. You can place a decorative tray on top to create a stable surface for drinks and snacks, effectively turning it into a coffee table. Draping a stylish throw over one corner can add texture and colour. It can also simply serve as a comfortable footrest or extra seating, positioned in front of a sofa or by a window.

3. What are the best things to store in an ottoman? They are ideal for storing items that you want to keep close but out of sight. Common uses include storing extra blankets and cushions, board games, magazines, photo albums and children's toys. In a hallway, they are perfect for shoes, hats and scarves.