How to Choose the Right Storage Ottoman: Top Recommendations

Finding enough storage is a common challenge in many UK homes. From spare blankets in the living room to shoes cluttering the hallway, it can feel like a constant battle to keep things tidy without sacrificing style. A storage ottoman offers a clever and elegant solution, combining comfortable seating with discreet storage to help you make the most of your space.

But with so many options available, choosing the right one can be tricky. This guide is designed to help you understand what to look for in a storage ottoman. We'll walk you through key considerations and share some of our top recommendations to help you find a piece that perfectly suits your home and needs.

What to Consider Before Buying a Storage Ottoman

Before you start browsing, thinking about a few key factors will help narrow down your choices and ensure you select a functional and stylish piece.

1. Size, Scale and Placement

The first step is to measure the area where you plan to place your ottoman. Consider not just the footprint but also the height, especially if it will sit below a window or alongside a sofa. A large ottoman bench with storage can serve as a striking end of bed bench in the master bedroom, offering a place to sit while getting dressed and storing extra bedding. In a narrower space, a well-proportioned hallway bench can provide a spot to put on shoes while keeping them neatly tucked away. For the main living area, a living room ottoman can double as a coffee table or extra seating for guests.

2. Material and Style

The material you choose will define the look and feel of your ottoman. A velvet storage bench brings a sense of warmth and luxury to a room, with its soft texture and rich colour. It’s a popular choice for adding a touch of sophistication to both modern and traditional interiors. An upholstered footstool with storage not only provides a comfortable place to rest your feet but also contributes to the room's overall aesthetic. Think about how the colour and fabric will complement your existing furniture, whether you want it to blend in or stand out as an accent piece.

3. Storage Capacity and Mechanism

Consider what you intend to store. Will it be bulky items like duvets and pillows, or smaller things like remote controls, magazines and children's toys? The internal dimensions will determine its utility. Most storage ottomans feature a hinged lid that lifts to reveal an open compartment. Look for features like soft-close hinges, which prevent the lid from slamming shut, or a fully removable lid for easy access. Some models even come with internal dividers or extra boxes to help you organise smaller items more effectively.

Recommended Storage Ottomans to Consider

Here are a few options that stand out for their design, functionality and overall value.

For Maximum, Flexible Storage

Ochama Storage Ottoman, Foldable Velvet Storage Bench

• Why It Stands Out: This ottoman is a practical choice for those who need substantial storage. Its most notable feature is the clever foldable design, which allows it to be set up in minutes or packed away flat if needed. It also comes with two extra storage boxes, perfect for organising smaller items within the main compartment. The construction feels solid, with MDF panels and metal corner guards on the lid for added durability.

• Pros:

  • Generous 131L storage capacity.
  • High maximum weight capacity of 300 kg.
  • Foldable design for easy moving and storage.
  • Includes two smaller boxes for better organisation.

• Who is it for: This is an excellent choice for families or renters who value flexibility and capacity. Its large size makes it ideal as a bedroom storage ottoman for duvets and blankets or for hiding away toys in a living room.

For an Elegant, French-Inspired Look

HOMCOM Ottoman Storage Curved Tufted Velvet

• Why It Stands Out: With its graceful curved lines, button-tufted upholstery and carved rubberwood legs, this ottoman brings a touch of classic elegance to any room. It’s more than just a storage box; it’s a statement piece of furniture. A key feature is the soft-close lid, which adds a premium feel and is a practical safety consideration, especially in homes with children.

• Pros:

  • Sophisticated French-inspired design.
  • Soft-close hinge prevents slamming.
  • Sturdy frame supported by carved rubberwood legs.
  • Spacious inner storage (111.5W x 37.5D x 24H cm).

• Who is it for: This piece is suited for someone looking to add a decorative yet functional focal point to their bedroom or living room. It works beautifully as an end of bed bench or as sophisticated seating in a formal living space.

For Compact, Multi-Functional Style

Homcom Ottoman Storage Velvet Luxe

• Why It Stands Out: This compact, round ottoman proves that good things come in small packages. It arrives ready to use with no assembly required, making it an effortless addition to your home. Its small footprint makes it incredibly versatile—use it as a footstool, a small seat at a dressing table, or an accent piece in a snug corner. The hidden storage is ideal for stashing a single blanket, remote controls or books.

• Pros:

  • No assembly required.
  • Compact and versatile for small spaces.
  • Functions as a seat, footstool and storage unit.
  • Non-slip foot pads protect flooring.

• Who is it for: Ideal for those in smaller homes, flats or anyone needing a stylish accent piece with a bonus storage feature. It’s a perfect upholstered footstool with storage for a living room or a chic stool for a bedroom.

Looking for a Different Style?

These recommendations offer a glimpse into what’s available, but the world of ottomans is vast. If you’re looking for different colours, shapes or materials, there are many more styles to explore.

To see a wider selection, browse our full collection of Velvet Ottoman Footstools and find the perfect piece to complete your home.

Frequently Asked Questions about Storage Ottomans

1. What can you typically store in a storage ottoman? A storage ottoman is incredibly versatile for storage. Depending on its size, you can store a wide range of items, including spare blankets, cushions, bed linen, magazines, books, board games, children's toys and even shoes. Larger benches are great for bulky items, while smaller footstools are perfect for keeping everyday clutter out of sight.

2. How do I choose the right size ottoman for my room? Start by measuring the available space, ensuring there is enough room to walk around it comfortably. As a general rule, if using it as a coffee table, its height should be similar to or slightly lower than your sofa's seats. If it's an end of bed bench, it should not be wider than the bed itself. Always consider the scale of the room and surrounding furniture to maintain a balanced look.

3. Are storage ottomans comfortable enough for seating? Many storage ottomans are designed with seating in mind and feature a padded top with high-density foam for comfort. They can serve as practical extra seating when you have guests. However, it's important to check the product's specified weight capacity to ensure it can safely support the intended use. An ottoman bench with storage is often built to accommodate two or more people.