Ottoman beds and divan beds both offer storage under the mattress, but they work in different ways. Here is how they compare so you can choose the right one for your room.
What is a divan bed?
A divan is a solid, fabric covered base that sits on short legs or castors. The mattress sits directly on top, and a headboard is usually attached separately. Storage comes from drawers built into the sides of the base. Our divan beds let you choose the number of drawers, a headboard and a mattress on the product page.
What is an ottoman bed?
An ottoman bed has a platform that lifts up, usually from the foot end or the side, to reveal one large storage space under the mattress. It is often part of an upholstered frame with a matching headboard. See our ottoman storage beds.
Storage compared
- Divan drawers are good for things you reach for every day, such as clothes and bedding, because you open a drawer without moving the mattress.
- Ottoman storage gives you more total space and suits bulky items you do not need daily, such as suitcases, spare duvets and seasonal clothes.
Room layout
Divan drawers need clear space beside the bed to pull them open. If your bed sits against a wall or has bedside tables close to it, some drawers may be hard to use. An end lift ottoman only needs space at the foot of the bed, which often makes it the better choice for small rooms.
Style
Divans have a simple, practical look and pair with almost any headboard. Ottoman beds tend to be designed as a complete frame, so you can choose a style such as velvet, Chesterfield or wingback. Browse velvet beds and grey ottoman beds for ideas.
Quick decision guide
- Choose a divan if you want drawers for daily use, a lower price starting point and the option of buying the bed and mattress together.
- Choose an ottoman if you need the most storage, have limited space beside the bed, or want a statement upholstered frame.
Not sure about sizes? Read our UK bed sizes guide. We deliver free across the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Wakefield, Sheffield and Bradford.