If you want to add extra storage space to your bedroom, an ottoman bed can be a great solution. Ottoman beds have a lifting top section revealing a spacious storage compartment, and they come in two main styles: end lift or side lift.
The key differences
The main difference between end lift and side lift ottoman beds comes down to the direction in which the platform lifts open.
End lift ottomans have a top section that lifts from the short end at the foot of the bed, while side lift ottomans have a top that lifts from one of the long sides of the bed, providing access to the storage space from the side.
Aside from the opening direction, end lift and side lift ottomans function similarly: the lift top is supported by pneumatic pistons for easy opening and closing, which, when closed, provide a flat, upholstered surface for the mattress. The under-bed storage compartment in both styles offers ample room to tuck away extra linens, pillows, blankets, shoes, and more to keep clutter out of sight.
Pictured: Bedmr Francis Wooden Side Opening Ottoman Bed. Available Bedstar.
Which style works better by bedroom layout?
So, if the core functions are essentially the same, which ottoman bed style makes the most sense for your bedroom? The answer largely depends on how your bed is positioned in the room – or where you put your bed.
Side lift ottomans are generally better suited for beds placed against walls. Since the lift top runs along the bed’s length, it can open fully without being obstructed by a wall. You can access the storage space from the side that extends into the room.
On the other hand, end-lift ottomans are ideal for floating beds that don’t sit flush against any walls or beds with only the headboard against the wall. Since the foot of the bed is accessible, you can easily open the lift top without any clearance issues. The open storage area will be located at the foot of the bed.
Other factors to consider
Aside from bedroom layout, here are a few other factors to keep in mind when weighing end lift vs. side lift ottoman beds:
- Access needs – If you have mobility issues, a side lift style may be easier to access from a seated position.
- Bedding dimensions – Side lift lids come in half-width sizes, so consider bedding dimensions. End lifts use the full mattress width.
- Corner placement – If placing the bed in a corner, end lift ottomans allow easier access to storage.
- Aesthetics – Some people find end-lift ottomans have a tidier, more seamless look when closed. But this may come down to personal preference.
- Mattress type – Depending on the depth, certain mattress types, like pillowtops, may fit better with an end-lift style.
The pros and cons:
To recap, here are the key pros and cons for end lift and side lift ottoman bed styles:
End Lift Ottoman Beds
Pros:
- Work best when the bed is in the middle of the room.
- Work well with floating bed layouts.
- Allow access from the foot of the bed.
- Tend to have a more streamlined, seamless look.
Cons:
- Not as accessible for corner placements.
Side Lift Ottoman Beds
Pros:
- Easier to access from a seated position.
- Better for beds placed against walls.
- Corner placement can allow full storage access.
Cons:
- Side access can require some clearance against the wall (due to your mattress and bedding lowering the opening threshold).
The bottom line
Neither style is better overall when it comes to end lift vs. side lift ottoman beds. The right pick comes down to your specific bedroom layout and access needs. Side lift ottomans are the most versatile, working well for wall-flush and floating beds. But end lift ottomans can be ideal when positioning your bed away from the walls such as in the middle of the room.