Side-opening Vs End-opening Ottoman Beds: Which One Is Right For You?

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You’ve been shopping around for a while, and you’ve realised that you need a really efficient and comfortable storage ottoman bed, but how do you know whether a side-opening or end-opening ottoman is the right option for you?

With various things to consider, such as storage access, surrounding furniture and room layouts, this guide will walk you through which opening type is potentially the right option for you. We’ll break down all the pros and cons of each option to help you make your decision.

What Is The Difference Between Side-opening & End-opening Ottoman Beds?

Side-opening and end-opening beds differ from one another since the storage compartments can be accessed from either the side or at the foot of the bed. Depending on your room size and layout, one opening style can be better than the other for your space.

A side-opening ottoman bed lifts from the side of the frame, allowing you to access the storage from the right-hand side of the bed.

This style is a really popular choice for bedrooms where the foot of the bed is obstructed by a wall or furniture, but there’s clear access to the side of the bed.

Alternatively, an end-opening ottoman bed opens from the foot of the bed. This is an ideal opening type for bedrooms where the sides of the bed will be restricted from walls, wardrobes, bedside tables and other obstructions.

Both styles of ottoman beds have the same goals, which are to offer you a comfortable place to sleep and enhance your storage space.

Why Is It Important To Choose The Right Opening Type?

Choosing the right opening type for your ottoman bed is essential for you to easily access your storage space. If the gas-lift lid has no room to open, you may unfortunately not be able to use the bed to its best ability, and getting access the underneath storage would be a challenge.

It’s always a good idea to double check any obstructions that surround the ottoman bed and consider things such as bedside tables, walls and furniture. You may also need to consider whether or not you have shelves, picture frames, wall art or any other decorative wall items that the ottoman bed lid may damage when lifted.

You also need enough room to be able to stand comfortably and easily lift things from in and out of the bed without any difficulty. This is especially useful when storing larger items such as bedding, suitcases, or seasonal clothing.

Side-opening Ottoman Beds: Pros

Side-opening ottoman beds are an excellent choice for bedrooms with generous side space or limited space at the foot of the bed. Let’s tale a look at some more of their advantages to help you find the right option!

They're Good For Bedrooms That Block The Foot-end Of The Bed

If you have a bedroom that would potentially block the foot end of the bed, a side-opening ottoman bed could be a great option for you. Providing that there is enough space at the side of the bed, you should be able to access your storage freely in these room layouts without any difficulties.

They’re Often Better For Those With Restricted Mobility

Those who have restricted mobility can often access the storage of their side-opening ottoman beds better. While end-opening ottoman beds still provide great access and excellent storage space, side-opening ottoman beds often require less stretching to reach underneath it.

Great For Being Positioned Near A Wall

If one side of the bed is against a wall, a side-opening ottoman bed is usually a more appropriate option for this space. Of course, it’s always important to double check by measuring, but a side-opening ottoman bed can be good for compact spaces such as spare guest bedrooms, loft conversions, small apartments and many more.

Side-opening Ottoman Beds: Cons

It’s true that side-opening ottoman beds might not be right for everyone. Let’s take a look at some of their potential drawbacks to help you decide if they’re right for you.

They Require Side Clearance

Side-opening ottoman beds require space on the side of the bed to allow for the lid to fully open. If the bed is positioned tightly between two walls or has bedside furniture running along the accessible side, opening the storage compartment can become difficult or even impossible.

They Can Be Less Suitable for Narrow Bedrooms

In long, narrow bedrooms, there may not be enough room for the side lifting mechanisms to fully extend. In these layouts, an end-opening ottoman bed might be the better option for you.

You Need To Choose The Correct Opening Side

Unlike end-opening ottoman beds, side-opening models are often only available on one side only. Our side-opening ottomans open from the right hand side, so it's important to ensure this configuration suits your bedroom layout before making a purchase.

End-opening Ottoman Beds: Pros

End-opening ottoman beds have a lot of advantages for easy access from day to day. Let’s take a look at what makes them so great for various bedroom layouts.

Ideal For Narrow Bedrooms

End-opening ottoman beds are a great choice for narrower bedrooms where there isn't much space along the sides of the bed. As the storage compartment is accessed from the foot of the bed, you don't need additional clearance on either side, making them well suited to compact layouts.

They Work Well When Positioned Between Two Walls

If your bed is positioned between two walls, an end-opening ottoman bed allows you to make full use of the under-bed storage without needing side access. As long as there is enough room at the foot of the bed, you can easily lift the mattress base and access your belongings.

They Keep Both Sides Of The Bed Accessible

An end-opening ottoman bed leaves both sides of the bed free for bedside tables and everyday access. This allows you to display lamps, charging stations and other bedroom furniture on both sides of the ottoman bed without affecting its access.

End-opening Ottoman Beds: Cons

Just like side-opening ottoman beds, end-opening ones may not be right for everyone’s personal tastes and room layouts. Let’s look at these possible downsides of end-opening ottoman beds.

They Require Space At The Foot End Of The Ottoman Bed

An end-opening ottoman bed requires space at the bottom for you to lift up the lid freely. If a wardrobe, chest of drawers, storage bench, or another piece of furniture is positioned too close, accessing the under-bed storage can become difficult. You could get away with using a end of bed bench at the foot of the ottoman bed, but will likely mean you’ll have to move it when you’re accessing the storage.

Not Ideal For Rooms With Limited Foot Space

If your bedroom has a narrow walkway at the end of the bed, an end-opening ottoman may not be the most practical option. This can make it more difficult to bend down, lift larger items, or organise the contents of the storage compartment. If you regularly access the under-bed storage, a cramped opening area may become inconvenient over time.

Choose The Right Opening Type For Your Ottoman Bed Today

After reading this guide, we hope you have a better understanding as to whether a side-opening or end-opening ottoman bed is right for you. To get more of a sense of our product range, pop down to our showroom or speak to one of our staff members for more information.