Storage is one of the biggest headaches in any bedroom. Clothes, bedding, shoes and everyday clutter all need somewhere to go. For many people the bed itself is the best place to hide it. That is why divan beds and ottoman beds are two of the most popular choices in the UK. The question of divan beds vs ottoman beds usually comes down to price, storage space and ease of use. Both give you extra storage without taking up more floor space, but they work in very different ways.
If you are looking for cheap storage beds, this guide will help you understand the differences between divan beds vs ottoman beds so you can decide which suits your room, budget and lifestyle.
What is a Divan Bed?
A divan bed is built on a solid wooden frame that is covered in fabric and sits on chrome gliders. The base can come with built-in side drawers that pull out to give you useful storage space. View our divan bed range.
Why choose a divan bed?
- Affordable and simple design
- Easy to move around on chrome gliders
- Side drawers give handy storage for bedding, clothes and other items
- Wide choice of fabrics and colours
- Can be placed flush against a wall or with furniture at the end because there are no end drawers
Divan beds are often the cheapest storage option, especially if you buy direct from a factory outlet.
What is an Ottoman Bed?
An ottoman bed looks more like a standard bed frame but with a clever hidden storage system. The entire mattress base lifts up, either from the side or from the end, on hydraulic arms. This reveals a large hollow space inside the bed base. Ottomans also sit on chrome gliders so you can move them if needed. View our ottoman bed range.
Why choose an ottoman bed?
- Maximum storage space as the whole base is available
- Perfect for bulkier items such as blankets, pillows and winter clothes
- Neat and tidy look with no visible drawers
- Available in many fabrics, headboard styles and sizes
- A great way to make use of every inch of space in your bedroom
Ottoman beds usually cost a little more than divan beds but give much more storage.
Divan Beds vs Ottoman Beds: Key Differences
| Feature | Divan Beds | Ottoman Beds |
|---|---|---|
| Storage access | Side drawers only | Lift-up base with hydraulic arms |
| Storage capacity | Limited to drawers | Large, full base storage |
| Ease of use | Simple drawer pull | Heavier to lift but more space |
| Mobility | Chrome gliders for easy movement | Chrome gliders for easy movement |
| Appearance | Visible side drawers | Clean look, no drawers |
| Price | Cheaper | Slightly higher |
| Best for | Everyday items and smaller rooms | Bulkier items and maximum storage |
Which Storage Bed is Best for Small Rooms?
If you have a very tight bedroom, a divan bed might be easier. The side drawers slide out quickly and you do not need the lifting motion of an ottoman. When thinking about divan beds vs ottoman beds, the main difference for small rooms is ease of access. If your room can handle the lifting motion, an ottoman bed gives you more space inside and keeps everything out of sight.
Tip: For box rooms or narrow spaces, a side-opening ottoman can be easier than an end-opening version.
Which Storage Bed is Best for Couples?
Couples often need more storage for spare bedding, seasonal clothes and personal items. An ottoman bed is usually the best choice because it offers the most space.
However, divan beds can work well too if you only need a couple of side drawers and want something simple to use.
Storage Beds and Bed Sizes
Both divan beds and ottoman beds are available in every standard UK size, with the exception of 2’6 small singles which we supply as divan only.
- 2’6 Small Single: good for children or box rooms, available as a divan bed with or without drawers
- 3’0 Single: perfect for students and spare rooms, available as either a divan or an ottoman
- 4’0 Small Double: a little extra space without taking up the room of a double, available in both styles
- 4’6 Double: the most popular UK size, available in divan and ottoman options
- 5’0 King: wider sleeping space and more storage, available in both divan and ottoman
- 6’0 Super King: the biggest size with the largest storage capacity, available in divan and ottoman
Choosing the right size is just as important as the storage style. A small single divan will hold less than a super king ottoman with full inside storage or a super king divan with four side drawers.
Cheap Divan Beds vs Cheap Ottoman Beds
Factory outlet prices make both options affordable. When it comes to divan beds vs ottoman beds, divans are normally the cheapest, especially plain divan bases with two side drawers. Ottomans cost more but if you need serious storage they are worth the small extra spend.
If you are shopping for cheap beds online, look for promotions such as clearance events or bundle deals that include both the bed base and the mattress.
Style Choices for Divan and Ottoman Beds
At Harmony Beds you can choose from five fabric types and over forty colours. Both divans and ottomans can be finished in plush, chenille, crushed velvet, naples or dumfries fabric. You can also match your bed with a headboard to suit your style.
Even cheap beds can look smart when you customise them in the right colour and fabric.
Divan Beds vs Ottoman Beds: Pros and Cons at a Glance
Divan Beds
Pros
- Lower price
- Easy to move on chrome gliders
- Simple design
- Side drawers give quick access
- Can be placed flush against a wall or furniture at the end
Cons
- Less overall storage space
- Only side drawers, no end access
Ottoman Beds
Pros
- Maximum storage inside the whole base
- Clean and modern look
- Hides clutter completely
- Easy to move on chrome gliders
- Works well in larger bedrooms
Cons
- More expensive
- Heavier to lift, especially with a mattress on top
FAQs About Divan Beds and Ottoman Beds
Are divan beds cheaper than ottoman beds?
Yes, divan beds are usually the cheaper option because they are simpler to build.
Do ottoman beds last longer than divans?
Both can last for many years if cared for properly. Ottomans use hydraulic arms which may need replacing after heavy use, but this is rare.
Can I get cheap divan beds and ottoman beds delivered nationwide?
Yes, Harmony Beds delivers both types of bed across the UK free of charge.
Which is easier to assemble, divan bed or ottoman bed?
Divan beds are the quickest to set up. Ottomans take a little longer because of the lifting mechanism.
Which is best for families, divan beds or ottoman beds?
For families, the best choice often depends on who will be using the bed. Divan beds with side drawers are easier for children to access on their own. A younger child can pull out a drawer but would struggle to lift an ottoman base. Divans are also a good option for shared or busy rooms where quick access to everyday items is important.
Ottoman beds, on the other hand, work well for parents who need to store bulkier items such as winter bedding, spare duvets or out-of-season clothes. They keep clutter completely out of sight and make the most of the full bed base, but the lifting motion is better suited to adults.
In short, divans suit children’s rooms and everyday access, while ottomans suit parents who need maximum storage space.
Which is cheaper, divan beds vs ottoman beds?
Divan beds are usually the cheaper option because they have a simpler design. Ottoman beds cost more but provide much more storage space.
The Bottom Line
Both divan beds and ottoman beds offer great storage solutions, but the right choice depends on your room and your budget. When comparing divan beds vs ottoman beds, divans are cheaper and easier to use, while ottomans cost a little more but give you maximum storage space.
The bottom line is that both can save you money and space if you buy direct from a factory outlet. At Harmony Beds you can choose divan beds or ottoman beds in every size, customise the fabric and colour, and get free nationwide delivery. Cheap beds with storage do not have to be complicated. Order online today and start saving.