Feeling intimidated about how to assemble ottoman bed parts scattered across your bedroom floor? You’re not alone! Many people are put off by what feels like a mammoth task when assembling their bed.
Indeed, an ottoman bed is an excellent, practical choice that offers a tonne of storage space while providing the very best in comfort. Although these smart beds do two jobs at once, the assembly process can seem a bit more complicated than with a standard bed frame. This is especially true when dealing with gas lift mechanisms and storage compartments.
Additionally, ottoman storage beds are great for people who don’t have much room in their bedroom or house, offering a sleek, space-saving solution for modern living spaces. We’ve created this foolproof guide to help you navigate the assembly process with confidence, from unpacking the parts to testing the finished product. By following our step-by-step instructions, you’ll have your new ottoman bed ready to use in no time!
Get Ready to Assemble
Unpack and check all parts
Before diving into assembly, proper preparation is crucial for a smooth ottoman bed building experience. Firstly, unpack all boxes and lay out each component on the floor. Compare these parts with the inventory list in your instruction manual to ensure nothing is missing or damaged. If you spot any issues at this stage, contact your retailer immediately for assistance.
Carefully remove all fittings from their packaging and organise them into groups based on their type and function. This simple step prevents confusion and saves time during the assembly process.
Gather the right tools
Most ottoman beds come with basic tools like Allen keys or spanners, but having your own set can make the job easier. Typically, you’ll need:
- Screwdrivers (both flathead and Phillips)
- Spanners or wrenches
- Measuring tape
- Rubber mallet for gentle tapping
Read through the instructions thoroughly to understand the complete assembly process and identify any additional tools you might need. Furthermore, consider having someone help you, as assembling an ottoman bed is often easier with two people.
Choose the right space for assembly
The location where you assemble your ottoman bed matters significantly. Ideally, build the bed in the same room where it will permanently reside. This approach saves the hassle of moving a fully assembled bed through doorways or narrow hallways.
Clear sufficient space around the intended position, remembering that you’ll need access to all four sides during assembly. Therefore, maintain adequate distance between the bed frame and walls throughout the building process.
Protect your floor from scratches
During assembly, it’s vital to protect your flooring from potential damage. Consequently, place your ottoman bed on a non-slippery surface such as carpet or a rug rather than directly on smooth wooden flooring.
If you have hardwood or laminate floors, lay down a protective sheet or blanket beneath the assembly area. This precaution prevents scratches and damage that might occur as you move components around or if the bed shifts during construction.
Build the Bed Frame
Now that preparation is complete, it’s time to start constructing your ottoman bed frame. This critical phase transforms separate components into a sturdy structure capable of supporting both you and your storage needs.
Attach the headboard and footboard
Initially, locate the legs for your headboard and footboard. Most ottoman beds require you to attach these small legs using an allen key with a few small screws. Line up each leg with the designated spots on the bottom of both pieces and secure them tightly. Double-check that all connections are firm as these components form the foundation of your bed.
Next, position your headboard and footboard at opposite ends of where your bed will ultimately stand. Ensure they’re correctly oriented – the headboard is typically taller than the footboard.
Connect the side rails
Once the headboard and footboard are in position, attach the side rails to create the outer frame. These rails run along each side of the bed, connecting to both the headboard and footboard. Most ottoman bed designs feature specially designed brackets or bolt systems for this purpose.
Subsequently, depending on your bed’s design, you may need to install cross braces for additional structural support. These components significantly enhance stability and are essential for proper weight distribution across the entire frame.
Secure the base structure
After connecting the basic framework, join your front, back, left, right and cross support rails together. This step creates the overall bed frame structure that will hold your mattress and withstand regular use.
Throughout the assembly process, avoid fully tightening all bolts until the entire structure is in place. This provides flexibility to make minor adjustments as needed. Once everything is correctly positioned, carefully tighten all connections.
Prior to proceeding with the installation of the lifting mechanism, perform a quick stability check. Gently push against different parts of the frame to identify any wobbling or loose connections that might need reinforcement. A properly assembled frame should feel solid and secure.
Remember to double-check your work, ensuring no parts remain unused and all fixings are properly attached before moving to the next phase of assembly.
Install the Lift Mechanism
The gas lift mechanism forms the heart of your ottoman bed, enabling the smooth lifting motion that makes storage access possible. Installing this component correctly is vital for both functionality and safety.
Position and fix the gas lift pistons
With your bed frame now assembled, locate the mounting brackets where the gas lift pistons will attach. These hydraulic cylinders are designed to ease lifting strain and prevent your bed from crashing down when lowered. Position each piston carefully, making sure they align properly with their designated brackets.
In case the cylinders don’t align perfectly, simply twist them slowly until they match up with the mounting points. Securely fasten the pistons using the provided screws or bolts, as incorrect installation directly affects lifting performance.
Test the lifting system before final tightening
After installing the pistons, perform an initial test of the lift mechanism. The platform should remain at roughly a 45° angle when lifted and move up and down without resistance. At this stage, avoid fully tightening all connections, allowing for minor adjustments if needed.
Attach the slatted or solid base
Next, install your bed base according to your specific model’s instructions. For slatted bases, carefully slot each slat into place against the existing rails. Ensure everything is properly aligned and secured.
Ensure smooth lift and close motion
Finally, tighten all connections and attach the lifting strap to the foot of the bed. This makes raising the bed much easier when you need to access storage. Remember these important safety considerations:
- Always place your mattress on the frame before testing the full lifting mechanism
- A quality mechanism should make lifting feel smooth and controlled
- New gas cylinders may feel stiffer during initial use
Regularly inspect your lift mechanism over time, tightening any loose bolts and lubricating where possible to maintain optimal performance.
Final Touches and Checks
Final Touches and Checks
After installing the lift mechanism, you’re entering the home stretch of ottoman bed assembly. The final steps ensure your bed is safe, functional, and ready for use.
Add the headboard if not already done
If your ottoman bed came with a headboard that wasn’t attached earlier, now is the perfect moment to install it. Secure it to the main frame using the brackets provided, then gently push or shake the headboard to verify it doesn’t move or detach. For ottoman storage beds, you might need to use specialised ‘spacers’ when attaching the headboard. Take a moment to ensure the headboard is straight and visually appealing.
Tighten all bolts and screws
At this stage, recheck and tighten all screws and bolts one final time. Remember not to overtighten, as this could damage the threads. Proper tightening is crucial for the bed’s structural integrity—moreover, regular inspection of these connections helps maintain your ottoman bed’s durability.
Check for stability and wobble
Inspect the entire structure to ensure everything feels solid. Sit on different parts of the bed to check for any wobbling or loose connections. A properly assembled ottoman bed should feel completely stable—henceforth, this stability test becomes part of your regular maintenance routine.
Test the gas lift with mattress weight
Place your mattress on the bed before fully testing the lifting mechanism. New gas cylinders may initially feel stiffer than normal, so try operating your lift-up bed several times. The platform should move smoothly without resistance or sticking points.
Clean up and dispose of packaging
Once satisfied with assembly, clear away all packaging materials. Notably, check that no small parts or tools remain scattered about, especially if you have children or pets around.
Looking for your next ottoman bed? Browse our Ottoman Catalogue to create your dream bed: https://harmonybeds.co.uk/category/beds/ottoman-beds/
Conclusion
Assembling your ottoman bed might initially appear daunting, but as we’ve demonstrated, the process becomes manageable when broken down into clear steps. Throughout this guide, we’ve walked through every stage – from careful preparation to final stability checks.
Above all, patience and attention to detail will ensure your ottoman bed functions properly for years to come. The extra time spent organising parts, following instructions carefully, and double-checking connections certainly pays off when you have a sturdy, functional bed that offers both comfort and valuable storage space.
Remember, the lift mechanism represents the heart of your ottoman bed, therefore proper installation remains essential for safe operation. Regular maintenance checks will likewise extend the lifespan of your bed, particularly tightening any loose connections that may develop over time.
Your newly assembled ottoman bed now provides the perfect solution for maximising bedroom space while still enjoying a comfortable place to rest. After completing your assembly project, you might feel inspired to explore other options for your home. Consequently, we recommend you browse our Ottoman Catalogue to create your next dream bed: https://harmonybeds.co.uk/category/beds/ottoman-beds/
With your ottoman bed successfully assembled, you can finally enjoy both a comfortable night’s sleep and the practical storage solution that makes these beds so popular. The satisfaction of completing this DIY project yourself undoubtedly adds to the enjoyment of your new furniture piece.
FAQs
Q1. How long does it typically take to assemble an ottoman bed? The assembly time for an ottoman bed can vary depending on your experience and the specific model. On average, it may take between 2 to 4 hours for a complete assembly. Taking your time to follow instructions carefully is more important than rushing the process.
Q2. Is it possible to assemble an ottoman bed by myself? While most of the assembly can be done alone, it’s recommended to have assistance, especially when installing the gas lift mechanism. Having a second person can make the process easier and safer, particularly when lifting heavy components or aligning parts.
Q3. What tools are essential for assembling an ottoman bed? Essential tools typically include screwdrivers (both flathead and Phillips), spanners or wrenches, a measuring tape, and possibly a rubber mallet. Most ottoman beds come with basic tools, but having your own set can make the job easier and more efficient.
Q4. How do I ensure the lift mechanism works properly after assembly? After installing the lift mechanism, test it without the mattress first. The platform should stay at about a 45-degree angle when lifted and move smoothly without resistance. Once you’ve added the mattress, test the mechanism again to ensure it operates correctly under normal weight conditions.
Q5. What should I do if parts are missing or damaged when I unpack my ottoman bed? If you discover any missing or damaged parts while unpacking your ottoman bed, contact the retailer immediately. Most reputable sellers will quickly provide replacement parts or assist with any issues to ensure you can complete the assembly successfully.