Living in an apartment or a home where every square foot counts? Then you'll recognise the problem: too much stuff and not enough space to store it neatly. A storage ottoman is a practical solution that combines two functions: a comfortable seat or footrest and a discreet storage chest.
As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I'm here to help you make an informed choice. This article provides practical tips and a selection of popular models to help you find a piece of furniture that matches your style and storage needs.
Before you make a decision, it's helpful to consider a few key factors. A good ottoman is more than just a box with a lid; it's an integral part of your interior design.
The look of the ottoman helps set the tone for the room. A model upholstered in velvet or bouclé offers a soft, luxurious feel, ideal for a living room or bedroom. A pouf with storage in a linen-look fabric is often more neutral and fits into many different interiors. For a more robust and natural look, for example in a hallway or bathroom, a storage chest made of solid wood can be a great option.
Measure the space where the ottoman will be placed. Consider foot traffic and its proportions relative to other furniture, such as your sofa or bed. Also, think about what you want to store inside. For large items like blankets or pillows, you'll need a spacious storage bench. For smaller items like magazines, toys, or remote controls, a more compact model will suffice. The specifications often list the capacity in litres, which provides a good indication.
An ottoman can serve multiple purposes. Will you primarily use it as a footstool with storage? Then comfort is key. Will it serve as an extra seat when you have guests? Pay attention to the maximum load capacity and the sturdiness of the construction. Some models have a solid, flat lid and can even double as a side table when topped with a tray.
Based on functionality, material, and design, we've highlighted some compelling options for you.
Why It Stands Out This rectangular storage bench combines a generous capacity with a sleek design. The linen-look fabric and tufted lid give it a polished appearance. A practical detail is that the bench is foldable, making it easy to store when not in use.
Advantages
storage bench at the foot of the bed, an extra seat in the living room, or a storage chest in the hallway.Who Is It For? For families seeking a discreet and spacious storage solution, or for anyone looking for a flexible bench that is both stylish and practical. The neutral dark grey colour fits well in many interiors.
Why It Stands Out This model is specifically designed for functionality in humid environments. It is made of solid walnut wood, a durable material known for its beautiful grain patterns. The open slatted design provides excellent ventilation, making it a suitable storage spot for items like laundry or towels.
Advantages
Who Is It For? For those seeking a stylish and functional storage solution for the bathroom. It's also a great choice for lovers of natural materials who want a durable storage stool.
Why It Stands Out This set consists of two round stools that nest inside each other. The larger stool has a removable lid with storage space, while the smaller one can serve as an extra seat or footrest. The soft bouclé fabric upholstery gives the set a trendy and comfortable feel.
Advantages
Who Is It For? For those looking for a flexible and fashionable pouf with storage for the bedroom, living room, or vanity area. The set is ideal for smaller spaces where multifunctionality is key.
A storage ottoman is a personal choice. Perhaps you're looking for a different colour, a square model, or a specific fabric. Every interior is unique and requires its own solution.
Explore more options in our Storage Ottomans & Benches category and find the perfect match for your home.
The terms are often used interchangeably. Traditionally, an ottoman is an upholstered, often square or rectangular piece of furniture without a backrest, designed to accompany a sofa set. A pouf is typically smaller, rounder, and softer. In practice, the distinction has blurred. Both can serve as a seat, a footrest, and, in the versions we discuss here, as a storage unit.
The maximum load capacity varies greatly by model and depends on the construction and materials used. A simple foldable ottoman might support around 100-150 kg, while sturdier models with a solid frame, like the Ochama storage bench, can handle up to 300 kg according to the manufacturer. Always check the product specifications before using the ottoman as a seat.
For most fabrics like linen-look, velvet, or bouclé, regular vacuuming with a furniture brush is sufficient to remove dust and dirt. For stains, it is recommended to blot immediately with a clean, slightly damp cloth. Do not use harsh cleaning agents, as they can damage the fabric. Always consult the manufacturer's care instructions.