Divan Bed vs Ottoman Bed: Which Should You Buy?

Choosing between a divan bed and an ottoman bed is one of the most common questions we hear. Both sit on a solid base, both come with a headboard, and both give you somewhere to put things. The difference is how that storage works, and that decides which one will suit your bedroom better.

This guide compares the two side by side so you can decide with confidence. Every bed at DreamCraft Furniture is made to order, so you can pick the size, fabric colour and options that suit you either way.

The quick answer

What is a divan bed?

A divan bed is a solid base, usually upholstered in fabric, that your mattress sits on. There are no visible legs or slats. Many divans can be fitted with drawers in the side or foot end, which pull out like drawers in a chest. When you choose drawers, you can pick how many you need when you order.

Why people choose a divan

• Everyday storage: drawers slide out, so you can reach socks, t-shirts or spare bedding in seconds.
• Works in most rooms: nothing lifts upwards, so a low ceiling, a shelf or a wardrobe near the bed is never in the way.
• Clean look: the fabric base hides storage and cables, and pairs well with a statement headboard.

Browse our full divan bed range, or look at divan beds with a footboard if you like a more finished, frame-style look.

What is an ottoman bed?

An ottoman bed looks similar to a divan, but the whole base lifts up to reveal one large storage space underneath. The mattress and base rise together, usually helped by gas-lift pistons that hold the base open while you reach inside. Some ottomans lift from the side and others from the foot end.

Why people choose an ottoman

• Maximum storage: there are no drawer fronts to take up room, so the space beneath the bed is one big, open compartment.
• Great for bulky items: duvets, pillows, suitcases, winter coats and spare blankets all fit well.
• Dust-free storage: when the base is closed, whatever is inside is shut away from the room.

See our ottoman beds and our ottoman beds with footboard.

Divan vs ottoman: head-to-head

1. Storage

If you want to reach your things quickly, drawers are the winner. If you simply want to store the most stuff, an ottoman wins.

2. Room size and layout

Measure the space around the bed before you decide. A divan needs room for drawers to pull out. An ottoman needs room above and beside it for the base to lift. In a tight room with a wardrobe close to the bed, a divan with fewer drawers is often the easier choice. Not sure what size suits your room? Read our UK bed sizes guide.

3. Style

Both styles look good in a bedroom, and the headboard is what sets the tone. Plain and panelled headboards suit modern rooms, while button-back and Chesterfield styles give a more traditional feel. Adding a footboard gives either bed a more complete, frame-like look.

4. Mattress choice

Both bases work with most standard mattresses of the matching size. Because the base is solid, a firmer, supportive mattress usually feels best. Our guide on how to choose a mattress explains the differences, and you can browse our mattress range when you are ready.

5. Day-to-day use

Divan drawers are quick and need no lifting. An ottoman needs a bit of strength or a clear routine, because you lift the mattress each time. If you share a bed, remember that your partner’s side will need to stay clear when you open the base.

A few beds to start with

Each product page lets you choose your size, fabric colour and options, such as the number of drawers, before you add it to your basket.

Frequently asked questions

Ready to choose?

Whichever you pick, you will get a bed made to your size, fabric and finish. Browse all beds to compare styles, or check our FAQs if you have a question first.