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What is a gas lift ottoman bed?

A gas lift ottoman bed is a bed frame with a built-in storage compartment beneath the mattress, accessed by lifting the base using a hydraulic gas lift mechanism. Rather than relying on drawers or boxes under the bed, the entire mattress platform rises smoothly and effortlessly — revealing a large, clean storage space that runs the full length and width of the bed.

How Does the Gas Lift Mechanism Work?

The mechanism is elegantly simple. Compressed gas cylinders are mounted to the bed frame and connected to the base platform. When you lift from the designated point — either the foot end or the side — the gas pistons counterbalance the weight of the mattress and base, making it possible for one person to open the bed without strain.

Why Choose a Gas Lift Ottoman Over Drawer Storage?

• Capacity: An ottoman base provides far more storage than side drawers — typically the full footprint of the bed at 40–60cm depth
• Accessibility: Everything is visible and reachable in one lift — no rummaging through deep drawers
• Aesthetics: No visible drawer fronts means a cleaner, more seamless look
• Floor clearance: No legs or gaps means dust can't accumulate underneath

Browse our full ottoman beds range or explore our storage beds collection.

Opening Direction: Foot-End vs Side-Opening

Foot-end opening is the most common — ideal for most room layouts. Side-opening suits rooms where the foot of the bed is against a wall. Some super king models offer dual-opening. See our super king ottoman guide for details.

What Can You Store?

A full-size gas lift ottoman bed can typically store: spare duvets and pillows, suitcases, seasonal clothing, extra bedding and towels, and bulky items that won't fit in standard drawers.

Choosing the Right Gas Lift Ottoman

Compare the ottoman vs divan options, or see how a crushed velvet ottoman bed can add glamour alongside storage. For bedroom design inspiration, visit House Beautiful. Understand your rights before buying at Sleep Foundation.