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A new bed arriving in boxes can look more daunting than it actually is. Divan and ottoman beds are among the more straightforward frames to put together yourself, provided you work through the steps in order and don't rush the parts that matter. Here's what's actually involved, so you know what to expect before the delivery arrives.

Before You Start

• Clear a flat, open workspace: you'll need more floor space than the finished bed footprint to lay out parts and manoeuvre panels into place.
• Protect your flooring: a blanket or old sheet underneath prevents scuffs from metal fixings or corners during assembly.
• Get a second pair of hands: ottoman bases in particular are heavy, and manufacturers consistently recommend two people for lifting and aligning the frame.
• Check all parts against the inventory list before starting: it's far easier to spot a missing bolt now than halfway through assembly.
• Have the right tools ready: most divan and ottoman beds are supplied with the spanners or Allen keys needed, but check your box contents against the instructions first.

Assembling a Divan Base

Divan bases are generally the simpler of the two to build. After unpacking, click the feet or gliders into each corner socket — these usually lock in with a firm push or tap and can't be removed once fitted, so make sure they're the right way round first. If your divan comes in two sections, turn both halves onto their side, bring the flat ends together, and secure them with the joining clips or bolts provided. Finally, line up the headboard fixing holes on the back of the base and attach the headboard, piercing the fabric where indicated if it isn't pre-cut.

Assembling an Ottoman Base

Ottoman beds take a little longer, mainly because of the lift mechanism. Start by assembling the frame sections — headboard, side rails and footboard where applicable — and joining them with the bolts provided, tightening loosely at first so you can adjust alignment before fully securing everything. Next, fit the gas-lift or hydraulic mechanism to both side rails according to the instructions, making sure it's aligned evenly on both sides. Push the base sections together and secure with the bolts and washers supplied, then attach the base to the lift mechanism frames. Before you finish tightening everything fully, open and close the lid a few times to check it operates smoothly — the pistons can feel stiff to begin with, which is normal, and will loosen with a little use.

A Few Things That Catch People Out

• The lid can shoot open unexpectedly when you first remove the fabric transit strap holding it closed — keep one hand on the lid as you cut the strap.
• Don't fully tighten every bolt straight away. Fit everything loosely first, check the frame sits square and level, then tighten fully once you're happy with the alignment.
• The mattress needs to be in place for the lift mechanism to work properly on some ottoman models — if the lid won't stay open on its own before the mattress is added, this is often expected rather than a fault.
• Headboard fabric usually needs piercing to access the screw fixtures underneath — don't assume something's missing if you can't see the holes straight away.

How Long Does It Take?

A straightforward divan base typically takes 15 to 20 minutes with two people. An ottoman base with a lift mechanism generally takes closer to 30 to 45 minutes, depending on size, given the extra step of fitting and aligning the mechanism itself.

Once It's Assembled

Give the finished frame a firm shake to check for wobble before adding the mattress — a properly assembled base shouldn't flex or rock. Double-check every bolt is fully tightened, since fixings can work loose slightly during the final adjustments. If you're pairing the base with a new mattress, our how to choose a mattress guide covers sizing and firmness to make sure it's a proper fit.

Beds Built for Straightforward Assembly at Bed Innovation

Carlos Divan Lift-Up Bed
A straightforward gas-lift storage divan with clear, standard assembly.

Luxury Ottoman Bed with Storage
A well-engineered gas-lift mechanism that assembles cleanly and operates smoothly from day one.

Browse the full range in our divan storage collection and ottoman storage beds collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can one person assemble an ottoman bed alone?

It's possible with smaller sizes, but two people are strongly recommended, particularly for lifting and aligning the base sections and lift mechanism safely.

How long does it take to build a divan or ottoman bed?

A divan base typically takes 15 to 20 minutes with two people; an ottoman base with a lift mechanism usually takes 30 to 45 minutes.

Why does the ottoman lid feel stiff when I first open it?

This is normal — gas-lift pistons can feel stiff initially and loosen with regular use over the first few weeks.

What tools do I need to assemble a bed?

Most divan and ottoman beds are supplied with the spanners or Allen keys required, though it's worth checking your box contents against the included instructions before starting.

What if a part is missing from the box?

Check all parts against the inventory list before you begin assembly, and contact the retailer promptly if anything is missing rather than trying to improvise.

Final Thoughts

Assembling a divan or ottoman bed is a manageable job for two people with an hour or so free, provided you take it step by step rather than rushing to the finish. Fit everything loosely first, check the frame is square, then tighten fully, and don't be alarmed if a gas-lift mechanism feels stiff on its first few uses. If you run into any issues while assembling one of our beds, our team is happy to help talk you through it.