A storage ottoman does three jobs at once: footrest, seating for guests, and hidden storage for blankets, remote controls, games, books, or anything that would otherwise clutter the living room. For small US living rooms where every piece of furniture needs to earn its place, a good storage ottoman is excellent value.
Types
Rectangular storage ottoman: The most common. A padded lid lifts to reveal a storage compartment. Available as a standalone piece or as part of a sofa set.
Ottoman coffee table: A large square or rectangular ottoman at coffee table height. Has a removable lid (often reversible – padded one side, tray surface the other) and significant storage. Replaces both a coffee table and a storage unit.
Cube pouf: A small cube ottoman. Useful as a footrest or extra seating. Storage compartment inside the cube. Often sold in sets of 2-4.
Corner sectional ottoman: Fits into a sofa corner configuration. Large storage capacity.
What to Look For
Hinged lid or lift-off lid: Hinged lids stay connected and are less likely to be misplaced. Lift-off lids give better access to deep storage but need to be put down somewhere while you access the compartment.
Lid strength: The lid needs to be strong enough to sit on and support a child’s weight, not just act as a cover. Look for reinforced lids rated for at least 100 kg.
Internal capacity: Measured in litres for smaller ottomans, or described by what fits (e.g. “stores two large throws and games”).
Fabric: Performance fabrics (velvet, boucle, linen) all work but have different cleaning requirements. For households with children or pets, a wipe-clean fabric or one with removable, washable covers is practical.
Top Picks
1. IKEA KALLAX with Cushion Top (DIY Storage Ottoman)
The IKEA KALLAX unit can be converted into a large storage ottoman by adding a custom cushion top. The KALLAX provides substantial storage; a custom or third-party cushion top completes the piece. Fully DIY but produces a large, practical storage ottoman at a fraction of the price of commercial alternatives.
Best for: Large storage, IKEA households, DIY willingness
2. Habitat Kota Storage Ottoman
Habitat offer a well-designed storage ottoman at a mid-range price. The hinged lid opens on a gas-assisted stay for easy access. Available in velvet and fabric finishes in multiple colours.
Available from Sainsbury’s and Habitat online. Good build quality.
Best for: Design-conscious buyers, Habitat/Sainsbury’s access
3. Wayfair Basics Storage Ottoman
Wayfair carry an extensive range of storage ottomans at every price point. Their own-brand basics range offers functional, affordable options in multiple sizes and colours with quick US delivery.
Best for: Range of options, quick delivery, online purchase
4. DFS Storage Ottoman (Matching Sofa Range)
DFS offer storage ottomans that match their sofa ranges. For households buying or updating a sofa, a matching storage ottoman from the same range looks intentional and well-designed.
Best for: Matching existing DFS sofa, physical showroom viewing
5. Jonathan Adler Django Storage Ottoman (Premium)
For a premium living room, Jonathan Adler’s storage ottomans offer genuine luxury – quality upholstery, solid construction, and distinctive design. Available from John Lewis.
Best for: Premium living rooms, design statement, John Lewis shoppers
Final Thoughts
Storage ottomans deliver excellent value for small US living rooms – seating, footrest, and significant hidden storage in a single piece. The IKEA KALLAX DIY approach provides the most storage per pound. Habitat and Wayfair offer quality mid-range options with good delivery. Whatever you choose, the lid strength and internal capacity are the specs that matter most for daily use.
