Side-opening ottoman: advantages and how to choose one

Imagine having an extra closet right under your bed. But one that doesn't force you to juggle the furniture to open it. That is, in essence, a side-opening ottoman. Unlike the traditional ottoman, which lifts from the foot of the bed, this ingenious design opens from the side, like a treasure chest. It is the perfect solution for small bedrooms or those with a complicated layout.

What is a side-opening ottoman and how does it work

A side-opening ottoman is much more than a simple mattress base. Think of it as a two-in-one piece of furniture that combines sturdy support for your rest with a huge storage space, accessible from one of the long sides of the bed. Its great advantage is that you can forget about needing free space at the foot of the bed, a luxury that many modern apartments simply do not have.

The "secret" to its convenience lies in a hydraulic or gas piston system installed on the sides. These pistons act as a power assistant: you gently pull the handle and they take care of lifting the lid (with the mattress on top) almost without you noticing. The opening is completely smooth and safe, and it keeps the lid up so you can pick up or store what you need with both hands, without hassle.

How does it differ from front opening?

So you can clearly see why it is so practical, let's compare the two systems. A front-opening ottoman needs free space at the foot so you can stand there, lift the lid, and properly access the back. The side ottoman, on the other hand, only needs just enough space for you to crouch down by its side.

• Access in difficult spaces: It is the ideal option if your bed is against the wall at the headboard, or if a wardrobe, a desk, or even a radiator blocks your way.
• Weight distribution: The side mechanism is designed to support and balance the weight of the mattress during opening, so there is no risk of it becoming unstable.
• Everyday convenience: You can reach the entire interior at once, from the head area to the foot, without having to go around or stretch uncomfortably.

This functionality is what has boosted its popularity, especially in cities.

Key benefits that will change your life

A side-opening ottoman is much more than a simple piece of furniture for storing things. It represents a before and after in how you make use of and live in your bedroom. Its strongest point, without a doubt, is the total and immediate access to the entire interior space, something that makes it the perfect piece for rooms with somewhat rebellious layouts.

Think of that room where you have the bed against a wall or a wardrobe right at the foot. With a traditional ottoman, reaching the back would be an almost impossible mission. In contrast, with the side design, you just need to crouch down to reach any corner. Taking out clothes from another season, suitcases, or those boxes you never know where to put becomes a two-minute task.

This diagram summarizes it perfectly: you will see at a glance how the side ottoman is the king of storage, access, and space optimization, especially in narrower bedrooms.

As you can see, the idea is clear. It works like a horizontal closet, but with a huge advantage: you don't need to leave free space at the foot to use it.

Sturdy support and first-class rest

There is a myth that side-opening systems are weaker. Nothing could be further from the truth. Quality models use powerful hydraulic pistons that ensure a smooth and completely safe opening. They are more than prepared to support the weight of the lid and the mattress without you having to make any effort. In terms of structure, they are as solid as their front-opening siblings.

An ottoman is not just a drawer. It is the base that supports your rest. A firm and uniform structure is key for your mattress to give its best and take care of your back every night.

This solidity is essential to extend the life of all your rest equipment. A good ottoman offers a smooth and stable surface, something vital for high-end mattresses like those from Morfeo. By giving it homogeneous support, it prevents the mattress from deforming prematurely and helps its ergonomic properties work at 100%.

Extra advantages that improve your well-being

But the benefits of a side-opening ottoman don't stop there. There are other points that make the difference in your daily life:

• Accessibility for everyone: It is a fantastic option for people with reduced mobility. It completely eliminates the need to stretch or make weird postures to pick something up from the bottom of the trunk.
• Order, at last, under control: Having such a large and easy-to-use storage space makes it very easy to keep the bedroom tidy and without clutter in sight. Everything is stored, but always at hand.
• Hygiene and a mattress that breathes: Many models come with lids upholstered in breathable 3D fabric. This feature is crucial for the mattress to ventilate correctly, preventing moisture buildup and the appearance of mites. It is especially important if your mattress is memory foam or hybrid.

In short, choosing a side-opening ottoman is not just gaining a closet. It is an investment in comfort for your routine, in the durability of your mattress, and, above all, in the quality of your rest. It is that perfect mix of functionality, smart design, and well-being for your home.

How to get it right when choosing your ideal side ottoman

Choosing a side-opening ottoman is not a decision you should take lightly. Think that you are not just buying a base for your mattress, but a key piece that will help you maintain order and gain valuable space at home. It is an investment in your comfort and functionality.

So you hit the nail on the head, let's look together at the three most important points you should pay attention to: the measurements, the real capacity it offers you, and, of course, the materials.

First things first: grab the tape measure. But don't limit yourself to measuring only the space where the bed will go. A very common mistake is not thinking about the space you need to move around with the lid open. We recommend always leaving a margin of at least 50-60 cm on the opening side. This way you can crouch down and pick up what you need without having to juggle.

Capacity and materials: here is the key

When you are comparing different ottomans, don't let the total height fool you. The data that really interests you is the useful interior height. That is the real space you will have to store your things. A difference that may seem minimal, of only 3 or 4 centimeters, translates into being able to store (or not) several storage boxes. It is a whole other world!

Materials are another story. A drawer with thick walls and a solid structure is a guarantee that it will not deform over time. This is even more important in a side-opening ottoman, since its structure has to be stronger to support that asymmetrical movement when opening.

The lid: the guardian of your mattress

Many people think that the lid is just the "door" of the ottoman, but it is much more than that. It is the base on which your mattress rests night after night, and its quality directly influences its durability.

A good lid is the best friend of your mattress. Always look for one that is rigid, well reinforced, and that includes breathable 3D fabric. This last one is crucial so that air circulates and moisture does not accumulate.

This ventilation capacity is fundamental, especially if you sleep on a memory foam or hybrid mattress, like those from the Morfeo range. These materials need to "breathe" to dissipate the heat and moisture generated by the body. A base that does not breathe well can become a paradise for mites and mold, in addition to making you feel hotter at night.

Checklist for your perfect purchase

To make it even easier for you, we have created this table. Review these points before deciding and you will make sure to make a purchase you will not regret.

Factor to consider	Why it is important	Morfeo recommendation
Measurements and free space	You need to be able to open the ottoman and access its interior comfortably.	Measure the bed space and leave 50-60 cm free on the opening side.
Useful interior height	It is the real storage space. A small difference matters a lot.	Compare this data between models. More useful height = more space for your things.
Materials and thickness	The sturdiness of the drawer prevents it from deforming and ensures its durability.	Look for a sturdy drawer and a reinforced lid that does not give under the weight of the mattress.
Lid quality	Protects your mattress, prevents it from sinking, and guarantees good ventilation.	Choose a rigid lid with upholstery in breathable 3D fabric.
Opening system	Good hydraulic pistons make opening and closing easy and safe.	Make sure the mechanism is smooth and does not require a lot of effort.

With this guide, you have everything you need to choose the perfect ottoman. You will not only be buying a functional piece of furniture, but you will be creating the ideal rest system for you.

And if you are still wondering if yours is an ottoman or perhaps another option, don't miss our article about the differences between a bed base or ottoman. It will clear up your doubts!

When you think of a side-opening ottoman, surely the bed measurements come to mind: if it is single, double, queen size... But, have you ever stopped to think about what really matters? The real space you are going to gain.

Let's be honest, the key is not just the width and length. The real trick to getting the most out of your ottoman is in a figure we often overlook: the useful interior height.

Standard measurements like 90x190 cm for one person, or the classic 135x190 and 150x190 cm for couples, define the rest surface. If you have doubts about which one is yours, our guide on mattress measurements in Spain will clear up your doubts. But once you have that part clear, it is time to look inside.

Useful height: the number that changes everything

Imagine you have two ottomans in front of you. One measures 38 cm high on the outside and the other, 35 cm. At first glance, those 3 cm seem like nothing, right? Well, they can be the difference between being able to store a carry-on suitcase or not.

Useful height is the space you have from the bottom of the drawer to the base of the lid. It is, literally, what is going to determine if you can fit those tall storage boxes, the winter duvets, or the bags with clothes from another season.

To give you an idea: a 150x190 cm ottoman with 28 cm of useful height leaves you almost the entire surface of the bed to store duvets, clothes from another season, or soft suitcases.

That is why, when you are going to choose your side-opening ottoman, do not let yourself be carried away only by the design. Look closely and ask about that measurement. The high-capacity models, which maximize this height, are a smart investment. The taller the trunk is, the better you can organize the interior and, finally, free up your closets.

Storage adapts to you (and not the other way around)

Nowadays, we no longer have to settle for what is available. Personalization has also arrived in the world of rest and storage. That is why there are ottomans with very different interior heights: always compare that data before deciding.

The most advanced models not only offer more space, but they also improve the experience. Think about hydraulic systems that make the lid lift almost by itself. No more fighting with the ottoman lid.

In the end, choosing the correct measurements goes much further than the size of your mattress. It is about finding a smart solution, designed for you and your home, that solves your space problems once and for all.

Installation and maintenance guide for your ottoman

You already have it at home! Your new side-opening ottoman has arrived and now the good stuff begins. So that it lasts you many years like the first day, assembly and a little maintenance are your best allies. Although our recommendation will always be to leave the installation in the hands of professionals, understanding the process will give you the peace of mind that everything has been done perfectly.

A well-done assembly is fundamental, especially in an ottoman with a side mechanism. The hydraulic pistons must be perfectly aligned and secured, both to the base and the lid. If there is a small error in this step, the lid could lift irregularly, make weird noises, or, in the worst case, the system could end up failing.

Practical maintenance for an eternal ottoman

Taking care of your ottoman is much easier than you imagine and, believe us, it shows. It will not ask you for great efforts, just that you incorporate a couple of very simple habits into your routine. With these tricks, your investment will continue to work as if you had just unveiled it.

Here you have a basic routine that never fails:

• Regular cleaning: For the wooden or faux leather parts, a damp cloth is more than enough to remove dust. If yours is fabric, a gentle pass with the vacuum cleaner once a month will keep mites at bay.
• Ventilate the interior: Once a month, when you change the sheets, take advantage to leave the lid open for an hour. This way you renew the air in the drawer and prevent moisture buildup, something key if you store bed linen.
• Don't overdo the weight: Although it seems like you have a storage room under the bed, the drawer has its limits. Avoid overloading it, and above all, do not concentrate all the weight on a single point so as not to force the bottom of the ottoman.
• Check the pistons: Every six months, pay attention to how the lid goes up and down. If you notice that it goes in jerks or that you have to make more force than before, it could be a sign that the pistons need an adjustment or a replacement.

A gesture as simple as not letting the lid fall suddenly can extend the life of the hydraulic system a lot. Always accompany the movement until the end so that the closing is smooth and progressive.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your side-opening storage bed not only works perfectly but also looks impeccable. If you want to become a real expert, we encourage you to read our complete guide on how to clean and maintain a storage bed in perfect condition.

Pair your storage bed with the perfect Morfeo sleep

You already know that a side-opening storage bed is a great solution for saving space. But did you know it's also the perfect partner for a high-tech mattress like those from Morfeo? It's not just about having a beautiful base; it's about creating the ultimate sleep system.

Think of it this way: there's no point in having the best mattress if the base doesn't provide the support it needs. By combining a storage bed with our Original Hybrid, for example, you ensure that all the layers of the mattress perform at their best. The storage bed provides the firm, stable surface that allows the mattress's technology to adapt to you perfectly.

The perfect synergy for your back

This combination is a real win for your back and for the lifespan of your mattress. On the one hand, the storage bed's even support prevents the mattress from warping, allowing it to relieve pressure exactly where you need it: in your shoulders, back, and hips.

On the other hand, the 3D fabric top is key to allowing air to circulate freely. This keeps your Morfeo mattress cool, ventilated, and free from moisture. The result is a deeper, more restorative sleep, night after night.

Think of your sleep system not as just another piece of furniture, but as the best investment you can make in your health and daily energy. Good support helps the mattress retain its properties and allows you to rest better.

We know that choosing a sleep system is an important decision. That's why at Morfeo we want you to feel completely confident in your purchase. We make it very easy for you, because we have absolute confidence in what we do.

• 100-night trial: Sleep, jump, read... live with your Morfeo mattress for more than three months. If you're not convinced (which we doubt), we'll collect it without asking questions and at no cost.
• Free shipping and returns: We take care of everything so you only have to worry about resting.
• 10-year warranty: We give you a decade of peace of mind. It's our way of telling you that we've built your mattress to last.

So you know. If you're looking to maximize your rest and space, combining a side-opening storage bed with Morfeo's technology is a safe bet. Invest in a complete sleep system and start sleeping the way you deserve.

Frequently asked questions about the side-opening storage bed

We know that deciding on a new storage bed raises a lot of questions, especially if it's one as practical as a side-opening model! It's a key piece for your rest and for keeping your home tidy, so it's natural to want to be 100% sure.

To make things easy for you, we've gathered the most common questions and answered them straight to the point. This way, you can choose with all the information at hand and complete peace of mind.

Is the side mechanism safe and sturdy?

Of course. This is undoubtedly one of the biggest concerns, and the answer is a resounding yes. Quality storage beds don't cut corners.

They use highly reliable hydraulic or gas pistons designed to lift the weight of the top and the mattress with a smooth, fully controlled movement. This system is attached to a strong, reinforced frame that ensures complete stability, both when opening and closing. Forget about sudden movements or unexpected scares.

Can I choose the opening side?

Absolutely! That's precisely one of the brilliant features of its design. For many models, when ordering, you choose whether it's better for you to open to the left or to the right; confirm this with the manufacturer before buying.

This flexibility is fantastic for adapting the storage bed to the layout of your bedroom, regardless of where the doors, windows, or wardrobe are located. This ensures that access is always convenient and practical for you.

Think about the layout of your bedroom. Being able to choose the opening side allows you to make the most of every inch and prevent it from hitting other furniture. It's a customization detail that makes a difference.

What type of mattress can I use with a side storage bed?

Practically all of them. A good side-opening storage bed, with a rigid top that allows breathability, is the ideal partner for the vast majority of mattresses: memory foam, pocket-sprung, hybrid like those from Morfeo, or foam.

With latex mattresses, such as the Nature, pay even closer attention to the ventilation of the top. A good tip is to make sure the storage bed top has 3D fabric; that's a guarantee that air will circulate properly and your mattress will stay in the best condition for much longer. With a base like this, your sleep system will be complete and ready to give you the comfort you deserve.

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If you have space at the foot of the bed, take a look at our front-opening storage beds, with a 3-year warranty and assembly included, and pair them with a Morfeo mattress with a 100-night trial.