How to Buy the Right Ottoman for Your Home

Your Guide to buying the best Ottomans

Overview

An ottoman is one of the most versatile pieces of furniture in any home. Whether you're looking for extra seating in the living room, a place to rest your feet, or a convenient spot to store items, an ottoman is the perfect addition. This buying guide will help you determine the style, size, and materials that best suit your needs and budget. Learn all about the different types of ottomans, what to look for when shopping, and other factors to consider when making your purchase.

Key features

  1. Functionality: What will the ottoman be used for? Will it be used primarily as a seat, a footstool, or for storage? Depending on your needs, you may need to look for a specific style or size.
  2. Size: Measure the area where you would like to place the ottoman and determine how much space you can allot for it. Ottomans come in a variety of sizes, so it is important to make sure the one you choose will fit the area you have available.
  3. Style: Consider the other furniture in the room and choose an ottoman that will fit in. Ottomans come in a variety of different styles, from traditional to modern, and there are many upholstery options to choose from.
  4. Material: What type of material do you want the ottoman to be made of? Leather, fabric, wood, or vinyl are all popular options.
  5. Durability: Consider how much wear and tear the ottoman will be exposed to. Choose a material that is durable and will last.
  6. Price: Ottomans can range from very inexpensive to very expensive. Determine your budget and find something that fits within it.

See the most popular Ottomans on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Multi-Functionality: Ottomans can serve a variety of purposes, from as a stand-alone seat, to a footstool, to a coffee table, or even a storage unit.
  • Design Flexibility: Ottomans come in a variety of different sizes, fabrics, colors, and shapes, making them an easily customizable addition to any room.
  • Durability: Ottomans are typically made with sturdy materials, such as wood, leather, or faux leather, making them able to stand up to regular use.
  • Affordability: Ottomans are generally quite affordable compared to many other types of furniture.

Cons

  • Price: Ottomans can be expensive, depending on the size and material.
  • Maintenance: Maintenance can be high, as some Ottomans require regular vacuuming and spot-cleaning.
  • Space: Ottomans can be quite large and bulky, so they may not fit in smaller apartments or homes.
  • Style: Not all Ottomans will fit with a particular style or design scheme, so you may have limited choices.

Best alternatives

  1. Futons - A futon is a piece of furniture that can convert from a couch into a bed.
  2. Daybeds - A daybed is a type of couch that can also be used as a bed.
  3. Folding Chairs - Folding chairs are a great alternative for small spaces, as they can be folded and stored away when not in use.
  4. Recliners - Recliners are chairs that can be adjusted into a reclining position to provide comfort and support.
  5. Hammocks - Hammocks are a great option for those who want to relax outdoors.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

    Upholstery Fabric - Material used to cover the cushion/top of the ottoman. Legs - Used to support the structure of the ottoman and typically come in various designs and materials. Hardware - Nails, screws, bolts, and other fasteners used to secure the legs of the ottoman to the body. Padding - Internal cushioning material used to add comfort to the ottoman. Tufting - Decorative buttons used to add texture and style to the ottoman. Casters - Wheels which attach to the bottom of an ottoman to enable movement.

Common questions

  1. What is an Ottoman? An Ottoman is a type of furniture, typically square or rectangular in shape, with a cushioned top and four legs. It can be used as a footstool, a seat, or a coffee table.
  2. What are the various styles of Ottomans available? Ottomans can come in a variety of styles, including traditional, contemporary, and modern. They can also be made from a variety of materials, such as leather, velvet, microfiber, and fabric.
  3. What are the benefits of owning an Ottoman? Ottomans are a great way to add extra seating, storage, and style to any room. They can also be used as a footstool, a place to put drinks and snacks, or even as a coffee table.
  4. What size Ottomans are available? Ottomans come in a variety of sizes, from small and portable to large and bulky. The size of the Ottoman should be based on the size of the room and the amount of space available.
  5. Are Ottomans comfortable? Ottomans are generally quite comfortable, as they are cushioned and have a soft top. The level of comfort also depends on the material and the quality of the construction.
  6. How much do Ottomans cost? The cost of an Ottoman can vary depending on the size, material, and quality of the construction. Generally, prices start at around $50 and can go up to several hundred dollars.

Trivia

An interesting story about Ottomans involves the Ottoman Empire's invention of the coffeehouse. This was a novelty at the time and quickly became popular across the region. The coffeehouses were so popular that they were even depicted in artwork from the time. The invention of this new social gathering place allowed for the exchange of ideas and conversations to occur in a public setting and is thought to have influenced the growth of cultures in the Ottoman Empire. Source: ThoughtCo.

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.