Choosing the Perfect Ottoman

Honestly, an ottoman might be the most underrated piece of furniture you can own. It does everything — footrest, extra seat, coffee table stand-in, even a hiding spot for your mess. But walk into any store and suddenly there’s a thousand options. Shapes, sizes, materials. It gets overwhelming fast. This guide cuts through the noise so you actually find something that works for you.

What is the main purpose of an ottoman?

Before you dive in, figure out what job this thing’s gonna do. Most people use them as a footrest for a chair or sofa, a casual coffee table alternative (perfect for pizza nights), extra seating when friends crash, or a sneaky storage spot for blankets and old magazines. If you need it to multitask, go for something with a flat, solid top — those storage ottomans with a hard lid are lifesavers.

A footrest ottoman is usually low and soft, all about comfort. Coffee table types are bigger with a firm, flat surface that can actually hold a tray without wobbling. For seating, you need a sturdy frame and high-density foam — none of that cheap stuff that sags after a month. Storage ones? They’re amazing for hiding clutter in living rooms or even bedrooms.

How do I choose the right size and shape?

Size matters. Seriously. For a footrest, aim for the same height as your sofa or chair seat — anything else feels awkward. If it’s replacing a coffee table, keep it 1 to 2 inches lower than the seat so you can actually reach it. Most ottomans land somewhere between 16 and 20 inches tall.

Shape-wise, rectangular and square are the safe bets — they work with almost any sofa. Round or oval ones soften up a room full of straight lines and are great for smaller spaces. A round ottoman can even become the room’s focal point, which sounds fancy but just means everyone looks at it. Whatever you pick, measure your space and leave at least 18 inches around it. You don’t want people tripping.

What material and color should I pick?

Your lifestyle decides the fabric. Got kids? Pets? Spills happen? Stick with performance fabrics like microfiber, polyester, or leather. They’re tough, easy to wipe down, and don’t stain easily. If you want something luxe, velvet or linen looks amazing but requires way more upkeep. Leather is a classic — ages beautifully but costs a pretty penny.

Color’s a whole other game. Neutrals like beige, gray, or navy blend in and never cause drama. But if you want a statement piece, go bold — a bright color or fun pattern can totally change the room. A contrasting shade can tie everything together too. Just grab a fabric swatch first. Lighting makes colors look totally different in your actual space.

Should I get an ottoman with storage?

If your place feels cluttered, a storage ottoman is a game-changer. They’ve got a hinged or removable top that opens to a hidden compartment. Perfect for throw blankets, pillows, remote controls, or kids’ toys that somehow multiply. But heads up — these things are heavier, and if the lid is hard, sitting on them isn’t as comfy.

Even if you mainly want a footrest, a storage model can work — just make sure the cushioning is thick enough. For coffee table duty, look for one with a flat, sturdy top that can handle a tray without tipping over.

Frequently Asked Questions