Storage Beds: How to Choose (2026 Guide)
Partilhar
An ottoman bed base solves two problems at once: it provides a base for your mattress and gives you back the space a normal bed wastes. But not all of them open in the same way, and the difference between a good mechanism and a bad one is felt every time you lift the top. Here I explain what to look for before choosing, and I compare the six ottoman beds we have in our range.
If you're still deciding between types of bases, start with the general guide: how to choose the right bed base.
How much space you actually gain
A 140 cm double bed occupies about 2.8 m² of floor space. With an ottoman bed base, this area becomes usable in height — instead of being empty under the bed.
On the Sendai, the 30 cm structure is a storage box. It's suitable for winter duvets, extra pillows, seasonal clothes or luggage. It's storage that doesn't take up square meters in your room, because the space was already there.
The four criteria that matter
- The opening mechanism. This is what you'll use every week. With piston-assisted lifting, the top goes up with one hand and closes slowly. Without pistons, you need two hands and the top falls shut. It's the difference between opening the bed and struggling with the bed.
- The structure. Steel or particleboard. Steel won't wobble or sag under the weight of the mattress plus two people, year after year. Particleboard warps with humidity and can't be repaired.
- The top. Wooden slats allow the mattress to breathe underneath. A closed top retains humidity — and a mattress that doesn't air out lasts less.
- Assembly. An ottoman bed base has a mechanism. Assembling it at home is where most problems start. Getting it pre-assembled saves you that hassle.
When it's worth it — and when it's not
I recommend an ottoman bed base if:
- The room is small and doesn't have space for an extra chest of drawers.
- The house doesn't have a storage room or attic.
- You store bedding for two seasons.
- It's a short-term rental room and you need to store spare linen out of sight.
It's not worth it if:
- You already have a wardrobe with plenty of space. You'll be paying for a mechanism you won't use.
- You want the bed as low as possible. A front-opening storage box needs height — in the Sendai it's 30 cm plus the legs.
- You move house frequently. A base with a mechanism is heavier and less practical to transport.
It's a decision about square meters, not comfort. The mattress decides how you sleep; the bed base decides what you do with the space.
The six Dreamura bed bases, side by side
Only one in the range has storage. I put the others in the same table because the next question is almost always the same: is the price difference worth it?
| Model | Profile | Storage | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sendai (仙台) | Front-opening box, 30 cm high | Yes — assisted lift | €599 |
| Okinawa (沖縄) | No visible feet, sits on the floor | No | €469 |
| Akita (秋田) | Conical, metal or rectangular feet | No | €459 |
| Nara (奈良) | Conical, metal or rectangular feet | No | €429 |
| Himeji (姫路) | Medium profile, discreet presence | No | €389 |
| Tapi Kobe (神戸) | Low profile, essential base | No | €279 |
Between the Sendai and the closest non-ottoman base, the difference is about €130. If your room has storage, save the money and choose based on the leg design. If not, €130 buys you storage under the bed that takes up no floor space at all.
What's the same across the range
Regardless of the model you choose:
- Steel structure with wooden slatted top.
- Four colors in water-repellent fabric: taupe, gray, anthracite, and white.
- Six sizes, from 190x90 to 200x180.
- Arrives assembled. No assembly required.
- Repairable: slats can be replaced and there is a re-upholstery service. Not disposable.
- 3-year warranty, free delivery in mainland Portugal within 5 working days.
- Made in Portugal.
Suitable for spring or foam mattresses, in any of the sizes. If you haven't chosen your mattress yet, first see how to choose the ideal mattress.
What size to choose
The size of the bed base is the size of the mattress — no excess or shortage. If you are setting up the bed from scratch, decide on the mattress first and then match it. The complete table is in mattress sizes in Portugal.
If you want to complete the set, Dreamura headboards come in the same four colors and fit any of these bed bases.
Frequently asked questions
Does the ottoman bed base come assembled?
Yes. The Sendai arrives ready to use, with the mechanism already installed. No home assembly.
Can I open the storage myself?
Yes. The lift is piston-assisted: the top goes up with one hand and closes slowly, without slamming.
Does it fit any mattress?
Yes. The slatted top supports spring or foam mattresses, in any of the six sizes.
Does the mattress air well on top of an ottoman?
Yes, because the top is made of wooden slats and not closed. That's why the construction of the top matters more than it seems.
What is the warranty?
3 years on all Dreamura bed bases, mechanism included.
How long does delivery take?
5 working days in mainland Portugal, with free delivery.
If you're torn between two models and don't know which one, call me. In 10 minutes, I'll help you decide on the size, color, and whether the storage really pays off for you: +351 21 150 95 04.
— Ana Cristina, Dreamura Sleep Advisor
