An Ottoman is considered a decorative piece of furniture, made as an extra addition to a home’s setting. However, what happens if you have too many guests and lack seats to offer them? At this point, you wonder if an ottoman can be used for sitting.
An ottoman is perfect for you to sit on. Contrary to what many might think, these pieces of furniture are strong enough to support a human’s weight. In other words, ottomans make for a good chair.
However, is it ideal to use ottomans as chairs? Though they might support a person’s weight, one can’t help but wonder just how long they can serve as chairs. If you have questions about using your ottoman as seats, keep reading to get answers.
Types of Ottomans
Contents
There are various types of ottomans available for purchase. They also come in different shapes, sizes, and designs. If you decide to utilize an ottoman as a chair, you must determine which ottomans are appropriate for sitting.
Below are the types of ottomans that make good chairs.
Standard Ottomans
These ottomans are the most common types you’ll find in any furniture store. Standard ottomans are available in several forms and sizes, including round and rectangular models.
Its types usually have legs and different fabric covers. Its structure makes it a perfect substitute for chairs.
Pouf Ottomans
The unique things about these ottomans are their designs and portability. They come in round or spherical shapes but never have legs for support. Nonetheless, it can carry the weight of a grown person without toppling over.
Yet, you shouldn’t forget that they have different sizes, which determine the person’s weight they can carry.
Tufted Ottomans
Its fantastic fabric structure differentiates it from other ottoman types. As a result, it’s the most sophisticated ottoman to have in your home. They are also durable and provide enough support for anyone to sit on.
Is It Good to Sit on an Ottoman?
An ottoman is comfortable; thus, it’s an excellent choice for sitting. However, be sure that the ottoman can sustain the person’s weight when in usage. If the ottoman is too small, a big-bodied person should avoid sitting on it.
On the other hand, larger ottomans can handle people’s weight with small and large body frames.
How Much Weight Can Ottoman Support?
Ottomans might look fancy, but they serve more purpose than some furniture pieces. Most times, homeowners use it as a footstool, undermining other functions the furniture can perform. When they discover that ottomans can be used for sitting, they wonder how much weight they can carry.
The weight of an ottoman can vary from piece to piece. However, nearly all ottoman sizes can support the weight of an adult. Several ottomans are even stronger than wooden chairs, allowing them to carry more weight than a chair.
Typically, smaller ottomans can comfortably carry 200 pounds, while larger ones can carry over 600 pounds.
Before buying an ottoman, consider if you want to use it as a footstool or part of your furniture set. This will help you in getting the right size for your purpose.
Should My Ottoman Match My Chairs?
When purchasing an ottoman, the color of the rest of your furniture comes into mind. For one, an ottoman is supposed to compliment your chairs and serve as extra decoration in your space.
Ottomans must not necessarily match your chairs. They can be a different color; still, they must blend with your interior. You can also choose your ottoman while picking out your chair to help you settle for the best color and pattern.
What Is the Difference Between Ottomans and Hassocks?
Ottomans have a unique structure easily identified regardless of their style and design. However, there is another item very similar in appearance to an ottoman. This similar item is known as a hassock.
Hassocks are like poufs, soft and comfortable for footstools. In other words, they aren’t as hard as the standard and tufted ottomans.
The distinction between an ottoman footstool and a hassock is their function and design. Like ottomans, a hassock can be used as a leg rest or a seat. They also serve as seats for people who are not tall enough to sit on an ottoman.
Hassocks can range in size from large to small. However, they’re often smaller and rounder in shape than ottomans. In other words, they typically have the appearance of a large cushion.
Hassocks usually don’t have legs. Even if they do, large materials over the legs keep them out of sight. These pieces are also more common in places of worship than homes.
Can You Keep an Ottoman in the Bedroom?
Ottomans are generally kept in the living room. Nonetheless, they can serve other purposes and are also a good fit for your bedroom. There are several ways to put your ottoman to good use in the bedroom.
Below are some of them:
Bed Extension
If you’re using a bed that’s smaller than your height, use an ottoman to make up for it. Place the ottoman at the foot of the bed and cover it with your bedding to make it less visible.
If you’re particular about colors, use an ottoman that’s the same color as your bed. Furthermore, most ottomans can’t provide comfort like a soft and expensive bed.
Dressing Table Stools
If you have a dressing table with no stool, an ottoman will suffice as a replacement. Keep in mind that there are several types of ottomans. As a result, you must find the right one to sit on comfortably.
For a dressing table, the smaller type of the standard ottoman is a perfect fit. Still, it’s okay to use a pouf or tufted ottoman.
Nightstands
Ottomans might not have the same structure as nightstands, but they can do the same job. These pieces have a strong frame, so they are durable and can serve as nightstands for as long as you want.
For nightstands, it’ll be best to get an ottoman that matches your room decor. An ottoman can be quite visible, so it’s best to have them blend into your room.
What Is the Standard Size of an Ottoman?
Ottomans don’t have a specific standard size. Homeowners acquire ottomans based on their height, width, depth, and design.
When purchasing an ottoman for your living room, ensure they’re one inch shorter than your chairs. If your chairs are wide and occupy a lot of space, your ottomans should also be wide. With this, you create a balance between your furniture and ottoman.
Can My Ottoman Be Taller than My Chairs?
As I mentioned earlier, the size of your ottoman depends on your choice. However, this might not be an ideal choice.
If you’re using your ottoman as a footrest, having them taller than your couch will be uncomfortable. They’re supposed to be at least an inch shorter to make them perfect for a foot raise.
Still, a taller ottoman can serve as a decoration piece or an extra chair. However, if they’re taller, they should have the same color as your furniture. This would reduce the amount of attraction they’ll gain if they were different from your chairs.
A taller ottoman might not be a bad idea, but it’s still preferable to opt for shorter ones. Notwithstanding, whatever you decide, always consider your options.
