How to Assemble an Ottoman Bed: Step-by-Step Instructions

Putting an ottoman bed together is simpler than it looks. This step-by-step guide shows you how to assemble a Hush My Bed ottoman storage bed, from fitting the side rails to attaching the gas-lift struts, with photos of every stage. It is the same guide that comes in the box, so if you have lost your paper copy, you are in the right place.

Published 29 October 2026 by Hush My Bed, Birmingham

Part 1: Build the bed surround

Step 1. Loosen the bolts on the headboard, slot the side rails into place and tighten the bolts.

Step 2. Slide the base boards into place.

Step 3. Loosen the bolts on the footboard, attach it to the side rails and tighten the bolts.

Step 4. Place the wooden support rail into the brackets on the side rails, as shown.

Part 2: Fit the slatted lifting frame

Step 5. Remove the packing from the slatted frame. Inside you will find two metal support bars held on with cable ties. Cut the cable ties and take out the bars.

Step 6. Unfold the slatted frame and place it on the bed surround, with the hand strap at the footboard end.

Step 7. Fix the frame in place using the bolts shown in the picture below:

• A: use the long bolts and locking nuts to fix the frame to the lifting hinges and the metal support bars.
• B: fit the long bolts through the centre of the frame, in the positions marked B.
• C: use the short bolts to fix the frame to the lifting hinges.

Fixing A: slatted frame, lifting hinge and metal support bar.

Fitting bolt B through the centre of the frame.

Part 3: Attach the gas-lift struts

Step 8. Once the slatted frame is fixed to the lifting hinges, attach the gas-lift struts so the frame can lift. On each side, remove the fixing nuts, fit the gas strut, then replace the nuts and tighten them.

Step 9. Check all the bolts are tight (apart from the gas strut nuts), then put your mattress on the frame before you close the ottoman for the first time.

Using your ottoman for the first time

• Add the mattress first. The lifting frame will not work correctly until a mattress is on it. Put the mattress on the frame while it is in the open position.
• Expect a firm first movement. Use the fabric strap handle to open and close the ottoman. The first movement takes quite a lot of force. This is a design feature, so the bed does not fall shut: the closer it is to closed, the easier it is to move. When it is almost shut, it will close fully under its own weight.
• Check it does not rub. When you lower the frame for the first time, check that it does not rub on the inside of the side rails. If it does, the bed is slightly out of square. Correct this by moving the foot end of the bed slightly to the left or right, keeping the head end still.
• Stiff struts are normal. The gas-lift struts are very strong and may feel stiff at first. They will become easier after the ottoman has been opened and closed a few times.

Safety tips

1. Do not let children play in the storage area or try to lift the metal frame.
2. Always put the mattress on the frame before pushing it down, and only lift or lower the frame with the mattress on top.
3. Never stand on the storage base.
4. Check all the fixings regularly to make sure they stay fully tightened.

Frequently asked questions

How many people does it take to assemble an ottoman bed?

Two adults. Ottoman beds are large and heavy, and you need a second person to hold the lifting frame up while the gas-lift struts are attached.

Why is my new ottoman bed hard to open?

The gas-lift struts are very strong and feel stiff at first. This is normal and they become easier after a few uses. The frame also needs a mattress on it to work correctly.

Why does my ottoman frame rub on the side rails?

The bed is slightly out of square. Move the foot end of the bed slightly to the left or right, keeping the head end still, until the frame closes without rubbing.

Should I tighten the gas strut nuts fully?

No. Tighten them, but leave a small gap so the gas struts can move freely.

What if a part is missing?

Keep all the packaging and call us on 0121 630 7005. We are happy to help.