Ottomans, those compact, practical furniture pieces that bring in form and function to any space, have now expanded to include a variety of bed bases. The result is the bed ottoman.

Be it a downsized bedroom or the living room in a micro apartment, a bed ottoman keeps you prepared for unexpected guests. If not, then it tucks away bed linen and everything else that doesn’t find room in a wardrobe. At the same time, it allows you the luxury of utilizing every precious inch of space in the room.

If you are confused at the mindboggling variety of shapes and sizes that these protean furniture pieces come in, then here’s a little guide to make shopping easier.

What different designs of bed ottomans are there? Are you looking for additional storage without the large footprint of a conventional bed? Or are you looking for a sleeping surface that folds away into a sofa or a compact chair? Maybe you are looking for both. Some designs are so versatile that the ottoman expands into a bed and also includes a storage compartment which can be accessed by lifting up the lid. Unlike divans which have storage drawers with limited access and restricted movement, gas pistons allow the lid on the ottoman to be raised easily with one hand, despite the weight of the mattress.

How to measure for bed ottomans? It’s easy to miscalculate the space needed for a bed ottoman, especially because they have a folding mechanism. Always measure the dimensions of the bed frame when it’s fully expanded. If it has side storage or end storage, account for the additional room needed for a person to stand and access the storage comfortably. Even if you err by a few inches, it can make it extremely difficult to access the storage, especially if the Ottoman bed is placed close to the wall or near a doorway.

How to select the best quality bed ottoman? Pay special attention to the bed frame. The frame is one of the most important aspects of selection as the structural integrity of the ottoman depends on it, and also whether it will be able to sustain the weight of a heavy mattress. Ottoman bed frames are usually made of either wood or metal. Metal is cheap and extremely durable. But it lacks in aesthetics and is more suited for rustic or contemporary interiors. That’s why solid wood furniture remains ever so popular. It blends with just about any type of décor. But it costs a pretty penny, especially if you are looking to get a custom one made for you. If you are buying off the shelf, ensure that you are aware of the type of wood used. Chipboard glued together might have a polished finish. But it will start to wear with just months of use. MDF veneered bases are slightly more durable. But not as durable as solid wood. Check the joinery, the hinges, the screws and the pistons used for the folding mechanism and the storage sections.