How to Dismantle an Ottoman Bed: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ottoman beds have become one of the most popular choices for modern bedrooms—and for good reason. With their smart use of space and discreet under-bed storage, ottoman beds offer both comfort and practicality in one elegant frame. Whether you opt for an end-lift or side-opening design, the ability to store items neatly beneath your mattress makes them a standout solution for compact living.
But what happens when it’s time to move house, redecorate, or replace parts? That’s when knowing how to dismantle an ottoman bed becomes essential. While these beds may appear complex due to their lifting mechanisms and reinforced frames, taking them apart is perfectly manageable with the right guidance.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the full dismantling process—clearly and safely. As specialists in robust, easy-to-assemble furniture, Reinforced Beds understands the engineering behind strong, supportive ottoman beds. Let’s break it down so you can disassemble yours confidently and without damage.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin dismantling your ottoman bed, it's essential to gather the right tools and prepare your workspace to make the process as smooth as possible.
🔧 Tools You’ll Likely Need:
- Allen key (often supplied with the bed)
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Adjustable spanner or wrench
- Soft mallet (optional, for gentle separation of tight joints)
Start by removing all bedding, pillows, and storage items from the bed. If your bed has under-bed storage compartments or panels, make sure they’re completely empty. This not only reduces weight but also prevents accidental damage.
Next, take a few quick photos of the frame and lifting mechanism. This will be a useful reference when it’s time to reassemble. If multiple brackets or bolts are involved, consider labelling or grouping them in small bags to keep things organised.
Finally, confirm whether your model is an end-lift ottoman bed or a side-lift version, as the hinge and hydraulic mechanism positions will affect the steps that follow.
With the right tools and a bit of prep, you're ready to begin dismantling your ottoman bed with confidence.
Step 1: Remove the Mattress
Begin by carefully lifting and removing the mattress from your ottoman bed. Depending on the size and type of mattress—especially if it’s a dense memory foam or pocket-sprung model—this may require two people to do safely.
If your ottoman bed uses a gas-lift mechanism, be aware that the pistons may still be under pressure. When the mattress is removed, the base may spring up suddenly if not properly supported. To prevent any unexpected movement, gently lower the base frame to its flat position before lifting the mattress off.
Place the mattress in a safe, clean space away from your working area. With the bed now empty, you can access the lifting mechanism and internal frame without obstruction—ready for the next stage of dismantling.
Step 2: Secure or Release the Hydraulic Lift Mechanism
This is the most critical part of dismantling an ottoman bed, especially one equipped with a hydraulic gas-lift mechanism. These pistons are under tension and must be handled with care to avoid injury or damage.
🔒 Securing the Lift Frame
If your ottoman base is still in the raised position, carefully lower it so that it's flat and aligned with the rest of the bed frame. If your model includes locking struts or safety catches, engage them before working on the pistons. This helps hold the lifting frame in place while you detach the hydraulic arms.
🔧 Releasing the Pistons
Use an Allen key or screwdriver (depending on your bed’s design) to unscrew the brackets or bolts holding the gas struts in place. Begin with the lower end attached to the bed frame, then detach the upper part from the lift platform. Hold the piston firmly as you work—once detached, it may extend slightly or shift under residual pressure.
Some end-lift ottoman beds and side-lift beds may have different bracket types, but the principle remains the same: take your time, and don’t force anything. If the pistons feel stuck, apply light pressure and recheck for hidden fixings or catches.
Once both pistons are removed or secured, the lift platform is safe to disassemble without spring-loaded resistance. You're now ready to move on to taking apart the bed frame itself.
Step 3: Disassemble the Bed Base
With the mattress and hydraulic lift arms safely removed, you can now focus on taking apart the main ottoman bed frame. This includes the side rails, headboard, footboard, and slatted or solid platform base.
🧩 Remove the Lift Platform or Slats
If your ottoman bed has a slatted base, start by removing the slats or lifting platform. In some cases, the slats are secured within a metal frame—simply unscrew the frame brackets from the side rails. For platform bases, you may need to loosen bolts or hinges at both ends before lifting it away.
🔩 Unscrew the Side Rails, Headboard, and Footboard
Work your way around the bed, beginning with the side rails. Use your Allen key or screwdriver to loosen the bolts connecting the rails to the headboard and footboard. Keep the bolts, washers, and brackets in labelled bags so reassembly is straightforward.
If your heavy-duty bed frame includes additional centre rails or support legs, remove these last, as they often bear structural weight. A second person may be useful for holding larger components steady while you work.
📦 Pack Components Carefully
Lay each part flat and wrap in protective material if you’re preparing for transport. Make sure the frame pieces and fixings are grouped together to avoid confusion during reassembly.
Once complete, your ottoman bed frame will be fully disassembled and ready for storage, moving, or reinstallation.
Step 4: Handling the Storage Compartment
Now that the main frame has been dismantled, it’s time to deal with the under-bed storage area—a key feature that sets ottoman beds apart from standard frames.
Most ottoman beds include either a fabric-lined base or hard panels that sit flush with the floor. If your bed has removable floorboards, lift them out carefully and set them aside. Some models use Velcro, clips, or a simple drop-in design to hold these panels in place.
If the storage section is a fabric-lined insert, check for any screws or fixings that may attach it to the frame. In many cases, it can be lifted out once the surrounding structure has been removed.
This is also a great time to clean the storage area thoroughly—especially if you're preparing the bed for storage or transport. Use a vacuum and soft cloth to remove dust or debris that may have built up underneath.
Store the compartment pieces flat to prevent warping and, if fabric, keep them in a dry, clean bag or box. With the storage base disassembled, your bed is now almost completely dismantled.
Safety Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid
While dismantling an ottoman bed is a manageable DIY task, safety should always come first—especially when dealing with hydraulic lifting mechanisms and large components.
✅ Safety Tips
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Work with a partner whenever possible, especially when removing the mattress, lifting platform, or headboard.
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Always deactivate or remove the gas-lift pistons before attempting to disassemble the base to avoid unexpected spring-back.
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Use proper tools to avoid damaging bolts or brackets, and wear gloves if handling metal parts.
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Keep small parts (screws, washers, and clips) in clearly labelled bags or containers.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Forcing components apart—if something won’t budge, double-check for hidden screws or tension points.
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Skipping photos or labels—reassembly becomes much easier if you have a reference.
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Leaving pistons under pressure—this can be dangerous and potentially damaging.
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Over-tightening when reassembling, which may strip threads or crack panels.
Taking a few extra precautions will make the dismantling process smoother, safer, and reduce the risk of damage to your bed frame with storage.
When to Call in Help or Replacement Parts
Although most ottoman beds can be dismantled without professional assistance, there are times when calling in support is the safer, smarter option—particularly if you're dealing with a side-opening ottoman bed or a complex hydraulic lift system.
If you encounter a stuck gas strut, damaged frame part, or stripped screw, don’t force it. Forcing parts can cause permanent damage or compromise the safety of your bed.
At Reinforced Beds, we offer guidance and replacement parts for many of our models. Whether you need a new set of gas pistons, fixings, or a replacement bracket, our team is here to help.
Not sure what part you need? Just contact our customer service team with a few photos, and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Conclusion
Dismantling an ottoman bed may seem daunting at first, especially with its gas-lift system and integrated storage. But with the right tools, careful preparation, and step-by-step guidance, it’s a task you can confidently complete at home.
From removing the mattress and safely handling the hydraulic mechanism, to taking apart the frame and under-bed storage panels, each stage helps protect your bed and makes reassembly much easier later on.
At Reinforced Beds, we design strong, practical ottoman beds built to last—and just as easy to take apart as they are to assemble. Need advice or spare parts? Our expert team is just a message away.
Planning a move or makeover? Explore our heavy-duty ottoman bed range today.