There are so many different types of ottomans on the market today that it may be difficult to decide which ottoman styles and sizes are best for you.
The height of an ottoman is critical. Buying an ottoman that is the wrong height can be painful for your legs and back.
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What Is The Standard Height for an Ottoman?
There is no standard ottoman height. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. An ottoman’s average height ranges from 13 to 22 inches. An ottoman should be at least 1 inch shorter than a couch or chair seat. This will make it easier for you to use.
Recommended Ottoman Size and Height
Couch
The size and height of an ottoman for a couch are determined by the type of ottoman and its intended use. If it is to be used as a footstool, a pouf ottoman or footstool ottoman is appropriate. This type of ottoman is typically small and has an average height of 14 inches.
Chair
Ottomans are frequently sold in pairs with chairs that are custom-made to fit the size of the ottoman.
If your chair does not come with an ottoman, make sure it is at least as tall as the chair. It should also be as wide as the chair’s seat.
Sectional
The ottoman is usually centered on the sectional and has equal space on each side. There should be at least 18 inches of space around the sectional on all sides.
Ottomans with sections typically have small legs but appear heavy. The recommended width is one-third the width of the sectional’s sofa. This is when your sectional includes a chaise.
King bed
Ottomans for king beds are typically placed at the foot of the bed. They are the same length as the width of the bed but can vary by a few inches. These ottomans are 2 to 3 inches lower in height than the beds.
Instead of one narrow ottoman, two narrow ottomans are sometimes placed at the foot of the bed. They usually have 2/3 the width of the bed.
Loveseat
Loveseats are frequently accompanied by ottomans. The ottoman’s size is determined by the size of the loveseat.
You have the option of using two ottomans or one long ottoman. The ottoman should be 17 inches tall and the same width as the loveseat for a 33-inch loveseat.
The height and size of various types of ottomans:
Standard:
This is the standard size and style. It comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are taller than 12 inches.
Anything less than 12 will look like a footstool. It is very light because it doesn’t have a lot of storage space or special features like padding.
Cocktail:
Cocktail ottomans have a larger surface area and are wider than other ottoman types to accommodate a cocktail tray. They have very wide and very short legs. Instead of a footstool, it appears to be a small table.
Squares are typically 16 inches tall and 40 inches wide. The rectangular pieces measure approximately 47 inches long by 28 inches wide.
Foot Stool:
These ottomans are shorter than the seating furniture, which could be a chair, couch, or sofa. They range in size from 13 to 15 inches on average.
Because they are so small, they don’t take up much room. They are easily portable, allowing people to rest their feet no matter where they sit.
Seating:
These ottomans, which are shorter than the seating furniture, are primarily used for additional seating. They are smaller than footstools but taller than pouf ottomans. They stand between 15 and 18 inches tall.
They don’t have a specific shape. They are available in a variety of shapes and styles. Because they are used for seating, they are not light.
Storage ottoman
The size options for this type of ottoman are virtually limitless. They can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can be combined with other functions, such as seating or footrests.
A storage ottoman can be found in heights ranging from 15 to 20 inches. They can be a little shorter, but not by as much as 11 inches. They can also be used as coffee tables.
Coffee Tables:
Cocktail ottoman tables are similar to coffee tables. They have a padded surface for resting feet and can also be used as coffee tables.
They should be approximately two inches shorter than the couch. Your height should be between 16 and 20 inches.
Pouf ottomans:
Pouf ottomans are typically not as tall as traditional ottomans. They don’t have legs, so they’re very small. A height of 11 to 13 inches would be appropriate.
They are even more compact than footstools. They are also lightweight and portable.
How big of an Ottoman should I get?
The right size for you is determined by the ottoman’s purpose, the amount of space in your living room, and the furniture it will be placed next to.
Most ottomans are shorter than the furniture next to which they are placed, especially if used as footstools. Your ottoman’s height should be at least 1 inch lower than the seat of your couch or chair.
If it is used to hold drinks, it should be the same height as the couch’s seat or lower.
When it comes to ottoman width, if you have a large couch or sectional, your ottoman should be wide. However, if there isn’t enough space in the room, it should be narrow.
We don’t want the space to appear cluttered. If your ottoman is too small, you can combine two or more ottomans to compensate for the width.
The depth should also be considered and determined based on the size of your room. If you have a large room, your ottoman should be deep, but if you have a small room, a narrow ottoman is recommended. If you put a deep ottoman in a small room, you might end up bumping into it.
Should the ottoman be placed lower than the chair?
It can be one or two inches lower, but this is not required. It is easier to reach the ottoman when it is lower than the seat of the chair.
If you’re having trouble with this, take a seat height measurement. With a measuring tape, measure from the top of the chair’s seat to the floor. Take an inch off the measurement and you’re done! Check the height to see if it is comfortable for you and your guests.
Many brands sell ottomans in conjunction with their chairs. If you are unsure of your height, get a set instead.
Can the ottoman be the same height as or higher than the chair?
Ottomans are typically 16 inches or higher in height. The same is true for the height of a lounge chair. It should not be higher than the chair, but it should be the same height as the chair’s seat.
It does not have to be the same height, but the height difference should be less than 100 mm. The only exception is when you use the ottoman as a footrest. It should be 25 mm shorter than the seat height in that case.
The best way to determine which height is best for you is to test it out and try mixing and matching the ottoman with the chair, sofa, couch, or other furniture in the store. Alternatively, you can measure it at home with tape, books, and boxes.
Is it possible for an ottoman to be taller than a couch?
It is possible, but it depends on what is most comfortable for you. If you intend to use your ottoman as a footstool, avoid buying one that is taller than your couch.
It will be inconvenient because you won’t be able to reach it with your feet. When you place your feet on a taller ottoman, you will most likely strain your legs and back.
If you only intend to use the ottoman for storage or decoration, there is no need to be concerned about its height. It can be taller or shorter as long as it appears balanced across the room.
Some people prefer to elevate their legs higher than the level of the couch. In that case, you can buy a taller ottoman than your couch. What matters is that you and your guests are at ease.
What is the average height of a pouf?
Although there is no standard height, poufs typically range in height from 14 to 16 inches. Larger poufs are also available, depending on the function of the pouf.
14 to 16 inches should suffice for a small living room. However, if you want to use it to rest your feet, you can find smaller ones that are less than 12 inches long.
A taller pouf is more appropriate and comfortable for guest seating and in large living rooms.
Should the ottoman be placed lower than the sofa?
The ottoman should be a minimum of one inch shorter than the sofa. They could also be the same height. This is done to improve accessibility and to make it appear proportional. If the ottoman is used as a centerpiece, it can also be slightly taller.
A small ottoman with small legs looks good and appears heavier in an open living space.
Is it necessary for an ottoman to be the same width as a chair?
As a result, the two pieces of furniture will be balanced next to each other. It is also a more convenient approach because it is easily accessible from all directions. Although it may vary by a few inches, the wider your chair, the wider your ottoman should be. Make sure to leave enough space between the ottoman and the couch or chair.
Few pieces of furniture are as versatile as ottomans. They can be used as storage, seating, a side table, a footstool, or as decoration.
There are numerous options. They not only improve your comfort, but they also change the appearance of your living room.