How to Build an Ottoman Bed: Complete Assembly and Troubleshooting Guide

Building an ottoman bed can be an exciting DIY project, but it requires precision and attention to detail. This comprehensive guide is designed to walk you through every step of assembling your ottoman bed, whether you’re new to DIY or just looking for a clear, hassle-free approach. 

You will find information you need, including the required tools, a list of pre-assembly checks, detailed instructions on installing the lift mechanism, and solutions to most problems encountered during the process. This guide is designed to help users assemble the bed in just 2 hours with confidence. 

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a fully assembled ottoman bed, ready for use, with all the features in perfect working order.

Tools and Preparation for Assembly

Before beginning the assembly of your ottoman bed, being fully prepared with the necessary tools and a clear workspace is essential. Proper preparation is key to making the assembly process smoother and faster. Users should have the right tools, like an Allen key, rubber mallet, spanner, measuring tape, and optionally, an electric screwdriver, at hand. 

These tools are typically required to secure various parts of the bed frame, tighten bolts, and assemble the lifting mechanism. After that, clear a space about 2 to 3 feet, large enough to work in. Then lay down a protective sheet or mat to avoid damaging the floor or the bed frame components.

Do a thorough component check using the parts listed in your instruction manual and ensure everything is included. This step helps you identify any missing or damaged parts early in the process, preventing unnecessary delays during assembly and making the entire assembly process smoother and faster.

Essential Tools for Assembly

When assembling your ottoman bed, having the right tools is crucial for securing the bed structure and ensuring a smooth operation. Some common tools included with the bed are Allen keys, while others are needed.  

Here’s a list of the essential tools required:

1. Allen Key: Used for tightening bolts and securing various bed frame components.
2. Rubber Mallet: Ideal for tapping parts into place without causing damage.
3. Spanner or Wrench: Essential for tightening larger bolts and ensuring secure joints.
4. Measuring Tape: Helps with accurate alignment, ensuring parts fit perfectly.
5. Electric Screwdriver (Optional): Makes tightening screws faster and more efficient.
6. Spirit Level: Ensures that the bed frame is perfectly level, preventing any future instability.
7. Soft Cloth or Gloves: Protects both you and the bed from scratches during the assembly process.

For additional efficiency, having an electric screwdriver speeds things up, but users should be careful not to overtighten the bolts. 

Preparing the Assembly Space

Creating a clean and organized assembly space is just as important as having the right tools to prevent unnecessary issues, avoid damaging bed components, and make the entire build process stress-free and smooth. A clutter-free space allows better movement and minimizes the risk of losing or damaging parts. 

Steps for Preparation:

1. Clear a flat surface: Clearing at least 2–3 feet on all sides is essential to maneuver the bed frame and to position components during assembly.
2. Lay down a protective sheet or mat: Laying down a protective mat on the floor shields both the bed components and your floor from scratches or damage during the assembly process.
3. Ensure good lighting: You’ll need adequate light to see small components, read instructions clearly, and work comfortably.
4. Sort and organize the parts: Pre-sorting all hardware using containers or labeled sections to keep screws, bolts, and other small components sorted and easily accessible.

This preparation step speeds up the assembly and reduces any potential errors, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable building experience. 

Laying Out Components and Reading the Manual

Users should open all the packaging and carefully lay out every part and use the included manual to identify and name each component. This step helps avoid confusion in the assembly process. 

Unbox and sort all components: Lay out everything clearly and group similar items together to avoid confusion. 

Cross-check against the manual parts list: Ensure all listed items are accounted for before proceeding.  

Inspect for damage or missing items: Look for dents, cracks, or incomplete hardware sets. 

Read the full manual first: Understand each step and note any warnings or tricky sections. 

Arrange parts in logical order: Place or arrange components in the order they’ll be used to streamline the build. 

Users should go through the entire manual to understand the steps and spot any potential challenges before starting the assembly process. 

Step-by-Step Ottoman Bed Assembly Process

The assembly of your ottoman bed will follow a logical sequence, starting with the frame assembly, moving on to the installation of the base and slats, and finally, attaching the lift mechanism. Whether you’re a first-time builder or a seasoned DIYer, a step-by-step guide breaks down the process into manageable stages, ensuring a stress-free assembly experience. 

The process begins with assembling the outer frame, followed by attaching the central support beams, installing the gas-lift mechanism, and lastly, fitting the slatted or solid base. It is crucial to check the fit and stability at every stage before moving forward to ensure safety. 

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Assembling the Frame and Side Rails

Start by assembling the main frame of the ottoman bed, which provides the foundation for the entire structure. Forming a solid, correctly aligned frame is essential for the bed’s overall stability and performance. 

Steps:

1. Bolt the side rails to the headboard and footboard: Use an Allen key to secure the bolts provided in the hardware kit. It connects the side rails to the headboard and footboard. 
2. Align the rails: Ensure that the side rails are flush with the edges of the headboard and footboard for a neat, stable structure. 
3. Tighten the bolts: Tighten the bolts moderately, just enough to secure the parts firmly. Do not overtighten the bolts, as this could cause damage to the frame.
4. Check frame stability: After assembling the frame, gently wiggle or press on each corner to make sure there’s no wobble. If there is, check the alignment of the side rails and retighten as necessary.

Securing the Headboard and Footboard

Once the side rails are secured, it’s time to attach the headboard and footboard to complete the bed’s rectangular frame. This step ensures that the bed’s structural components are stable and aligned for the rest of the assembly process.

Steps:

1. Align the headboard with the side rails: Match the pre-drilled holes in the headboard with the corresponding brackets on the side rails before inserting bolts.
2. Insert the bolts with washers: Use a spanner to insert and tighten the bolts that secure the headboard to the side rails. 
3. Slide and bolt the footboard: Similarly, attach the footboard to the opposite side of the bed frame using bolts and washers.
4. Verify symmetry and alignment: Make sure both the headboard and footboard are vertically aligned with the side rails. Proper alignment ensures stability and prevents wobbling.

Fitting the Base and Slats

This step involves installing the base of the bed, which includes either slats or solid panels, depending on the model you have purchased. The base provides the necessary support for the mattress, ensuring comfort and stability. 

Steps:

1. Insert slats into the designated slots: If your ottoman bed uses slats, simply insert them securely into the side brackets along the frame.
2. Lay solid panels: For solid base models, position flat boards evenly across the frame, resting flush for full support. 
3. Secure fabric or fiberboard base: Some ottoman beds come with fabric or fiberboard bases that need to be fixed in place using screws or Velcro straps for a neat finish. 
4. Ensure even spacing: Check that all slats or panels are evenly spaced, and that they fit firmly against the frame without any gaps. 

The base must be securely fitted to ensure the bed is stable and ready for the next steps.

Installing the Lifting Mechanism

The lifting mechanism is the feature that gives the ottoman bed its versatility and signature functionality, allowing easy access to under-bed storage. The lifting mechanism involved gas-lift struts or hydraulic pistons which should be installed with precision to ensure both performance and safety. Installing the lift system requires careful attention to detail to ensure smooth operation. 

When it’s properly installed, this system allows the bed to lift effortlessly and stay securely open when raised. One common issue is misaligning the brackets or forcing components, which can affect how smoothly the bed lifts or closes, and might even cause long-term damage. Users should take their time during these steps, as it directly impacts the bed’s ease of use and daily reliability. 

How to Install Gas Struts or Pistons?

The gas struts are the key components that enable the lifting function for your ottoman bed. However, installing them properly is crucial to ensure the lift mechanism works smoothly and safely. As these components handle the holding and lifting of the bed base, correct alignment and secure fastening is essential.  

Steps:

1. Identify the bracket positions: Identify the correct mounting points on the bed frame where the gas struts will attach.
2. Align the struts: Attach the gas struts to the brackets and ensure they are aligned properly with the lifting arms so they fit naturally into position.
3. Fasten both ends: Use bolts or clips to secure the struts at both ends without over-tightening. 
4. Avoid over-torquing: Tighten the bolts gently, as too much pressure may damage the struts or the frame.

Aligning Hinges and Arms

Proper hinge and arm alignment ensures that the lift system operates smoothly, providing balanced motion when opening and closing, and ensuring the long-term durability of the bed. Misaligned parts can cause uneven movement, a noisy and stiff lift mechanism, and strain the gas struts. 

Steps:

1. Check hinge positioning: Ensure the hinges are correctly positioned and match each other in angle and placement. 
2. Test the movement: Manually test and fine-tune the lifting arms to ensure they move smoothly.
3. Tighten after confirming motion: Only tighten the hinges after confirming that the lifting arms move freely.
4. Lubricate if needed: Apply light lubrication, like WD-40, to the hinges to reduce any stiffness. Users should never force movement. 

Activating the Lift for First Use

Once the lift mechanism is installed and the bed is assembled, it’s time to test it to ensure it operates smoothly and securely before regular use. This phase allows users to confirm that the lift mechanism works properly and as intended. 

Steps:

1. Lift gently: Gently pull up the bed base to engage the gas struts.
   Listen for engagement sounds: You should hear the gas struts engage as you lift the base.
2. Lock the bed in the open position: Ensure the lift system locks securely in the open position.
3. Test the downward motion: Press the bed down gently to confirm the struts release smoothly.

Troubleshooting Common Assembly Issues

Even with careful assembly, you may encounter some common issues. This section is designed as a quick-reference guide and provides solutions for typical problems, such as misaligned frames, unexpected noises, awkward lifting, or malfunctioning gas struts after assembling the ottoman bed.
Most post-assembly issues fall into three main categories. First, closure issues, which are often caused by misaligned struts, overtightened bolts, or uneven hinges; second, squeaky components, which can be fixed with a light application of lubricant on moving joints or hinge points. And third, gas strut replacement, which may be needed when the bed base fails to stay open or feels too difficult to lift. 

These are some minor issues that can be solved without taking the bed apart, by checking connections, applying minor adjustments, and using proper maintenance techniques. 

What to Do if the Bed Won’t Close?

If your ottoman bed isn’t closing properly, it’s usually due to misaligned struts or hinges. It is important to identify the cause and carefully avoid damaging the lift mechanism while solving it. Follow these steps to resolve the issue:

1. Check the strut orientation: Ensure the gas struts are properly aligned with the brackets.
2. Inspect the hinges: Make sure the hinges aren’t over-tightened, as this can cause binding.
3. Look for fabric obstructions: Ensure nothing is blocking the lifting mechanism.
4. Apply even pressure: When closing, press down slowly and evenly.

Fixing Squeaky or Loose Parts

Squeaks or looseness often occur due to unlubricated joints or under-tightened bolts. These are minor issues that can be easily fixed and maintain the comfort and stability of your Ottoman bed. Follow these steps to solve the issue swiftly: 

1. Identify the source: Start by identifying the source of the movement or noise, which is usually near joints, hinges, or support brackets.
2. Tighten bolts: Use a spanner or Allen key to tighten any loose bolts.
3. Lubricate joints: Apply WD-40 or silicone spray to joints, hinges, and struts that may be causing squeaks. 
4. Check all fasteners: Ensure all bolts and screws are securely tightened. 

Replacing or Adjusting Gas Struts

Gas struts can lose pressure or function improperly over time, requiring adjustment or full replacement. Users may need to adjust or replace the gas struts for the beds to function properly. Follow these steps to solve it safely: 

1. Release the clips or bolts: Remove the struts carefully with fully supporting the bed base securely.
2. Compare with replacement parts: Ensure the new struts match in size and force rating.
3. Reinstall the struts: Attach the new struts, ensuring they are properly aligned with the brackets.
4. Test the mechanism: Test the functionality and confirm that the lift system works smoothly after installation.

Get Your Ottoman Bed Professionally Assembled

While this guide is designed to help you assemble your ottoman bed yourself, you may prefer professional assembly. Whether you’re unsure about certain steps, short on time, or simply want peace of mind, professional assembly is a great choice. This option ensures that all parts are correctly installed and that the bed functions flawlessly. Offering a trusted and reliable professional assembly service, MK Furnishing is here to save the day. We provide full unpacking, expert frame setup, lift mechanism installation, and a final safety check for your Ottoman beds. Handling assembly work professionally is time-saving, helps avoid errors, and results in a perfectly assembled and ready-to-use bed with guaranteed stability and functionality.