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The short answer: Assembling an ottoman with storage compartment is usually a straightforward DIY task that takes 15 to 30 minutes. You’ll need a screwdriver (or the included Allen wrench), follow the clear steps in the manual, and have a soft surface to avoid scratching the fabric or wood. Most ottomans come with pre-drilled holes and numbered parts, so as long as you match the parts carefully, you’ll be done in no time.
Before you start, clear a large area and lay down a blanket or cardboard to protect the ottoman’s finish and your floor. Open the box and remove all parts. You should find the main body (often in two or more pieces), the lid (which doubles as the storage top), and a hardware bag with screws, bolts, and an Allen wrench. Some models may have a hinge or a fabric panel that needs to be attached.
Check the instruction manual against the parts. Many ottomans have labeled or numbered parts (e.g., A, B, C) to make identification easier. If any part is missing or damaged, contact the manufacturer before proceeding. Do not force any pieces together; if something doesn’t align, recheck the step.
Most storage ottomans have a base that is either a single piece or two halves that you connect. Place the base upside down on the soft surface. If your ottoman has legs (wooden or metal), attach them now. Typically, you’ll insert the leg into pre-drilled holes and secure with screws. Use the Allen wrench or a screwdriver, but do not fully tighten until all legs are on. This allows for adjustments.
If your ottoman does not have legs, skip this step. Some ottomans have a solid base with a bottom panel that you’ll need to attach first. Align the holes and insert screws, but again, wait to tighten.
For ottomans that come in two halves (often separated for shipping), you’ll need to join them. Position the two pieces so the holes align. Insert the connector bolts or screws, and use the Allen wrench to tighten them gradually. Work in a cross pattern: tighten one screw, then go to the opposite side, then the next, to ensure even pressure and a square frame.
If your ottoman has a wooden frame that needs to be assembled, follow the manual’s order. Usually, you attach the side panels to the bottom base. Make sure the storage compartment is oriented correctly: the open side should face up when you flip it over later.
Many storage ottomans come with a removable fabric liner or a fixed interior compartment. If there is a liner, it may have a rigid base that sits inside the frame. Place it in the opening and press down until it clicks or rests on the bottom. Some liners have straps or Velcro to secure them.
If your ottoman has a hinge for the lid, now is the time to install the hinge. Position the hinges on the back edge of the frame and the matching spot on the lid. Use the provided screws. A common mistake is attaching the hinge upside down, so check the manual’s diagram. The hinge should allow the lid to open backward and stay in place.
With the frame assembled and the liner in place, flip the ottoman upright. If you have a separate lid, place it on top. It should sit flush and even. If it rocks, tighten the legs or adjust the hinges. If your ottoman has a cushion top, it may be pre-attached, but some models require you to set the cushion onto the lid and secure it with ties or Velcro.
Test the opening and closing motion. The lid should open smoothly without scraping the frame. If it catches, loosen the hinge screws slightly, adjust the lid’s position, and retighten.
Once everything is aligned, go back and fully tighten all screws and bolts. Avoid over-tightening, as this can strip the threads or warp the material. Give the ottoman a gentle shake to check for wobbles. If it wobbles, place it on a flat surface and adjust the legs (if any) by turning them to level.
Finally, place your ottoman in its desired spot. If there are any protective stickers on the legs, remove them. You can now use the storage compartment for blankets, books, or toys. For more options on choosing the right storage ottoman, check out our ottoman buying guide for tips on size, material, and features.
Most ottomans come with the necessary Allen wrench. You may also need a Phillips screwdriver for some models, but often the screws are hex bolts. Check the manual first. A rubber mallet can be useful for gently tapping panels into place, but not always required.
This is usually due to misaligned hinges or over-tightened screws. Loosen the hinge screws slightly, adjust the lid so it sits evenly, and retighten. Also, ensure that nothing inside the compartment is sticking up and blocking the lid.
Yes, most storage ottomans are designed for one-person assembly. However, having a second person can help when aligning large panels or attaching the lid. If you have a heavy ottoman, use a helper to flip it over safely.
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