How do I measure the right size ottoman stool for my lounge suite?

Aim for an ottoman height within 2-4 cm of your couch seat for comfortable footrest use. Allow 50-70 cm clearance in front of the couch so the ottoman doesn't block traffic. For multipurpose use like a tray surface, choose a width or diameter of at least 45 cm.

What upholstery is best for an ottoman stool in a home with children or pets?

We recommend tightly woven fabrics or faux leather that resist spills and can be cleaned with a damp cloth. Natural fibres like linen show marks more quickly, so they are better suited for guest rooms rather than daily family spaces.

What is the typical price range for an ottoman stool in South Africa?

Simple pouffe styles often start around R1,200, mid-range upholstered ottomans cost between R1,800 and R3,500, and larger storage or designer pieces range from R4,000 to R8,000. Prices vary by size, material, and retailer.

Should I choose an ottoman with storage or modular features for a small living room?

Storage ottomans are ideal for hiding blankets or toys in smaller living rooms, while modular ottomans can be paired to form a larger bench or sectional footrest. Consider your need for extra storage versus flexibility.

How do I care for a leather or faux leather ottoman stool?

Wipe spills quickly with a soft cloth and use a pH-neutral cleaner for routine cleaning. Check the manufacturer's care instructions for deep cleaning, and consider replaceable covers to extend the ottoman's lifespan.

How to choose the right ottoman stool for your home

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How to choose the right ottoman stool for your home | Bash

Why an ottoman stool is more than just extra seating

An ottoman stool is a small, versatile piece that fills everyday needs: extra seating for visitors, a soft footrest after a long day, a low side table with a tray, or discreet storage in a hallway. We think of it as a quiet workhorse in the living space - compact, adaptable and family-friendly. Choosing the right ottoman stool comes down to three practical considerations: size and scale, upholstery and maintenance, and the features you actually need.

Measure first: size, scale and placement

Before you fall for a colour or fabric, measure the space where the ottoman will live. For an ottoman used with a lounge suite, aim for a height within 2-4 cm of the couch seat so it feels comfortable as a footrest. For occasional seating in an entrance or bedroom, a lower seat of around 40-45 cm is common.

Allow 50-70 cm clearance in front of couches so the ottoman doesn’t block traffic.
For multipurpose use (tray surface + stool), choose a diameter or width of at least 45 cm.

If you need ideas and selection, our Furniture collection shows styles that match different room sizes and budgets. Furniture

Upholstery, durability and family life

How the ottoman is upholstered determines how it wears. For homes with children or pets, we recommend tightly woven fabrics or faux leather that cushion spills and clean with a damp cloth. Natural fibres like linen feel relaxed but show marks faster - useful in a guest room rather than a daily family space.

Consider foam density for the seat: a firmer foam keeps shape if the ottoman doubles as occasional seating; softer foam is comfortable as a footrest but can flatten more quickly.

Style pairings and practical matches

Ottomans work well paired with couches, occasional chairs, or as standalone accents. If you already have a lounge set, choose an ottoman in a complementary texture rather than an exact match. For example, a leather couch can be balanced with a fabric ottoman to soften the look. Browse coordinating pieces to visualise combos. Couches

Quick sizing tip: if you plan to use a tray on the ottoman as a coffee surface, pick one at least 45 cm wide and choose a tray with a raised lip to prevent spills.

Price expectations in South Africa vary by size, material and brand. As a rough guide, simple pouffe styles often start around R1 200, mid-range upholstered ottomans sit between R1 800 and R3 500, and larger storage ottomans or designer pieces can be R4 000-R8 000. These are estimates and will vary by finish and retailer.

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Choosing features: storage, modularity and mobility

Decide whether you want extra features. Storage ottomans open to hide blankets or toys and are especially useful in smaller livingrooms. Modular ottomans can pair together to form a larger bench or sectional footrest. If you move furniture often, look for models with light frames or hidden castors.

Materials and care, plain and practical

Care routines are straightforward: spot-clean spills quickly, use a fabric protector for lighter textiles, and check manufacturer care instructions for deep cleaning. For leather or faux leather, a soft wipe and a pH-neutral cleaner will keep the surface healthy. Where possible, choose replaceable covers - they extend lifespan and let you refresh colour without buying new furniture.

How we recommend choosing for common South African rooms

Livingroom: Pick a medium-height ottoman that complements the couch texture and can carry a tray for drinks.
Bedroom: A narrow ottoman at the foot of the bed offers seating and a place to lay clothes.
Entrance: A compact, durable pouffe gives a quick seat for putting on shoes.

If you’re shopping specifically for soft furnishings and storage, our Home Furnishings range includes cushions, throws and small ottomans that work together. Home Furnishings

A simple buying checklist

Measure available floor space and clearance.
Decide primary use: footrest, seating or storage.
Pick upholstery suited to your household (pets/children vs low-traffic rooms).
Check cushion fill and frame weight for durability.
Compare prices and delivery options; look for replaceable covers where possible.

We like to keep shopping simple: find a shape you love, check dimensions against your room, and match the fabric to daily life rather than a one-time look. When you want to see pieces that suit a particular style or size, narrow your search with our furniture filters and read product care details on each listing.

Still undecided? Try before you buy

Where possible, test an ottoman in-store to check height and comfort. If buying online, pick items with clear return policies and photos showing scale next to common furniture. We also recommend simple swaps - a washable cover or a tray can change function without replacing the piece.

Ready to explore styles and sizes? Start with our curated furniture selection and home styling articles for ideas and practical reviews. Furniture articles

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How to choose the right ottoman stool for your home

Measure and match

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

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Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Pick practical fabrics

Decide features first

Why an ottoman stool is more than just extra seating

Measure first: size, scale and placement

Upholstery, durability and family life

Style pairings and practical matches

Choosing features: storage, modularity and mobility

Materials and care, plain and practical

How we recommend choosing for common South African rooms

A simple buying checklist

Still undecided? Try before you buy

Sources

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