When choosing furniture for your home, it’s easy to confuse ottomans and footstools, but they serve different purposes. Both can add comfort to a room, but knowing the key differences can help you make the right choice for your space.
What is an Ottoman?
An ottoman is a low, upholstered piece of furniture without a back or arms. It’s often used as a footrest, extra seating, or a coffee table. Ottomans are typically larger than footstools and are designed for multiple functions. One of their best features is the storage space—many ottomans have a hollow interior under the lid, perfect for stashing blankets, magazines, or other items you want to keep out of sight.
What is a Footstool?
A footstool is smaller, simpler, and designed mainly for resting your feet. It’s usually lighter than an ottoman, making it easier to move around. Footstools can be padded or unpadded, but they typically don’t have storage options. They’re used to relieve pressure on your legs and are often placed in front of a chair or sofa for added comfort.
Key Differences
Size and Shape
Ottomans are generally larger and come in a variety of shapes, including square, rectangular, and round. They can double as seating or a coffee table. Footstools are smaller and simpler, usually rectangular, though some can be round.
Functionality
Ottomans are multi-functional. In addition to serving as footrests, they can be used as extra seating or a table, and many offer storage. Footstools are mainly used for comfort—they help elevate your legs and reduce pressure from sitting. They’re often not designed for extra storage or seating.
Storage
One major advantage of an ottoman is the storage it often provides. Many ottomans have a removable top that reveals a hollow space perfect for storing blankets, pillows, or toys. Footstools, however, rarely have storage space.
Style and Design
Ottomans are often more polished and can match the existing furniture in a room. They are versatile and work well as statement pieces. Footstools are simpler in design, less bulky, and often more functional than decorative. They tend to blend in rather than stand out.
Which Should You Choose?
When deciding between an ottoman and a footstool, consider how you’ll use the piece.
Choose an ottoman if:
- You need extra storage.
- You want a multi-purpose piece (e.g., footrest, seat, table).
- You need something larger for added seating or decoration.
Choose a footstool if:
- You just need a place to rest your feet.
- You want something small and easy to move.
- You don’t need extra storage.
Both ottomans and footstools serve their own unique purposes. Ottomans are larger, multi-functional, and often include storage, while footstools are smaller, lighter, and focused on providing comfort. The right choice depends on your space and needs, so think about what function each piece will serve before making a decision.
