Can You Use an Ottoman as a Coffee Table? Here's What You Need to Know

 

Introduction

Coffee tables are the centerpiece of every living room. They come in different shapes and sizes, but they all serve the same purpose: to hold your coffee cup, your favorite book, or your TV remote. However, if you're looking to add a unique touch to your living room decor, you might be wondering if you can use an ottoman as a coffee table. In this article, we'll explore this idea and give you some tips on how to make it work.

Can You Use an Ottoman as a Coffee Table? Yes, But...

The short answer is yes, you can use an ottoman as a coffee table. Ottomans are versatile pieces of furniture that can serve many purposes. They are often used as footrests or extra seating, but they can also double as a coffee table. However, before you start using your ottoman as a coffee table, there are a few things you need to consider.

Size Matters

The size of your ottoman will determine whether it can function as a coffee table or not. Ideally, your ottoman should be the same height as your sofa seat or slightly lower. This will make it comfortable for you to reach for your drink or book while sitting on the sofa. Additionally, the ottoman should be large enough to accommodate your coffee cups, books, and other items you want to keep on it.

Surface Material

The surface of your ottoman should also be suitable for use as a coffee table. Some ottomans come with a flat, hard surface that is perfect for this purpose. However, if your ottoman has a soft, upholstered surface, you may want to add a tray or a piece of glass on top to create a sturdy and stable surface for your coffee cups. Tufted Ottomans such as the leather tufted ottoman made by D59 offers an firm surface for the purpose of being used as a coffee table. 

Shape and Style

The shape and style of your ottoman will also play a role in determining whether it can function as a coffee table. Ottomans with a square or rectangular shape are more suitable for use as a coffee table than those with a round or oval shape. Additionally, the style of your ottoman should match the overall decor of your living room. If your living room has a mid century modern, minimalist look, a sleek, leather ottoman will work well as a coffee table. On the other hand, if your living room has a traditional or rustic feel, a tufted, fabric ottoman will be a better fit.

Pros and Cons of Using an Ottoman as a Coffee Table

Like with any furniture piece, there are pros and cons to using an ottoman as a coffee table. Here are a few to consider:

Pros:

• Adds a unique touch to your living room decor
• Doubles as extra seating when needed
• Versatile and can be used for other purposes as well
• Can be easily moved around the room

Cons:

• May not be as sturdy as a traditional coffee table
• Can be more difficult to clean, especially if it has an upholstered surface
• May not be suitable for households with young children or pets who can easily spill drinks or food on the ottoman

How to Use an Ottoman as a Coffee Table: Tips and Tricks

If you've decided to use your ottoman as a coffee table, here are some tips and tricks to make it work:

Add a Tray or a Piece of Glass

As mentioned earlier, if your ottoman doesn't have a flat, hard surface, you can add a tray or a piece of glass on top to create a stable surface for your coffee cups. This will also make it easier to clean any spills or stains.

Use Decorative Objects

To make your ottoman coffee table more aesthetically pleasing, you can add decorative objects on top. For example, a vase of flowers, a stack of coffee table books, or a decorative bowl can add visual interest and personality to your living room.

Consider Storage Options

Some ottomans come with built-in storage options, such as drawers or hidden compartments. This can be a great feature if you want to keep your living room clutter-free. You can use the storage space to store your remotes, magazines, or blankets.

Mix and Match

If you have a traditional coffee table and an ottoman, you can mix and match them for a more eclectic look. You can use the ottoman as a side table or an extra seating option while keeping the traditional coffee table as the main centerpiece.

FAQS

Can You Rest Your Feet on an Ottoman Coffee Table?

Yes, you can! Since ottomans are often used as footrests, it's perfectly fine to rest your feet on an ottoman coffee table. However, make sure to clean any dirt or stains off the surface before using it for coffee or other items.

How Do You Clean an Ottoman Coffee Table?

The cleaning method for your ottoman coffee table will depend on the surface material. For upholstered surfaces, use a fabric cleaner and a soft cloth to remove any stains or dirt. For hard surfaces, such as wood or glass, use a gentle cleaner and a soft cloth to avoid scratching the surface.

What Are Some Alternatives to an Ottoman Coffee Table?

If an ottoman coffee table doesn't suit your style or needs, there are many alternatives to choose from. Some options include traditional coffee tables, nesting tables, side tables, or even a combination of different types of tables for a more eclectic look.

Conclusion

Using an ottoman as a coffee table can be a great way to add a unique touch to your living room decor. However, it's important to consider the size, surface material, and style of your ottoman before using it as a coffee table. Additionally, adding a tray or a piece of glass can create a stable surface for your coffee cups, and using decorative objects can add visual interest to your living room. If you're looking for a versatile and multi-functional piece of furniture, an ottoman coffee table might be just what you need!