Information about Ottomans

Ottomans in the home are multifunctional and make a statement about the quality of your furnishings. They also contribute to the amount of valuable storage space you have as well as being used for seating and as footstools. However many people will not know that back in the Nineteenth Century ottomans were used as backless chairs in Middle Eastern council chambers.

Although ottomans are not usually employed as chairs these days, rigid foam cushions and polyester wadding are nowadays built in, adding comfort, to the wooden originals. Today the choice is between fabric or leather ottomans with variations of each. For instance low maintenance ottomans may be produced in faux leather which is simply wiped clean after a spillage. If you want an easy care solution a stain protected fabric ottoman should be your preference. Those with bigger budgets should look towards the genuine quality of leather ottomans.

Reputable ottoman manufacturers construct their frames with a solid hardwood such as beech or oak. Their frames are glued and the upholstery should be double stitched to protect the covering. For an ottoman in the living room storage is an essential feature where papers, toys, videos and CD's can be quickly stored in the event of an unexpected arrival. The piece also functions well as a coffee table or footstool when centred between living room sofas. When hosting parties or at Christmas time your ottoman is invaluable as a source of seating for extra guests.

No longer the exclusive preserve of politicians at Middle Eastern council meetings, ottomans are made affordable by Internet retailers offering the widest range of sizes and styles. Discerning customers enjoy choosing between fabrics and leathers at prices that are not going to break the bank! And the major difference between locally sourced suppliers and those from overseas is that there will be no six to eight week wait for delivery. Most reputable suppliers will carry stock or arrange delivery within two weeks of you having placed an order.

The author has over 20 years experience running companies involved in furnishing fabrics and furniture manufacturing in the UK and writes extensively about ottomans, footstools and contemporary furniture.