Tufted ottomans make a stylish and practical alternative to a traditional coffee table. I’ve used a tufted ottoman in my living room for years and it’s proven to be comfortable, family-friendly, and versatile. Below I share my thoughts on tufted ottomans, answer common questions, and highlight a selection of classic options you might consider for your home.
Update 2024: More ottomans are included here because some earlier options are now out of stock.
Coffee tables have their advantages, but ottomans offer several benefits: they can be more comfortable for putting your feet up, safer in homes with children because of their soft edges, and they add texture and warmth to a room. For more on why ottomans are worth considering, I previously outlined five reasons to use them in a home and shared tips on styling, comfort, and practicality.
Today I focus specifically on tufted ottomans. I’ll answer frequently asked questions, offer a simple styling tip, and show ten timeless tufted ottomans that work in many decor styles.
Are tufted ottomans trendy?
Tufted ottomans are a classic furniture choice rather than a fleeting trend. Their button or diamond tufting lends a slightly formal, tailored look, but they can easily be dressed down for casual spaces. To keep a tufted ottoman timeless, choose neutral fabrics or classic textures and avoid overly trendy patterns or novelty materials that may date quickly.
Do crumbs get stuck in the tufts?
Crumbs can land in the tufts, but it’s usually manageable. Using a large tray when eating on the ottoman prevents most stray crumbs. A decorative scarf or throw can add protection when needed. For households with small children, designating a different eating spot helps keep messes to a minimum. For everyday use, plates and simple precautions typically prevent significant issues.
How do you clean a tufted ottoman?
Cleaning depends on the fabric, so check the manufacturer’s care recommendations first. For loose crumbs and debris, a vacuum hose with a narrow attachment works well to reach into the tufts. For spills or stains, follow fabric-specific guidance—spot-cleaning solutions, steam cleaning, or professional upholstery cleaning may be appropriate depending on the material.
What if you don’t like the legs or finish on an ottoman?
Many ottomans have removable legs, making it easy to replace them with a different style or finish. Higher-end pieces sometimes offer leg options at purchase, but for other models you can often unscrew the existing legs and swap in new ones. Replacing legs is a simple DIY update that can change the overall look—shorter legs for a lower profile, darker finishes for contrast, or brass legs for a modern touch.
Where can you find classic and beautiful tufted ottomans?
Many retailers offer tufted ottomans in a range of sizes, fabrics, and price points. Below I’ve rounded up ten tufted ottomans that are classic, versatile, and suitable for different budgets. Choose a style that fits your room, family needs, and desired level of maintenance. My own teal tufted ottoman is no longer available, but similar options are included in the selections below.
How do you find affordable tufted ottomans?
When selecting furniture, I look for items that balance style, durability, and price. Affordable options can usually be found by shopping a variety of online retailers, watching sales, and reading reviews to judge quality. I aim to share pieces that feel like reasonable investments for everyday living—options that look good, hold up reasonably well, and won’t break the bank. The selections here include a range of price points so you can find something that suits your budget.
We often recommend pieces we or our family members own, or products that receive consistently good feedback. If you want high-end or custom ottomans, specialty furniture stores offer those, but many of the options shown provide solid style and value for most homes.
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