Ottoman Coffee Table Guide: Height, Size, Tray Tops, Storage and Family-Friendly Fabric Tips

Quick answer: an ottoman coffee table is an upholstered, cushioned table that works as a footrest, extra seat and table when you add a tray. Make it about half to two-thirds the length of your sofa, at or slightly below seat height (about 16 to 18 inches) and leave about 14 to 18 inches between the sofa and the ottoman.

This article is part of our coffee, end and console tables guide, where you can compare related options.

An ottoman coffee table is soft where a regular table is hard. It is kid-friendly, flexible and forgiving. You can put your feet up, add seating for guests or set a tray on top for drinks. The trade-offs are stains, sagging and less stable surfaces. This guide explains how to size and choose an ottoman coffee table, how trays and storage work, what fabrics and fillings last, how to style one and how to care for it.

What Is an Ottoman Coffee Table?

It is an upholstered piece, round, square or rectangular, that sits where a coffee table would. Types: Solid ottoman. A padded block. Storage ottoman. A hinged lid opens to a hollow inside. Tray-top ottoman. Comes with a tray, or you add one. Tufted ottoman. Buttoned for style. Round ottoman. Povison publishes a guide to round ottoman coffee tables and sofa fit. Rectangular ottoman. Fits long sofas. Cocktail ottoman. Slightly taller, with a firm top, such as the Living Spaces cocktail rectangle ottoman. Ottoman set. Two small ottomans that can separate.

Compare it with the oval coffee table guide and the wood coffee table guide.

Size Rules

Common guidance from the search: Length. About half to two-thirds of the sofa’s length. One example pairs a 90-inch sofa with a 60-inch table. Width. Round ottomans. Fit well in front of loveseats and sectionals.

That table is my calculation from the rule.

Height

One guide suggests the table should match the sofa seat height, or sit one to two inches lower. For example, if your sofa measures 18 inches from floor to top of seat, look for a table around 16 to 18 inches tall. Another source puts standard coffee table height at 17 to 19 inches.

For ottomans: An ottoman should sit at seat height or a bit lower, so legs stay comfortable. A too-low ottoman makes drinks harder to reach. If you plan to use the ottoman as extra seating, matching seat height is best.

Clearance

Guides recommend leaving room for foot traffic.

One suggests about 14 to 18 inches between sofa and ottoman. Another suggests maintaining 24 to 30 inches of open space around the seating area.

Because an ottoman is soft, it can be pushed closer if you use it as a footrest. Leave enough room to stand up and walk.

Using a Tray

A tray turns an ottoman into a table. A source says a tray works best when each seat can reach it easily. Typical ottoman tray sizes are 14 to 24 inches in length and width, and the tray should suit the ottoman and how you plan to use it.

Tray tips: Choose a tray with raised edges to hold drinks. Use a non-slip lining. Pick a material that matches your style: wood, metal, marble or woven. Make sure the tray does not overhang the ottoman. Store the tray when you need the ottoman as a footrest or seat.

Storage Ottomans

Storage ottomans hide blankets, toys and remotes.

Check the lid hinge or a soft-close mechanism to protect fingers. Check the inside depth and any liner. Check weight capacity if you will sit on the lid. Keep heavy items out of reach of small children when the lid is open.

Fabrics and Fillings

Key points: performance fabric. Stain-resistant and washable. Good for families; leather and faux leather. Wipes clean; velvet. Soft but shows marks; linen and cotton. Casual, may wrinkle and stain; boucle and chenille. Textured and cozy; removable covers are easier to clean. See the kids couch and couch covers for dogs guides.

Filling: high-density foam holds shape; polyester fiberfill is soft but flattens; wood or plywood frame is more stable than particleboard.

Pets and Kids

Choose a fabric that resists claws and spills. Avoid loose buttons or small parts. Round ottomans have no sharp corners, so they are safer for toddlers. Use a protective cover if needed. See the couch covers for dogs guide.

Styling

Add a tray with candles, books and a plant. Layer a throw blanket over one corner. Use two small ottomans together. Pair with an accent chair or a swivel chair. See the swivel accent chair guide. Add decorative pillows to the sofa in matching colors. See the decorative pillows guide. Keep items off the ottoman if you also use it as a footrest.

What are the main strengths and weaknesses?

On the plus side: soft, kid-friendly edges; works as a footrest, seat and table; storage options; many fabrics and colors. On the downside: surface is not stable without a tray; fabric can stain; cushions can sag; drinks can spill.

Ottoman vs Wood Coffee Table

How to Choose an Ottoman Coffee Table

Measure the sofa length and seat height. Choose a length at half to two-thirds of the sofa. Choose a height at or slightly below the seat. Leave 14 to 18 inches of clearance. Choose a shape: round, square or rectangular. Choose fabric for your household. Decide on storage and a tray. Check the frame and filling. Check the weight rating if used as a seat. Read reviews.

What mistakes should you avoid?

A few common mistakes are worth avoiding: choosing an ottoman too low; skipping a tray and spilling drinks; choosing delicate fabric with pets; buying one too large for the room; ignoring clearance; putting heavy objects on a flat unsupported cushion.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall should an ottoman coffee table be?

About 16 to 18 inches, at or slightly below the sofa seat.

How big should it be?

About half to two-thirds of the sofa length.

Can I put drinks on an ottoman?

Yes, with a tray that has raised edges.

How much space between the sofa and ottoman?

About 14 to 18 inches.

What size tray fits an ottoman?

Typical trays are 14 to 24 inches in length and width.

Are ottoman coffee tables good with kids?

Yes. Soft edges are safer. Choose washable fabric.

Conclusion

An ottoman coffee table is soft, flexible and family-friendly. Size it at half to two-thirds of the sofa, set it at or just below seat height and add a tray for a stable surface.

Choose a durable, washable fabric and leave room to walk. With the right ottoman, your living room feels both stylish and comfortable.

Related guides

Black Coffee Table Guide: Metal, Glass, Marble and Wood Styles, Sizing, Styling and Family-Friendly PicksQuick answer: a black coffee table adds contrast and a modern edge to a living room. Size it at roughly…Read more →Oval Coffee Table Guide: Size, Height, Clearance, Why Ovals Suit Tight Rooms and StylingQuick answer: an oval coffee table should be about half to two-thirds the length of your sofa, sit at or just…Read more →Glass Coffee Table Guide: Tempered Glass, Thickness, Cleaning and SafetyA glass coffee table lets light pass through and shows off your rug and floor. It makes a living room feel…Read more →Round Ottoman Guide: Diameter (30 to 48 Inches), Height Rules, Trays, Storage and Walkway FitQuick answer: a round ottoman is a padded round seat or coffee table. A 30 inch diameter works in front of…Read more →