How to Maintain and Replace Gas Struts on Ottoman Beds
Ottoman beds make clever use of gas struts to lift the base and reveal generous storage space underneath. With a few regular checks and basic care you can keep the mechanism working smoothly and safely for many years. This guide covers routine maintenance, spotting common faults, lubrication, safe replacement and when it makes sense to seek professional help.
Why Gas Struts Matter on Ottoman Beds
Gas struts do the heavy lifting. They support the weight of the mattress and base so you can open the bed with minimal effort. When they weaken, the base can drop suddenly or become difficult to lift, creating both inconvenience and a potential safety risk. Simple maintenance helps avoid these problems and extends the life of your ottoman bed.
Safety Checks You Should Do Regularly
Perform a quick inspection every three months. First, clear the storage area and remove the mattress. Open the base slowly and listen for unusual noises. Check that both struts extend and retract smoothly without jerking. Look for visible damage such as dents, bends or oil leaks on the strut bodies. Test the locking mechanism by holding the base at different heights; it should stay firmly in place.
Also examine the mounting brackets and fixings. Loose screws can cause misalignment and put extra strain on the struts. If you own a ottoman bed in regular daily use, these checks become even more important.
Common Faults and What They Mean
The most frequent issue is gradual loss of pressure. The base feels heavier to lift and may not stay open on its own. This usually happens after several years of use as the gas inside the strut escapes. Another common fault is uneven lifting where one side rises easily but the other sticks. This often points to a failing strut on one side or worn pivot points.
Noise is another warning sign. Creaking or grinding when opening the bed suggests the mechanism needs lubrication or that the struts are nearing the end of their working life. Sudden dropping of the base is the most serious fault and requires immediate attention to prevent injury or damage.
Lubricating the Mechanism
Light lubrication keeps movement smooth and reduces wear. Use a silicone-based spray rather than oil or grease, which can attract dust. Apply a small amount to the pivot points and mounting brackets while the base is open and supported. Wipe away any excess to stop it marking the fabric or mattress.
Avoid spraying directly onto the gas strut rod. The seals can be damaged by certain lubricants. A quick wipe with a dry cloth removes surface dust from the rods. For beds with fabric-covered bases, protect the material with an old sheet before spraying.
When and How to Replace Gas Struts
Struts are considered a wear item and most will need replacing after several years depending on how often the bed is used. Replacement is a straightforward job for anyone comfortable with basic tools, but safety is essential. The base must be securely propped open with a sturdy piece of timber or a purpose-made support before any work begins.
- Support the base fully in the open position.
- Remove the old struts by releasing the retaining clips or bolts at each end.
- Note the exact orientation and pressure rating of the old units.
- Fit the new struts in the same position and secure all fixings.
- Lower the base slowly to test the new units.
Always replace both struts at the same time, even if only one appears faulty. Matching pairs ensure balanced lifting and prevent strain on the frame. Choose replacements with the same pressure rating as the originals; using the wrong rating can make the bed unsafe.
Choosing the Right Replacement Struts
Take the old strut with you when buying replacements or note the markings stamped on the cylinder. Length, stroke distance and Newton force must all match. Many ottoman beds use standard sizes, but measurements are always worth double-checking. If you are unsure, the team at our Heckmondwike showroom can offer guidance.
For a stylish and reliable ottoman bed that benefits from quality components, consider models such as the Flair Artemis Kingsize Ottoman Bed or the Flair Ava Single Ottoman Bed. Both work well with appropriate gas struts and are available in a range of finishes including the popular grey ottoman beds.
When to Call a Professional
Some situations are best left to experienced technicians. If the bed frame is damaged, the base is very heavy, or you feel uncomfortable working with the mechanism, professional help removes the risk. A specialist can also check the entire frame for wear and ensure the new struts are fitted correctly.
Those with kids ottoman beds may prefer professional replacement to guarantee the safety features remain fully functional. The same applies to larger sizes such as super king ottoman beds where the base weight is greater.
Extra Care Tips for Ottoman Beds
Keep the storage area tidy to avoid placing uneven weight on the base. Remove heavy items before lifting if possible. Pair your ottoman bed with a suitable mattress; models such as the Maxitex Kids Premier Sprung Mattress or Noomi Bamboo Natural Latex Pocket Sprung Mattress offer good support without excessive weight.
Adding a mattress protector helps keep the mattress clean and reduces the frequency of lifting. If you prefer additional storage solutions, explore ottoman blanket boxes from brands such as Solace+Co. The SOLACE+CO Emilie Ottoman Blanket Box Cream Boucle provides useful extra space without stressing the bed mechanism.
With regular checks, proper lubrication and timely replacement of gas struts your ottoman bed will continue to provide convenient storage and easy access for many years. A little attention now prevents bigger problems later and keeps your bedroom furniture working as it should.
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