Hassock vs. Ottoman (What’s the Difference?)
What Is a Hassock?
A hassock is a fabric footstool without storage. Most commonly, the term refers to the types of designs that are rounder and taller (about the height of a small side table). Hassock, however, is a general term that can also be used to describe coffee-table-sized footrest units without storage.
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What is an ottoman?
An ottoman is the ultimate multitasker in your home. It’s a versatile furniture piece that can serve as a footrest, extra seating, a coffee table, or even hidden storage, making it both stylish and functional. Available in a variety of shapes, fabrics, and sizes, an ottoman lets you add a personal touch to any room while keeping things practical.
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Hassock vs Ottoman
Both hassocks and ottomans add style and comfort to your home, but they serve slightly different purposes. Ottomans are versatile and multifunctional, working as footrests, extra seating, coffee tables, or storage. They often have a flat, sturdy surface, perfect for holding items. Hassocks, on the other hand, are all about simplicity and comfort. They’re smaller, often cushioned all around, and mainly used as footrests. Choose an ottoman for added functionality or a hassock for classic, cozy charm!
Ottomans, Hassocks, and Poufs: Your Furniture FAQs
Hassock by Another Name
A hassock is sometimes referred to as a footstool or a pouf, depending on its style and design. While the term "footstool" highlights its primary function as a comfortable place to rest your feet, "pouf" is often used for softer, rounder designs with a more decorative flair.
Why Is It Called an Ottoman?
The term "ottoman" originates from the Ottoman Empire, where this type of furniture first gained popularity in the 18th century. The original ottomans were often large and designed to wrap around three walls of a room, offering plenty of space for reclining comfortably. Over time, the design evolved into a smaller, freestanding piece, but the name stuck. Today, "ottoman" refers to a versatile piece of furniture that can serve as a footrest, coffee table, extra seat, or even storage, bringing a touch of comfort and style to any room.
Ottoman vs Pouf
An ottoman and a pouf may seem similar, but they each bring something unique to your space. Ottomans are structured and versatile, often featuring a solid frame and flat surface, making them ideal as footrests, coffee tables, or even storage. Poufs, on the other hand, are soft, unstructured, and all about casual comfort. Typically, lightweight and easy to move, poufs are perfect for extra seating or adding a cozy, bohemian touch to a room. If you want functionality and clean lines, go for an ottoman.
Common Questions About Ottomans and Hassocks
What's the real difference between a hassock and an ottoman?
While often used interchangeably, an ottoman is typically a larger, upholstered piece of furniture that can serve as a coffee table, extra seating, or a footrest, and often has storage. A hassock, on the other hand, is generally a smaller, more portable footstool, often filled with soft material and sometimes used as floor seating.
Are ottomans more practical for everyday use than hassocks?
Ottomans generally offer more versatility and practicality for daily living, especially those with built-in storage which is excellent for stowing blankets, remotes, or magazines. Their larger surface area also makes them ideal as a makeshift coffee table, a feature a smaller hassock typically can't provide.
Can a hassock be used as a coffee table?
While a very firm, flat-topped hassock might temporarily hold a tray, it's generally not designed for use as a coffee table due to its softer construction and smaller size. Ottomans, especially those with a solid top or tray options, are much better suited for this purpose, offering a stable surface for drinks and decor.
Which is better for a small living room: a hassock or an ottoman?
For a small living room, a compact ottoman or a set of smaller hassocks can be a great choice; a storage ottoman can maximize utility by providing both footrest and hidden storage. Consider the scale of your room; a large, bulky ottoman might overwhelm a tiny space, whereas a few smaller, movable hassocks offer flexibility.
When choosing between a hassock and an ottoman, what material considerations are important?
Both hassocks and ottomans come in a variety of materials like leather, fabric, and velvet, so consider durability and ease of cleaning based on your lifestyle. For high-traffic areas or homes with pets and children, opt for stain-resistant fabrics or wipeable leather options available in many Living Spaces collections.