What distinguishes a Pouf from an Ottoman?

Poufs and ottomans are terms that are commonly used interchangeably, yet they describe two distinct types of furniture for your living room. Although the differences may be subtle, understanding these distinctions can help simplify future furniture purchases.

By knowing these definitions, you might even avoid a mishap when shopping for furniture online. (After all, returning furniture bought online can be more troublesome than you'd expect.) So, if you're updating your living room, take these definitions into consideration.

Defining Pouf and Ottoman

An ottoman is a low, padded seat, typically featuring legs. It can serve as a footrest, coffee table, or additional seating. Many ottomans offer hidden storage, with a hollow interior for storing items like blankets, games, books, and more. The design is inspired by similar furniture from the Ottoman Empire. Some online furniture stores, such as The Inside, provide options for customizing your ottoman to fit your space perfectly.

A pouf (or pouffe, not poof) is a cushioned, pillow-like seat, sitting low to the ground. It originates from France and comes in various sizes and levels of firmness. Poufs can be used as makeshift chairs, particularly in smaller spaces or when extra seating is needed, footstools, or side tables.

Primary Differences

The functionality of a pouf and an ottoman is quite similar. Both are low stools that can be used as footrests. They also serve as additional seating or side tables, especially in compact spaces where furniture must be versatile.

The primary distinction between the two lies in their appearance. Ottomans tend to be firmer and less soft, while some poufs resemble oversized pillows more than anything else. Additionally, most ottomans feature legs that elevate them slightly, whereas poufs typically sit directly on the floor.

Larger ottomans can easily double as coffee tables, but poufs are generally too small for that purpose. Both can come in round or square shapes. A helpful guideline is:

• Call anything that resembles a cushion more than a table a pouf.
• Call anything that has a more table-like appearance an ottoman.

Decorating with Poufs or Ottomans

A pouf may be more affordable than an ottoman, depending on the material and brand, but it typically offers a smaller surface for its intended function. Here are some ideas for incorporating these pieces into your space.

Pouf Styling Suggestions

• Consider placing a pouf in a small living room to add color and extra seating.
• Create a boho vibe in a laid-back space with a patterned pouf.
• Bring a playful touch to a child's bedroom with a fluffy, brightly colored pouf.
• Introduce texture to a dining area with a rattan or wicker pouf.
• Soften a minimalist space with a fur-covered pouf.

Ottoman Styling Ideas

• Introduce a leather ottoman to a more formal setting, whether as a companion to a couch without a footrest, a window seat, or part of a conversational area.
• Opt for a sleek ottoman with storage that can also function as a chic coffee table.
• Place a long, narrow ottoman at the foot of a bed to add an extra seating option in a bedroom.