Most people use the terms pouf and ottoman interchangeably. However, they refer to two different types of furniture people use in their living rooms. Many people mistakenly call a pouf an ottoman, and vice versa. Poufs are a less familiar sort of footrest, but they are certainly more distinctive. You’ve come to the correct place if you’re a stickler for details and want to know what separates an ottoman from a pouf. While there is considerable overlap, there are some key distinctions.
What Is A Pouf?
A pouf is a cushioned footstool or low seat with no back. Poufs come in various sizes and types, and you can use them as improvised chairs, footstools, or even side tables. They’re a flexible accent piece that can go in any room of the house. Indian pouf is becoming increasingly popular in interior design as a subtle yet fashionable way to tie a room together. Poufs are also a functional piece of furniture for places that will be used frequently, such as living rooms, nurseries, and bedrooms.
Types Of Poufs
Poufs come in a variety of forms, shapes, and firmness levels. Exploring a few different varieties of poufs is a fantastic idea because it will help you select the perfect piece for your practical needs.
Leather Poufs
A leather living room pouf is famous because it looks sleek and stylish. Leather has a certain opulence about it that is difficult to replicate with other fabric types. While there are many different types of leather, Moroccan leather is one of the most popular. Genuine leather is hand-stitched into the classic leather pouf. There are a variety of colors to choose from, as well as coordinating and contrasting embroidery. The leather strips on each one have a classic pattern and shape.
Sheepskin Poufs
Manufacturers use sheepskin leather to make a sheepskin pouf, which adds to its strength and longevity. When you rest on it, it contains filling fibers that provide excellent comfort and relaxation. These poufs are ideal for seating and add a pleasant aesthetic to your living space.
Cowhide Poufs
Manufacturers use genuine foil-printed cowhide leather to make a cowhide pouf. A checkered pattern with a silver or gold splatter is most prominent in this design. The leather’s grainy texture gives the pouf a luxurious appeal, and the anti-microbial design makes it ideal for pet-friendly homes.
What Is An Ottoman?
An ottoman is a padded, low stool. An ottoman, by definition, can be used as a footrest or, in some cases, as storage. Similar objects from the Ottoman Empire inspired the design. The ottoman is a piece of furniture that you can use for various purposes. Ottomans can be used for storage, seating, or as a coffee table replacement. Ottomans come in a variety of sizes and styles, making them ideal for use as coffee tables. Smaller ottomans with no removable covers also make excellent footrests.
Types Of Ottoman
Ottomans come in three distinct shapes and various sizes. The most practical ottoman is for storage, but it’s also sturdy enough to accommodate additional items on top, such as coffee mugs, trinkets, or even a seat for someone. You may want a specific shape and material for your ottoman, depending on your living scenario.
Rectangular Ottomans
Because of the amount of surface area they can hold, rectangular ottomans are possibly the most versatile style of ottoman furniture. They are available in various sizes and are frequently used to replace coffee tables or provide storage in the family room.
Circular Ottomans
Most people primarily use circular ottomans in their living areas. They can have hard or soft tops, and they can also contain storage space. Some of these are made of wood and have a compartment underneath the top. Others lack storage and usually serve as a unique showpiece in place of a coffee table.
Square Ottomans
Last but not least, some ottomans are square. These are less frequent, as rectangular choices are more practical and convenient for storage. Smaller squares are more prevalent than larger ones simply because they can fit more into a smaller space. They usually have a removable top for storage, although some don’t serve as footrests or a little seat.
Difference Between A Pouf And An Ottoman
A pouf and an ottoman are functionally quite similar. Both are low stools that you can also use as footrests. They can be used for extra seats or as side tables, which are more modern usage, although you can also use them for these purposes. Many ottomans include a hollow middle that you can use to store blankets, books, and other items, whereas leather pouf ottomans rarely have any storage room.
The most significant difference between the two is their appearance. Ottomans are typically always harder and less pillowy, but other poufs are more akin to large pillows. Most poufs sit flat on the ground, whereas some ottomans have legs that lift them slightly. More oversized ottomans can double as coffee tables, but most poufs are a little too small. Ottomans are larger than poufs and come in a variety of shapes, including round and square. Finally, anything that resembles a cushion more than a table is a pouf. In contrast, anything that resembles a table is an ottoman.
How To Choose Between A Pouf And An Ottoman?
You should consider a pouf for small spaces that might use a splash of color and some extra sitting. These small items have a boho vibe and look great in a casual, laid-back setting. You can opt for an ottoman to go with a footrest-less couch, as a coffee table, or as part of a conversation area for a more formal look. A pouf may be less expensive than an ottoman, depending on the material and manufacturer, but it usually means a smaller area for whatever purpose you use the furniture.
In the end, if it has legs, it’s most likely an ottoman. However, it’s more likely a pouf if it doesn’t have legs.