---
title: "Gas Strut (Ottoman Lift)"
description: "What gas struts are in ottoman storage beds and why Newton rating must match mattress and platform mass."
url: "https://bedguide.co.uk/glossary/gas-strut/"
category: "glossary"
primary_entity: "gas strut"
date_published: 2026-08-03
date_modified: 2026-08-03
---

# Gas Strut (Ottoman Lift)

> A gas strut, or gas spring, uses compressed gas inside a sealed tube to extend a piston rod. It assists lifting an ottoman bed lid. Newton rating must match platform and mattress mass at the hinge. Undersized struts make opening hard. Oversized struts can slam open. Damping oil controls speed for safer motion.

**Definition.** A gas strut is a sealed pressurised cylinder with a piston rod. It extends to help lift and hold an ottoman mattress platform against gravity.

Also called: gas spring, ottoman strut.

Full mechanism guide: [Ottoman bed gas-strut mechanics](/beds/ottoman-mechanics).

---

Source: https://bedguide.co.uk/glossary/gas-strut/ · BedGuide — educational encyclopedia, no affiliate commission. Facts checked against official sources where possible; see https://bedguide.co.uk/editorial-policy. Report an error: https://bedguide.co.uk/corrections.