7 Best Tufted Ottoman Cubes Influencers Recommend
Introduction — Introducing modern aesthetics
I love how modern aesthetics blend clean lines with cozy textures, and tufted ottoman cubes are the perfect little statement pieces to prove it. They sit at the intersection of style and utility, offering seating, storage, and a touch of luxury without shouting for attention. Over the years I’ve watched top YouTubers and design channels recommend certain ottoman cubes again and again, and I want to share their favorites with you in a friendly, practical way.
Why I trust these influencer recommendations
I follow channels like Mr. Kate, The Sorry Girls, Apartment Therapy, and House & Home, and those creators often test pieces in real homes, not just staged sets. Their picks aren’t echo-chamber hype — they evaluate durability, texture, and how a piece photographs in natural light. I’ll pass along the products they praise and explain what makes each one sing in a living room, bedroom, or entryway.
How I chose the 7 best tufted ottoman cubes
I used three clear criteria: materials (durability + feel), dimensions (fit and scale), and versatility (storage, seating, styling). I also considered colorways and how each cube fares in photo-heavy feeds — because if it looks good in person and on camera, it likely fits many modern homes. Below are the seven specific tufted ottoman cubes influencers recommend, followed by buying advice, FAQs, and styling tips.
- West Elm Tufted Storage Ottoman Cube — Performance Velvet, 22″ x 22″ x 18″
Why influencers like it Top design YouTubers praise this West Elm piece for its plush performance velvet and built-in storage. It photographs beautifully in soft natural light and holds up well in homes with pets and kids.
Product details
- Brand/model: West Elm Tufted Storage Ottoman Cube (Performance Velvet option)
- Materials: Kiln-dried solid wood frame, polyester performance velvet upholstery, high-density foam cushion
- Colors: Pebble, Deep Sea, Slate, Blush, Fog
- Dimensions: 22″ W x 22″ D x 18″ H
- Features: Removable lid with interior storage compartment, button-tufted top, non-skid feet
How it fits a lifestyle This is the cube I recommend when you want glam without high maintenance. The velvet reads luxe on camera, but the performance fabric resists spills and pilling. I personally use it as extra seating and a place to stash throws — it keeps my living room tidy and Pinterest-ready.
Value proposition Good mid-range investment: looks designer, performs everyday. You get storage and seating in one well-made package.
- Pottery Barn Cameron Tufted Storage Ottoman — Belgian Linen, 20″ x 20″ x 18″
Why influencers like it Pottery Barn’s Cameron ottoman often gets a thumbs-up for its neutral, lived-in aesthetic and top-quality linen options that soften with time. Minimalist lifestyle channels point to its timeless silhouette.
Product details
- Brand/model: Pottery Barn Cameron Tufted Storage Ottoman (Belgian Linen cover)
- Materials: Solid hardwood frame, Belgian flax linen upholstery, poly foam padding
- Colors: Natural Linen, Oatmeal, Charcoal
- Dimensions: 20″ W x 20″ D x 18″ H
- Features: Lift-off top for storage, button tufting, option to add slipcover for easy cleaning
How it fits a lifestyle If you live a slower-living, neutral-toned life, this cube accents a calm palette. It’s breathable in summer and gains character over time. I once used it as a coffee tray base during a casual brunch — it held plates and a small vase without sagging.
Value proposition Classic, durable, and versatile. Ideal if you prefer natural fibers and a neutral look that ages gracefully.
- Article Ceni Tufted Ottoman — Arden Navy Bouclé, 24″ x 24″ x 17″
Why influencers like it Boutique furniture channels love Article for modern, well-priced pieces. The Ceni ottoman in bouclé fabric is called out for its sculptural tufting and tactile looped texture that photographs like a dream.
Product details
- Brand/model: Article Ceni Tufted Ottoman (Bouclé)
- Materials: Engineered wood frame, boucle polyester upholstery, foam wrap
- Colors: Arden Navy, Ivory, Cocoa
- Dimensions: 24″ W x 24″ D x 17″ H
- Features: Deep tufting, oversized square proportions, low profile legs for a grounded look
How it fits a lifestyle Bouclé is textural and cozy; this cube adds a designer vibe to modest spaces. I placed it in my reading corner — it’s firm enough for sitting and soft enough to serve as a footrest for long afternoons with a book.
Value proposition Designer feel at a reasonable price — perfect if you want high-impact texture in a mid-sized footprint.
- Target Project 62 Tufted Storage Ottoman Cube — Performance Linen, 22″ x 22″ x 18″
Why influencers like it Budget-savvy decor creators and quick-makeover channels recommend Project 62 for style on a budget. It nails the tufted aesthetic and includes storage, making it a practical pick for small-space living.
Product details
- Brand/model: Project 62 Tufted Storage Ottoman Cube (Target)
- Materials: Manufactured wood frame, polyester performance linen upholstery, foam cushion
- Colors: Heather Gray, Linen, Dusty Rose
- Dimensions: 22″ W x 22″ D x 18″ H
- Features: Lift-top storage, button tufting, affordable replacement upholstery options
How it fits a lifestyle This is my go-to for temporary rentals or dorms. It looks polished in photos and doesn’t break the bank. I’ve used it in a guest setup — it held an extra set of linens and doubled as seating.
Value proposition Great value for stylish utility — affordable, practical, and photo-friendly.
- Crate & Barrel Petrie Tufted Ottoman — Velvet, 20″ x 20″ x 17.5″
Why influencers like it Design channels that focus on luxe small-space solutions often suggest the Petrie ottoman due to its compact size and sumptuous velvet finish. It’s perfect as a layering piece in curated living rooms.
Product details
- Brand/model: Crate & Barrel Petrie Tufted Ottoman (Velvet)
- Materials: Poplar and hardwood frame, polyester velvet upholstery, foam fill
- Colors: Luxe Emerald, Navy, Light Gray, Blush
- Dimensions: 20″ W x 20″ D x 17.5″ H
- Features: Deep button tufting, short tapered legs, supportive cushion
How it fits a lifestyle It’s ideal if you want a pop of saturated color without overwhelming the space. I once used the emerald version to anchor a monochrome sitting area — it acted like a jewel-tone punctuation mark.
Value proposition Small footprint, big style. If you want rich color and a polished finish, this is a safe bet.
- Wayfair Kelly Clarkson Home Lassy Tufted Ottoman — Upholstery Fabric, 23″ x 23″ x 19″
Why influencers like it Home makeover channels adore celebrity-curated lines; Kelly Clarkson’s Lassy ottoman is often praised for its balance of traditional tufting and modern proportions. The piece reads familiar but fresh.
Product details
- Brand/model: Kelly Clarkson Home Lassy Tufted Ottoman (Wayfair)
- Materials: Solid and engineered wood frame, polyester-blend upholstery, foam with fiberfill
- Colors: Charcoal, Camel, Storm Blue
- Dimensions: 23″ W x 23″ D x 19″ H
- Features: Rolled edges, classic tufting pattern, sturdy internal frame
How it fits a lifestyle It blends with transitional decor and holds up to mixed-use rooms. I used it as a bench at the foot of my bed — it’s roomy enough for sitting while getting dressed and visually ties together bedding tones.
Value proposition A stylistic hybrid: classic tufting in a modern silhouette, great for families who want timeless pieces that still feel current.
- Urban Outfitters Sloane Tufted Ottoman Cube — Plush Velvet, 21″ x 21″ x 17″
Why influencers like it Trend-forward channels and IKEA hack videos love Urban Outfitters for affordable, on-trend pieces. The Sloane cube’s saturated velvet and boxy tufting are popular for creating layered, moody interiors.
Product details
- Brand/model: Urban Outfitters Sloane Tufted Ottoman Cube
- Materials: Solid wood frame, polyester velvet, foam padding
- Colors: Plum, Mustard, Midnight, Blush
- Dimensions: 21″ W x 21″ D x 17″ H
- Features: Deep top tufting, low profile, compact design for apartments
How it fits a lifestyle This cube is for mood-makers. It gives instant drama in a small living room and photographs with beautiful color depth. I used it in a boho-chic setup, and it became the focal point during a styling shoot.
Value proposition High style, affordable price — ideal for trend-conscious shoppers who rotate decor seasonally.
What I personally test when I recommend an ottoman cube
I check three practical things: firmness (support for sitting), tuft maintenance (do tufts hold their shape), and stability (no wobble under weight). I also put fabrics to the test — spilling water, brushing against a zipper, and pet scratching — because influencers expect pieces to survive real life, not just a photoshoot.
Quick comparison (what each cube excels at)
- West Elm: Performance velvet + storage
- Pottery Barn: Natural linen + timeless look
- Article: Bouclé texture + larger scale
- Project 62 (Target): Budget-friendly + functional storage
- Crate & Barrel: Jewel-tone velvet + compact luxury
- Kelly Clarkson Home (Wayfair): Transitional durability + celebrity curation
- Urban Outfitters: Trend-forward color + affordable style
Styling tips from the influencers I follow
Pair a single ottoman cube with a round tray for drinks, or group two for a modular coffee-table effect. Mix materials — a bouclé cube near a leather sofa creates textural contrast. For small spaces, use a tufted cube as a nightstand alternative; add a lamp and a stack of books to make it feel intentional.
Materials and textures that photograph best
Velvet, bouclé, and linen photograph exceptionally well in natural daylight. Velvet offers depth and sheen, bouclé shows texture and dimension, and linen gives a relaxed, lived-in vibe. Avoid shiny synthetic finishes if you want soft, Instagrammable photos.
How to choose the right size and scale
Measure your seating area first: a 20–24″ cube typically works with standard sofas; larger 24″+ cubes become coffee-table anchors. Keep at least 18–24″ of walking space around the cube in living rooms with high foot traffic.
Practical buying advice — what to look for
- Frame construction
- Prefer kiln-dried hardwood or solid wood slats for long-term stability.
- Engineered wood is okay for budget options but expect shorter life.
- Upholstery and cleaning
- Performance velvet or performance linen resists stains better.
- Removable or slipcover options make maintenance easier.
- For bouclé or textured fabrics, spot-clean according to manufacturer guidelines.
- Cushion fill
- High-density foam or a foam core with down/fiber wrap offers structure and comfort.
- Avoid low-density foam if multiple people will sit daily.
- Storage options
- If you want hidden storage, test the lid mechanism for ease of opening and examine interior finishes.
- Check weight capacity and internal dimensions if you plan to store bulky items.
- Tufting quality
- Look for tightly sewn tuft points and consistent depth across the top. Loose tufts lead to early flattening.
- Legs and hardware
- Check for sturdy legs or a reclaimed-wood base; metal glides or felt pads protect floors.
- Removable legs are a plus for tighter doorways.
Buying value vs. cost: when to splurge
Spend more when you plan to keep the piece for years, want natural fibers, or need a large-scale cube as a focal point. Save when you need seasonal color or are furnishing a rental. Mid-range brands often deliver the best compromise between style, durability, and price.
Personal testimonials — unfiltered
I bought the West Elm performance velvet cube two years ago; my cat tries to claim it daily and the fabric still looks new. A neighbor bought the Project 62 cube for an apartment and loved the storage; it survived a move with minimal wear. My friend swapped her Pottery Barn Cameron for a bouclé Article Ceni and says the designer texture made her living room look intentionally layered overnight.
How these cubes function in real life
They serve as impromptu seating during parties, a soft landing for tired feet, and discreet storage for blankets and games. In my home, cubes double as coffee-table substitutes when I want a gentler aesthetic — no hard edges, just cushioned calm.
A simple maintenance checklist
- Vacuum textured fabrics weekly with an upholstery attachment.
- Blot spills immediately; avoid rubbing.
- Rotate cushions or the cube orientation to even out wear.
- Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning guide for performance fabrics.
FAQs — quick answers I give friends
Q: Can I use an ottoman cube as a coffee table? A: Yes — use a sturdy tray to create a flat, spill-friendly surface.
Q: Will tufting trap dirt? A: Tufts can collect dust in textured fabrics; regular vacuuming and prompt spot cleaning fix most issues.
Q: Are velvet cubes pet-friendly? A: Performance velvets resist claws and stains better than standard velvet, but no fabric is fully scratch-proof.
Q: How much weight can these cubes hold? A: Most quality cubes support 200–300 lbs seated; check the product specs for exact weight limits.
Q: What color should I pick? A: For longevity, choose neutrals (grays, beiges). If you love seasonal change, pick bold jewel tones that pop in photos.
Room-by-room placement ideas
- Living room: Place one cube next to a sofa for extra seating or pair two as a coffee surface.
- Bedroom: Use at the foot of the bed as a dressing bench or extra cushion for slippers.
- Entryway: A small cube provides a stylish seat for putting on shoes while adding storage.
- Nursery: Soft cubes are safe for supervised play and can store toys.
How influencers test durability — what I emulate
I pay attention to abrasion tests mentioned by reviewers, but I also watch for real-world usage footage: kids jumping, spills during parties, and moving day handling. If a YouTuber shows a cube surviving several of these, it’s likely to last in an average home.
Sourcing and availability — shop links and tips
All products listed are sold by major retailers: West Elm, Pottery Barn, Article, Target (Project 62), Crate & Barrel, Wayfair (Kelly Clarkson Home), and Urban Outfitters. Check each retailer’s current colorways and measurements before purchasing, as stock and fabric options vary seasonally.
Return policy and warranty advice
Always read the return window and warranty details. Many mid- to high-end brands offer 30–90 day return periods; some have limited warranties against frame defects. Keep receipts and take photos at delivery if you notice defects immediately.
Final thoughts — my top pick and why
If I had to pick one for most women looking for a balance of style, durability, and practicality, I’d choose the West Elm Tufted Storage Ottoman Cube in performance velvet. It blends wearable luxury with real-life resilience, offers hidden storage, and photographs beautifully for anyone who loves to style and share their space.
What to do next
Measure your space, decide whether storage is essential, and pick a fabric based on your household’s lifestyle. If you want to tell me your room measurements and preferred color palette, I’ll recommend the best fit from the seven options above.
What to look for — quick checklist before buying
- Frame: solid wood preferred
- Fabric: performance options if busy household
- Dimensions: matches sofa and walking space
- Storage: yes/no based on needs
- Return policy: at least 30 days
- Color: neutral for longevity, jewel-tone for impact
Further reading and resources I trust
I watch styling videos from Mr. Kate and Apartment Therapy’s YouTube channel for real-life tests and aesthetic advice. For product reliability, I cross-check reviews on the retailer site and third-party blogs that include long-term update videos.
FAQ — extended
Q: How do I prevent tufting from relaxing? A: Choose pieces with reinforced tuft stitching and avoid slamming lids. Rotate usage and avoid prolonged pressure on tuft points.
Q: Can I reupholster a cube later? A: Yes, most ottomans can be reupholstered; choose a reputable upholsterer and confirm the frame condition before investing.
Q: What’s the best fabric for hot climates? A: Breathable linens or performance blends with natural fibers are better for warm climates than synthetic velvets.
Q: Are these cubes easy to move? A: Smaller cubes are manageable alone; larger or storage cubes may be heavier. Look for light frames or removable legs if you move often.
Styling examples I’ve tried
- Minimal Scandi: Pottery Barn Cameron in Natural Linen next to a pale gray sofa, a woven tray on top, and a floor plant nearby.
- Luxe Layered: Crate & Barrel Petrie in Emerald, brass accents, and a sheepskin throw thrown over one corner.
- Textural Contrast: Article Ceni bouclé paired with a mid-century leather sofa and a round oak coffee table.
Closing (friendly advice)
Tufted ottoman cubes are small but mighty pieces that change how a room feels and functions. Think of them as style pivot points — they can be sculptural accents, cozy seating, or secret storage. Choose based on your daily routines and the aesthetic you love, and you’ll find one that becomes indispensable in your home.