Information on Leather Storage Ottomans

Ottoman Origins

• The first known use of the word "ottoman" occurred in 1605, according to the Merriam Webster Dictionary. The ottoman was an upholstered seat of any shape -- with or without a back. The nation of Turkey introduced the ottoman to Europe during the late 18th century, according to EncyclopediaBritannica.com. The Turkish version was piled with cushions and served as the seating centers instead of sofas and chairs. An early version was designed to line three walls of a room. A smaller version was then developed to snuggle into a room's corner. Into the 19th century, ottomans became octagonal or circular, with a central padded column or with arms extending from the center to divide the seating space into sections.

More Than Storage

• Leather storage ottomans serve multiple functions, especially if you're living in a smaller space. Some leather storage ottomans also are equipped with reversible tops for drinks and snacks. When not in use for this purpose or as a footstool or extra seating, especially for children, some varieties can be stored under your coffee table. Trays can be added to transform your ottoman into a coffee or side table.

Cost Concerns

• Leather storage ottomans can be costly -- even several hundred dollars. If cost is your concern, these ottomans can be found for under $100 in January 2011. Places to find them at these rates include discount retail stores, consignment shops, antique stores or Goodwill and Salvation Army stores.

New Leather Care

• Clean soiled new leather with a soft cloth dampened with lukewarm water and castile soap. After rubbing the leather briskly, repeat this process twice with damp cloths but without the soap. You can then use dry, soft cloths to rub the leather dry, restoring its gloss. No other oils should be necessary since oils and other finishes were incorporated into the new leather during its tanning process.

Old Leather Care

• Clean old leather with saddle soap. Rub on castor oil -- but not linseed oil or mineral oil. Remove oil spots with dry cleaning fluid. Reapply oil the next day if the leather is overly dry. However, petroleum jelly should be used instead of these oils on white or light-colored leather. Avoid using tape on tears. Instead coat adhesive on spandex, linen canvas or glass-fiber matting. Apply pressure of this adhesive cloth on the tear, leaving it there for three or four hours.