Your Complete Guide to Buying a Sofa Bed
A sofa bed is one of those clever pieces that just makes life easier. By day, it’s your go-to spot to relax; by night, it’s a comfy bed for guests. It’s a great way to save space and add some extra functionality to your home. But with so many styles and features to choose from, how do you pick the right one? Let’s start with the different types.
Types of Sofa Beds
- Pull-Out Sofa Bed:
This is the classic. Hidden beneath the cushions is a full-size mattress, ready to roll out when you need it. Perfect for when you want your guests to feel like they’re sleeping in their own bed. Our Venice Sofa Bed is a great example—stylish, practical, and oh-so-comfy.
- Click-Clack Sofa Bed:
A quick flick of the backrest, pull out the legs and you’ve got yourself a bed. These are known for their easy conversion process and are great for smaller spaces or that modern vibe. Just like our Lola 3 Seat Sofa Bed.
- Futon:
Simple, budget-friendly, and lightweight, futons feature a foldable mattress that doubles as a seat. Our Bishop Sofa Bed is perfect for apartments or kids’ rooms.
- Daybed:
Part sofa, part bed, daybeds are super stylish and functional. Some even come with trundle beds hidden underneath for extra sleeping space—perfect for the home office or sunroom. The Happy Sofa Bed is our modern version of a daybed. It’s so lightweight it effortlessly transforms from a couch to a recliner to a chaise lounge to bed.
- Corner Sofa Bed:
If you’ve got room to spare, corner sofa beds are a dream. Loads of seating space, and when bedtime comes around, they transform into a roomy sleeping area. And the extra bonus… many include hidden storage, just like our Felix Storage Chaise Sofa Bed.
What to Look For
Buying a sofa bed isn’t just about looks (although that’s a big part), but there’s some key things to keep in mind:
- Measure Your Space:
Think about where the sofa bed will go and how much room it’ll need when unfolded. Plan ahead and grab a tape measure - measure twice to be sure, because the last thing you want is your new sofa bed blocking the doorway when in use.
- Choose a Comfortable Mattress:
Your guests deserve a restful night's sleep, so it’s worth investing in the right mattress. Memory foam provides a plush, supportive feel, while a hybrid mattress combines comfort and durability. For frequent use, consider a spring mattress, which offers firm support and long-lasting reliability. And we say it over and over, testing it out in store is always a good idea.
- Fabric Choices:
Polyester may not have the luxe reputation of some natural fabrics, but it’s a star when it comes to durability. It’s perfect for busy households with kids and pets and can hold its own when the chaos begins. Fabrics like linen or cotton are light and breathable, but sometimes need a little extra TLC. At the end of the day, it’s about choosing a fabric that works for your life—spills, little hands, paws and all.
- Storage Perks:
Some sofa beds come with hidden storage compartments—perfect for stashing extra pillows or blankets.
- Double Check it’s Easy to Use:
No one wants to wrestle with a clunky mechanism, especially at night. Check reviews or even better, (we’ll say it again) try it out in-store and make sure it’s smooth and hassle-free.
- Choose a Style That Suits You:
Modern and sleek? Classic and cosy? Make sure the sofa bed matches your vibe and blends with your existing décor and space.
Size and Dimensions
Before you buy, measure everything twice:
o Consider the sofa’s size when folded and unfolded.
o Ensure there’s enough clearance for doors, pathways, and other furniture.
o Sofa beds come in sizes from single, twin to queen, so pick one that fits both your space and your sleeping needs.
Care and Maintenance
It’s important to keep your sofa bed looking and feeling its best:
o Vacuum regularly to prevent dust build-up.
o Use fabric protectors or slipcovers for extra longevity.
o For mechanisms, give them a quick check or lubrication once a year to keep things running smoothly.
o And it’s best to protect your sofa bed from direct sunlight and heat sources.
With a little TLC, your sofa bed will last for years.
Our Top Tips
o Test It Out: Visit the showroom—sit, fold it out, lie down, even fold it back up if you like. Get a feel for how it works and find what works best for you!
o Remember to Measure First: And then measure again to avoid surprises. Including the space it will extend into.
o Think About Your Guests: Are you after a comfy pull-out for your parents? A kid-friendly option? Think about who will use it the most.
If you’re on the look-out for a new sofa bed, we have plenty of comfortable and stylish options in-store and online.