A sofa bed combines seating with a guest bed, but its suitability for everyday use can vary considerably depending on its design. A sofa bed can be a practical choice for a small flat, a guest room or a flexible living room – provided its dimensions, mechanism and upholstery suit how you plan to use it.
Many disappointing purchases aren’t down to the price, but to unclear product information. Check these three common pitfalls before you buy:
Measure not only the width of the wall, but also how much depth you’ll need when the sofa is unfolded. A 2-seater sofa bed is often suitable for one person or a couple, while a 3-seater sofa bed offers more seating space. With a corner sofa bed, you’ll also need to consider the position of the chaise section and the route through the room.
Check the following before ordering:
A space-saving sofa doesn’t necessarily have to be small. A folding sofa, for example, can be stored compactly, while a pull-out sofa needs more clear space in front of it.
The upholstery affects whether the furniture is suitable mainly for sitting or can also be used regularly as a guest bed. Commonly listed materials include high-resilience foam, memory foam and sprung interiors. However, these terms alone don’t tell you how comfortable the sofa will actually be. Also check the cushioning thickness, construction and resilience, according to the manufacturer’s information.
A sofa with memory foam can adapt to different pressure points, while a sofa with a sprung interior offers a different feel. If the guest bed will be used frequently, an even sleeping surface and a sturdy frame are more important than promotional claims about comfort.
A chenille sofa has a textured, cosy look, but needs to be cleaned in a way that’s suitable for its fibres. A velvet sofa may be more susceptible to pressure marks and spills. So check:
Sofas delivered compressed may need time to recover their shape. Allow for this before putting the furniture under regular use.
Why this product suits you: This model is designed for smaller living rooms and occasional overnight stays. According to the product information, it converts into a temporary double bed and comes with two cushions.
The product description specifies both a seating and sleeping function, as well as a stated maximum load of 250 kg for three people. You should still check the dimensions against your room before buying.
Wide armrests, high-density foam and no assembly required, according to the seller.
Why this product suits you: This compact floor sofa is a good fit for flats, student rooms and home offices, and can even be useful for occasional camping trips. According to the product information, the backrest adjusts to six positions.
The six locking positions make it clearer how the sofa converts than a vague claim that it is “multi-functional”. Its compact width of 90 cm is also useful in smaller rooms.
Metal frame, removable cover and two lumbar cushions, according to the seller.
Why this product suits you: This modular corner sofa is designed for households with a larger living room, bringing together seating, a sleeping area and flexible room layout. The product information lists a sleeping function and an L-shaped sleeping area.
The dimensions of 250 × 170 × 76 cm and modular layout make it easier to check how much space you’ll need. Before buying, decide whether you want the chaise section on the left or right.
Corduroy fabric, a seat depth of 65 cm and modular configurations, according to the product description.
Why this product suits you: This folding sofa is designed for small flats, student rooms and guest rooms. According to the seller, the backrest adjusts to three positions and folds down to create a flat sleeping surface.
The sofa and bed dimensions are listed separately: 180 × 89 × 78 cm as a sofa and 180 × 105 × 38 cm as a bed. This makes it easier to plan how much space you’ll need.
Side pockets, a sprung structure and a stated maximum load of up to 280 kg.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
Place the sofa on a level surface and follow the clearances specified by the seller. If you choose a pull-out model, make sure the sleeping area can be fully extended without being blocked by rugs, cables or furniture. Folding models often need less floor space, but may have a lower seat height.
Follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Blot spills as soon as possible. Wash removable covers only as directed on their care labels. If the sofa is foam-filled or vacuum-packed, allow it to expand for the recommended amount of time.
Its lifespan depends on the cushioning, frame, mechanism, load and care. Occasional use as a guest bed puts different demands on the furniture than sleeping on it every day. So check the warranty details, maximum weight capacity and guidance on daily use. You can’t determine a sofa bed’s lifespan from its product type alone.
Yes, as long as you take its dimensions when unfolded into account. Compact 2-seaters, floor sofas and models with adjustable backrests are good options for small rooms. Also measure the route into the room and leave enough space to operate the sleeping function.
There are usually no ongoing energy costs, as the sofa converts mechanically. Possible additional costs include cleaning products, replacement covers or, if needed, spare parts for the mechanism. Models with built-in USB ports may use a small amount of electricity when a device is connected.