Joybuy Insights

Buying a Sofa Bed: A Practical Guide to Choosing the Right Sofa-Bed Combination

A sofa bed can serve as seating in the living room, a sofa guest bed in the spare room or an extra sleeping area in the home office. The choice ranges from a compact 3-in-1 sofa to a spacious corner sofa with sleep function. However, the dimensions, upholstery and conversion mechanism will not automatically suit every home.

If you focus only on the covering or a low price, you can easily overlook important details. The following criteria will help you assess a sofa for sleeping objectively and avoid common buying mistakes.

Common pitfalls when buying a sofa bed

1. The sleeping area is smaller than expected

With a pull-out sofa, you need to allow enough space not only for the seat, but also for the pull-out sections, backrest and movement area. A model with a sleeping area of 200 × 130 cm may take up considerably more room when unfolded than it does in standard seating mode.

Before buying, you should therefore:

  • measure the available floor space in both seating and sleeping positions,
  • take doors, radiators and windows into account,
  • check the route for transporting the sofa to its intended location,
  • consider the orientation of the chaise longue when choosing a corner sofa.

2. “Comfort” is not described in sufficient technical detail

Claims about comfort are difficult to compare. Specific information about the upholstery, construction and sleeping area is more useful. Pocket springs, zigzag springs, foam or memory foam can feel very different and are not automatically equally suitable for everyday and occasional sleeping.

Look out for information on:

  • seating and sleeping-area dimensions,
  • frame material,
  • type and thickness of the upholstery,
  • maximum load capacity,
  • the stability of hinges, castors and pull-out sections.

3. Additional features increase maintenance and assembly requirements

A sofa bed with storage, USB ports or an adjustable backrest can be practical in everyday use. However, every additional feature should meet your actual needs. Hydraulic lifting mechanisms, pull-out elements and electrical connections require correct assembly and regular checks.

Also check whether:

  • the cover can be removed and washed,
  • a mattress or topper is included,
  • the furniture is delivered in several packages,
  • assembly is required,
  • replacement parts or care instructions are available.

The most important parameters when buying

Dimensions in both configurations

For smaller homes, a sofa bed for small spaces can be a good choice, provided the seating and sleeping positions have been measured accurately. A compact model with a sleeping area of 90 × 200 cm needs to be assessed differently from a corner sofa with a sleeping area of 183.5 × 258.5 cm.

Make sure you leave enough space around the furniture for movement. With a double sofa bed, you should also check whether both people can move around comfortably and without restriction.

Frame, suspension and load capacity

A wooden or metal frame affects the sofa’s weight, stability and assembly. If you will be converting it frequently, robust fittings and a smooth-running mechanism are important. The stated maximum load capacity applies to the specific product and should not be exceeded.

The upholstery may include, among other things:

  • zigzag springs for an elastic seating surface,
  • pocket springs with individually supported springs,
  • foam in different densities,
  • memory foam for adaptable cushioning.

These terms describe the construction, but they are not in themselves proof of personal sleeping comfort.

Cover and care

Velour, corduroy, chenille, linen-look fabrics and other textiles differ in feel, cleaning requirements and visual appeal. In homes with children or pets, removable covers and clear care instructions are particularly important. Stains should be treated according to the manufacturer’s instructions; harsh cleaning products can damage the cover.

Our selection for different user profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
COMHOMA sofa bed with sleep function

COMHOMA Sofa Bed with Sleep Function

Why this product suits the profile: The 3-seater model is designed for flats, studios or an occasional sofa guest bed. The split backrest can be adjusted to five positions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify the seating and sleeping dimensions, material and weight. This makes it easier to assess the space required before buying.

Key benefit & strengths

Removable cover, wooden frame, metal feet and five backrest positions.

Suitable for: Buyers with high quality expectations
GTIMEX corner sofa with spring core

GTIMEX Corner Sofa with Spring Core

Why this product suits the profile: This spacious corner solution is ideal for households looking to combine generous seating with a large sleeping area.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The details include overall dimensions, sleeping area, spring core and warranty period. This allows you to check the construction and space requirements in advance.

Key benefit & strengths

Pocket-spring core in the seat cushions, reversible chaise longue and three scatter cushions according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent users
URBAN MEUBLE velvet daybed 90 × 200 cm

URBAN MEUBLE Velvet Daybed 90 × 200 cm

Why this product suits the profile: The daybed is suitable for children’s and teenagers’ bedrooms, a home office or a small room requiring a single sleeping area on a regular basis.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated single-bed size makes room planning easier. The storage space is located beneath the slatted base and can be accessed using a hydraulic mechanism.

Key benefit & strengths

90 × 200 cm sleeping area, storage space, USB-C port and integrated reading lamp according to the product details.

Suitable for: Very small rooms and flexible use
COMHOMA folding floor sofa, 3-in-1

COMHOMA Folding Floor Sofa, 3-in-1 Sofa

Why this product suits the profile: The folding design, measuring 90 × 53 × 57 cm, is suitable for student flats, small home offices, guests or occasional camping.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The six backrest positions and low weight of 9 kg make it easier to plan how the sofa will be used and stored.

Key benefit & strengths

Folding design, adjustable backrest, removable cover and two lumbar cushions.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.

Sofa Bed FAQ

How much space does a sofa bed require?

This depends on the design and sleeping area. Measure the furniture in both seating and sleeping positions, including the pull-out section. With a corner sofa, you also need to allow for the depth of the chaise longue and the space required to walk past it.

Is a sofa bed suitable for everyday use?

A sofa with a bed function can generally be used regularly. However, the key factors are a suitable sleeping area, upholstery that meets your needs and a sturdy conversion mechanism. Check the product details for information about intended use and load capacity.

How can you extend the life of a sofa bed?

Avoid overloading it, move pull-out sections and hinges without forcing them, and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Check loose connections and repair any visible damage before using the sofa again.