Joybuy Insights

Buying a sofa bed: what to consider when it comes to size, materials and sleeping function

A sofa bed combines seating and a guest bed in one piece of furniture. This can be a practical choice for small flats, studio flats, guest rooms or multi-purpose home offices. However, sofa beds vary considerably in sleeping surface, mechanism, upholstery and the space they take up.

If you focus only on colour or a low price, it’s easy to overlook important details. Three common buying mistakes can lead to disappointment later:

  • Underestimating the sleeping surface: A sofa that’s 190 cm wide isn’t necessarily 190 cm long when converted into a bed. What matters is the actual stated size of the sleeping surface.
  • Not planning for the space needed when unfolded: A model may look compact day to day, but take up considerably more room when extended.
  • Confusing materials and care requirements: Velvet, bouclé and polyester differ in feel, cleaning requirements and how visibly they show wear. Check the care instructions before you buy.

Check these technical details before you buy

1. Compare the overall, seating and sleeping dimensions

First, measure the space available in your living room or guest room. For a sofa bed, at least four measurements matter:

  1. Width and depth in sofa mode
  2. Height and seat height
  3. Width and length of the sleeping surface
  4. Depth when unfolded

For example, a 3-seater sofa bed may be 213 cm wide, while its sleeping surface measures 190 cm long and 106 cm wide. If you plan to use it as a bed, also allow for walkways, radiators, doors and wardrobe fronts.

With a space-saving sofa that folds out, check whether the backrest can be lowered completely. An adjustable backrest may offer different positions for sitting, relaxing and sleeping. However, the number of positions alone doesn’t tell you how much sleeping space there is.

2. Don’t judge weight capacity and construction by how it feels to sit on

The stated maximum weight capacity is an objective point of comparison. It should suit your intended use and account for more than just one person’s weight. For a sofa bed for two, consider the combined weight.

Also check:

  • Frame material, such as metal, wood or a combination of both
  • Number and design of the feet
  • Stability when unfolded
  • Assembly requirements and recommended number of people
  • Protective pads for delicate floors

The product details should clearly distinguish between the seating area, sleeping surface and maximum weight capacity. A higher stated capacity doesn’t automatically indicate a particular lifespan.

3. Check the upholstery, padding and care instructions

A velvet sofa bed looks different from a bouclé sofa bed. Velvet is often chosen for its smooth, soft surface, while bouclé stands out for its textured weave. Both types of upholstery need to be cared for according to their material.

The models featured here are stated to require gentle vacuuming for cleaning. Avoid harsh cleaning products, bleach and direct sunlight. If you have pets or young children, or expect to use the sofa every day, consider not only the colour but also the care instructions and how easily it shows dust or fibres.

Our picks for different homes and lifestyles

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
COMHOMA Folding Floor Sofa, 3-in-1 Sofa Bed

COMHOMA Folding Floor Sofa, 3-in-1 Sofa Bed

Why this product suits this profile: This compact floor sofa is ideal for small rooms, student flats, home-working spaces and the occasional overnight guest. Measuring 90 × 53 × 57 cm and weighing 9 kg, it’s relatively easy to move around.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The six backrest positions and conversion to a flat 180-degree position are clearly described. This makes it easier to work out how much space you’ll need before buying.

Key benefits and features

Metal frame, removable cover, two lumbar cushions and three uses: sofa, lounger and bed.

Ideal for: Buyers with high quality standards
Jahnke Space-Saving Sleeper Sofa Chillax

Jahnke Space-Saving Sleeper Sofa Chillax

Why this product suits this profile: At 191 cm wide, this model combines a sturdy wooden frame with a backrest that adjusts to three positions. It’s a good fit for buyers who value clearly stated dimensions, a seat height of 40 cm and a stated weight capacity of up to 240 kg.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The sleeping surface is listed as 108 × 167 cm, so you can check in advance whether it’s large enough for your guests.

Key benefits and features

Two matching scatter cushions, foldable metal feet for bed mode, five feet and a stated two-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Ideal for: Specific needs and frequent use
Jahnke Sofa Bed CHILLAX POSH Opal Green

Jahnke Sofa Bed CHILLAX POSH, Opal Green

Why this product suits this profile: This 213 cm-wide velvet sofa bed is designed for households that regularly use the bed function for guests and want a 3-seater with a 190 cm-long sleeping surface.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The product details specify an unfolded depth of 106 cm, a sleeping surface of 106 × 190 cm and a maximum weight capacity of 320 kg.

Key benefits and features

Velvet upholstery, gold-coloured metal feet, three backrest positions and a stated two-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Ideal for: Style-conscious households needing extra storage
Jahnke CHILLAX DREAM Bouclé Sofa Bed

Jahnke CHILLAX DREAM, Bouclé Sofa Bed

Why this product suits this profile: At 213 cm wide, this model features light-coloured bouclé upholstery, side pockets for a tablet, remote control or books, and a sleeping surface measuring 103 × 183 cm.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The unfolded depth of 103 cm, sleeping surface and maximum weight capacity of around 320 kg are listed separately. This makes it easier to plan the space and how you’ll use it.

Key benefits and features

Zigzag sprung base, reclining backrest, seven feet and gold-coloured details. According to the product information, assembly requires at least two adults.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and comply fully with the safety regulations in force in the EU.

Frequently asked questions about sofa beds

How much space does a sofa bed need when unfolded?

As well as the space it takes up when folded, allow for the stated depth in bed mode. For the models featured here, this ranges from 103 to 108 cm. Before buying, remember to account for walkways, doors and nearby furniture.

How long does a sofa bed last?

You can’t tell how long a sofa bed will last from its product name alone. Its lifespan depends on factors such as how often it’s used, the weight it supports, its mechanism, padding and care. Useful points of comparison include the materials, maximum weight capacity, construction and warranty terms.

Is a sofa bed suitable for everyday use as a bed?

It depends on the design and your personal sleeping needs. Check the sleeping surface, bed height, padding and conversion mechanism. A smaller sofa bed may be fine for occasional guests; for everyday use, the specific sleeping dimensions and weight capacity are especially important.