Joybuy Insights

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

A sofa bed combines seating with an extra sleeping space. It’s particularly useful in small flats, guest rooms or homes that only need to accommodate overnight guests occasionally. However, models vary considerably in their mechanisms, upholstery, footprint and assembly requirements.

If you focus only on colour and price, you could miss some important details. Three common buying pitfalls are worth looking out for:

  • The sleeping area is underestimated: A sofa may look compact, but it can take up considerably more room when extended. This could block doors, radiators and walkways.
  • Not all sofa beds are designed for regular sleeping: Some models are best suited to occasional overnight guests. Others offer a larger, continuous sleeping area, but are wider and heavier as a result.
  • Flexible features may require assembly: A pull-out sofa with storage, USB ports or a reversible chaise is versatile, but often needs to be assembled. Check the number of packages, assembly time and instructions before you buy.

Technical details to check before you buy

1. Dimensions in sofa and bed mode

Measure not only the available wall width, but also the depth and the space in front of the sofa. With a corner sofa bed or an L-shaped sofa, you’ll also need to account for the chaise dimensions.

Key details to check include:

  • Overall width, overall depth and seat height
  • Dimensions of the extended sleeping area
  • Position of the pull-out mechanism
  • Clearance from furniture, doors and radiators
  • Whether the chaise is on the left or right

For small rooms, a compact two-seater sofa or a small sofa bed may be a better choice than a large corner model. For families or regular guests, sleeping areas measuring 140 × 198 cm or more offer extra room.

2. Upholstery, springs and fabric

The seat construction affects how the sofa feels day to day and how easy it is to care for. Common materials include foam, zigzag springs, pocket springs or a combination of these. Details such as T30 foam, high-density foam or pocket-sprung construction describe how the sofa is made, but don’t tell you on their own whether it will feel comfortable to you.

Also check:

  • Upholstery fabric, such as chenille, corduroy, velvet or linen-look fabric
  • The manufacturer’s cleaning instructions
  • Abrasion ratings, if provided, such as Martindale cycles
  • Whether the covers are removable or wipe-clean only
  • The shape and thickness of the seat and back cushions

A fabric with a stated abrasion rating is easier to assess objectively than general claims such as ‘particularly hard-wearing’. If you have children or pets, easy-care surfaces and good access underneath the sofa can be useful.

3. Mechanism, storage and assembly

Check how the sofa converts into a bed. Does the seat pull out, lower down or reveal a separate guest bed on wheels? With a sofa bed, the mechanism should be easy to reach and have enough room to move.

What’s included with delivery matters too. Some sofa beds arrive ready assembled, while others come in several packages and need two people to put them together. If you’re considering a sofa bed with storage, check how the storage compartment opens and whether you need to lift the seat fully.

Our picks for different homes and needs

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Joyic 2-Seater Sofa Bed, 3-in-1 Convertible Pull-Out Sofa Bed

Joyic 2-Seater Sofa Bed, 3-in-1 Convertible Pull-Out Sofa Bed

Why it suits this profile: At 132 cm wide, this 3-in-1 sofa is a good fit for flats, smaller living rooms or a guest room. The backrest adjusts between 90 and 180 degrees.

How it helps you avoid a common pitfall

The 184 × 132 cm sleeping area and pull-out design are clearly specified. This makes it easier to work out how much space you’ll need than a vague ‘multifunctional’ label would.

Key benefits and features

Reinforced steel frame, side pockets and a stated maximum load capacity of up to 360 kg. Assembly instructions and tools are included.

Ideal for: Buyers who expect high quality
GTIMEX Corner Sofa with Pocket Springs, Grey

GTIMEX Corner Sofa with Pocket Springs, 258.5 cm, Grey

Why it suits this profile: This spacious corner sofa is designed for households looking for plenty of seating and sleeping space, as well as a flexible layout.

How it helps you avoid a common pitfall

The overall dimensions of 258.5 × 160 cm and sleeping area of 183.5 × 258.5 cm are specified. The model is delivered without assembly, but you’ll need enough space for it.

Key benefits and features

Pocket-sprung seat cushions, chenille upholstery, a chaise that can be positioned on either side and a 24-month warranty, according to the product details.

Ideal for: Specific needs and frequent use
Universal Large L-Shaped Upholstered Sofa CARLOS

Universal Large L-Shaped Upholstered Sofa CARLOS

Why it suits this profile: This corner sofa combines a sleeping function with a storage compartment. The chaise can be fitted on the left or right during assembly.

How it helps you avoid a common pitfall

The sleeping area of 200 × 130 cm, storage compartment and self-assembly requirements are clearly described. Two people and around one to two hours are recommended for assembly.

Key benefits and features

Zigzag springs and T30 foam in the seat, POSO corduroy upholstery with a stated abrasion rating of over 35,000 Martindale cycles, and a fully upholstered back.

Ideal for: Guest rooms and families
URBAN MEUBLE Double Sofa Bed

URBAN MEUBLE Double Sofa Bed

Why it suits this profile: This model has a pull-out double bed measuring 140 × 198 cm, as well as an additional single bed measuring 90 × 190 cm. This makes it suitable for overnight guests and flexible sleeping arrangements.

How it helps you avoid a common pitfall

The different sleeping areas, assembly requirements and the fact that no mattress is included are listed separately in the product details.

Key benefits and features

Storage, USB and USB-C ports, a wood-based construction and a stated maximum load capacity of up to 150 kg.

Looking for more options?

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.

Care and positioning in your home

Place your sofa bed on a flat, stable surface. With pull-out models, keep the castors and mechanism clear of rug edges, cables and other objects. You can usually care for the upholstery by vacuuming it regularly and spot-cleaning it with a suitable mild cleaner. Always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

If your sofa bed arrives in several packages, check that all the parts are there before assembly. Keep packaging and small parts out of reach of young children. Operate moving parts slowly, and keep hands and fingers clear of the mechanism.

Sofa bed FAQs

Is a sofa bed suitable for every night?

It depends on the construction and sleeping area. Many models are designed as occasional guest beds. For regular use, a sleeping area that’s large enough and as even as possible, along with a suitable base, is essential. Check that the product description clearly states whether it’s suitable for regular sleeping.

How much space does a pull-out sofa need?

As well as the sofa’s dimensions when closed, you’ll need to allow room for it to extend and keep the area in front clear. For a corner sofa bed, also consider the depth of the chaise and access to the storage compartment. Mark out the dimensions on the floor with masking tape before you order.

How much does it cost to run a sofa bed?

A traditional sofa bed doesn’t use electricity in everyday use. Extra ports such as USB or USB-C only use power when a device is plugged in. Ongoing costs are mainly for care and, if needed, replacement covers or an additional mattress topper.