Joybuy Insights

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

A sofa bed needs to work as a place to sit during the day and a place to sleep at night. In small flats, studios, guest rooms and teenagers’ bedrooms, it often takes the place of two separate pieces of furniture. Models can vary considerably, though, in terms of sleeping area, upholstery, opening mechanism and storage.

If you focus only on appearance or a low price, it’s easy to overlook important details. These three common buying mistakes are particularly easy to make:

  • A “sleep function” doesn’t automatically mean a comfortable bed for everyday use. Some models are designed for occasional overnight guests, while others offer a larger, flat sleeping surface.
  • Compact overall dimensions don’t tell you how much room the sofa will need when opened out. Before buying, check the clearance from the wall, walking space and the fully extended sleeping area.
  • Fabric names such as corduroy, chenille and velvet don’t tell you everything about durability. The upholstery, fabric quality, care instructions and frame construction are important too.

You can also find a suitable range of models in the sofa beds at Joybuy category.

Key things to consider when choosing a sofa bed

1. Compare the dimensions and sleeping area

Start by measuring the space where you plan to put the sofa. As well as the sofa’s width, depth and height, allow for:

  • Space in front of the sofa for the opening mechanism
  • Clearance from coffee tables, radiators and doors
  • The width of walkways
  • The position of the armrests and backrest
  • Storage that needs to remain accessible when the sofa is opened

A 2-seater sofa bed is often a good choice for smaller rooms. A model with a sleeping area around 180 to 200 cm long may work as a guest bed for one person or, depending on its width, for two. An L-shaped sofa bed, on the other hand, needs considerably more floor space, but usually offers more seating and a more generous sleeping area.

If you’re considering a model with a chaise longue, check whether the ottoman can be fitted on the left or right. A chaise longue that can be positioned on either side makes it easier to plan your room.

2. Assess the upholstery, frame and fabric

The sofa’s construction affects how it feels when you sit or lie on it. Options include:

  • Foam upholstery: lightweight and often used in compact sofa beds
  • High-density foam: can help the seat keep its shape; actual durability depends on the density, how it’s used and the construction
  • Spring or pocket-spring upholstery: individual springs respond independently; check the product description for details of the specific design
  • Sinuous springs: a common construction in traditional upholstered furniture

Pay attention to the frame, too. Reinforced wood or metal frames may be worth considering if you’ll be converting the sofa frequently. The manufacturer’s load rating should be treated as a maximum static load, rather than a guarantee that the sofa is suitable for every type of use.

Corduroy, chenille, linen-look fabric and velvet all feel different and need different levels of care. For households with children or pets, cleaning instructions, abrasion ratings and stain removal are important things to consider. If provided, a Martindale rating indicates the fabric’s resistance to abrasion under a standardised test. However, it can’t tell you on its own how the fabric will hold up in everyday use.

3. Check the mechanism, storage and assembly

Depending on the design, a sofa bed may pull out, fold out or convert by lowering the backrest. Check the following:

  1. Can you operate the mechanism without using too much force?
  2. Is the sleeping area flat and wide enough?
  3. Do you need to remove the seat cushions or store them separately?
  4. Is there a storage compartment for duvets and pillows?
  5. Does the furniture need assembling, or does it arrive pre-assembled?

Compressed foam furniture may need to be left to settle after unpacking. Follow the instructions and allow the recommended time before using the sofa fully. Larger corner sofas may arrive in separate parcels, so check the number of parcels and what’s included.

Our recommendations for different needs

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
160 cm Chaise Longue Lounge Sofa

160 cm Chaise Longue Lounge Sofa

Why it suits this profile: This 160 cm-wide lounge sofa is designed for small flats, studios or guest rooms. It can be used as a sofa, chaise longue or occasional guest bed.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its compact design and stated sleeping area of 160 × 110 cm make it easier to work out how much space you’ll need. No assembly is required; allow up to 72 hours for it to expand after unpacking.

Key benefits and features

High-density foam, corduroy upholstery, a 48 cm seat height and pockets on the sides of the armrests.

Ideal for: Buyers looking for high quality
GTIMEX Corner Sofa with Spring Core

GTIMEX Corner Sofa with Spring Core

Why it suits this profile: This corner sofa is designed for households looking for a spacious seating area with a bed function and a flexible layout.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details give the overall dimensions as 258,5 × 160 cm and the sleeping area as 183,5 × 258,5 cm. This makes it possible to check exactly how much room you’ll need before buying.

Key benefits and features

Pocket springs in the seat cushions, chenille upholstery, a movable ottoman and a 24-month warranty according to the product details.

Ideal for: Specific needs and frequent use
URBAN MEUBLE Velvet Daybed 90x200 cm

URBAN MEUBLE Velvet Daybed 90 × 200 cm

Why it suits this profile: This daybed is ideal for teenagers’ bedrooms, guest rooms or small flats where you want to combine a bed, a surface for everyday items and storage.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 90 × 200 cm sleeping area is clearly specified as a single bed. Hydraulic storage and product dimensions of 213 × 98 × 70,5 cm make planning easier.

Key benefits and features

Storage under the slatted base, a USB-C charging port and an integrated reading light; assembly is required and instructions are included.

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

Joyic 2 Seater Sofa Bed 3-in-1

Why it suits this profile: This compact 2-seater sofa bed combines seating, a sleeping function and an adjustable backrest, making it a practical choice for a flat or separate guest room.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The overall dimensions of 132 × 90 × 88 cm and sleeping area of 184 × 132 cm are clearly stated. It pulls out using a handle and concealed castors.

Key benefits and features

Backrest adjusts smoothly from 90 to 180 degrees, corduroy upholstery, side pockets and a stated load capacity of up to 360 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 applicable in the EU.

Frequently asked questions about sofa beds

Is a sofa bed suitable for everyday sleeping?

It depends on the model, the sleeping area and the upholstery. A sofa with a continuous, flat sleeping surface may be more practical for regular use than one with noticeable joins between the seat and backrest sections. Check whether the manufacturer describes the product as suitable for everyday or occasional sleeping.

How much space does a pull-out sofa need?

As well as the sofa’s overall dimensions, you’ll need to allow for its full depth when extended and the sleeping area. Leave enough room to move around in front of the sofa, and check that drawers, doors and radiators will remain accessible. With a corner sofa, you’ll also need to consider which side the chaise longue is on.

What should you bear in mind when caring for a sofa bed?

Vacuum the upholstery regularly using a suitable attachment, and treat stains according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t use harsh cleaning products unless they’re approved for the fabric. If the covers are removable, check whether they’re actually machine washable. This will help keep the fabric, colour and upholstery in good condition.