Joybuy Insights

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

A sofa bed should provide a place to sit during the day and an extra sleeping space when needed. That makes a sofa with a bed function a practical solution for small flats, studios, guest rooms and living rooms. However, models can vary considerably in their mechanisms, sleeping area, upholstery and space requirements.

If you focus only on colour or a low price, it’s easy to overlook important details. Three common problems come up particularly often when buying:

  • The sleeping area is underestimated: A sofa may look compact, but need considerably more room when extended.
  • Not all sleeping functions work in the same way: Folding backrests, pull-out sections and modular systems have different requirements when it comes to clearance from the wall and floor space.
  • Material descriptions can be too vague: Velvet, corduroy and chenille initially describe only the upholstery fabric. Care instructions, seam construction and upholstery layers also matter when it comes to everyday use.

The key things to consider when buying a sofa bed

1. Check the dimensions in both sofa and bed mode

Before buying, don’t just look at the width, depth and height when the sofa is folded away. You should also check:

  • Width and length of the sleeping area
  • Depth when extended
  • Distance from coffee tables, radiators and doors
  • Space to move around in front of the sofa
  • Access to the spot where it will stand, including any narrow points in the stairwell

A 3-seater sofa bed around 213 cm wide may feel spacious in the living room, but could need around 106 cm of depth when extended. For small rooms, a space-saving sofa bed with clearly stated sleeping-area dimensions is therefore easier to plan around than a model with vague measurements.

With a corner sofa bed, you’ll also need to consider the position of the chaise section. Check whether it has a fixed left- or right-hand orientation, or whether the modules can be rearranged. A modular sofa may be more flexible if you move house later, but you’ll need enough room for each section.

2. Mechanism, backrest and frequency of use

A sofa bed for occasional overnight guests needs to meet different requirements from one that’s used regularly as a bed. Look for:

  • A smooth folding or pull-out mechanism
  • Sturdy feet or support points
  • Secure locking for moving parts
  • An even sleeping surface without uncomfortable hard joins
  • Clear assembly and care instructions

A sofa with an adjustable backrest can offer different positions for sitting, reclining and lying down. When comparing models, check whether each section adjusts independently or only together. Models with a split backrest often offer more flexibility, while a continuous surface may provide a different feel when lying down.

3. Compare upholstery and padding carefully

A velvet sofa bed has a soft look, but the manufacturer’s care instructions often call for gentle cleaning. For example, the care information for the Jahnke CHILLAX POSH says to vacuum the velvet upholstery carefully, not to wash or bleach it, and to avoid harsh cleaning products.

A corduroy sofa bed has a ribbed surface that adds texture to its appearance. Corduroy is listed as the upholstery fabric for the GTIMEX model, while the product description also mentions high-density foam and memory foam. However, these claims shouldn’t be taken as a guarantee that the sofa will retain its shape over time or offer medical benefits.

For a memory foam sofa bed, the material itself is only one consideration. The thickness of the layers, the overall upholstery construction and the weight capacity also matter. The term alone doesn’t tell you whether it will suit your needs. If you plan to use it regularly, check the maximum stated weight capacity and the upholstery care instructions too.

Our picks for different needs

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
COMHOMA Sofa Bed with Sleeping Function

COMHOMA Sofa Bed with Sleep Function

Why this product suits this profile: This 3-seater model is designed for smaller flats, studios and offices. The backrest adjusts to five positions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated seat and bed dimensions of 174 × 51 and 174 × 81 cm make it easier to plan your space. According to the product information, the removable cover is washable.

Key benefits and features

Adjustable backrest, cotton velour upholstery, wooden frame and assembly tools included.

Ideal for: Buyers with high quality expectations
GTIMEX L-Shaped Sofa Bed with Sleeping Function

GTIMEX L-Shaped Sofa Bed with Sleeping Function

Why this product suits this profile: This L-shaped model is for households looking to combine a larger seating area, a chaise longue and a pull-out sleeping surface.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The overall dimensions are clearly stated as 250 × 170 × 76 cm. The product description also lists a static load capacity of 540 kg, corduroy upholstery and memory foam.

Key benefits and features

Modular L-shaped design, 65 cm seat depth, two possible corner configurations and delivery in two parcels.

Ideal for: Specific uses and frequent use
Jahnke Sofa Bed CHILLAX POSH

Jahnke Sofa Bed CHILLAX POSH

Why this product suits this profile: This 3-seater sofa bed is well suited to guest rooms and living areas where you need a bed that can be set up quickly.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The sleeping area is listed as 106 × 190 cm. According to the product details, the maximum load capacity is 320 kg and the warranty is two years.

Key benefits and features

Three backrest positions, metal legs, velvet upholstery and a stated overall width of 213 cm.

Ideal for: Small rooms and flexible layouts
Joyic 160 cm Chaise Longue Lounge Sofa

Joyic 160 cm Chaise Longue Lounge Sofa

Why this product suits this profile: This frameless floor sofa is designed to work as a chaise longue, lounge sofa and sofa bed, making it an interesting option for studios or compact living areas.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The dimensions when extended are stated as 160 × 110 × 40 cm. According to the product description, no assembly is required; the corduroy upholstery should be cleaned with a damp cloth.

Key benefits and features

No assembly required, wide armrests with side pockets and high-density foam listed as the padding material in the product details.

Looking for more options?

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

Sofa bed FAQs

How much space does a sofa bed need when extended?

As well as the sleeping area itself, you’ll need extra room to move around. Measure the distance between the sofa and the furniture opposite, and take doors, radiators and walkways into account. Keep the floor in front of a pull-out sofa clear; a folding backrest may also need space between the sofa and the wall.

Is a sofa bed suitable for every night?

That depends on its construction, sleeping area and upholstery. Many models are designed primarily for occasional overnight stays. If you plan to use the sofa regularly as a bed, pay particular attention to the evenness and width of the sleeping surface, the stated load capacity and the mattress or upholstery construction. The term ‘sofa bed’ alone doesn’t tell you whether a model is suitable for everyday sleeping.

How do you care for velvet and corduroy upholstery?

Always start by checking the manufacturer’s care instructions for the specific fabric. These often recommend careful vacuuming and using a soft cloth. Harsh cleaning products, bleach and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can damage the upholstery. For households with children or pets, a removable, washable cover can be particularly practical, as long as this is clearly stated in the product details.