Joybuy Insights

Choosing a sofa bed: what to consider for space, comfort and sleeping function

A sofa bed combines somewhere to sit with a place to sleep, all in one piece of furniture. It’s particularly practical for small flats, studios, guest rooms and living rooms with limited floor space. By day, it works as a sofa or a place to relax; at night, it can be used as a guest bed.

However, striking product images and general promises don’t automatically lead to the right buying decision. Before you buy, check how much space the furniture needs when unfolded, what maximum weight capacity is specified and whether the conversion really suits your everyday needs.

Common pitfalls when buying a sofa bed

1. Overlooking the measurements when unfolded

Many people focus only on the width of the sofa. With a sofa bed that unfolds, however, the extended depth matters too. A model with a sofa depth of around 84 cm may take up more than 100 cm of space when unfolded. Before you buy, consider not only the floor space it will occupy, but also walkways, radiators, doors and wardrobe fronts.

2. Confusing a ‘sleeping function’ with the comfort of a permanent bed

A sofa bed is often intended for guests, occasional overnight stays or a short rest. Its construction, cushioning and sleeping area may differ from those of a bed used every night. So check whether the model is suitable for one person, two people or occasional use only.

3. Material descriptions don’t tell you much about everyday care

Velvet, bouclé, polyester and corduroy all look different and need different care. A velvet sofa bed may have a soft surface, but the manufacturer may recommend only careful vacuuming. Look for specific care instructions rather than relying on terms such as ‘easy-care’ or ‘hard-wearing’.

Compare these features before you buy

Floor space, sleeping area and seat height

First, measure the space available:

  • Sofa width and depth for everyday use
  • Depth when unfolded for sleeping or lounging
  • Width and length of the sleeping area
  • Seat height for sitting down and getting up
  • Distance from walls, doors and other furniture

For example, a three-seater sofa bed with a sleeping area 190 cm long needs different room planning from a compact lounge sofa measuring 160 cm in length. For smaller rooms, a space-saving sofa bed with a folding backrest may be a better choice than a wide model with a separate pull-out mechanism.

Conversion and backrest

If you’re considering a sofa bed with an adjustable backrest, check how many positions it offers and whether it can be adjusted without too much effort. An individually adjustable backrest can provide sitting, reclining and sleeping positions. It’s also worth checking whether extra legs need to be unfolded and whether you can convert the sofa on your own.

Weight capacity and construction

The stated maximum weight capacity gives you an objective point of comparison. It should suit your intended use and, if two people regularly sit on the sofa, should take both of them into account.

Also look for:

  • Frame material, such as wood or metal
  • Number and design of the legs
  • Cushioning and foam specifications
  • Assembly and care instructions provided
  • Manufacturer’s warranty terms

For furniture that needs assembling, check how it will be delivered. Some models arrive fully assembled, while others need to be put together with another person.

Our picks for different homes and ways of using a sofa bed

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

160 cm Chaise Longue Lounge Sofa

Why this product suits this profile: At 160 cm wide, this lounge sofa is well suited to small flats, studios or individual living areas where a compact piece of furniture with an extra sleeping function is a good fit.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details give the unfolded measurements as 160 × 110 × 40 cm and the seat height as 48 cm. This makes it easier to plan the space you’ll need in advance.

Key benefits and strengths

High-density foam, wide armrests with side pockets, a cover that can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, and no assembly required according to the product description.

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

Jahnke Space-Saving Sleeper Sofa Chillax

Why this product suits this profile: This model combines a three-position backrest with a stated maximum weight capacity of 240 kg, making it a good fit for living rooms where sitting and reclining functions will be used regularly.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details list the measurements as 191 × 84 × 83 cm, an extended depth of 108 cm and fold-down metal legs for use as a bed.

Key benefits and strengths

Bouclé cover, five wooden legs, two decorative cushions included and a two-year warranty stated by the manufacturer.

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: As a three-seater sofa bed with a velvet cover, this model is suited to households looking to combine generous seating space with a guest bed for regular use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details give the sleeping area as 106 × 190 cm, an extended depth of 106 cm and a maximum weight capacity of 320 kg.

Key benefits and strengths

Velvet cover, metal legs with a gold finish, a backrest adjustable to three positions and a stated two-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Looking for more options?

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

Practical buying checklist

Before ordering a sofa bed, it’s worth checking the following:

  1. Measure the room: Include the sofa and sleeping area, as well as space to move around.
  2. Decide how you’ll use it: As an occasional guest bed, for everyday sitting or for frequent overnight stays.
  3. Compare weight capacities: Check the stated maximum figures against how you plan to use the sofa.
  4. Choose the cover: Check the care instructions, light sensitivity and cleaning method.
  5. Check how it will be delivered: Find out whether assembly is needed, how many packages there are and whether you’ll need someone to help.
  6. Check the backrest: Look in the product description for the number of positions and the steps involved in converting it.

Sofa bed FAQs

Is a sofa bed suitable for everyday sleeping?

It depends on the construction, cushioning and sleeping area. Many models are designed as an extra place to sleep or as a guest bed. If you plan to sleep on it every day, pay particular attention to the length and width of the sleeping area, even cushioning and clear guidance from the manufacturer on how it should be used.

How much space does a sofa bed need when unfolded?

As well as the sofa’s standard measurements, you’ll need to allow for its depth when unfolded. The models featured here, for example, have extended depths of between 106 and 110 cm. You should also leave clear walkways and enough space around doors and furniture.

How do you care for a sofa bed cover?

Care depends on the material. Some models should only be vacuumed gently; harsh cleaning products, washing or bleaching may not be suitable. Always read the care instructions provided before cleaning, and don’t try cleaning products without checking they’re suitable first.