Many people consider a convertible sofa to be a practical purchase for the home. Used in a guest bedroom, studio or as an additional sleeping option in the living room,A sleeper sofa is a perfect way to maximize space and give your guests the option of avoiding sleeping on an airbed.
Convertible sofas have the reputation of not being as comfortable as a classic sofa or a bed. However, today’s models have come a long way and it is possible to find comfortable and practical options for every budget. Our sofa bed buying guide has all the information you need to find the best option for your home.
Decide which model you want
If you are looking for a sofa that can also convert into a bed, you can choose from futons, sofa beds and convertible sofas. Futons have a backrest that folds down to form a flat surface, while convertible sofas have seat cushions that can be unfolded into a mattress. Sofa beds have a full mattress tucked inside the sofa. The mattress is mounted on a platform which can be deployed by pulling a handle.
Choose a mattress size
Most sofa beds come with a double or queen-size mattress hidden inside, although you can also find other options, including some models that split into two separate twin beds. In addition to choosing the desired mattress width, consider the length.
Make sure it fits into your home
Full sofa beds tend to be larger and heavier than standard sofas, which is something to keep in mind if you plan to move often. Measure the dimensions of your couch when the mattress is folded down to make sure it fits through your doorways, up stairs or elevators, and into the room itself.
Before making a purchase, it is also important to take the measurements of the sofa bed once unfolded. The important thing is to leave enough space around the mattress to allow people to get in and out of the bed from either side.
Evaluate the quality of the mattress
Although most sofa beds contain spring or foam mattress models, you can also find latex mattresses. Expect your sofa mattress to be thinner than a standard mattress. Some people choose to change the feel with a mattress topper.
Buyers should also consider the breathability, edge support, and firmness level of the mattress when buying a convertible sofa. If you plan on having two guests share the mattress, you may prefer a quieter memory foam model that isolates movement.
The ease of opening and closing the mattress
Convertible sofas must contain a high quality interior mechanism to facilitate the maneuvering of the weight of an entire mattress. Before buying, practice opening and closing the bed a few times to make sure everything goes smoothly. Look for protruding parts that could snag your sheets or metal bars that can be uncomfortable or pose a danger to sleep. Some people also prefer not to have too much space between the mattress and the frame of the sofa.
Choose your bed frame material
Most sofa beds contain a metal or wooden frame. Metal frames can be inexpensive and durable. A wooden frame can be more stable due to its weight, although it is also heavier to carry.
Test the sofa bed in both positions
A convertible sofa should be comfortable when used as a sofa and when used as a bed.
Next, unfold the mattress and test its comfort.
Consider materials and design
When choosing your sofa bed, there are many factors to consider. If you have pets or children, you may want to consider the durability of the sofa fabric and how easy it is to clean. Removable covers are easier to clean, but some fabrics are designed to be stain resistant.
Many companies send out free fabric samples so you can match the sofa to your decor. Beyond the basic features, you might consider convertible sofas that offer additional perks like padded legs, reclining backs, or hidden storage spaces where you can store blankets.
Calculating price versus durability
Because they require additional engineering, sofa beds generally cost more than their standard counterparts. There are plenty of budget options that are good enough if you only need to use the mattress for an occasional guest. However, if you live in a smaller apartment and plan to use the sofa bed as an everyday bed, you may find it worth paying more for a higher quality product.
