What to look for in a sofa bed
A sofa bed has to do two jobs, so check both. As a sofa: seat depth (55–60cm is comfortable for lounging), cushion density and whether the arms are padded. As a bed: the mattress type and depth, how it opens (pull-out, click-clack or fold-down), and the open length — most of ours give a 190–200cm sleeping length. Storage under the seat is worth having for bedding.
Corner, U-shape or straight?
- Corner sofa beds (L-shape) seat four to five and open into a wide double; see our corner sofa beds with storage.
- U-shape sofa beds like the Como and Palermo seat six or more and suit large open-plan rooms.
- 3+2 sets such as the Turkish Doha give two separate sofas, one or both of which open into beds; see Turkish sofas.
Many corner models are "universal", meaning the chaise can be built on the left or right.
Measuring up
Measure the wall space, then check the open dimensions on the product page — a corner sofa bed typically needs 1.5–2m in front of it when open. Check the door, hallway and stairs too; our two-person delivery team will bring it in but cannot remove doors.
Fabrics and care
Most sofa beds come in linen-look fabric or velvet in grey, beige and mocha. Vacuum weekly, rotate and plump cushions, and blot spills. See also recliner sofas, armchairs and footstools.
