Sofa Bed Shopping – What to Look for in a Quality Convertible Sofa

Sofa beds need to be comfortable and durable enough for everyday use. A good sofa should also blend well with your home décor and look good.

For durable frames, look for kiln-dried hardwoods or engineered woods like plywood and particleboard. Avoid pine, which may not stand up to daily wear and tear.

Comfort

You’ll want a comfortable mattress and an efficient operating mechanism for sofas that convert into beds. You’ll also want to consider how much use it will get and whether you have any specific needs, such as the ability to sit up or change positions. Choose wisely, and unlock the space-saving, comfort-boosting potential of the perfect sofa beds Toronto ON.

If you’re a minimalist, this minimal convertible sofa is an option the interior designer recommends for its “simple modern style.” It doesn’t have a separate mattress—instead, the couch cushions act as the bed when converted.

Futons and pullout pop-ups use actual mattresses stored inside, which requires more space than other styles. However, they’re great for smaller rooms that can’t accommodate a trundle. If you prefer a plusher feel, look for models with a down or polyester mattress topper. (These cushions are easier to clean and last longer than cotton or foam.)

Durability

Like regular sofas, sleeper couches should be well-made with durable materials. Look for frames constructed from kiln-dried hardwoods or a combination of these and furniture-grade plywood rather than pine and other softwoods that tend to warp over time. Also, look for a sturdy, comfortable mattress that supports the frame. The mechanism that converts a sofa into a bed should be easy to operate without sticking or snagging.

If you’re considering a foldout sleeper, try to find one with an upgraded mechanism that moves the bar away from the small of your back for improved comfort and prevents sagging over time. Consider a premium bed sleeper, which eliminates the bar and features a wooden platform.

For fabric sleeper couches, opt for performance fabrics that are stain-resistant and pet-friendly. These fabrics are easier to clean and typically more affordable than leather, which requires a professional leather cleaner.

Style

In addition to size and sleeper type, consider style when choosing a convertible sofa. If you need a compact option that fits into tight spaces, choose one that folds flat from end to end and has no removable cushions. It has a modern silhouette that complements any room decor.

Futons and sectional sofa beds that fold flat work nicely in small rooms. A futon uses the couch cushions as a mattress when it converts into a bed, while sectional sleepers typically use an actual mattress.

Try for a sofa resembling a regular couch. It has a twin-size pullout mattress stored inside, and it is easy to switch from sitting to sleeping. It also has a minimalist look that’s ideal for contemporary spaces. This modular sofa is customizable so you can select the color of your choice, plus fabric for the seating and sleeper sections.

Price

A good sleeper sofa will be a solid investment, so looking for one that fits your budget and decor is essential. If you’re on a tighter budget, consider a futon that folds flat to make a bed without an additional mattress; just be sure to purchase fitted sheets in the correct size for your couch.

Another budget-friendly option is to choose a futon with a removable cover that can be machine-washed for easy cleaning. If you can afford a more expensive model, opt for a kiln-dried hardwood frame or a sturdy plywood construction; avoid those made from soft woods such as pine. Regardless of the frame, a quality inner mechanism should lift out quickly and smoothly and have smooth edges so sheets and blankets won’t get stuck or snag.