Don't forget that a sofa bed is two pieces of furniture in one, so you'll need to measure for both. You'll need to take down the dimensions of the sofa bed, both in its sofa form and folded out. Leave clearance for doors and other furniture in the room, making sure you can still open your cabinets and drawers, and check you've got enough space to walk around the bed.
Write down the measurements clearly and check them twice before you buy - after all, you'll have probably been to bed since then.
When we think of a sofa bed, the first image that comes to mind is a sofa which folds out into a double bed - but that is by no means the only option available. A chair bed sleeps and seats one person, so it can easily be squeezed into the living room without taking over the whole space. It can also double up as an accent piece if you style it right.
Think bigger is better? You can also get kingsize and even super king sofa beds. These are a good choice if you have guests over during the summertime, offering extra room to spread out on warm evenings. If the room is big, these options will also be better for filling up the space.
We've all been there: lying on a lumpy sofa bed in a dark living room and glancing despairingly at the clock every five minutes. That was certainly a long and miserable night, but there's no need to write off all sofa beds just yet.
As sofa beds aren't used very often, it's tempting to hold on to what you have for a long time to get as much out of your investment as possible. This certainly makes sense on paper. Sadly, sofa bed mattresses age just like any other and become less comfortable over time, potentially resulting in grumpy, sore and bleary-eyed guests. Just as we recommend changing the mattress on your bed every seven years, it's worth being willing to reinvest when your sofa bed loses its spring.
Secondly, be mindful of your mattress type. Open spring mattresses come at a lower price point but notoriously offer less support and tend to be reserved for guest beds and occasional use. If you just want a place for the odd guest to crash out a couple of times a year, this is a cost effective option. If the sofa bed is going to be used more often, or your guests' comfort is at the heart of your concerns, a pocket spring will be more supportive.
Still worried about that particularly picky relative or Uncle Frank's dodgy back? A cheaper solution to a pocket spring could be a mattress topper, which will add an extra layer of comfort when needed. Toppers with natural fillings will be cosier and more breathable, while memory foam options offer a bit more support.
Or is it the sofa you're more concerned about? Those metal bed frames certainly don't look like they'll be much fun to sit on, even with your seat cushion in the way.
In this area, the bum test is best. We would always suggest coming into one of our showrooms to try out a sofa, and the same is absolutely true for sofa beds.
Our sales experts are on hand to help you find the best option for you.
What if you like the look and need the extra sleep space, but aren't fond of the feel? Ask yourself what you need the sofa for. If the sofa won't be used all that often, it's not the end of the world if you can't binge-watch your favourite shows on it all evening.
If you'll be using the sofa frequently, take your time and explore all options. Pick something you'll be happy to curl up on after a long day at the office.
Not at all! There is no need to buy a sofa bed that is drab or hard on the eyes. Sofa beds come in a variety of modern and casual styles and can be purchased in the perfect colour for your décor. Some sofa ranges incorporate a sofa bed, so you can have an all-matching living room set.
Still unsure about what to purchase? Why not speak to one of our sales experts, either in store or on the phone on 0333 200 1552.
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