Small spaces can be a challenge when it comes to furniture. But with the right pieces, like a sofa bed, you can make the most of your limited square footage. Sofa beds are perfect for small spaces because they offer both seating and sleeping accommodations. They’re also versatile, so you can use them as a couch during the day and a bed at night. If you’re looking for a new sofa bed that’s both stylish, functional and doesn’t break the bank, check out the sofa bed selection in the homefitter ‘Sofa Searcher’ database. We have gathered more than 1,900 sofas in the UK and have something for everyone, so you can find the perfect fit for your home!
How to choose the right sofa bed for your home
A sofa bed is a versatile home furnishing that offers seating and sleeping accommodations, so it’s perfect for small spaces. But with so many options to choose from, how do you know which one will work best in your space? There are four main considerations to keep in mind when looking at different models: size, colour, style and comfort.
1) Sofa bed size
First, consider the size of the sofa bed. It needs to be big enough to sleep in, but also needs to fit in the space you have available. Consider who might use the spare bed and what size mattress would be appropriate for them. We found that 80 cm in width is the minimum for a single adult, whereas 140-160 cm can work for a couple of guests. In a tiny space, hidden storage might be a lifesaver so watch out for options with enough space for your spare bedding. Some models are designed for smaller spaces, so make sure to measure your room before you buy.
2) Sofa bed colour
Second, think about the colour of the sofa bed. You want something that will complement the rest of your décor, but also something that you’ll enjoy looking at. A neutral colour like black or white can go with anything, but if you want something a little more fun, there are plenty of bright colours and patterns to choose from. A clever way to make sure the small sofa bed fits with the existing colour style is to add cushions and throw pillows in complementary colours.
3) Sofa bed style
Thirdly, think about the style of the sofa bed. There are traditional models such as classic or vintage models, as well as more contemporary Scandinavian or modern options. Consider the style of armrests, seat cushions and back cushions, and whether they fit in with the overall decor of your living room. Choose the one that best suits your taste and the overall look of your home.
4) Sofa bed comfort
Finally, consider the comfort of the sofa bed. You want something comfortable to sit on as well as to sleep in. A good way to test this is to sit on the sofa bed for a few minutes in the store, and if possible, lie down on it to see how it feels. Check the upholstery options and the construction materials of the mattress. A memory foam mattress is a good option for comfort, as it moulds to your body. High resilient foam is a great solution, as it doesn’t lose its shape over time in the same way as memory foam. More traditionally, a proper mattress like a pocket sprung mattress is a popular choice as pocket springs offers pretty firm support and comfort. If you have the storage space you might consider buying a mattress topper as an added bonus for the more sensitive overnight guests.
The different types of sofa beds
Sofa beds are a great option for small spaces because they offer both seating and sleeping accommodations. They provide a space-efficient way of having plenty of seating in the evening and a spare bedroom at night. There are three main types of sofa beds: pull out sofa beds, click clack sofa beds, and foldable sofa beds. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.
1) Pull out sofa bed
Pull out sofa beds are the most common type of sofa bed. The pull out mechanism is straightforward to use and they’re usually less expensive than other types of sofa beds. However, pull out sofa beds can be difficult to move around, and they often have a shorter lifespan than other types of sofa beds.
2) Click clack sofa bed
Click clack sofa beds are a newer type of sofa bed. The click clack mechanism is super easy to use and they’re very versatile. However, they can be more expensive than pull out sofa beds, and they often have a shorter lifespan.
3) Foldable sofa bed
Foldable or easy open sofa beds are the most expensive type of sofa bed. They’re also the most difficult to use. However, they’re very versatile and they often have a longer lifespan than other types of sofa beds.
How to care for your sofa bed
Like all pieces of furniture, sofa beds need to be cared for to last longer. One way to care for your sofa bed is by using a fabric protector. This will help to keep your sofa bed looking new and protect it from stains. You can also clean your sofa bed regularly by vacuuming the fabric and using a damp cloth to wipe down the frame. You might also consider a washable mattress protector to keep the bedding clean. After the everyday use of the sofa bed we recommend leaving it to air out to minimise any trapped moisture before packing it away. Follow these simple tips and your sofa bed will last for years.
Our top picks for small sofa beds in the UK
Sofa beds can be a great solution for small spaces, and there are several different options available, depending on your needs. Made.com and Habitat offer comfortable, high-quality and stylish sofa beds, whereas IKEA and Argos are more budget-friendly options.
Best small sofa beds from Made.com
If you’re looking for a sofa bed that will make the most of your small space, Made.com has a great selection. Their sofa beds are designed to be both comfortable and stylish, and they come in a variety of different styles. Here are a few of our favourite sofa beds from Made.com:
“Haru”: One of our all-time favourites. This sofa bed has a sleek, modern design that will look great in any small space. It’s also very comfortable, with a thick 120 cm mattress that will ensure a good night’s sleep.
“Moby”: This sofa bed is perfect for a small spare room. It’s compact and comfortable, and it comes in a variety of colors to match any decor. Using the click clack feature, this sofa turns into a comfortable 120 cm wide mattress.
“Bessie”: This sofa bed has a traditional design that will look great in any home. It’s easy to use the click clack functionality, and it’s also very comfortable with a thick 140 cm mattress.
Best small sofa beds from Habitat
Another great option for small sofa beds is Habitat. They offer a wide selection of stylish and comfortable sofa beds, all of which are made in Europe. Plus, they have a variety of different sizes and styles to choose from. Here are a few of our favourite sofa beds from Habitat:
“Patsy”: This sofa bed is perfect for a small space. It’s compact, affordable and comes in stylish charcoal or black upholstery options. The comfortable small double bed measures just over 100 cm making it a great option for single visitors staying the night.
“Kota”: This sofa bed has a modern design that will look great in any home. It’s also very comfortable, with a thick mattress that measures just over 120 cm when folded out. A great way to host the occasional overnight guest.
“Roma”: This sofa bed is perfect for a small guest room. It’s compact and comfortable. It includes a cushioned pillow that may be used as a headrest by overnight guests. The quilted 110 cm mattress brings a unique warmth and cosiness that your visitors will love.
Best small sofa beds from Argos
If you need a sofa bed that’s more budget-friendly, Argos has a great selection. Their sofa beds are designed to be both comfortable and stylish, and they come in a variety of different styles. Here are a few of our favourite sofa beds from Argos:
“Duo”: This sofa bed has a sleek, modern design that will look great in any small space. A multi-functional piece of furniture combining a two seater sofa bed, two separate chairs and a bed with a click clack mechanism. It’s also very comfortable, with a thick mattress that will ensure a good night’s sleep.
“Milano”: This top grain leather sofa bed is perfect for a small guest room. It’s compact and comfortable, and it comes in a variety of colors to match any decor. The sofa converts into a 110 cm wide mattress.
“Tosa”: This sofa bed has a raw design that will look great in any home. It’s also very comfortable, with a thick futon mattress. A comfortable sofa bed that offers a 135 cm sleeping area for overnight visitors.
Best small sofa beds from IKEA
If you’re looking for a small sofa bed that’s comfortable, affordable and stylish, IKEA has several great options:
“Hemnes”: A sofa bed with a lot of storage, perfect for small spaces, and it can be easily converted into a bed with a 160 cm standard double mattress when needed. It has a storage area beneath the seats, so you can store extra blankets and pillows.
“Friheten”: For something a bit more substantial, this corner or chaise is a great option. This sofa will convert into a 140 cm double bed giving plenty of space for individual overnight guests or the couple who don’t mind being a bit close.
Conclusion
The best sofa bed for your home will be the one that suits both your space and your needs. Sofa beds are great because they offer both seating and sleeping accommodations, so you can save on floor space in a small room or apartment. They’re also versatile; during the day, it’s like having an extra living area to relax in but at night, it’s a comfortable bed for guests. We’ve shared a few tips on how to choose one that will best suit your needs, how to best take care of your sofa bed and highlighted some of our favourite sofa beds in the UK. So whatever your needs may be, there’s sure to be a sofa bed that’s perfect for you!
To help you quickly find a sofa bed that fits your small living space, head over to the homefitter ‘Sofa Searcher’ database with +1,900 sofas. Use the ‘sofa bed’ and the dimensional filters to quickly find a sofa that fits perfectly in your space.