Sofa bed

[edit] Introduction

A sofa bed is a multifunctional piece of furniture designed to provide seating and sleeping accommodation within a single unit. It can be used to make more efficient use of available floor space in small homes, studio flats, guest rooms and other areas where a separate sofa and bed may not be practical. Sofa beds are available in a range of sizes, styles, upholstery materials and conversion mechanisms.

The suitability of a sofa bed depends on its intended use, the available space, the comfort of its seating and sleeping surfaces, and the durability of its frame and mechanism. Models intended for occasional guests may have different construction and comfort characteristics from those designed for regular or everyday sleeping.

[edit] Types of sofa bed

Sofa beds use different mechanisms and configurations to convert between seating and sleeping positions.

• Pull-out sofa bed: A sleeping platform, often incorporating a mattress, is stored within the sofa frame and pulled out when required. The available sleeping area and mattress construction vary between models.
• Click-clack sofa bed: The backrest moves through a hinged mechanism and folds down to form a flat sleeping surface. These models are often relatively simple to operate and may be suitable for smaller rooms.
• Foldable sofa bed: The seating and sleeping surfaces fold or unfold to create a bed. Some designs use a compact foam mattress and have no separate pull-out frame.
• Corner or L-shaped sofa bed: A corner sofa incorporates a sleeping function, which may be provided by a pull-out mechanism or a convertible seating section. Some models also include storage compartments.

The choice of mechanism affects the amount of floor space required, the ease of conversion, the size of the sleeping surface and the maintenance requirements.

[edit] Design and construction

[edit] Frame and mechanism

The frame supports the seating and sleeping surfaces and must withstand the loads associated with both functions. Frames may be constructed from timber, metal or a combination of materials. The conversion mechanism should operate smoothly and securely, with moving parts checked periodically for wear, damage or obstruction.

The dimensions and weight of the sofa bed affect its installation and use. Measurements should account for the additional floor space required when the bed is extended, as well as access through doorways, corridors and staircases during delivery.

[edit] Upholstery and cushioning

Sofa beds are available with a variety of upholstery materials, including woven fabrics, leather and synthetic alternatives. The choice affects appearance, durability, cleaning requirements and resistance to staining. Cushion fillings may include foam, fibre or combinations of materials, with different levels of firmness and support.

The upholstery and padding should be suitable for the intended frequency of use. Removable covers can simplify cleaning where provided, but care instructions vary according to the material and construction.

[edit] Sleeping comfort

The comfort of a sofa bed depends on the design of its sleeping surface, the quality of its mattress or cushions, and the support provided by the underlying frame. Some designs have a separate mattress, while others use the seat and back cushions to form the bed.

For regular sleeping, mattress thickness, firmness, support and the continuity of the sleeping surface are important considerations. Joints, gaps and differences in height between sections may affect comfort. Where possible, the sleeping surface should be assessed in its fully extended configuration before purchase.

[edit] Applications and benefits

Sofa beds can provide additional sleeping accommodation without requiring a dedicated bedroom. Common applications include studio flats, small dwellings, guest rooms, home offices and multipurpose living spaces.

Their principal advantage is the combination of seating and sleeping functions in one item of furniture. This can reduce the number of separate pieces required and allow rooms to be used for different purposes. Some models also incorporate storage for bedding or other household items.

However, a sofa bed may be heavier or more mechanically complex than a conventional sofa. The need to move cushions, extend a frame or reposition furniture can affect its convenience. A sofa bed is not necessarily cheaper than buying separate furniture, particularly where a high-quality mattress and mechanism are required.

[edit] Selection and maintenance

When selecting a sofa bed, the following factors should be considered:

• Dimensions: measure the available space in both seating and sleeping configurations, including clearance for operating the mechanism.
• Intended use: distinguish between occasional guest accommodation and everyday sleeping, as these uses place different demands on the mattress and frame.
• Comfort: assess the seating cushions and sleeping surface independently.
• Construction: check the frame, joints, hinges, support structure and conversion mechanism.
• Upholstery: choose materials appropriate to the expected wear, cleaning requirements and indoor environment.
• Access and handling: check the dimensions and weight of the furniture against the access routes to its intended location.
• Maintenance: follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning upholstery, inspecting moving parts and maintaining the mechanism.

Regular vacuuming and prompt treatment of spills can help maintain upholstery. The mechanism should be kept free of obstructions and inspected for loose fixings or signs of damage. The sofa bed should be operated in accordance with its instructions, and its specified load limits should not be exceeded.

In the UK, upholstered domestic furniture may be subject to the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988, as amended. Applicable requirements depend on the product and its intended use. Buyers should check that the sofa bed meets the relevant fire-safety requirements.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

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• Choosing the Right Bed Size: Which One Offers the Best Sleep?