Sofas
Sofa bed buying guide
It’s no surprise sofa beds have been gaining more popularity in the UK - these shapeshifting designs are perfect for hosting and can also help save space in your home by reducing the need for a guest bed. Find out what makes a good sofa bed, how to get the most from one, and explore the wide variety of styles available at poltronesofà
18th September 2026
Why choose a sofa bed?
- Helps save space in small homes and studio flats
- Multi-use design that offers a comfortable place to sit and sleep
- Perfect for frequent hosts and families
- Can be a more affordable option than buying separately
- Ideal for offices or multi-purpose rooms
- Modern designs offer improved comfort
What makes a good sofa bed?
A sofa bed is a beautifully versatile, and sometimes essential addition to your home. Converting from a seating area into a sleeping space is the first job of any sofa bed – but the ease of use, size and comfort offered (at day and night) is what sets them apart.
Ease of use
It’s important to choose a design with a mechanism you’re comfortable with using – whether that’s with a pull-strap that’s tucked into the frame, a pull-out drawer, or a foldable backrest that opens out to reveal the bed.
It may help to visit your local poltronesofà showroom in person, as trained specialists can demonstrate how our collections of sofa beds open and close.
Every sofa bed you’ll find at poltronesofà opens with the same, simple pull-strap feature that unfolds smoothly with no fuss.
Comfort
Finding a sofa bed that feels comfortable when you’re seated and offers an excellent night’s sleep is an investment you’ll probably get a lot of joy out of over the years.
Consider whether a supportive high-back or relaxed low-back design offers the right level of support and look for sofa beds with foam seating and a thick, quality foam mattress.
Every poltronesofà sofa bed has a mattress thickness between 14cm-17cm, designed with high density foam for long-lasting comfort.
Style
Which design features tie in nicely with your home? Sofas with raised legs can make a room feel more open and airy, while chunkier designs that sit closer to the floor can give off a cosier aesthetic.
Sofa beds with wide arms can feel more premium and substantial, while designs with slim or even no arms often offer a more spacious feel when seated.
And don’t forget colour – each poltronesofà sofa bed is available in a wide range of fabrics, textures and shades so you can find one that matches your home perfectly.
2 & 3 seater sofa beds
A 2 seater sofa bed has a compact design and is ideal for smaller living spaces like flats, snugs or even as an additional piece of furniture in bedrooms.
This size is perfect if you need extra sleeping space for children or a single adult sleeper as it has a small double mattress.
A good all-rounder, a 3-seater sofa bed provides extra room to easily accommodate two sleepers on a standard double mattress.
4 seater sofa beds
For something altogether more spacious and luxurious, choose a 4 seater sofa bed, complete with a kingsize mattress in most cases.
These designs don’t usually feature a split base, so it’s worth double-checking your measurements to ensure it not only fits in your chosen room, but through all entrance ways it will need to pass during delivery.
Chair beds
A chair bed is typically the size of a snuggle chair and features a single sized mattress, making it a versatile solution for compact spaces.
Ideal for a single guest or small areas, it provides both a comfortable seating and a convenient sleeping option.
Corner sofa beds
A corner sofa bed is the best choice for two adults who want plenty of room to spread out while sleeping.
Though it’s worth bearing in mind, as it is one of the larger sofa bed options, it may not be an option for those working with a smaller space.
Is it easy to transform the sofa into a bed?
Absolutely!
Converting your sofa bed is quick and simple with its easy-to-use roll-out mechanism. However, always ensure children and pets are kept clear of the mechanism and are not left unsupervised during operation. The conversion should be carried out by an adult, and all pillows and duvets must be removed before closing to ensure safe and smooth use.
How to measure for a sofa bed
When measuring for a sofa bed, be sure to check both its standard and extended length and width to ensure it fits comfortably without obstructing walkways or other furniture when in use. It’s best to allow at least a 30cm gap on one side - or ideally on both - so guests can easily move around when it's in situ.
To make moving your sofa bed into your space easier, consider models with removable or varying arm sizes to slim down its silhouette. As with any sofa, always measure the widest points, including armrests.
Check out our handy Fitting Guide for expert advice on measuring up for your sofa.
Do sofa beds come with a mattress?
Yes. Each poltronesofà sofa bed and chair bed include a built-in, high density foam mattress, designed for exceptional comfort.
Each sofa bed comes with a plush 17cm deep mattress, adding a thick layer of luxury for a restful night’s sleep.
FAQs
To prevent wear and tear and maintain the comfort of your sofa bed:
Sofa bed maintenance
• Open and close properly - follow the manufacturer's instructions when converting between sofa and bed to avoid potential damage to the mechanism
• Rotate the mattress regularly to prevent uneven wear and sagging
• Keep the bed closed when not in use to maintain the shape of both the mattress and the cushions
• Avoid sitting on the edge when it’s transformed into a bed as this can damage the frame
• Use the furniture as it is intended for and avoid jumping on it
Sofa bed cleaning
• Vacuum regularly - clean crevices, under cushions, and the mattress to prevent dust and debris build up
• Spot clean spills immediately using appropriate cleaners for your upholstery type
• Be sure to use synthetic fibres or microfibre cloths on your fabric sofa bed and avoid using harsh household cleaners, such as bleach, as they may damage the fabric on your sofa bed
• Consider professional cleaning annually to deep clean the upholstery
For more information on the best way to clean your sofa bed, read our guide: How to care for your sofa bed.
Need to move your sofa bed? To make it easier to move furniture and protect your flooring, I’d advise using furniture glides or castors.
If you follow our tips above, then your sofa bed will last for many years to come.
All of our sofas come with a 20 year frame guarantee as standard, but for added peace of mind, our sofa care ultimate warranty package provides coverage for accidental damage and structural defects to mechanical, electric recliners and components should you need it.
Sofa beds offer the perfect blend of comfort and practicality.
Dressing your sofa bed with plenty of cushions, throws and blankets can help it feel more homely.
You may be able to purchase a mattress topper for your sofa bed, though we do not recommend using any other mattress than the one provided by the manufacturer, as this could void any warranty.
Investing in some soft, good-quality bedding will also do the trick.Although our sofa beds are very comfortable, they’re only designed to be slept on occasionally rather than every night. Using your sofa bed more than this may cause premature wear and tear to the mattress and frame.
Why choose a sofa bed from poltronesofà?
Customisation and comfort is key to choosing a poltronesofà sofa bed.
Personalise your sofa bed with three arm styles and adjustable headrests for maximum comfort and style. With over 200 fabrics, leathers and colours to choose from, you can create a piece that perfectly complements your décor.
Each one of our sofa beds is designed from the bed up, with a quality foam mattress and a strong, reliable mechanism so your guests feel right at home, day and night. For added confidence, every sofa comes with a 20-year frame guarantee as standard when you make a purchase at poltronesofà. Want even more peace of mind?
Our selection of warranty care packages cover accidental damage, structural defects, including upholstery and fillings, mechanical parts and electrical components - so you can sit back and relax.
For added convenience, we also offer coordinating storage footstools – the ideal solution for neatly storing spare bedding and keeping your space clutter-free.
Find your perfect sofa bed
We believe your sofa should be as unique as your home. That’s why our quality-crafted collection is fully customisable - with over 200 fabrics, leathers & colours to choose from, you can create the perfect configuration to suit your space. Each sofa is expertly handcrafted by us and ready to take pride of place in your living room.
For added confidence, every sofa comes with a 20-year frame guarantee as standard when you purchase from poltronesofà. Want even more peace of mind? Our selection of warranty care packages cover accidental damage, structural defects, including upholstery and fillings, mechanical parts and electrical components - so you can sit back and relax.
Sofa bed top picks
Barete 3 Seater Sofa Bed with Slim Armrest
Crociale 3 Seater Sofa Bed
Quercioli 2 Corner 2 with Right Hand Facing Sofa Bed & Left Open End
Coriano 3 Seater Sofa Bed
Crociale 1 Corner 3 Sofa Bed with Left Hand Facing Single Power Recliner
Barete 2 Seater Sofa Bed with Large Armrest
Quercioli 2 Corner 2 with Left Hand Facing Sofa Bed & Right Hand Facing Open End
