A sofa bed is a smart piece of furniture, capable of transforming a living room into a guest room (or a master bedroom!). But because it combines two essential functions—being a comfortable sofa by day and a cozy bed by night—purchasing one can be more complex than it seems. To avoid disappointment and ensure a wise investment, it's crucial to know the pitfalls to avoid.
Discover common mistakes and our tips for choosing the ideal sofa bed, perfectly suited to your needs and your space.
Mistake #1: Neglecting Intended Use (Casual vs. Daily)
This is the most common and costly mistake. A convertible sofa bed for occasional sleeping does not meet the same requirements as a model intended for daily use. The trap: choosing an entry-level model or a sofa bed / BZ for daily sleeping, without worrying about the quality of the mattress. The solution: for occasional use (friends visiting), a thin mattress may be sufficient. The mechanism is less stressed. For regular/daily use, require a mattress at least 14cm thick (ideally 16cm) and high density (HR 35 foam). kg/m³ minimum, shape memory). Choose a rapido or express opening type mechanism, which is more robust and easy to handle.
Mistake #2: Forgetting the measures (and the consequences!)
A sofa bed must fit perfectly into your space, whether it's closed or open. The pitfall: measure only the length and width of the sofa in the seated position, without anticipating its deployment or access for delivery. The solution: precisely measure the space in sofa mode (length, width, height including armrests) and in bed mode (total footprint once the bed is unfolded to ensure smooth movement). Don't forget to measure access points: doors, hallways, stairs, elevators. A sofa that can't be dismantled or is too large won't fit, resulting in additional charges or a delivery refusal.
Mistake #3: Ignoring the quality of the mattress and box spring
Sleeping comfort is directly linked to these two elements, which are often underestimated when purchasing a sofa. The pitfall: focusing solely on the sofa's aesthetics and neglecting the technical characteristics of the bedding. The solution: for the mattress, check the thickness, density, and type of foam (HR, memory foam). For the bed base, choose slatted bases (flexibility and ventilation) or welded metal mesh (sturdiness and firmness). Avoid stretched canvases for regular use.
Mistake #4: Not testing the opening mechanism
A smooth, sturdy mechanism is essential for frequent use. The pitfall: relying on the online description or not testing the mechanism in- store . The solution: If possible, visit a showroom. Unfold and fold the sofa several times. The movement should be simple, quick, effortless, and smooth. Make sure the cushions don't interfere with the opening.
Mistake #5: Underestimating the importance of the coating
Fabric or leather is the first thing you see and touch. It must match your lifestyle. The pitfall: choosing upholstery solely for its appearance, without considering its durability and maintenance. The solution: for families with children/pets, opt for stain-resistant and easy-to-clean fabrics (microfiber, polyester). Removable and washable covers are a huge plus. For heavy use, avoid fabrics that are too fragile or light-colored leathers that mark easily. If you're buying online, request fabric swatches to assess the actual color and feel.
Mistake #6: Forgetting about warranties and after-sales service
A problem can always arise, even with a quality product. The pitfall: not inquiring about the warranty conditions (mattress, mechanism, structure) and the seller's return policy. The solution: check the warranty period. Inquire about the return procedure and any fees. Good customer service is a guarantee of peace of mind in case of need.
Mistake #7: Relying solely on price
A low price can hide quality compromises that will pay off in the long run. The trap: choosing the cheapest sofa without checking the manufacturer's technical specifications and reputation. The solution: consider the sofa bed as an investment. A slightly higher price for a better quality mattress, a robust mechanism , and a solid structure is often more cost-effective in the long run. Compare technical specifications, not just price.
To conclude, mistakes to avoid when buying a sofa bed
Buying a sofa bed is a project that deserves attention and thought. By avoiding these common mistakes and focusing on the quality of the mattress , the robustness of the mechanism, the adaptation to your space and the reliability of the seller, you are sure to find the ideal model that will bring you comfort and satisfaction day after day.
