Which sleeper sofa is best?
Sleeper sofas are bought and used for many circumstances, not just for your first post-college apartment. They make for excellent guest-room and game-room additions. Many are comfortable enough to be used in the living rooms of full-size homes.
What to know before you buy a sleeper sofa
Types of sleeper sofa
Sleeper sofas come in three types: futon, pullout and convertible.
- Futons are the classic sleeper sofa. They’re the most affordable and come in the widest variety of designs. They’re also the easiest to swap between modes, often taking no more than a few seconds. Their widest variance is how comfortable they are in sleep mode. Some are as comfortable as a bed while others should only be used for the occasional guest.
- Pullouts feature an actual mattress that’s, well, pulled out from the sofa in some way. They are usually more expensive than a futon but both their sofa and sleeper modes are of higher quality. Some are easy to swap between modes while others can require considerable effort. Their mattresses are never as thick as a standard mattress, which can be bothersome. They also tend to squeak in sleeper mode due to the high number of parts required to make them function.
- Convertible sleeper sofas are similar to futons, but require more effort. Instead of just folding down, you often need to move the various parts of the sofa until they are situated in a flat, bed-like form.
Mattress type
Futons and pullouts use different mattress materials.
- Futons typically use foam or polyfill, cheap but still comfortable. They provide a firmer mattress feel.
- Pullouts use a more varied range of materials. Most use memory foam but more expensive mattresses can add a layer of memory gel. Most pullouts provide a softer mattress feel.
What to look for in a quality sleeper sofa
Weight limit
Most sleeper sofas have relatively low weight limits. Futons especially have lower weight limits, as low as 300-350 pounds compared to a standard sofa’s 600-pound weight limit. Pullout sofas are more likely to have higher weight limits, but double-check the product description before purchasing.
Materials
Sleeper sofas tend to use materials that are easy to clean as they’re expected to be used more regularly than a standard sofa. Microfiber and vinyl are some of the most common, with leather used in premium options.
How much you can expect to spend on a sleeper sofa
You can find sleeper sofas as low as $150. Most options top out around $800. Expensive pullouts with top-quality mattresses can cost several thousand dollars.
Sleeper sofa FAQ
What kind of bedding should I buy for my sleeper sofa?
A. That depends on your sleeper sofa’s sleeping orientation, including its size and how it transitions. Models that simply lean back into place are rarely compatible with sheets and comforters; they need a large, thick blanket or quilt and some pillows. Pullout mattresses have their own kink in that the mattress is rarely as thick as a standard mattress. If you use standard sheets, you’ll likely need to secure them to the pullout in some way, even if they’re sized as close as possible to the pullout. Special pullout mattress sheets can be purchased, though they still may not precisely fit your mattress.
Are sleeper sofas good enough for active daily use?
A. Depending on the sofa, absolutely. Midrange models are constructed with the assumption that it will be used daily and nightly, with constant switching between modes. These sofas can last for years if properly cared for. If your intention is to purchase a sleeper sofa for such usage, it’s recommended to spend $300-$500 minimum.
What’s the best sleeper sofa to buy?
Top sleeper sofa
Signature Design by Ashley Jarreau Modern Sectional Sleeper Sofa Couch with Chaise Lounge
What you need to know: This compact sofa will fit in a variety of spaces, even if they’re small.
What you’ll love: The upholstered fabric gives it a clean, minimalistic look. The cushions are made with foam for added comfort. It can fit up to three people sitting.
What you should consider: The middle seat lacks support.
Top sleeper sofa for the money
What you need to know: This low-cost sleeper sofa is the perfect addition to a kid’s room.
What you’ll love: You can convert it into either a chair or a bed. It’s made with a comfortable foam, and the slipcover can be removed and washed. It’s fitted with a child-safe zipper.
What you should consider: Assembly may be difficult.
Worth checking out
Novogratz Tallulah Memory Foam Futon
What you need to know: This is a great pick for anyone who likes their furniture choices to stand out while also being comfortable.
What you’ll love: It has a stylish, vintage silhouette with rounded edges and tufted button details. The memory foam is also very comfortable.
What you should consider: The fabric may attract pet hair.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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