These models often do not have a specific mechanism, but the seat is opened and unfolded so that it lies directly on the floor. This is particularly easy to handle and there is absolutely no risk of faults. However, sleeping directly on the floor takes some getting used to and may not be everyone's cup of tea. If you don't want to use the sofa bed for long-term use, this is a very good option.#Sofa beds cosy & comfortable

A sofa bed is the ideal solution for limited space, for example in small or one-room flats, and is often used in shared flats or student accommodation. But it has also proven itself as a guest bed and is a much better option than a couch or even an armchair. It even comes in handy in the children's room, because there are times, for example when a child is ill, when they simply don't want to sleep alone and a parent has to spend the night in the children's room. A sofa bed really is a good investment because it kills two birds with one stone: during the day it is a comfortable sofa that can be transformed into a cosy bed at night in just a few simple steps.

Sofa beds are available in many designs. Good quality is particularly important for sofa beds, as they should combine two important functions. On the one hand, it should be comfortable to sit on, and on the other, it should support the body and spine during sleep and provide support like a good mattress. The be-all and end-all here is the upholstery. If it is too soft, you will sag and back pain will be the result. On the other hand, many people find upholstery that is too hard uncomfortable. However, there is no such thing as the perfect degree of firmness, as everyone has different preferences and needs. Nor is there a perfect material. Foam is often used and the bad reputation that foam mattresses had in the past is absolutely no longer justified. The quality of the material has constantly improved and modern cold foam mattresses offer excellent sleeping comfort. Another advantage of this material is that it is ideal for allergy sufferers. Another commonly used material is latex, which also ensures healthy sleep thanks to its point elasticity. Some people swear by spring core, as spring core mattresses are particularly robust and durable, which is an important criterion if the sofa bed is used frequently.

Space-saving & comfortable sofa beds

Sofa beds are transformed from a sofa into a bed in the blink of an eye using a special mechanism. There are many different techniques for this. Some models are transformed into a bed by pulling them out. It is important to note that these pull-out models are problematic on high-pile carpets, so fold-out sofa beds are more suitable here. Some of these have a single folding mechanism, others have a double folding mechanism. Although folding out requires some manual effort, the resulting bed is very comfortable and cosy. Depending on the manufacturer, there are also other techniques, such as lowering or unfolding. Regardless of which model you choose, the mechanism should be easy and quiet to operate.

The more often the sofa bed is used and folded out, the higher the quality of the workmanship should be to ensure that you can enjoy your sofa bed for a long time. Ideally, the mechanism should be easy to operate with just one hand so that it feels as if it "works by itself". This point is particularly important for older people or people with limited physical strength. Most sofa beds make a stable impression as a couch, but the quality of the furniture is particularly evident when it is folded out. Pay particular attention to tilt resistance and stability so that you don't experience any nasty surprises later on! There are no problems with stability with models that can be transformed into a bed by simply unfolding them.

Sofa beds are true all-rounders

True all-rounders among sofa beds are those that also have an integrated bed base. This is particularly practical because the good piece of furniture also functions as a storage space. There is room for blankets, pillows, covers and other items in the bed base, so everything is in its place, you are optimally prepared for every visit, have everything to hand and don't have to search for anything. However, the latest generation of sofa beds are not only functional, but also attractive and stylish, so that they cut a fine figure anywhere, whether in the living room or bedroom.

While we have so far tended to discuss the "inner values" or functionality, we now want to look at the qualities that are visible to everyone. The choice of upholstery depends on personal taste, existing furnishings and individual circumstances. If you have a dog or cat, you will choose a robust cover that is easy to clean and does not resent regular vacuuming, as animal hair is not a pretty sight and is also unhygienic. A leather sofa is easy to clean and does not absorb animal hair, but it does require regular care with specially formulated products. Some people find leather too "cold", which is why they prefer textile covers. A removable textile cover is a good solution, it is practical and - depending on the material - can also be washed in your own washing machine. However, you should always follow the manufacturer's instructions. The colour of the sofa should of course also harmonise with the existing furnishings. Neutral colours such as white, beige, brown or grey are timeless and blend in perfectly with their surroundings. In contrast, striking colours such as red, turquoise or yellow make the sofa the focal point and eye-catcher, dominating the picture. The wall in front of which such extravagant pieces of jewellery are placed should therefore also be painted in neutral tones.