5 Best Sleeper Sofas (Review) In 2021
Last Updated: January 15, 2021Sleeper sofas do not deserve the bad reputation they tend to have! While there is a fair share of mediocre sofa sleepers, the world of sleeper sofas has evolved and there are so many incredible options that pair modern design, durability, and high comfort levels - all while being highly functional! Sleeper sofas are great if you are limited on space or if you just need an option for overnight guests.
With so many sleeper sofa options, from pull-out couches to futons and sofa beds, it can be tough making the right decision. Luckily, our guide will help you find some of the best sleeper sofa options while considering some of the key features that contribute towards giving you, or your guests, the best night's sleep possible!
The Best Sleeper Sofa
1. Signature Design by Ashley - Larkinhurst Contemporary Faux Leather Sofa - Best Choice
HIGHLIGHTS:
Queen size sleeper sofa
Innerspring mattress
Steel metal framing
Firm seat cushions
Tailored silhouette with rounded arms
Nailhead trim
No assembly required
Fits through doorways of 32 inches or more
Luxurious quality and comfort paired with contemporary design, the Signature Design by Ashley - Larkinhurst Contemporary Faux Leather Sofa is a great choice for your living room. The innerspring mattress is perfectly hidden and easily converts with the use of the easy-lift mechanism. The steel metal frame that pulls out with the mattress is durable and sturdy. The sofa itself has a tailored silhouette, featuring a tight back and seat cushions that are removable. The firm cushions are made of high-density foam encased in thick poly fiber with beautiful corded trim. The faux leather and rounded arms with a traditional nailhead trim give this sleeper sofa a regal, attractive appearance. There is no assembly required as this sofa comes delivered directly from the manufacturer; it fits through doorways 32 inches or more. The overall measurements of the sofa are 89 (w) x 39 (d) x 38 (h) inches, with a seat height of 20 inches. The pull out bed measurements are 60 (w) x 72 (d) x 4.25 (h) inches.
Learn more about Signature Design by Ashley - Larkinhurst Contemporary Faux Leather Sofa
2. Serta Rane Collection Charcoal Convertible Sofa - Budget Pick
HIGHLIGHTS:
Comfortable full-size sleeper sofa
Multi-functional (lounge, sleep, sit)
Safe to use, convertible frame
Attractive chrome legs
Modern sofa design with tufted upholstery
High quality, cushion/mattress filled with foam (3 layers)
Easy assembly
2.
Serta Rane Collection Charcoal Convertible Sofa - Budget Pick
For a full-size, comfortable sleeper sofa, this offering by Serta has a contemporary design and is great for small spaces. The Serta Rane Collection Charcoal Convertible Sofa is a multi-functional convertible sofa that has a wooden frame that allows you to either use it flat, as a bed, reclined like a lounger, or with the back up completely, so it functions as a sofa. Some convertible frames can pose a risk of injury, but the thoughtful design of this sleeper sofa provides you with protection and safety, so no pinched skin or other nasty injuries can occur when adjusting frames. Three layers of premium foam make up the cushion/mattress; the first foam later features memory foam, which conforms to your body and is comfortable for a range of sleepers. The second layer is solid foam which provides more durability and support while you sleep; many cushions and mattresses contain fillers that break down with time, creating discomfort and sagging, so the solid layer of foam in this sleeper sofa makes it long-lasting. The final layer is a pure bonded foam that provides overall support to the mattress. The modern design of this sleeper sofa is attractive, but also highly functional; the chrome metal legs and tufted upholstery offer a touch of sophistication to your living room. Easy assembly is a plus and all of the tools required for assembly are included. When set up as a sofa it measures 66.1 (l) x 33.1 (w) x 29.5 (h) inches; however, converted to a bed, it measures 66.1 (l) x 37.6 (w) x 15 (h) inches.
Learn more about Serta Rane Collection Charcoal Convertible Sofa
3. HONBAY Convertible L-Shaped Sectional Sofa
HIGHLIGHTS:
Moveable ottoman to create sectional sleeper sofa
Modern design, perfect to add sophistication to your living space
Features a strong wooden frame with wooden feet
Uses s-shaped serpentine springs for durability and ease of replacement
Soft linen fabric can be wiped clean with a damp cloth
Easy assembly, maximum 20 minutes
660-pound weight capacity
The HONBAY Convertible L-Shaped Sectional Sofa is a high quality, comfortable sofa sleeper sectional that has an attractive, sophisticated modern design. The premium construction of this convertible sectional sofa includes a durable hardwood frame as well as serpentine springs. The serpentine springs have an 's' shape and run from the front of the seat and back and clipped with cords to the frame; this is a considerate design as it offers you the comfort of a coiled spring seat, but, should one of them fail, rather than needing to replace the entire seat, you can just remove the damaged spring and replace that. The thick couch cushions are very comfortable and are nice and fluffy, making them supportive. The ottoman provided with this couch is adjustable, so for a guest staying over, they can stretch out and get comfortable. The linen fabric used to cover the foam cushions is soft and can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Strong feet provide overall durability to this sofa and has a weight capacity of 660 pounds. Instructions are provided with the purchase of your sofa, so assembly is straightforward and won't require you to purchase any additional tools. The dimensions once assembled (not including the ottoman) are 78.5 (l) x 30.3 (w) x 35 (h) inches. The ottoman measures 23 x 23 inches and when positioned to create the 'L' shape, it brings the overall width to 53 inches.
Learn more about HONBAY Convertible L-Shaped Sectional Sofa
4. DHP Emily Grey Linen Futon - Best Value
HIGHLIGHTS:
Easy to convert sofa bed
Tufted backrest and seat
Grey linen fabric
Chrome metal legs
Multi-functional use
Adjustable split back (each half can also be adjusted)
Easy assembly
4.
DHP Emily Grey Linen Futon - Best Value
Featuring an attractive tufted design on the backrest and seat, this sofa bed has a simplistic yet modern appearance. The DHP Emily Grey Linen Futon features a lovely dark grey linen fabric which is offset by chrome metal legs, which provide stability and support to the overall sofa bed. This sofa bed is a suitable option for those who have limited living space, as it is compact and offers a space-saving solution. Its low profile also makes it a good fit for anyone with smaller living areas, so it fits snug and comfortably into corners. The split-back feature of this sleeper sofa allows for multi-functional use, from lounging to sleeping. In fact, you can control each side of the split back, so one half of it can stay upright while the other is lowered. You will be required to assemble your sofa bed, but it goes up very easily and all hardware needed is provided as well as step by step instructions. When the split back is set to a lounging position, this sofa bed measures 61.5 (l) x 30.5 (w) x 32 (h) inches; when set to a sleeping position it measures 70.5 (l) x 30.5 (w) x 15 (h). This modern sofa bed has a weight limit of 350 pounds.
Learn more about DHP Emily Grey Linen Futon
5. Divano Roma Furniture Collection Split-Back Futon - Premium Pick
HIGHLIGHTS:
Colored fabric options
Compact and space-saving
Tufted linen fabric
Plush cushion with hypoallergenic material
Split back with each half capable of independently adjusting
Quick, easy assembly
5.
Divano Roma Furniture Collection Split-Back Futon - Premium Pick
The Divano Roma Furniture Collection Split-Back Futon offers a choice of color fabric options to brighten your living room! Slightly narrower than a full-sized mattress, this sleeper sofa is a great option for small apartments, dorm rooms, or guest rooms. This sofa sleeper has a tufted linen fabric design for the backrest and seat which offers maximum comfort, especially as the cushion is plush and filled with hypoallergenic material so it is great for sleeping. The split-back allows you to adjust each half, so you can set up one half of your sofa bed to lounge and the other to fully recline in a sleeping position. Many people absolutely dread the thought of assembling furniture, but you won't believe how simple assembly of this sofa bed actually is! In just minutes your sofa bed can be set up and ready for use, just attach the arms and legs, and voila, ready to go! When both sides of the split back sections are in a lounging position, it measures 77 (w) x 31 (d) x 31 (h); when completely flat, its overall dimensions are 70 x 40 inches.
Learn more about Divano Roma Furniture Collection Split-Back Futon
Features To Consider With Sleeper Sofas
Size
The size of a sleeper sofa is a key factor you need to consider before making any purchases. Always check the dimensions of the sofa when it is fully extended so that you are sure you have enough room. While it is common that most sleeper sofas are approximately full-sized, you can find twin size and even a king size mattress option when it comes to sofa beds. Many people forget to measure the size of their hallways and doorways, but it is always important to do this, especially if your furniture is delivered assembled.
When it comes to choosing the right size, consider the room in which it is being placed. For a small room with limited space, a twin-size sleeper sofa option is ideal but do remember it will only accommodate one sleeper, so you may want to consider who may be using it. If you frequently have guests over who are couples, you will find this size too small and will instead need to opt for a full, queen size, or even king size option. For these options, you will need to ensure you have ample space in the room in which it is being placed. The great option about queen size sofa beds is that they can usually accommodate up to three people when it is being used as a sofa.
Material/Density
The material and density of your sleeper sofa will determine its comfort levels, so it is quite an important factor to consider! You will commonly find that popular options include a high-density foam mattress, perhaps memory foam, or innerspring coils. Memory foam is a great option for those looking for support while they sleep, however, heavier sleepers can sometimes sink too deeply into the mattress while some sleepers find that memory foam can make them feel too hot. Many memory foam options now include cooling gel within its construction to help keep you cool while you sleep. Spring options can be great for those who like a bit more of a bounce in their mattress.
Of course, you are going to want your sleeper sofa to be comfortable while you lounge and relax, but also while sleeping, so keeping your guests' (or your own!) comfort in mind is key. You will find that most sleeper sofas are firmer than your average mattress, so do bear this in mind. If, as a sleeper, you like a firm cushion, then opt for those with foam mattresses/cushions, or, if you like it to be softer then choose a fiber option or perhaps even consider a feather filling.
The material of the frame of your sleeper sofa will contribute to its longevity and stability. Solid wood frame construction is typically the most durable and is far less likely to fail on you over time. This isn't to say that metal frames are not as good, but they do tend to be slightly less durable.
Storage
Many people who begin looking for sleeper sofas may be doing so because they are limited on space, perhaps due to living in a small apartment or a dorm room, for example. If space is limited, a sleeper sofa is a great way to maximize your space and allow for storage; the best sleeper sofas in these situations will allow for storage underneath the sofa. This additional space will allow you to store boxes or perhaps things you don't need to access constantly.
Intended Use
If you are buying a sleeper sofa for the occasional overnight guest, you will want to ensure it is comfortable, but probably more so for while you are sitting, as it will be used more as a sofa than a bed. However, if it will be used to sleep on regularly, you will really want to think carefully about the mattress that is included and how comfortable it is to sleep on. When looking for a sleeper sofa that will be used often, look for one that includes a full-size mattress that is at least four inches thick to ensure its comfort. You may want to refer back to our material/density section above to review which material will be best for your sleeping preferences.
If you are regularly using your sofa bed, you will also want to look into the durability of the upholstery options. There is a wide variety of fabric options available in sleeper sofas, so look for those that are easy to maintain, clean and are durable. Linen is a great option, but you may want to opt for a darker color, as stains on light-colored linen can be tough to remove.
Operating Mechanism
The operating mechanism used for your sleeper sofa is a key consideration as it will add to its ease of use, but also its durability and longevity. There are typically three styles of operating mechanisms on a sleeper sofa:
- Pull out bed/couches
- Easy open
- Click-clack
The pull out couch style is probably the most common as it is very easy to use and stands the test of time; remove the top cushion and any throw pillows you may have. Then, you simply pull the frame forward towards you to extend it, which reveals a mattress. You may have to operate the mechanism from the middle, so you would pull the frame upward and then outwards, which reveals a pair of legs to stabilize the 'pull out' section.
With the easy-open sleeper sofa, you never have to remove the cushion/mattress and because it has a fold-over mechanism, in one swift movement, your frame is open and it easily converts into a bed.
The click-clack operating mechanism is probably the easiest to use; you will commonly find that sleeper sofas with this mechanism allow you to independently operate each side of the back, so you can end up with a chair and a half bed, similar to a twin size bed. Alternatively, you can lower both sides of the seat cushion and create more of a full/queen size sleeping area.
Types Of Sleeper Sofas
Pull-out couches
A pull out bed sofa contains a mattress - most commonly full or queen size, although you can find a king or twin-sized options too. Due to needing to remove the seat cushion and any throw pillows or decorative items, you tend to need more space available in the room in which it is being used. Most pull out couches include a foam mattress as they are much more easily compressed when being folded back into the couch. The best sleeper sofas will feature a memory foam mattress. However, even if you purchase a pull-out couch that does not have your preferred mattress included, the best news is that you can replace it with one of your choices, especially if you want to ensure a memory foam mattress is included.
Sectional pull out beds can sometimes feature a trundle style bed that rolls out of the bottom of the couch, near the front rail. Once fully extended, the framing supports the trundle so that it raises it up to the same level as the cushions on the sofa.
Sofa beds
Sofa beds do not require you to remove anything to convert it. The cushion serves as a mattress also; the cushion fillings on sofa beds are usually foam so that they are comfortable for use while sitting and sleeping. Sofa beds can be considered more of a premium futon and tend to be one of the best options for those who live in small spaces and need to optimize their space carefully while offering storage solutions. They tend to be affordable but also comfortable, so none of that horrible back pain or discomfort can be experienced with certain sleeper sofas.
Futons
Futons are very similar to sofa beds but are much more minimalistic and tend to be on the cheaper side. Many futons feature the click-clack mechanism to operate, so they can be multi-functional and good for those again, who are living in small spaces and do not have adequate space to have a proper pull-out couch. They use a single cushion that is folded to create a sofa or lies flat for use as a sleeper sofa.
Sleeper Sofa FAQ
Q: What are comfortable sleeper sofas usually made of?
As sleeper sofas function as both a sofa and a bed, they need to be comfortable no matter what they are being used as. For this reason, the most comfortable sleeper sofas hold their shape in both positions. A foam mattress is usually best for this, both for durability and comfort reasons. The hard thing about comfort is that we all have different preferences! Pull out couches are usually the most comfortable as you can choose between an innerspring or a foam mattress to best suit your preferences. The best material tends to be a memory foam mattress, and while they do cost a bit more, they are well worth it! A wide variety of sleepers (back, side, stomach, heavy, or light) will find that they are comfortable and well supported on a memory foam mattress. Sofa beds and futons whose cushion acts as both the seat cushion or bed can tend to be made of thicker material, so look for those that are filled with high-density foam for added comfort.
Q: How much back support can I expect from a sleeper sofa?
Sleeper sofas can be notorious for causing back pains and not being supportive enough; while this can be true with some models, particularly low-budget futons, this does not ring true for all sleeper sofas. To help ensure that your back is adequately supported from a sleeper sofa, the first thing you need to do is to ensure that you have the correct sized mattress/cushion. One that is too small won't give you the space you need to sleep comfortably; if it is too short or narrow, you may end up sleeping in a position that compromises spin neutrality. A pull-out couch will allow you to have much more control over the amount of back support it offers, so if you are concerned about your level of support, especially if you are sleeping on it regularly, a pull out is your best pick.
Q: How can I make my sleeper sofa more comfortable?
Plush blankets, throw pillows and even mattress toppers can make your sleeper sofa more comfortable. Mattress toppers are one of the first ways you should consider adding comfort; you can find mattress toppers in a range of thicknesses. Some of the best mattress toppers feature high-density foam and even memory foam. This option is always great if you cannot afford a pull-out couch that contains a memory foam mattress, so you can still get the best of both worlds. You can even consider using a comforter on top of the cushion/mattress to add a thicker layer of comfort. While you won't have as much flexibility with sofa beds and futons, you can replace the mattress of a pull out couch if you find it really is just too uncomfortable.