About Sleeper Couches

A sleeper couch is a popular option, especially if you do not have a guest room. A sleeper sofa can allow you the space to accommodate guests without requiring additional space in your home. Many manufacturers produce sleeper sofas in their living room collections, allowing you to match a sleeper to your loveseat, chair and ottoman. You can also find smaller scale sleeper options, including loveseats which make a full size bed and chairs that fold out to a twin size.

History

The sleeper couch, also called convertible sofa and sofa bed, was first manufactured in the 1930s and 1940s. A sleeper couch was a practical choice when homes were small and several generations often lived together. The early sleeper sofa typically had thin mattresses with limited padding. Some sofa beds simply collapsed to lay flat while others had a thin mattress and frame folded inside the structure of the sofa.

Types

If you are shopping for a sleeper couch, you can choose from several types. Today, many furniture lines offer a sleeper option on all of their sofas. With this option, you can simply choose the sofa you want, and order it as a sleeper couch. Typically, you will remove the couch cushions and lift the bed out of the sofa to set it up for sleep. The futon is another common type of sleeper couch, consisting of a wooden frame and a cotton or wool futon mattress. A futon typically collapses to lie flat, making it a quick and easy choice for regular use. Sizes range from twin to king.

Considerations

When choosing a sleeper couch, one key consideration is the mattress. If you expect your sleeper sofa to be used by guests, choose one with a thick mattress to create a comfortable sleeping surface. You can replace the mattress, but this can be costly. The same criteria is relevant for a futon. A thicker futon creates a more comfortable and more durable bed for you or your visitors. If at all possible, lay down on your sleeper sofa before purchasing it.

Benefits

Many people are opting to use that extra bedroom as a home office, gym or craft room. A sleeper sofa can work well in these rooms and allow you to use the space as you see fit. For a small room, choose a smaller scale sleeper couch, like a loveseat or chair. In a small home, a sleeper couch in the living room may allow you to host friends and family that you otherwise could not.

Warning

There are some drawbacks to the sleeper couch. It is typically very heavy and difficult to move. If you routinely rearrange your home or move from place to place, you may find that a sleeper sofa is not ideal. You will also need to allow enough space in front of the sleeper couch for the bed to be unfolded--however, easily moved furniture is not a problem. A sleeper sofa is more costly than standard couches, and if you will not use the bed, you may find that a typical sofa works better for your needs.

Resources

• Top 10 sleeper sofas according to Apartmenttherapy.com