There are certain things you need to keep in mind when shopping for a sofa bed.
1. Size
Not only do you need to consider the size of the sofa itself, but also the amount of space that will be needed to have the bed out. You will also need to remember that any tables or ottomans in front of the sofa will have to be moved to let out the bed, so you will want them to be as light as possible to make it easier.
2. Construction
Since the sofa bed will have moving parts, it is important to double-check all of the frame and mechanism. The legs and joints should be blocks and glued, not screwed or stapled. The moving mechanism should pull out and push back in smoothly. Make sure that the mounting plate on the moving mechanism is bolted into place, not screwed. The bed frame should be made of large-diameter steel tubing to prevent dents and bending. The upholstery should be sturdy enough to handle the movement required of pulling the bed in and out on a regular basis.
3. Comfort
Even if you intend to use your sofa bed more as a bed (or vice versa), you will need to make sure that it is comfortable both as the sofa and as the bed. Sit on the sofa at the corners and in the middle. You should feel firm support no matter what section you sit on, no sagging in the middle. Let the bed out and lie down on the mattress. It might be helpful to take someone who will represent the heaviest person that might use the bed, since they will sink further and may feel the support bars that a lighter person would not notice. Just like on the seat surface, you want there to be firm support all the way across the bed so that sleepers will not feel like they are rolling in toward one another.
A sofa bed can offer style, comfort, and convenience. Just make sure that it is of a long-lasting quality to ensure your happiness and your guests' comfort.
About The Author:
Daisy Zachery has worked on many decorating projects in apartments, condos, and mansions. In her line of work, she has provided potential sofa buyers with a colorfully illustrated gallery of the latest sofa designs in the market and key tips in finding the right sofa. For more information on sleeper sofas, come visit her site at http://www.sofaideas.com