A sleeper sofa is a multifunctional piece of furniture that can be converted from a seat to a bed in a few easy steps. These sofas are designed to provide comfort and are the perfect alternative to storing an extra mattress or bed. Further, you can easily find a space-saving sleeper for a small apartment or a king-sized sleeper. These pieces are perfect when you want to have guests over.

Sleeper sofa versus sofa bed

The key difference between both multifunctional seating options is the mattress. Most sofa beds resemble futons; it is a kind of furniture that lays flat to form a bed and lacks a conventional mattress.

Factors to consider when buying a sleeper sofa
Purpose: How you intend to use the sofa should dictate the kind of piece you buy. Will it primarily be for your convenience, or do you want to use the living room as an extra bedroom for guests or family members? The sofa can also be used as an additional seating option. Further, consider the kind of mattress you want, as you could go for ones with springs and memory foam, depending on your requirements.

Size: When choosing a sleeper, you should consider the room’s measurements, especially when the sofa is fully extended.

Weight: Unlike a standard sofa, a sleeper comes with a mattress, making it much heavier as a result. The living room on the lowest level of a multi-level house is generally the best place for these pieces, as moving the sofa can be challenging if you want to place it in an upstairs bedroom.

Cost: You should opt for the sofa that fits your budget as the prices can vary depending on the material and size. You can find a reasonable sleeper for about $600. A high-end queen-sized sleeper or huge sectional sleeper could be expensive and cost anywhere between $1,000–$5,000. However, do not compromise on the quality by going for cheaper alternatives. Further, you can look for holiday deals and discounts on websites and at stores to avoid overspending on a sleeper.

Build quality and warranty: Nobody wants to spend money on furniture that does not last for a long time. Based on the frequency of use and the durability of different materials, pick a sofa that can withstand stains and rough use, especially if you have kids and pets around. It is also important to consider the warranty period and terms before buying a sofa. As with all furniture, investing in a premium-quality item is advisable. Nevertheless, an ideal sleeper will survive for decades, and many sleepers have over a 10-year structural warranty.

Popular options
Leather sofa: You can go for an all-leather option that is more resilient than fabric upholstery and is relatively easier to clean. You can find different colors and styles for genuine leather. Further, opting for minimal-style sofa legs and sturdy options that can support two or more people is ideal. The best leather sleeper sofa can offer a sophisticated appearance and design, as well as a cozy seating and sleeping area depending on your requirements.

Full-sized sleepers: Most sleepers can comfortably hold two people. While you can find all kinds of double mattresses, a full-sized one is a popular choice. You can choose from the best full-size sleeper sofas that fold out as comfortable beds for tiny spaces. For bigger spaces, you can pick a king-sized mattress so that your guests don’t feel cramped when the sofa is converted into a bed. However, even the best king-sized sleeper sofa can dwarf the room or the furniture in the living room. So consider the dimensions before opting for this size.

Memory foam sleeper: While sleepers might be less comfortable than beds, you can achieve optimum sleep if you opt for a memory foam mattress in a sleeper. The cushy memory foam can work wonders for the back and be a great sleeping aid. However, the best memory foam sleeper sofas can be expensive as they offer better support than other sleepers. Nevertheless, the material can help avoid discomfort caused by metal supports and the sleeper’s frame, which is a common complaint for these furniture pieces. You can also opt for a memory foam topper if you are looking for a cheaper alternative.

Before purchasing a sleeper, do not forget to test it for comfort when the mattress is folded out and when sitting on the sofa. Also, check the cushions and backrest to ensure you pick a soft, sturdy, yet cozy option for your home.