Last Updated on September 25, 2022 by
A sleeper sofa and a sofa bed differ in terms of mattresses that come with them. While the sofa bed doesn’t come with a traditional mattress, the sleeper sofa comes with an in-built one that is foldable for stress-free use. Besides, the sofa bed is designed to sleep one person while the sleeper sofa is bigger and can accommodate two comfortably.
In this article, we will discuss more distinctive features between the two pieces of furniture to help you make a decision.
Read on!
What Are The Main Differences Between Sleeper Sofas And Sofa Beds?
Although both a sofa bed and a sleeper sofa are flat, they have differences highlighted in the table below:
| Sleeper sofa | Sofa bed |
| It has an in-built mattress that quickly unfolds | Futon-like in appearance |
| I May have a traditional mattress | Have cushions |
Sleeper Sofas And Sofa Bed Sleep Differences
Both sleep sofas and sofa beds can be used for sitting or sleeping. But, sleeper sofas are designed to offer comfortable sleep for two people or more, depending on the size. It has an in-built and foldable mattress that can be unfolded as a bed. Sofa beds are smaller, making their space for sleeping limited, and can accommodate one person only. Again, the sofa bed is less comfortable as it doesn’t come with a traditional mattress.
Advantages Of A Sofa Bed Over A Sleeper Sofa Based On The Differences
The sofa bed has several advantages based on its design, size, and function features.
| Sofa bed | Sleeper sofa |
| Allows combination with other living room furniture to enhance the appearance | Looks like a real bed, hence suitable for bedrooms |
| Primarily found in different sizes and varieties for selection | Available in limited sizes and types |
| Functions as a sofa and a bed | Mainly used as a bed |
Disadvantages Of A Sofa Bed Over A Sleeper Sofa
Despite its good services, a sofa bed also has disadvantages. They include;
1. Uncomfortable
Sofa beds do not provide the absolute comfort you need, especially when sleeping. They are mainly designed for sitting due to their firmness. Therefore, you need to add a mattress on top before sleeping to enhance comfortability.
2. Costly
Most sofa beds are usually expensive. This is due to their two-in-one model, which acts as a seat and a bed. It applies to traditional and current designs, with modern ones being the most expensive.
3. Weight
Sofa beds are heavy and tiresome to move despite enveloping the mattress. The metal framework also consists of more than one piece of furniture that can be folded, thus making it heavier than a sleeper sofa.
How To Use A Sleeper Sofa
A sleeper sofa serves two functions; sleeping and sitting. You can make it appear like a couch, especially when you are not using and you can choose any design depending on your preference. When you want to use a sleeper sofa for sleeping, you first need to set aside the cushions and pull up the bed frame. From there, you can get the beddings on the mattress ready for sleeping.
Advantages Of A Sleeper Sofa
The main advantages of a sleeper sofa include;
1. They Save Space
Some rooms, like guestrooms, are usually small in size. This sleeper sofa is multipurpose furniture that helps you save space by acting as a couch and a bed. Besides, they are foldable to save room during the day.
2. Light
Sleeper sofas are made with lightweight wood and hence easy to move around. This makes it easier to carry from one room to another since they are not heavy.
3. They Are Comfortable
Their mattress is made so that it can be modified to any thickness. It makes you feel comfortable when sleeping on it.
What Are The Disadvantages Of A Sleeper Sofa?
Despite the benefits it offers, it also has some shortcomings. Most sleeper sofas lack an excellent design. Usually, their structures are not very impressive compared to sofa beds. They are also inappropriate for sitting. When sitting on it, you do not get the comfort you need, like a couch. The beds also look like they are sinking a bit. It may cause discomfort to the young ones or the old. Lastly, they are costly. Although these sleeper sofas save you space, they are also expensive. The mattress needed is supposed to be dense, whether sitting or sleeping.
Sleeper Sofa And Sofa Beds – Which Is Better?
| Sleeper sofa | Sofa bed |
| Regular bedsheets can fit | Unsuitable for standard bed sheets |
| Adjustable to prevent back pains | Cause back pain when used for long term |
| It lasts for a minimum of 15 years | Lifespan depends on the maintenance |
| More comfortable to sleep | More comfortable to sit |
In terms of sleeping, a sleeper sofa is the best while for sitting the best is the sofa bed. However, it is always advisable to consider the advantages and limitations of each together with your needs before buying either of them.
What Should One Consider Before Buying A Sofa Bed Or A Sleeper Sofa?
If you have a small room and buying a sofa and a bed separately may congest it, go for a sofa bed or a sleeper sofa. They are efficient in such cases because you can always have a place to sleep and sit.
Consider the following factors when purchasing them.
1. Design And Color
You may need furniture for sleeping, but sleeper sofas and sofa beds are designed like couches most of the time. This means it can be in the living room where you will be spending time with your visitors. Therefore, it is best to consider their color and design to ensure they are attractive and appealing. The color should also match with other items in the house.
2. Sizes
Size is another essential feature to consider when buying furniture. They are available in different sizes, especially the sofa bed. Consider the space available in your house to choose one that will fit well. If you have a lot of space, you can purchase one with three cushions. This ensures adequate space when removing and getting it back to the house. If it can accommodate two adults and still leave more room, go for it, especially for a sleeper sofa.
When the room is too small, you can go for a small one that can be folded. That means you can place it in the corner of the room as a sofa and then unfold it when you want to sleep.
Always take the measurements of your room to compare with those of the furniture. It can help you know the exact size required instead of estimating, which can frustrate you when it doesn’t fit your intended space.
3. Weight Of The Furniture
Unlike the regular coaches, sleeper sofas and sofa beds come as two in one. The sleeper sofa also comes with a mattress. This can make it heavy. That is why furniture is kept in rooms at a lower level in a building with more floors. It may not be easy when taking it to an upper room. You, therefore, need to consider purchasing one with an inflatable mattress.
4. Opening And Closing Mechanisms
Make sure the furniture opens and closes nicely. The opening and closure mechanism should be well fitted not to break at any time. It should not make squeaking sounds when folding or opening. The best way is to choose the lubricated types if you prefer traditional ones.
5. Condition
You should always check the furniture to ensure it is in good shape and does not damage the mattress or cushions, especially if its edges are sharp. Sharp edges can easily brush your beddings, causing them to tear.
Also, check the mattress’s quality and cushions to ensure they are comfortable to sit or sleep on. The mattress doesn’t need to be thicker. You can use a medium size that has good quality. You can test the density of the mattress or cushions by sitting on the furniture before transporting them to your house.
Can Sleeping In A Sofa Bed Be More Comfortable Than Sleeping On A Bed?
The current sofa beds are well made and can give you the same comfort as a real bed. The old-fashioned ones have been done away with, and the new ones are modified. Therefore, there is no significant difference between sleeping on a sofa and a bed.
Where Are Sofa Beds And Sleeper Sofas Mainly Used?
This furniture can be used in many places. They include guestrooms, studios, living rooms, and offices, especially homes. Most guest rooms, flats, and mansions have sofa beds or sleeper sofas to enhance comfort. Other places may also require sofa beds and sleeper sofas for luxury.
Final Thought
There are many differences between sleeper sofas and sofa beds. However, the best way is to weigh the pros and cons of each piece of furniture and look out for the essential factors to consider when buying them. This way, you can make a good decision and end up with the best item in your house, business place, or institution based on your needs.
References:
https://www.thespruce.com/before-buying-sleeper-sofa-1391221
