Convertible Sofas are More than Fancy Couches

Convertible sofas are basically couches that convert to function as a bed. They are a really useful piece of furniture to own if you have company over for the night, or because the kids think it's cool to pull out and sleep on for a sleepover, or for any other reason for which you might need an extra bed. They have a reputation for being somewhat heavy and cumbersome, and this is not altogether undeserved . Some designs do tend to be heavier than most regular sofas for the obvious reason that they have lots more metal, and many designs have a mattress engineered into it. Even given their heft, they are still a piece of furniture well worth considering. In fact, many of the modern versions have gotten away from the traditional pullout styles and gone to more of a lay-down style. So let's take a closer look.

First of all, convertible sofas are affordable and functional. Since you are getting two pieces of furniture in one, you are getting double bang for your buck. Some of these sofas have arm rests with mechanisms that release, allowing them to fall down and away, thereby extending the useable length of the sofa. The tall ones in your family will appreciate this. These can also be ratcheted to different angles so they can be used as a head rest, or put all the way down for a totally flat surface. Another great feature that some of these have is a ratcheting back that lays down easily to convert it to a fully useable bed surface. No pullout mattresses to deal with on these, so you get a lighter and equally versatile piece of furniture.

Convertible sofas may not make the most comfortable beds in the world, and they may not actually be the best option if that is what you are looking for. They are not designed to be a Serta or Simmons, or to be used every night. However, most are acceptably comfortable for a sofa bed, and I have actually slept very comfortably on them before. Long gone are the days of the dreaded metal bar in the back from sofa beds from years gone by.

Speaking of comfort, please do yourself and your guests a favor and recognize that the materials used in covering convertible sofas make a huge difference in how they feel. Nobody likes trying to sleep on a surface that gets too hot during the night. Materials like vinyl tend to trap one's body heat and moisture, and can be pretty lame to try to sleep on unless properly covered. Mattress covers or even a spare blanket under the bottom sheet can solve this problem.

Of course, opting for fabric or upholstered coverings are equally subject to problems like scratchy or rough textures. Again, the proper covering can solve most of these issues. The best thing to do is pay attention to these sorts of things when you are choosing the right sofa bed for you. A little diligence at the front end will pay off handsomely in the long run. Thankfully, there are plenty of really comfortable coverings to choose from so finding convertible sofas that are a pleasure to sit and sleep on should be no problem.

Convertible sofas are unique, stylish, affordable, convenient and comfortable, and with a little shopping around, you can find the perfect one for your home.