Frequently asked questions about sofa beds on Mumsnet
Still weighing up your options? You're not alone. Sofa beds are one of the most searched furniture purchases on Mumsnet, and the same questions come up time and again - from whether they're actually comfortable to sleep on, to how much you really need to spend to get one that doesn't leave your guests counting down the hours until morning.*
Below, we've answered the questions Mumsnet users ask most, drawing on real forum discussions and hands-on experience from parents who've lived with these sofas day in, day out.
What is a sofa bed?
A sofa bed is a space-saving solution that quickly converts from a sofa to a bed; ideal for small spaces, occasional overnight guests, and spare bedrooms.
How do sofa beds work?
Depending on the mechanism, most sofa beds pull or fold out, or use a click-clack mechanism to lower the backrest, creating a flat surface on which you can lie. After use, you can simply convert them back to a sofa until their next use.
Are sofa beds comfortable?
Sofabeds are best suited for occasional use, although depending on the thickness and type of the mattress, some are comfortable enough to be used as a longer-term sleeping solution in small spaces.
As OakleyStreetisnotinChelsea shares: “Most are either a decent sofa but rubbish bed or decent bed but rubbish sofa so it depends what your priority is.”
Are sofa beds worth it?
Yes, but it depends on how often you host. If you have guests a few times a year and no spare bedroom, a sofa bed is a practical, space-saving solution that earns its keep in the long run.
Are sofa beds comfortable for everyday use?
Sofa beds are dual-purpose, so while they're unlikely to be as comfortable as a traditional bed mattress, many are surprisingly cosy for short term use.
If using regularly however, you should look for ‘everyday-use sofa beds’ which have sturdier frames and thicker pocket springs or hybrid mattresses for better weight distribution and comfort.
You should avoid cheaper foam-based mattresses, which are designed for more occasional use and can start to dip or feel less supportive over time. The thinner the mattress, the more likely you are to feel the bars or mechanisms below.
What is the most comfortable type of sofa bed?
Pull-out sofa beds with pocket springs tend to offer the best sleep quality, as the thicker mattress means you’re less likely to feel the frame mechanism underneath.
Click-clack designs are more affordable and convenient, but their thinner foam mattresses are better suited to occasional use.
For everyday sleeping, look for a model with a mattress of at least 12cm. Like our top choice in this guide, the Swyft Model 8 Sofa Bed.
Is it better to get a sofa bed or air bed?
A sofa bed wins on convenience and longevity - there's no inflating, deflating, or finding somewhere to store it. For regular guests, the investment pays off. An air bed can work for very occasional, short stays where the budget is tight, but most Mumsnet users find a decent sofa bed far more practical long-term.
How much should you spend on a good sofa bed?
For occasional use, you can get a perfectly serviceable click-clack model from around £275 to £300. If you want something comfortable enough for regular guests - or that doubles as your main sofa - expect to spend upwards of £650, with premium options ranging from £1,350 to £3,895.
What should I look for in a sofa bed mattress?
Prioritise thickness and spring type. A mattress of at least 12cm with pocket or bonnell springs will offer far better support than a thin foam pad, where you're likely to feel the metalwork beneath - particularly uncomfortable for two people sharing. If your budget doesn't stretch to a sprung mattress, a good mattress topper can make a meaningful difference to sleep quality.
About the author
Lucy Cotterill is a mum of two and a Content Writer at Mumsnet, specialising in baby/child and home product reviews and round-ups. Having written reviews on her own blog, Real Mum Reviews since 2012, Lucy loves to research and explore the pros and cons of products, scrutinising expert opinions and consumer feedback to help parents make confident purchases that benefit their families.
Read next: Best mattresses
*mumsGPT conversational analysis, 28 May 2025 to 28 May 2026