Sofa bed or futon for 6 months in a small space?

[Lowenna1469]

DS2 has just moved to a small studio flat. Presently sleeping on camping mats but as he has to be alert for work in the morning, that can't go on for much longer. I'd like to help him with the cost of a futon or sofa bed or some such - nothing too big as his studio room isn't huge and it's up a flight of stairs. Nothing too pricey either - neither of us has a lot. He's there for 6 months so something ideal for eg a sleep over might not be appropriate.

Would a futon or sofa bed be preferable? I've no experience of either. If anyone's got experience or recommendations, I'd be pleased to hear!

Ikea lyksele is a compact pull out small double bed that is surprisingly comfortable for sleeping. It's quite ugly and not comfy to lounge on as a sofa tbh but as a bed it's the best sofabed I have ever slept on. There's usually some going cheaply on 2nd hand sites or Facebook marketplace. You could probably buy a 2nd hand frame for 50 and get a new mattress from IKEA for 80-100.

Sofabed Barn in Bradford (they deliver anywhere). Lots of smaller options as they supply canal boats as well!

Thank you for such swift responses! Am looking at Sofabed Barn right now and will then head to IKEA. I'm really grateful for this advice. Fortunately, DS isn't too bothered - and he's bound to sleep well as after work every day, he'll be going for long walks as he's moved to a small country town with brilliant walks all around. But I'm hoping we can find something that won't do any harm to his back for the six months he's there.

Futons are awful. Sofa beds every time!

My tip for sleeping permanently on a sofa bed (I slept on one for about 18 months) is to add a memory foam mattress topper over its own mattress.

@ArblemarchTFruitbat

My tip for sleeping permanently on a sofa bed (I slept on one for about 18 months) is to add a memory foam mattress topper over its own mattress.

Yep, was going to suggest this. Buy a good one in a normal double size - even if that's slightly bigger than the sofa bed mattress. There is often room at the sides for it to fit and it means it can be reused on a standard bed in the future.

I second @Jenjenn suggestion. I have one in my tiny spare room and it us surprisingly comfortable.