sofabed Archives | Sofabed.co.uk

Posted on 6th February 20256th February 2025 by Paul Aldridge — Leave a comment

How to pick the perfect fabric for your sofabed – Our 5 top tips to choosing the right sofabed fabric and colour for your home.

Choosing the style of sofabed you want is an important decision, however an equally important a decision is picking the perfect fabric to upholster it in. Sofabed.co.uk are the UK’s favourite sofabed manufacturer and have over 130 different fabrics to choose from so the options are vast. From the elegance of Sandringham Velvet to the tactile warmth of Chatsworth Boucle we have a superb range. So what you probably need is a little help with selecting the right fabric for your home and in making a daunting task that little bit easier.

So here we have our 5 top tips to help you make up your mind and find the perfect fabric for your home.

Will you still like the colour in years to come?

A sofa bed is an investment that should be part of your home for 10 years or more. So, making sure you get the fabric in the colour and texture you will like for years to come is crucial. Whilst painting your walls and changing some cushions and other soft furnishings can be done relatively easily, the likelihood is your sofa bed will remain with you for the long-term. So its important to bear this in mind when selecting the colour and make sure it’s one you’ll be happy to live with for the foreseeable future.

Timeless neutral colours are always a good choice that will keep your sofabed on-trend as the years pass by. Fabrics in tones of grey can also work. Not only are they available in a plethora of shades and textures, but they are always on trend. So, grey can be a wise choice of fabric colour if you want your sofabed to have an elegant timelessness. As it is such a neutral choice grey will continue to work if other colours in the room change over time. So should you decide to change your cushions, carpets or walls a grey sofabed will still fit perfectly.

If you are still deciding on a fabric to upholster your new sofa bed in then our free swatches page is the perfect place to start. Here you can select up to 5 free fabric samples that we will post out to you free of charge. Not only will this allow you to see the colour of the fabric it will also allow you to feel the texture.

Which room is the sofabed going to be located in?

When it comes to choosing sofabed fabrics a real important consideration is what room the sofabed will be used in. A lot of sofabeds are for spare bedrooms and its important that they match the décor of a guest room. Warm natural shades will be perfect for this environment. Other sofa beds are used as a spare seat and occasional guest bed in a home office. Her the more formal class of Buckingham Faux Leather fabric might be a better choice. The final place that sofabeds are often seen is in the family living room. In this environment the sofabed will come into almost daily contact with people and pets so needs to be a durable fabric with a high rub count. Something like the Balmoral range which is durable and tactile would be perfect. A colour that is darker but neutral might also be a good choice as it will not easily mark.

How much use will the sofabed have as a sofa?

Some sofabeds are hidden away in spare bedrooms or in the corner of a home office and are used as an occasional bed for guests a few times a year. They are though hardly ever sat upon. So the durability and colour of the fabric matter less from a wear and tear perspective. In contrast other sofabeds will be in living rooms and other areas of the house with high traffic volumes. For these sofabeds they will spend most of their time as a sofa rather than as a bed. In this instance the choice of fabric needs to be considered carefully. High usage by people and pets mean that a warm, durable and darker fabric would be a good choice.

Does the fabric fit in with your lifestyle and home?

One of the most important considerations when it comes to selecting the right fabric is knowing who the main users of your sofabed will be. Of particular importance is if the sofabed will be used every day or if it is a occasional use seat. If it is going to be used regularly then it is important that the fabric has a high rub count. In simple terms this means how many times it can be rubbed without wearing out and showing signs of age. This is especially important if your home has pets and children who will naturally cause the sofabed to receive a lot of wear.

So, if your sofabed is going to be used on a regular, even daily basis, it would be a good choice to go for durable and hard wearing fabrics such as Balmoral or Blenheim. Both ranges combine a lovely tactile feel with durability.

Is the fabric the right style for your taste?

Wherever you place your new sofabed in your home (the lounge, the guest room, or a spare bedroom), it is really important that the fabric you choose complements the rooms existing décor.

So, if your room has a traditional style and elegant velvet, like Sandringham Velvet would be a perfect match. If the velvet is married with a traditional model of sofabed such as the Dewsbury or the Chesterfield, even better. Another timeless fabric that sits well with traditional homes is Highgrove. Featuring a traditional pattern it is a lovely choice for traditional sofabeds and Chaise longue sofabeds such as the Cambridge Chaise Longue sofabed. This is because the shape and style of your sofabed should also complement the fabric type you choose.

If a contemporary house or room is more your vibe then contemporary fabrics might be the better choice for you. Boucle fabrics are currently bang on trend. Chatsworth Boucle definitely follows this trend and is a perfect choice for modern homes when teamed with a modern sofabed style such as the Milan or the.

So there you have it. Five top tips for choosing the perfect fabric that will complement your new sofabed and your home. Finally here is a sixth tip for free. Why not take advantage of our free swatch service by ordering 6 free fabric swatches so you can try you fabric before you buy. https://sofabed.co.uk/free-fabric-swatches/

As always if you want to know more or have any questions call our team on 01606 594404.

Posted on 27th September 202427th September 2024 by Paul Aldridge — Leave a comment

Yellow is the new Black – Sofabeds upholstered in Yellow Velvet are all the rage

When we think of home furnishings, and in particular sofabeds, many fabric colours and tones spring to mind as the perfect choice for the upholstery fabric. For some it could be the classic neutral shades, a pallet of creams and beige. Another choice might be the ever popular variants of grey that will fit with virtually any rooms décor. However, one choice that might not immediately come to mind is yellow and in particular yellow velvets. A bold and contemporary choice for sure but not necessarily an obvious one, particularly in older more traditional homes.

This though is definitely a trend that is of the moment. At sofabed.co.uk we have a selection of 27 different sofabeds, boxbeds, corner sofabeds and daybeds. To complement this, we have a selection of over 130 fabrics that the customer can choose from. As we make all these models to order in our own UK factory in the customers choice of fabric, the combinations of model and fabrics runs into the thousands. From these thousands of choices there is one fabric that we are seeing customers choosing more and more Yellow and in particular Sandringham Velvet Yellow. This luxurious fabric works beautifully with more traditional tones, but seems to come into its own in the vibrant yellow colourway.

One model that is consistently ordered upholstered in the Sandringham Yellow fabric is the Chelsea sofa bed. The Chelsea is a contemporary sofabed with angular arms that have integral cushions that perfectly suit the yellow velvet fabric.

It is not just sofabeds that are upholstered in Sandringham Velvet yellow fabric, its boxbeds too. The Cheshire double boxbed is the perfect combination of ottoman and sofabed. As well as being a great footstool or spare seat it contains a double bed folded into the base.

The Cheshire Double Box Bed is the smallest 2 seater sofa bed we offer and it will fit virtually anywhere. So, if you have a narrow doorway, spiral stairs, an awkward passage or even a caravan or canal boat, this could be the perfect solution. Although the Cheshire Double Boxbed is our most compact model to feature a small double bed it is manufactured exactly the same way as our larger more traditional two seater sofabeds.

The Gothenburg Sofa bed is an armless contemporary compact sofabed that will comfortably seat 2 people. It is an excellent choice for small spaces as it can be manoeuvred upstairs easily. The Gothenburg Sofabed is supplied fully assembled and ready to use features a fully upholstered solid wooden frame with a foam seat cushion. The modern styling of the Gothenburg make it a perfect combination with the modern yellow velvet fabric.

As well as contemporary sofabed designs Sandringham Velvet Yellow can work with tradionally styled sofabed. And it does not come much more classic than a Chesterfield. Our Chesterfield sofabed has confirmed itself as one of our top selling models for years and years. The Chesterfield Sofa bed features a fixed back, scrolled arms, and solid wooden bun feet. It works well with virtually any fabric, however it looks particularly appealing in Yellow Sandringham Velvet.

The Chesterfield Sofabed has a fully upholstered solid wooden frame with a foam back and two foam seat cushions. Like all our sofabeds the Chesterfield is made to order, in your choice of fabric, in our UK based factories. The Chesterfield Sofa bed is supplied fully assembled and is immediately ready to use. To transform from a sofabed to a sofa, simply remove the seat cushion and fold out the sofabed action. Once folded out the sofabed becomes a small double bed, which is ideal for guests and sleepovers. The bed is composed of a foam mattress sitting on a trampoline base, thus mimicking the feeling and comfort of a fully sprung mattress. As you can see from the picture below it looks perfect in one of our customers homes.

So, there you have it, four completely different models all in Sandringham Velvet Yellow fabric. So yellow might well be the new black, especially if it is Yellow velvet and the stunning range of sofabeds from sofabed.co.ukeds that is.

Posted on 21st June 202421st June 2024 by Paul Aldridge — Leave a comment

How Sofa Beds are Secretly Saving Marriages and Friendships During the 2024 Euros

Ah, the 2024 Euros. A time of jubilation, nail-biting excitement, and, if we’re being honest, a smidgen of domestic disruption. But fear not, dear reader, for the humble sofa bed is here to save the day—and your relationships. Yes, you heard it right. This seemingly unassuming piece of furniture is the unsung hero of the football season, quietly working its magic to keep the peace and ensure everyone gets a good night’s sleep. So, let’s dive into the delightful ways sofa beds are preserving harmony in households across the nation during this year’s Euros.

The Ultimate Friendship Saver

Picture this: England has just scored a last-minute goal, and your living room is filled with jubilant (and slightly tipsy) friends who aren’t quite ready to brave the journey home. The solution? Your trusty sofa bed. Rather than sending your mates packing into the night, you can offer them a comfortable place to crash. Not only does this ensure they stay safe, but it also earns you the coveted title of “Best Host of the Year.” And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want that?

The Silent Sneak-In

For those who enjoy the camaraderie of the pub but have a spouse who values their beauty sleep, the sofabed is a lifesaver. Instead of risking the wrath of a woken partner, you can tiptoe back into your living room and settle in for the night. It’s a win-win situation: you get to enjoy the match, and your better half remains blissfully unaware of your late-night antics. Plus, there’s something rather thrilling about a covert mission to your own sofa bed, wouldn’t you agree?

Space-Saving Marvel

Let’s not forget the practical side of things. A sofa bed is a brilliant space-saver, ideal for homes where a guest room is but a distant dream. It’s perfect for accommodating extra bodies during those spontaneous post-match sleepovers without sacrificing comfort. And, when the tournament’s over, it effortlessly reverts to its daytime role as the living room sofa. It’s like having a secret weapon against clutter and chaos.

Household Euro Related Stats

Did you know that during major football tournaments, break-ups increase by 20%, sick days by 15%, and hospital admissions (mostly due to over-enthusiastic goal celebrations) by 10%? It’s true! But imagine the decrease in domestic disputes if everyone had a sofa bed. No more arguments about disturbing the kids or waking up partners; everyone gets a good night’s rest, and relationships remain intact.

Anecdotes from the Field

Take it from John in Manchester, who swears his marriage was saved by his sofa bed during the last World Cup. “I’d come home late, too excited to be quiet,” he recalls. “But with the sofa bed, I could watch the post-match analysis and then sleep downstairs. My wife was none the wiser, and our mornings were argument-free!”

Or consider Emma in London, whose impromptu Euro-themed parties would be impossible without her sofa bed. “It’s been a game-changer,” she says. “Friends know they can stay over, and we all enjoy the matches without any stress about getting home.”

The Sofa Bed Solution

So, whether you’re hosting friends, sneaking back from the pub, or just trying to keep the peace, a sofabed is your secret weapon this Euro season. It’s the perfect blend of practicality and comfort, ensuring that everyone gets to enjoy the football without the usual household disruptions. Here’s to happier homes and harmonious relationships, all thanks to the trusty sofa bed. Cheers!

So what are you waiting for? Head over to www.sofabed.co.uk and make sure you’re prepared for the Euros. Your marriage (and your friendships) will thank you!

Posted on 25th April 202425th April 2024 by Paul Aldridge — Leave a comment

Boxbed vs Sofabed – What is the right choice for your home?

A picture of our Cheshire double box bed in the closed position

Sofabeds have been around for years and are a great combination of a guest bed and extra seating – what’s not to love? Sofabeds come in traditional and contemporary styles and in thousands of fabrics and colours. So it is no surprise that they are found in thousands of homes up and down the country. However, sometimes you might want that extra bed, but would prefer to not have something as large as a sofa in your room. In this case a boxbed might be the answer you are looking for. So what is a boxbed and how does it compare to a traditional sofabed?

In simple terms a boxbed has the style and look of an Ottoman or large footstool yet inside the base it contains a fold out sofabed action. A great combination of a compact seat and a guest bed. Depending on the fabric chosen a boxbed works well in a study, spare bedroom, living room or in almost any room in the house. The other big advantage is that the boxbed has no arms so will fit through the narrowest of doors and passages. This makes a boxbed a great choice for lofts, apartments and studio flats that might not be easy to fit a traditional sofabed into. The boxbed can be tipped on its end and will fit through any opening easily. So lets have a look at some of the options for boxbeds that could be the perfect choice for your home.

Some boxbeds contain a small double mattress and some are even more compact and contain a single bed in the base. One top seller that contains a small double bed is the Cheshire Double Boxbed. Made to order in the UK the Cheshire box bed features a simple contemporary design that will complement any décor. The lid has a deep foam top that makes it a practical seat. The base contains the sofabed action that easily folds out to create a guest bed. The Cheshire Double Boxbed really is a versatile item of furniture as there are several options available to suit your requirements. There is a wide version that increases the bed from a small double to a standard double. Another alternative is to change the sofabed action to a more robust hotel action. All these options are available made to order in a choice of over 130 fabrics. From Faux Leather to velvets and textured plains there is a fabric to suit your homes style.

Cheshire Box bed shown in Sandringham Velvet Grass Fabric

Cheshire Double boxbed in Balmoral Midnight fabric

For single boxbeds the perfect choice is the Sussex Single boxbed. Similar in design to the Cheshire Double boxbed it has a more compact design. As the name suggests the Sussex contains a single chairbed action rather than a double sofabed action. As a seat it has the style of a pouffe or small ottoman and it is made to order in the UK in a large choice of fabrics.

Sussex Single Box bed shown in Balmoral Fudge Fabric

So there we have it a few great ideas of boxbeds that will make a great addition to your home and a viable alternative to a traditional sofabed.

Posted on 18th August 202318th August 2023 by Paul Aldridge — Leave a comment

Perfect Sofabed Posture: The Guide For A Restful Sleep

A sofabed is great whenever you need a guest bed for a friend or family member to rest on, neatly blending into the living room or home office. They are also incredibly convenient multi-purpose piece of furniture that works wonders in a studio apartment or other small space where you’re limited on room.

However, like with any bed, the way you sleep has a big impact on your body and can leave you with a lasting ache that doesn’t want to go away. From your sleeping position to the sofabed design, several things impact your sleeping and sitting posture when using a sofabed. Read on to find out the best ways to maintain good posture when using a sofabed.

What is the best way to sleep on a sofa bed with good posture?

When sleeping on a sofabed, bad posture can arise from many things including the mattress being too firm, feeling the bar, feeling the coils and even the position you sleep in.

The best way to sleep on a sofabed depends a lot on what naturally works best for you, whether down to personal preference or a medical condition, each position has its benefits. This being said, the best way for consistent sleep posture more often than not is on your back as it promotes healthier back alignment and reduces pressure on your limbs, neck and back.

man sleeping on back

Sleeping on your back:

It can be very hard to sleep on your back, especially if you have a soft mattress, however, there are many benefits that make training yourself worth it. Sleeping on your back allows your head, neck, and spine to rest in a neutral position, which reduces the risk of developing muscle pain and tension headaches.

Find the right pillow and neck support

Having a pillow that is both comfortable and supports your head and neck in a natural position is essential for a good night’s sleep. Foam and memory foam pillows are typically a great choice as it allows your head and neck to rest in a conformed position.

Make sure that your head is not over-elevated as that can end up making things worse. A simple trick some people use to avoid this is rolling up a towel and placing it underneath your neck, allowing you to align and not overextend your body.

Lumbar Support

Another way to sleep on your back with ease is to place a lumbar roll or pillow behind your lower back to support the natural curvature of your spine. As there is less pressure, your body is also less likely to roll over, helping you maintain good posture while sleeping on a sofabed.

Not everything will work for you, and finding support can often be a trial-and-error process. It’s important to remember to listen to your body and make any necessary adjustments so you can have a well-rested and dream-welcoming night’s sleep.

It is possible to sleep on a sofabed on your side, however, this can require space-taking tools such as body pillows.

What is the best way to sit on a sofabed with good posture?

Sitting on a sofabed for a long time can often lead to a slouched posture, becoming entranced by what’s on the screen in front of you. One simple and relaxing way to correct this poor form is to place a cushion behind your lower back as an acting backrest, to help maintain your spine and natural curve.

man sitting on sofa holding aching neck

Along with a back cushion, another good way to reduce strain on leg muscles is to place a cushion underneath your knees and have them in a slightly flexed position. Sitting with your feet up for a long time, whether on a recliner or laying parallel, will place strain on your back and neck as your body is in a flexed position, so it’s a good idea to move your position as frequently as possible to maintain a good posture. Make use of the armrests that are available to you; they’re there for a reason and aid in alleviating stress on your back.

Some other ways include using it to just sleep; instead of sitting up on it whilst watching tv or reading, only open the sofabed come the time you need to sleep.

For the best posture possible, only use the mattress section when sleeping and the sofa section for non-sleeping activities such as tv or reading.

Come bedtime, when you need to open up the sofabed, it should be done in the correct way to avoid any potential back strain. Check out our step-by-step guide on how to do so safely.

What are the best stretches for good posture?

As it can take a few weeks to perfect your sleeping posture, you may be feeling sore longer than you had expected. There are a few stretches and exercises you do before and after sleep that will help you feel as refreshed as possible:

Bear hug (reduces pain and discomfort in your upper back)
Kneeling lat stretch (relieving pain and discomfort in your back and shoulders)
Low lunge (stretches hips, thighs and groin)
Legs-up-the-wall pose (reduce tension in your back, shoulders and neck)
Neck stretches (reduce tension in your head, neck and shoulders)
Reclining bound angle pose (reduce tension in your hips and groin)
Seated forward bend (reduce tension in your spine, shoulders, hamstrings and lower back)

What are the best sofabeds for posture?

At sofabed.co.uk, we customise your sofabed to give you the best sitting and sleeping experience possible. Choose from over 130 upholstery fabrics and optional scatter cushions to create a comfortable seat that fits the style of your living room perfectly.

All of our sofabeds are made to last, whether you need a box-style, chaise, or 3-seater sofabed, you can do so with confidence. Our standard foam mattresses are 70mm thick and designed with high-quality materials, giving whoever is sleeping a good night’s rest. If you require extra support, the upgraded pocket-sprung mattress gives you a 10cm thick mattress that can support a heavier weight load. The mattresses can be changed after purchase, so if you find yourself wanting to upgrade, just drop us a call and the team will be happy to assist you.

Posted on 28th November 2022 by Paul Aldridge — Leave a comment

How To Choose The Right Sofa Upholstery Fabric

A question we’re often asked is “What is the best fabric for sofa upholstery?” and it’s a great question. As we know, most homes have a sofa. But with so many different choices of fabric to choose from, how do you know which fabric is right for your sofa? In this post, we’re sharing our top tips to choose the best fabric for sofa upholstery.

Before we begin, let’s take a look at what exactly upholstery is.

What is upholstery?

Upholstery refers to the fabrics used to make up the soft coverings of sofas, chairs and other pieces of furniture. These fabrics hold 3 main characteristics which we will be discussing below.

How to choose the best upholstery fabric for your sofa

When choosing a fabric for sofa upholstery, there are 3 main things to keep in mind:

Practicality
Aesthetic
Budget

1. Practicality

The sofa will be used and sat on, therefore should be practical for your requirements. Some fabrics may be visually appealing, but not right for your needs.

For example, if the sofa will be placed in a living area where people will be sitting on it every day, it will need to be more comfortable. Whereas a bedroom sofa that is more to fit the aesthetic and may not be sat on regularly does not have to be as comfortable.

Similarly, if it’s a family sofa you need that children or pets will be using, you will need a sofa made from tough, durable materials that are easy to clean. So if you’re wondering what sofa fabric is best for dogs, leather is a great choice. However, it shouldn’t be smooth leather, as this will easily get scuffed. It should be leather with a distressed look.

Questions you should ask yourself when considering the practicality of your sofa upholstery fabric include:

Where will the sofa go?
Who will be sitting on the sofa?
Is the fabric comfortable for its recipients?
Will children or pets be around the sofa?
How easy is the fabric to clean?
How durable is the fabric?

2. Aesthetic

Along with comfort and practicality, it’s important for your sofa to match the look of your home. Our customers regularly ask us which sofa is best leather or fabric, and the answer is it completely depends on what you require.

A leather sofa is ideal for homes with a classic interior, whereas a fabric option like velvet sofa upholstery fabric will complement rooms with a modern, luxury aesthetic.

To find a sofa fabric that will match the look of your home, you should consider:

What type of aesthetic does the sofa destination have?
What type of vision do you have for the room?
Do you want your sofa to look luxurious, modern, classic or traditional?

3. Budget

Some sofa upholstery fabrics are more expensive than others. For instance, faux leather and Sandringham velvet cost an additional £100, whereas tweed comes in at £75 and Chatsworth boucle at £150.

Balmoral is the perfect choice for those on a budget, as it is completely free of charge. Balmoral is available in over 20 colours including coffee, fuchsia and slate. The Kensington collection is another affordable choice, at £50 and available in 10+ colours and patterns.

With over 130 fabrics to choose from here at Sofabed.co.uk, we have a fabric fit for all budgets. For more information on the price of sofa upholstery fabrics, give us a call at 0160 659 4404 to speak to a member of our expert team.

We’ve now covered the 3 main areas to consider when choosing a sofa upholstery fabric. Below are some extras to look out for.

Other things to take into account are:

The sofa model itself
Sofa colour
Sofa pattern

Which sofa upholstery fabric is right for you?

You should now have an insight into how to choose the best fabric for sofa upholstery.

At Sofabed.co.uk, all our sofa beds are handmade from scratch, so you can choose the fabric and colour that suits you. With over 130 to choose from, there really is a fabric for all requirements. Check out our fabrics page to see all available options and click here to order up to 6 fabric swatches free of charge, so you can see how the material will look in the comfort of your home.

Each sofa bed model is handcrafted at one of our 2 UK factories and we deliver your sofa bed fully assembled to your house for FREE. So there’s no need to worry about assembling the model or paying high delivery costs.

If you have any questions about sofa beds, please don’t hesitate to ask our expert team. Our team has all the knowledge and know-how of our products and is always happy to help, however we can.

In the meantime, please check out our 5-star TrustPilot reviews and give us a call if you have any questions.

Posted on 28th November 202216th March 2023 by Paul Aldridge — Leave a comment

A Guide To The Types of Sofa Bed Mechanisms

Sofa beds are convenient, affordable ways to maximise your space, however there are different types of sofa bed mechanisms, which can make it hard to choose which is right for you. We’re looking at the sofa bed mechanism types, how they work and the difference between the 3 main sofa bed mechanisms.

But first…

What are sofa bed mechanisms?

Sofa bed mechanisms are, essentially, how sofa beds ‘open’ and transition from a sofa to a bed. Every sofa bed will have one of three opening mechanisms.

The 3 Sofa Bed Mechanism Types

The 3 main types of sofa bed mechanisms are:

Pull out
Easy open
Click-clack

Pull out sofa beds

The most popular type of sofa bed mechanism, pull out sofa beds do exactly what the name suggests. To open a pull out sofa bed, you must first pull out the frame from the centre. A pair of legs will come down and you can place them on the floor.

Our Chesterfield Sofabed is a great example of a pull out sofa bed and is one of our best-selling models. To transform the Chesterfield from a sofa into a bed, simply remove the seat cushions and then pull the frame out and towards the floor. It will instantly become a small double bed, ideal for guests and sleepovers.

A picture of our Chesterfield 2 seater sofa bed in the closed position — When it is ‘closed’ the Chesterfield 2 seater sofa bed is a small and comfortable seating area

A picture of our Chesterfield 2 seater sofa bed in the open position — When it is ‘open’ the Chesterfield 2 seater sofa bed becomes a small double bed

The Chesterfield Sofabed is a great choice for guest bedrooms. The pull out mechanism makes it extremely straightforward to transform the sofa into a bed, so your guests won’t have to worry about opening and closing the model.

What’s more, the Chesterfield can be customised to your choice of fabric and colour, making it the main attraction in any room. All our sofa beds are created from scratch, enabling a truly personalised sofa bed for each customer.

Made up of a foam mattress on a trampoline base, the Chesterfield sofa bed truly mimics the feeling of a fully sprung mattress, so a good night’s sleep is never far away.

Another popular pull out sofa bed is the Hereford Sofabed. This sofa bed is sure to fit into any area and looks particularly appealing in velvet fabrics. Faux leather is another popular fabric choice for the Hereford sofa bed and gives it a sleek, modern look.

A picture of our Hereford 2 seater sofa bed in the closed position — In bed mode, the Hereford 2 seater sofa bed is a sleek, stylish seating area

A picture of our Hereford 2 seater sofa bed in the open position — In bed mode, the Hereford 2 seater sofa bed becomes a cosy, spacious double bed

The seamless pull out mechanism means overnight guests can quickly and effectively transform the sofa into a bed, so they could be snoozing away within minutes of entering the room.

In sofa form, the Hereford is a lavish, comfortable seating area and when ‘open’, the model becomes the same size as a small double bed, ready for overnight guests. The Hereford sofa bed oozes luxury; it is visually appealing, extremely comfortable and completely efficient. With the Hereford bed, every guest is sure to experience a comfortable night’s sleep.

Pull out sofa beds are versatile and adaptable, and are commonly used in living areas and guest bedrooms. As the most popular type of sofa bed mechanism, pull out sofa beds can easily be placed in any environment.

Most pull out sofa beds out there tend to be of poor quality or not quite what customers want. However, ours are custom-made to fit your requirements and are made to last.

Easy open sofa beds

Swift and efficient, easy open sofa beds can be opened with one quick motion. The cushions are attached directly to the sofa so there is no need to spend time removing them one by one.

To open an easy open sofa bed, a person must simply pull the top of the cushion forward towards the floor and voila – your bed awaits. The bed will practically unfold itself, so there is no need to spend extensive periods of time lifting and pulling the sofa bed from different sides.

Our Tiverton Sofabed is easy to open and could have guests dreaming away in minutes. The sofa bed features a cushion back and has a sleek, contemporary design to fit the modern aesthetic.

Handcrafted in the UK, the Tiverton sofa bed is a great match for the Blenheim and Chatsworth ranges.

The Tiverton sofa bed is guaranteed to save time, as it’s easy open mechanism means guests can open up the sofa bed, hop in and start dreaming away. All guests are sure to experience a great night’s sleep when they stay in the Tiverton.

With 3 fibre back cushions and 2 foam seat cushions, the sofa bed is a comfortable, contemporary classic, ideal for living areas. Leading a true double life, the Tiverton makes a stylish sofa by day and a dreamy bed by night.

Easy open sofa beds like the Tiverton are perfect for regular sofa bed users requiring an efficient, time-saving choice. The model has it all – comfort, practicality and aesthetics. It’s a real win-win-win.

Most easy open sofa beds generally tend to wear out after a few uses and do not prioritise comfort. At sofabed.co.uk, all our sofa beds consist of a foam mattress on a trampoline base, that effortlessly mimics the comfort of a fully sprung mattress.

We know our customers deserve nothing but the best, which is what we aim to provide, every time.

Click-clack sofa beds

The third and final type of sofa bed opening mechanism, click-clack sofa beds tend to be the most affordable type of sofa bed, due to their minimalist design. The design of a click-clack sofa bed is not a sofa with a pull out bed – no, these sofa beds are first beds and next function as sofas.

When opening a click-clack sofa bed, you will need to first push the mattress forward. Once you hear a click, you can push it back until it lays down flat. These sofa beds are compact, affordable, and the best choice if you are on a low budget.

Where the cushions of an easy open sofa bed are attached to the sofa, those with a click-clack mechanism have no cushions whatsoever, saving you even more time.

Our Sussex single box bed is a great choice and, as our smallest piece of furniture, is specifically suited to small areas. This box bed will fit virtually anywhere and is ideal for caravans, canal boats and narrow doorways.

With its small footprint and click-clack mechanism, the Sussex single box bed is our most affordable sofa bed, catering to a range of budgets.

A picture of our Sussex single box bed in the closed position — In sofa mode, the Sussex single box bed is a small, stylish seating area

A picture of our Sussex single box bed in the open position — In bed mode, the Sussex single box bed becomes a small single bed that seems to appear from nowhere!

Although the Sussex single box bed is compact and affordable, make no mistake – this sofa bed does not compromise on quality and is manufactured exactly the same way as our larger 2 seater sofa beds. With no arms, this box bed takes up minimal space, so there is no need to squeeze past – instead, you can freely stroll by.

The Sussex bed has a straightforward design, with no cushions allowing for an easy transformation. Customers wanting matching cushions can upgrade and add a maximum of 4 scatter cushions to their single box bed.

Click-clack sofa beds are ideal for those on a budget or needing a small sofa bed. These models are great sofa beds for small spaces and are custom-made in our Cheshire and Staffordshire factories. At sofabed.co.uk, all our sofa beds are made from scratch, allowing you to create a tailored sofa bed in the fabric of your choice. It couldn’t be easier to create the sofa bed of your dreams.

Which type of sofa bed mechanism suits you?

We’ve shared the 3 main types of sofa bed mechanisms. Be sure to check out our complete range of contemporary sofa beds to find the right fit for you.

All of our sofa beds are handcrafted directly by our skilled team. We dispatch them ready-made and will deliver them to your house for FREE. So there’s no need to try and assemble them on your own.

What’s more, our sofa beds are available in over 130 fabrics and colours for you to choose from. Check out our fabrics page and order up to 6 fabric swatches here free of charge, so you can see how the material will look in the comfort of your home.

In the meantime, please check out our 5-star TrustPilot reviews and give us a call if you have any questions.

Posted on 28th November 2022 by Paul Aldridge — Leave a comment

The Different Types Of Sofa Beds Explained – & Their Characteristics

We’ve come a long way from the traditional basic sofa bed – today, there are several types of sofa bed options. We’re taking a look at the different types of sofa beds out there, along with the benefits and differences of each model.

Let’s dive right in.

What makes the different types of sofa beds different?

Sofa beds all pretty much serve the same purpose. They’re convenient sofas that can transform into comfortable beds for sleeping. But the models can have different setup options, sizes, and functional uses.

Some sofa beds are smaller and transform into small single beds, whereas bigger models can transform into spacious double beds that fit 2 or more people. Moreover, some double up as living room sofas, whereas others as pouffes or ottomans.

Below are the different types of sofa beds and their characteristics.

The different types of sofa bed

There are several types of sofa beds available to buy. The types of sofa bed include:

Box beds
2-seater sofabeds
3-seater sofabeds
Classic sofabeds
Contemporary
Corner sofabeds
Daybeds
Click-clack sofa beds
Foam fold-out sofa beds
Storage sofa beds
A-frame sofa beds
1-part metal action
3-part metal action
Pull out & lift up
3-fold roll out

Read more in our guide to the different types of sofa bed mechanisms here

1. Sofa Bed Box Beds

The smallest type of sofa bed available, box beds resemble something more of an inconspicuous pouffe when the bed is folded away.

Box beds are very popular for areas with limited space. Various sizes are available, including for single and small double beds. But the true appeal of the box bed is its suitability for restricted spaces.

A picture of our Cheshire double box bed in the open position — The Cheshire double box bed springs into a comfortable double bed when ‘open’

The compact size of box beds allows them to easily fit through small, narrow doorways and they are a great choice for lofts and spiral stairs.

Good to Know:

Is your space limited at home? Read our guide on the best sofa beds for small spaces for some expert advice for our personal favourites.

2. 2-Seater Sofa Beds

By day, the 2 seater sofa bed plays a comfortable seating area and by night, it transforms into a small double bed, ideal for one guest.

2 seater sofa beds are perfect for areas with space restrictions and fit right into living areas. With the hidden mechanism, no one will know your luxury sofa can instantly spring into a cosy bed.

2 seater sofa beds are also great choices for guest bedrooms or permanent bedrooms that require an extra bed.

A picture of our Cirencester 2 seater sofa bed in the closed position — When it is ‘closed’ the Cirencester 2 seater sofa bed is a seating area for 2

A picture of our Cirencester 2 seater sofa bed in the open position — When it is ‘open’ the Cirencester 2 seater sofa bed springs into a cosy double bed

3. 3-Seater Sofa Beds

The 3 seater sofa bed seats up to 3 people when in sofa form. Once transformed into bed mode, it sleeps 2 or more people, making it perfect for sleepovers.

This is a more spacious option than the 2 seater and the extra space means multiple guests can stay over. 3 seaters sofa beds can also fit in any bedroom, however they are more popular in living areas due to their size.

4. Classic Sofa Beds

Classic sofa beds never go out of style. Popular all year round, these sofa beds have a classic design that stands the test of time. These models have been around for years, yet remain a firm favourite with customers.

If you’re unsure which type of sofa bed to go for, the classic is always a great choice. The sofa will remain stylish in 1 month as well as 1 year. Alternatively, for a modern take on the classic sofa bed, customers can opt for modern velvet in brighter colours. All our sofa beds are made from scratch, so can be completely customised to your fabric and colour of choice.

A picture of our classic Dewsbury sofa bed in the closed position — When it is ‘closed’ the classic Dewsbury sofa bed is a majestic area to sit

A picture of our classic Dewsbury sofa bed in the open position — When it is ‘open’ the classic Dewsbury sofa bed becomes a spacious, comfortable double bed

5. Contemporary

Chic and on-trend, contemporary sofa beds become the focal point in any area. Combining modern design with practicality and build quality, our contemporary sofa beds look like they’re straight from a magazine.

These sofa beds are known for their stylish designs and cater to rooms that fit the modern aesthetic. Contemporary sofa beds liven up living areas, modern home offices and bedrooms.

A picture of our contemporary Keswick sofa bed in the closed position — When ‘closed’ the contemporary Keswick sofa bed catches your eye as a stunning seating area

A picture of our contemporary Keswick sofa bed in the open position — When it is ‘open’ the contemporary Keswick sofa bed transforms into a delightful double bed

6. Corner Sofa Beds

Displaying an ‘L’ shape, corner sofa beds are great statement pieces of furniture. They are ideal for having lots of guests over and when transformed into a double bed, are perfect for large sleepovers, too.

Suitable for living areas, corner sofa beds truly maximise your living room furniture, providing great aesthetics, comfort and efficiency. Our Chester Corner Sofabed is a great example, with a contemporary design, and double bed built-in.

A picture of our Chester corner sofa bed when closed, in its sofa form — In sofa form, the Chester corner sofa bed is a statement piece of furniture

A picture of our Chester corner sofa bed in the open position — In bed form, the Chester corner sofa bed makes a large cosy double bed

7. Storage Sofa Beds

Just like the name suggests, storage sofa beds offer added storage facilities. These sofa beds are extremely practical, offering you a sofa, a bed and storage space all in one.

These sofa beds come in various different forms and are perfect for those that are limited in space or don’t have enough areas to store their items.

8. Daybeds

Daybeds are contemporary alternatives to traditional sofa beds. Stylish, comfortable and efficient, the day bed is great for lounging around in the daytime and doubles up as a comfortable bed with foam mattress or pocket sprung mattress for night-time, too.

Daybeds are especially convenient for people with mobility issues or struggling with stairs. They make a stylish seating area during the day and a comfortable sleeping area at night.

The daybed can also be used as a bench next to windows or at the foot of the bed. Folding out to the size of a small double bed when open, these sofa beds are perfect for any guest room or study.

Combining a seating area and a guest bed in a fashionable and cosy way, the daybed is the modern choice of sofa bed in 2022 and beyond.

A picture of our Stockholm daybed sofa bed in the closed position — When it is ‘closed’ the Stockholm daybed sofa bed is a unique bench or seating area

A picture of our Stockholm daybed sofa bed in the open position — When it is ‘open’ the Stockholm daybed sofa bed springs into a complete double bed

9. Click-Clack Sofa Beds

Click-clack is a type of sofa bed mechanism. These models first function as beds and sofas second. Click-clack sofa beds are easy to assemble and are some of the most affordable types of sofa bed.

To transform a click-clack sofa bed, you must first push the mattress forward. Once you hear the click, you can then push it back until it lays down flat.

This type of sofa bed is small and compact, making it easy to carry up spiral stairs. The affordability of click-clack sofa beds comes at no compromise to quality, as these models are created in the same factory as our larger sofa bed options.

10. Foam Fold-Out Sofa Beds

Foam fold-out sofa beds are among the easiest types of sofa bed to assemble. With these sofa beds, the seat is essentially a section of mattress that is folded over.

To transition a foam fold-out sofa bed to its bed form, you can simply fold out the seating section and that’s it – you’re good to go. Neither you nor your guests will need to spend time lifting or arranging parts of the sofa bed. Instead, you’ll be all set to tuck yourself into bed and get a good night’s sleep.

11. A-Frame Sofa Beds

A-frame sofa beds require you to move the back of the model, not the seating part. The bed is then made level by the ‘A-frame’ structure that supports the folded out section.

12. 1-Part Metal Action

As the name suggests, this type of sofa bed requires one swift move to transform the sofa into a bed ready for sleeping in. 1-part metal action sofa beds simply require you to pull out the frame and it will do the rest itself. It will even fold away the sofa cushions, saving you precious minutes that can be spent sleeping.

13. 3-Part Metal Action

This type of sofa bed requires 3 singular actions to transform the sofa into a bed. Although it takes slightly longer to assemble than a 1-part metal action, a 3-part metal action sofa bed is still an efficient choice, requiring users to simply remove the seat cushions and fold the mattress out.

14. Pull Out & Lift Up Sofa Beds

A pull out sofa bed does exactly what it says – it pulls out. These sofa beds don’t require much work to assemble – the trolley will roll out from under the seats, pushing them outwards and upwards. Pull out sofa beds are really easy to use and make it easy for guests to set up and nod off in no time.

15. 3-Fold Roll Out Sofa Beds

With 3 fold roll out sofa beds, the mattress is stored directly underneath the cushions. You will need to remove the cushions and simply pull on the mattress. It will then transform into a bed with retractable legs that you can pull toward the ground.

Which types of sofa beds take your fancy?

Hopefully, by now you’re familiar with all of the different types of sofa beds, and you have an idea of the sofa bed that’s most suitable to your living arrangements.

If you have any questions about sofa beds – anything at all – please don’t hesitate to ask our expert team. All of the sofa beds you see here are made by us, directly. We dispatch them ready-made and will deliver them to your house for FREE. So there’s no need to try and assemble them on your own.

Plus, they’re available in over 130 fabrics and colours for you to choose from. For more information, check out our fabrics page and click here to order up to 6 fabric swatches free of charge, so you can see how the material will look in the comfort of your home.

In the meantime, feel free to check out our 5-star TrustPilot reviews and give us a call if you have any questions.

Posted on 18th October 2022 by Paul Aldridge — Leave a comment

Sofabeds the perfect solution for Christmas guests

Christmas might be the most magical time of the year, with its great food, parties, and lots of family time. However, as well as all those lovely presents Christmas brings other things into your home like extra house guests. So, if you want to avoid the headache of where your friends and family are going to sleep it could be time to start planning now. Yes it might be early, but this is no last minute decision. A little planning now and you have one less thing to worry about nearer to the big day.

Unless you are fortunate enough to live in a mansion the chance are that you have a limited amount of rooms and beds in your home. You could be planning on putting up a tent in the garden or asking grandma to sofasurf. Not ideal! A better solution is to invest in a quality sofabed. Then not only do you have an extra bed you also have extra seats, a win win if ever there was one.

Which sofabed to choose is quite the conundrum. Luckily at sofabed.co.uk we have a selection of top quality sofabeds that could be just the thing. They are all available direct from the manufacturer and are made to order in your choice of fabric. Even better all sofabeds ordered before 21^st November are guaranteed to be made and delivered in time for Christmas. We will try hard to deliver any sofabeds ordered after this date but we cannot guarantee it. So here we have some great choices of sofabeds to add to your home to keep those Christmas guests happy.

1 Living Room Style

The style of sofabed you choose for a living room is that little bit different to those that you may choose for other rooms in the house. If your living room is a traditional room you might want to choose from our Classic range of sofabeds https://sofabed.co.uk/classic-sofabeds/. Models such as the Chesterfield https://sofabed.co.uk/product/chesterfield-sofabed/ and Dewsbury https://sofabed.co.uk/product/dewsbury-sofabed/ could be the perfect choice. Even better they will mean you have a couple of extra seats for the daytime as well as an extra bed for the night.

The Winchester Sofabed a great choice for Traditional Living Rooms

2 Spare Room Sofabeds

For many families the fourth bedroom is a spare room. Yes you could put a bed in the room full time, but then you cannot use the room for much else when there are no guests. A better solution is a small sofabed that allows the room to also be used as a study, hobby room or play room. Sofabeds with arms such as the Gothenburg https://sofabed.co.uk/product/gothenburg-sofabed/ and Madrid https://sofabed.co.uk/product/madrid-sofabed/ are perfect for this and as they are made to order the fabric can suit any décor.

The Madrid sofabed shown in Balmoral Olive Fabric

3 Apartments

More and more people are now living in apartments, studios and flats, contemporary living at its finest. By their nature these are homes where space is at a premium, so a traditional extra bed is not an option. A box bed is one of the most compact sofabeds there is and will fit in the smallest of spaces. When the Cheshire Box bed https://sofabed.co.uk/product/cheshire-double-box-bed/ is combined with a modern fabric it is perfect for apartments, studios and flats.

Box Beds perfect for Apartments

4 Built to last

With many things in life you get what you pay for, and sofabeds are no different. You can buy cheap imports available in any colour, as long as it is black, or you can choose a quality alternative. With sofabed.co.uk you have the comfort that you are dealing direct with the manufacturer and cutting out expensive middlemen. Not only that you are buying from a genuine UK business that makes everything right here in the UK.

So there you have it our solution for peaceful happy Christmas guests.

Posted on 30th September 2022 by Paul Aldridge — Leave a comment

The Best Sofa Beds For Small Spaces & Tiny Rooms

In this article, we’re going to pick the best sofa beds for small spaces. A lack of space at home is a problem almost everyone can relate to. But with our sofa bed ideas for small spaces, you’ll be able to find the right blend of convenience, style, and affordability.

So let’s jump right in.

‘Bed in a box’ seats

The very smallest sofa beds are what we call ‘Box beds’. As their name suggests, they are literally box seats that double-up as a bed. When the mattress is tucked away, they sit inconspicuously in any room as a convenient, comfortably-cushioned seat.

In fact, box beds are so small that there’s virtually no living space they can’t inhabit. You can carry them up spiral staircases, or slot them into caravans and canal boats no problem.

Our smallest box bed, the Sussex single box bed, has a total height of 45cm and width of 87cm — and unfolds neatly into a foam, mattress with a bed size of 188cm x 69cm.

For a box bed/2-seater hybrid, the Cheshire double box bed is great for two sleepers. It has the breathing space of a small double, making it ideal for guest-sleepers or for special occasions. This is another one that meets the challenge of even the tightest spaces. Including narrow doorways, spiral staircase, and caravans. Making it truly one of the best sofa beds for small rooms (in our opinion) — and very stylish, too!

2-Seater sofa bed ideas for small spaces

2-seaters are ideal for couples both sitting and sleeping. They’re naturally some of the more compact models available on the market to buy.

2 seaters are ideal for studies, ‘box rooms’, and flats where space is limited. And with a proper foam sprung mattress, guests can crash but sleep comfortably all night long.

A great 2-seater to think about is the Madrid sofabed. This model has no arms — making it a breeze to twist and turn on tight staircases and to shuffle down into confined spaces. Without arms, you don’t have to worry about snagging yourself on them as you squeeze past.

A picture of our Madrid sofabed in the closed position — Without arms, our Madrid sofabed is even more accommodating in tight spots

As a seat it has a total width of 140cm, but once opened out, it reveals a beautiful 188cm x 119cm small double that sits on a trampoline base, with the feel of a fully sprung mattress.

A picture of our Madrid sofabed in the open position — Simply remove the seat cover and fold out the sofabed action, and you have a small double bed for guests to sleep on

This Edinburgh sofabed has a more familiar, contemporary design. Indeed it wouldn’t look out of place in any living room. It has all the deep comfort of a ‘typical’ sofa — two people will melt into the seat and back cushions. But lo and behold, by removing the cushions, it can soon be transformed into a small double bed with a foam mattress and a luxury feel.

A picture of our Edinburgh sofabed in the closed position — It looks like an ordinary sofa, and it feels like one too. But hidden underneath is a very comfortable small double bed.

The gorgeous Edinburgh 2-seater bed is the same size as a small double bed as standard (188cm x 119cm) but there is the option to upgrade to a standard double bed size (188cm x 139cm) if you have that little extra room to spare.

A picture of our Edinburgh sofabed in the open position — The Edinburgh small double bed in all its glory.

Compact daybeds for small spaces

‘Daybed’ is a funny word, because it essentially is another word for ‘sofa bed’. As a piece of furniture, they’re great for daytime lounging and nighttime sleeping. And like their sofa bed counterparts, they’re available in compact shapes. Making them ideal for tiny rooms or tight spots.

This Copenhagen daybed can sit up against any wall in any tight spot, where it can easily be converted into a small double bed. It comes with a foam mattress that feels sprung. But you can upgrade it to a true pocket sprung for a little extra.

A picture of our Copenhagen daybed in the closed position — This Copenhagen daybed will make a fine edition to any small living space

The Copenhagen daybed is perfectly fine to use for permanent sleeping and is ideal for small rooms — such as a child’s or a teenager’s bedroom.

A picture of our Copenhagen daybed in the open position — This Copenhagen daybed is a great fit for both lounges and bedrooms

We had to include this gorgeous contemporary York daybed because it has a truly distinctive shape and feel to it that oozes luxuriousnes. For people stuck on space but not wanting to settle for anything less, the York daybed is ready to impress in your apartment, study or lounge.

A picture of our York daybed in the closed position — The York daybed is one of our personal favourites, as it radiates with beauty that is unlike anything else.

Featuring curved arms and no back cushion, the York daybed will fit in the tightest of spaces. Choose the fabric and colour you want so that it becomes a focal point in your room.

A picture of our York daybed in the open position — As you can see, the York daybed still retains its gorgeousness even as it unfolds into a double bed

Expert Comment

“Any sofabed is a large investment so it is essential that you make the right choice for you and your home. With this level of investment it is important to know where your new piece of furniture is made and who the company you are dealing with is. You could choose an online retailer that buys from all over the world, or you could choose a genuine UK manufacturer. At sofabed.co.uk we manufacture all our sofabeds in our own UK factory in the customers’ choice of fabric. So not only are you enjoying competitive prices, you are getting British build quality and peace of mind that you are dealing directly with the people who make your sofabed.”

Steve Hamblett • MD • Sofabed.co.uk

Inspired by these sofa beds for small spaces?

You’ve just seen some of our favourites. But be sure to check out our complete collection of compact sofabeds to see all of the sofa bed ideas for small spaces we have on offer.

All of the sofa beds here are made by us, directly. We dispatch them ready-made and will deliver to your house for FREE. So there’s no need to try and assemble them on your own.

Plus, they’re available in over 130 fabrics and colours for you to choose from. Check out our fabrics page and click here to order up to 6 fabric swatches free of charge, so you can see how the material will look in the comfort of your home.

In the meantime, please check out our 5-star TrustPilot reviews and give us a call if you have any questions.