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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!

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Customers Count – How one UK Sofabed manufacturer looks after every customer

A lot of craftsmanship, time, care and pride goes into making and delivering our sofabeds. It is always great to hear from the many happy customers of sofabed.co.uk and we are always grateful for the people who take the time to leave us a review. From over 320 reviews, 90% have awarded us 5 stars on Trustpilot – we will keep working hard to achieve perfection.

 

All the sofabeds at sofabed.co.uk are made to order in our UK factory by us.  No cheap imports, just a quality bespoke product.  As well as our sofabeds we make a range of daybed sofabeds Daybed Sofabeds | UK Made to order, box bed such as our best seller the Cheshire Box Bed Cheshire Double Box Bed | Sofabed.co.uk and even storage footstools Storage Footstools | Sofabed.co.uk

 

There is  a small selection of our favourites comments below, but for even more of our reviews checkout out Trust Pilot page sofabed.co.uk Reviews | Read Customer Service Reviews of sofabed.co.uk (trustpilot.com).

 

Great Company to deal with

Samples sent out really quickly. Sofa delivered promptly and efficiently. We ordered from a competitor initially but their was service so poor we had to cancel our order. Sofabed.co.uk is a great example of good service and a good product.

Quality and customer service

Fabulous customer service in the pre order phase helping in understanding options and through ordering process always friendly, courteous and professional on the phone.  The delivered sofa bed is perfect, high quality of materials and manufacturing, comfortable as sofa and as bed. Outstanding, thank you!

Quality sofa bed

Took a chance by ordering a sofa bed online, which wasn’t too difficult. Bed arrived within the 6 week time period for delivery. I was not disappointed. Fits into my spare room/office nicely. The fabric quality is good and the colour ‘sand’ blends well with decoration. Thoroughly recommend this service 5*

Superb service.

Service was first rate. The sofa bed is of a very high standard, and we’re very impressed with it. Communication from the company was great, and they managed to make and deliver our sofa for the date we needed. Delivery to the room was professional and tidy. Cannot recommend them enough if you want a great quality sofa bed.

If only all companies had the excellent…

 after sales service Sofabeds UK have. Any issues are dealt with promptly & with so much courtesy & care. Would highly recommend to anyone shopping for sofas & Sofabeds the quality is amazing.

The story doesn’t end here.  We will continue to design, manufacture and deliver bespoke sofabeds such as the contemporary Milan Sofabed shown in Balmoral Purple fabric

 

 

and manufacture and deliver classically styled sofabed like the Cirencester  sofabed shown here in Windsor Forest fabric

 

 

 

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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.

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Sleeper Sofa Vs Futon Vs Sofa Bed, What Are The Differences?

The idea of having alternative sleeping arrangements for friends, family and other guests to use is one that a lot of people like the sound of. However, there are a huge number of people who do not have the living space or the spare space to make up a full bed frame, guest room or sleeping space.

 

This is where pieces of furniture such as sleeper sofas, futons and sofa beds come in very handy. They offer a much smaller and more space-efficient way of having space for any guests that may want to stay the night.

 

So many people put sleeper sofas, futons and sofa beds into the same bracket. However, they are all completely separate products with their own set of benefits.

 

What Is A Sofa Bed?

 

The most common of all is undoubtedly the sofa bed. A sofa bed is a minimalist convertible sofa that folds out flat and can therefore be used as an alternative sleeping option. Sofa beds often come with a mechanism that allows you to either pull out to reveal your bed or open up your sofa sleeper.

 

As a whole people refer to most similar products such as a sleeper sofa or a futon as a sofa bed, which is not fully wrong. However, sleeper sofas and futons are slightly re-imagined versions of a sofa bed that have subtle differences and can make them more or less appealing depending on what a buyer is looking for.

 

Where people can often become confused with both sofa bed looks and sleeper sofas because a traditional sofa bed does not come equipped with a mattress. Therefore, within the mechanism of the furniture piece, there is no built-in mattress.

Sofa Bed Benefits 

 

Space Saving – Sofa beds are incredibly space efficient and are therefore perfect for individuals who live in smaller spaces such as small apartments or homes. They offer the perfect alternative sleeping space for people who do not have the space for a spare room but regularly have guests that visit and stay the night.

 

Comfortable – Sofa beds and sofa bed mattresses are not just incredibly convenient, they are also incredibly comfortable. High-quality sofa beds make sure that both practicality and comfortability are at the forefront of their design processes. You can also make your sofa beds even comfier by adding toppers, pillows and so much more.

 

Easy To Construct – The transformation process of a sofa bed is incredibly simple and can be done in no time at all. This makes it extremely easy to use, practical and perfect for quickly erecting and putting away in a living room, office spare room or anywhere else you may want.

 

Durability – More often than not sofa beds are made from extremely durable and strong wood or metal frames. This means that they will be able to easily withstand the general wear and tear that both sofas and beds take in everyday life. Whether that be kids sitting on armrests and jumping on the beds, or constantly pulling out and putting away, you can be sure they will last.

 

What Is A Sleeper Sofa?

Beautiful sleeper sofa

 

People often confuse sleeper sofas with sofa beds. However, there are a few distinct differences that separate the two from one another. Being aware of these differences can help you to make a much more informed decision on what you need within your home.

 

A sleeper sofa is a sofa that efficiently turns into a bed, similar to a sofa bed. However, a sleeper sofa has its mattress/sleeping surface and frame concealed within the convertible sofa for ease of use. While this is incredibly practical it does bulk out the size of the sofa and seat cushions and is therefore not the best for small spaces.

 

Sleeper Sofa Benefits

 

Versatility – Sleeper sofas are incredibly versatile. As they have in-built mattresses for their bed section and amazing cushioning for their sofa sessions they can live in any room and work amazingly as either a bed or a sofa.

 

Space Saving – Similar to sofa beds they are an incredibly space-efficient way of creating alternative sleeping options for any guests that you may have to stay. Because of their ability to easily fold out and fold away, they can be used in any space, no matter how small.

 

Convenience – Sleeper sofas are incredibly convenient as they are all-in-one convertible sofas. Within the wood frame or metal frame of the sofa is a mattress that folds out with the bed. This means that you do not have to have any extras to experience extreme comfort. This means that all you need to do is pull out the bed and add your duvets, it’s as simple as that.

 

Aesthetic – Sleeper sofas come in a huge range of styles and upholstery looks. This, therefore, means that you can easily find a stunning sleeper sofa that will perfectly match your home interior and look phenomenal. Sleeper sofas are not just about practicality, they can help to add style and character to your interior.

 

What Is A Futon? 

futon sofa bed

 

A futon is a traditional Japanese style of bedding. However, in the Western world, the term futon is often used to describe a certain style of sofa bed. A quality futon differs from your traditional style of the sofa bed as it has a far more simple one or two-click mechanism that allows the sofa’s futon frame to be very quickly turned into a bed.

 

Unlike a sofa bed or a sleeper bed the cushioning of the sofa sitting position is the very same cushioning used as a futon mattress when the futon is in its sleep position. This can mean that the comfort level of the bed and mattress size is slightly compromised for its practicality.

 

Futon Benefits

 

Space Saving – Futons are incredibly space-saving and are therefore perfect for use in areas and homes where space can be a problem. Futons are also the most space efficient when the bed is laid out due to the fact that they have no headboards, armrests or any other excess features.

 

Ease Of Use – Futons are incredibly easy to use thanks to their one or two-click mechanisms that allow you to set your bed up in seconds. They are also just as easy to put away and are therefore perfect for busy households and amazing for cleaning up.

 

Affordable – Futons are definitely the most affordable option out of the three. Because of their very basic mechanics and basic look, futons are a very cost-effective option for alternative home sleeping options.

 

What Are The Main Differences Between The Three? And Which Is The Best?

 

Although to many people they all will just fall under the bracket of a sofa bed, there are a lot of differences. These differences should always be taken into account when shopping around to ensure that you get the very best value for money out of your new piece of furniture.

 

The most dramatically different of the three would be the futon. This is the most basic form of sofa bed on the market and does not fully conform to the traditional style of a normal sofa. Futons do not feature any armrests and have a very basic mechanism that essentially just folds the back of the seat down to make a simple bed structure.

 

On the other hand, sofa beds and sleeper sofas can be far more difficult to tell the difference. They both have very similar aesthetics when in a sofa style and come in a huge range of different styles and upholstery. However, the main difference between the two would be the fact that a sleeper sofa has a built-in mattress.

 

While this, in theory, sounds like a plus, the mattress is designed to be folded and if you do not get a high-quality sleeper sofa can be very flat and uncomfortable. While traditional sofa beds do not come with a built-in mattress they will typically come with a mattress topper. These are normally thicker mattresses than you will find within sleeper sofas.

 

The answer to the question as to which is best is a difficult one as it is very subjective. it is very important that you know exactly what you are looking for. All three of these styles can be perfect for the correct customer. So ensuring that you do your research will ensure that you get the very best product.

 

High-Quality Sofa Beds At SofaBed.co.uk

 

Welcome to Sofabed.co.uk, the UK’s leading manufacturer of bespoke sofa beds. We stock a huge range of stunning sofa beds such as corner sofa beds, traditional sofa beds and so much more. Check out our phenomenal range today and receive FREE delivery on all mainland UK orders.

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How to Clean a Sofabed

Sofa beds in all shapes and sizes seem to attract a range of different crumbs, toys and small objects due to their frequent use and position in the home. All sofas need cleaning from time to time but sofa beds are even more important to clean for any guests staying over and needing to sleep on them. You should always clean a sofa bed after use and again before the next guest arrives as the sofa part of the bed will have been used in your daily life and gathered dirt. Each sofa bed has its own specific requirements and cleaning process because of its fabric type and material but the basic rules for cleaning them are the same across them all. This blog also contains some top tips from parents around the world if you want to try a tried and tested alternative method.

1.

Remove any loose items from the sofa bed such as cushions or blankets that you may keep on there. Also, try and remove anything that fell into the sofa such as small toys or money. You never know what you might find in a sofa bed- some items found in crevices in other homes include false teeth, snakes and a hedgehog!

2.

If you have any protective removable covers on your fabric sofa to protect from everyday spillages and direct sunlight damage, wash these according to the cleaning codes on their label. Any slipcovers that do not have labels should be taken to a dry cleaner, especially when they are made from delicate materials such as velvet sofas or leather sofas.

Top Parent Tip: I have a sofa with non-washable covers which I got second-hand. I put all the covers through a cold wash and line then tumble-dried them and they are perfect.

3.

Open the fold-out bed safely using these tips and secure it so it stands firmly for cleaning. Remove the mattress protector on the bed and wash it according to the instruction on the label (this is usually a regular wash at around 30 degrees in a washing machine).

An Unfolded Sofa Bed

 

4.

Using the bristle/ brush attachment on a vacuum cleaner, vacuum the surface of the mattress to remove any dust or small particles of dirt, a lint roller can also be used to remove dust and hairs. Sponge any obvious stains on the mattress with a clean microfiber cloth dipped in soapy, cold water. Do this with a damp clean cloth rather than a soaked one to allow the mattress to dry quicker, and press on stains lightly. Then allow the mattress time to dry out completely after the spot-cleaning.

Top Parent Tip: I have recently seen a cleaning “hack”‘ that suggests dissolving a dishwasher tablet in hot water soaking a microfibre cloth in the mix and then wiping your sofa down with that – disclaimer I’ve not tried it!

5.

Close up the sofa bed again into the sofa position so that you can clean the upholstered fabric. Using a regular vacuum, vacuum all of the sofa bed surfaces and any cushions that the covers cannot be removed from. Then re-attach the vacuum brush adaption and remove any lying dirt on the flat surfaces. You will then need the hose attachment of the vacuum to get into the deep creases on the main body of the sofa bed to remove any hidden pet hairs or mites for deep cleaning.

A Sofa Being Vaccumed
Vacuum Your Sofa Carefully

6.

Again, spot-clean any stains but this time on the fabric of the sofa bed according to any care guides it has.  We suggest using an upholstery shampoo or any washable fabric but only a dry-cleaning approved product such as a spray or cloth for non-washable materials. Similar to the technique used on the internal mattress, dampen a cloth with the sustain remover or cleaning solution and blot and stains until they fade. Allow the areas to completely air dry before use.

Top Parent Tip: I have black leather sofas and just wipe them over with water. I was told things like wet wipes would take the colour out of the leather and break it down over time. J cloths and water work just fine on mine

7.

Finally, run a damp cloth over any solid parts of the sofa such as wooden or metal arm ends or legs. Remove any build-up of dust or dirt from the sold areas and then allow them to dry or use a dry cloth to speed this up.  Enjoy your freshly clean sofa bed and welcome any guests with pride!

Top Parent Tip: I was told you can clean leather by mixing equal parts of water and white vinegar and applying it with a soft cloth but I don’t want to risk my sofa bed smelling like a fish and chip supper

Bonus Sofa Bed Cleaning Tips For Those Hard To Clean Stains

Any of these cleaning tips should be tested on a small patch area of the sofa before using over the entire upholstery area.

How To Clean Red Wine Out Of A Sofa Bed

1.
Red wine stains can be removed from your sofa by pouring baking soda over the stain and coating it with vinegar.

Top Parent Tip: A family member got red wine on a pale carpet. They put white wine on it, and it completely went.

2.
Once it has soaked in for a few minutes (it will bubble up a lot – this means it’s working), rinse it with a damp cloth. You will need to repeat these steps until all of the red wine is gone.

Spilt Red wine on a sofa being cleaned using a yellow sponge
Red Wine can be easily cleaned from a sofa

How To Clean Paw Prints Off A Sofa

1.
Let the mud dry before you attempt to clean away muddy paw prints from your sofa, carpet, or other soft furnishings.  The mud will be easier to remove once it is dried, and it will also create less mess when you are removing the stain.

2.
You should remove any dried mud from the stain with a hose attachment on your hoover (to prevent snagging delicate materials) or a soft brush before applying any kind of solution.

3.
You may still find dirt embedded in your soft furnishings even after vacuuming. To remove stubborn bits of mud, use a spoon or dull utensil to loosen the fibres, being careful not to damage them. Using a vacuum once again, clean up the soil after it has been loosened.

4.
There will likely be a stain left behind after your pet jumps right onto your clean couch after a walk, even if you remove the excess mud. Use an old toothbrush and run it under some warm water before dipping it in bleach-free liquid laundry detergent and working it into the stain. After that, let it sit for 10-15 minutes.

Top Parent Tip: Mud is best got out by soaking protective covers in cold water with detergent and then washing. If plain white you could try a soak of dilute bleach or try Napisan.

Two Muddy Paw Prints on White Fabric
Muddy Paw Prints on White Fabric

Muddy Paw Prints on White Fabric

5.
If you want your soft furnishings to look new for as long as possible, mix white vinegar with water. To rinse off soap and mud that’s left behind, dip a cloth into it and blot the stained area. White vinegar and water can be used to remove mud stains as well as doggy odours and urine from soft furnishings.

Top Tip: To prevent any damage to your soft furnishings, dilute the solution before applying it to your couch. Keep your dog separate from the area where you use vinegar for cleaning to prevent accidental ingestion.

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The Best Sofa Beds: The Definitive 2023 Buying Guide

Choosing the right sofa bed for your home is a big decision, but should not be a daunting one. The two main considerations are often style and comfort but are other things that can also play a role.

This sofabed buying guide breaks down everything you may be wondering, whether you’re measuring for a sofabed, learning the best methods of bed care or just deciding what style is right for you. Read on and learn how to find the best sofa bed for your home so guests can have the best night’s sleep possible. 

1. How do you measure for a Sofabed?

There is nothing worse than getting your new sofabed delivered and discovering it is too big or too small for the intended room. To make sure your sofa bed is the perfect fit, we would recommend you to:

  • Measure the length, width and height of where the sofabed will be positioned in your room, accounting for the open size of the sofabed when acting as a supporting bed frame and mattress, as well as noting the position of windows that may need easy access to. Particularly with corner sofabeds, they can at times obstruct access to the windows or blinds.
  • Measure any doors, corridors, pieces of furniture or other structures that might obstruct the sofabed, as many are delivered fully assembled.

All our sofabed model pages feature detailed dimensions so you can get it into your home hassle-free. Our sofabeds are made to order and delivered fully assembled so it is very important that any doors, corridors or other structures you’ll have to get the sofa bed through are measured.

2. What is the best sofabed size?

When it comes to sofabeds, most people will go for a classic two-seater model that contains a small double bed. These are a great choice for any room in the house. You could also go for an upgrade to a wider sofabed, such as a three-seater or chaise, which will give you both a wider seat and a double mattress.

Three-seater sofabed pulled-out in a lit up room
Three-seater sofabed pulled-out in a lit-up room


However, space is at a premium for many people. Spiral staircases, loft conversions, narrow boats, flats and apartments are common places for sofabeds to be used. In these locations, compact sofabeds with no arms or box beds are a great choice for the all-in-one main sofa and sleeping area. In homes where space is not at a premium, box beds can be a great choice for a living room to be used as an ottoman or pouffe.

For even smaller spaces, a single box bed like the Sussex Single Box bed is a good choice. With all the same attributes as a double box bed, it contains a single bed and can be used as a single seat or pouffe.

Sussex single box bed
Sussex single box bed

3. Types of Sofa Bed Mechanisms

There are two main sofabed mechanisms available to buy; a click-clack action and a pull-out action. Over the years, we have had the experience of having manufactured sofabeds with a variety of actions and there are benefits to each type.

Click-clack sofa bed mechanism

A click-clack mechanism is where the seat is slightly pulled forward and the backrest clicks flat to form the bed. This mechanism is the easiest to operate and most space-saving of the two, however, frequent usage of the back will increase the likelihood of wear and tear.

Pull-out sofa bed mechanism

In the pull-out sofa bed, also known as a fold-out sofa bed, the cushions are removed and the bed will pull out from the front of the sofa, lifting the bed from the base. Many sofabed users believe this makes it the best sofabed style as the back remains in place; making it ideal when placed against a wall or in an alcove.

4. Finding the best ‘Sofa’

Sofabeds are often bought for occasional use to go in guest rooms, home offices or other spare rooms. However, in many British homes, the luxury of an extra room is not always common and because of this, overnight guests often stay in the living room. This of course means you need a sofabed needs that is comfortable both as a regular sofa or a sofabed.

Single & Small Sofabeds

Although not the choice for many, a single sofabed can be ideal if you have a low budget and do not want to sacrifice comfort. They are also great if you are working with a small space and need a sofa bed that does not take up a large section of the room. A single-seat cushion fits the bill aesthetically and practically, making a model like the Devon Sofabed an ideal choice.

Single devon sofabed with scatter cushions
Single devon sofabed with scatter cushions

Two & three-seater Sofabeds

The most used type of sofabeds, the two & three-seater take centre stage in the living room as the mantle tieing the room together. Whilst they are heavier than a single, they are easy to tuck away for everyday use and offer a greater level of comfort and support to whoever is sitting. They are naturally heavier to pull out, however, they are the ideal sleeping space if you have two guests.

For soft & squishy double sofabeds, a traditional pair of seat cushions, such as those on the Norfolk Sofabed, fits the bill for many. The back cushion can be fixed, like on the Madrid sofabed, or be cushions, like the Taunton Sofabed. For those preferring a firmer seat, a fixed back might be the best solution.

Two-seater sofabed with scatter cushions
Two-seater sofabed with scatter cushions

5. How to take care of your sofabed?

Sofabeds are designed with functionality in mind and can come in for a lot of use both as a seat and as a spare bed. To keep your sofabed in the best condition possible we have a few handy suggestions.

Arm Caps

Arm caps are a great way to extend the life of your sofa bed. Cut from the same fabric as the sofabed, they blend in perfectly and are shaped to seamlessly sit on the sofabed armrest.

Armcaps on the end of a sofabed
Armcaps on the end of a sofabed

Cushions

Matching scatter cushions are another good option for creating extra comfort and protecting seat cushions. Back cushions are filled with fibre which in time will start to compact if left alone. A good idea is to regularly plump the sofa cushions to maintain their shape and retain their comfort.

Scatter cushions on a sofabed
Scatter cushions on a sofabed

Sofabed Mattress

Unlike a futon, where the mattress is used as a seat and cushion, a sofabed gives you the luxury of a mattress unaffected by daily usage. Depending on the size and type of sofabed, there are many mattress types ranging from standard or pocket-sprung mattresses to latex or memory foam mattresses.

What is the best mattress for a sofabed? Whether you have a single-size or king-size sofabed, it depends on who is sleeping on it. If you have a regular guest that will be using it, it’s a good idea to ask about their mattress preference.

In case your guest is struggling to sleep, a mattress topper can add an extra layer of comfort and support, helping them fall asleep on the now-comfortable sofabed.

Mattress toppers are great for extending the life of the mattress, as it decreases pressure applied on the springs and slows down natural wear and tear. They are also a lot easier to wash than the mattress itself; rather than spending potentially hundreds on professionally cleaning or even replacing it, you can throw the wine-spilt mattress topper straight in the wash with a stain remover and have it back on the sofabed in hours.

All the fabrics on sofabed.co.uk are contract-grade fabrics with a high Martindale rub count. This means that they will last for years to come. As they are made from upholstery-grade man-made fibres they will be naturally resistant to stains. Should something become spilt on a sofabed we would recommend wiping this up immediately and for ongoing cleaning the use of a damp cloth.

6. Types of Sofa Bed: Classic vs Contemporary

Some styles never go out of fashion and others are temporary fads. One thing for sure though is choosing between classic or contemporary is all down to personal preference. It is also possible to make a classical sofabed contemporary by pairing it with a modern fabric.

Some sofabeds, like the Chesterfield, have never gone out of fashion. When paired with a classic fabric they add elegance and style to any room. Others like the Chelsea are bang on trend particularly when covered with vibrant velvet.

Contemporary two-seater sofabed with scatter cushions
Contemporary two-seater sofabed with scatter cushions

7. Sofabeds Made to Meet Your Dreams

Like most household items, sofabeds come in many shapes, sizes, and prices. Some retailers choose to sell cheap imports that are available in one colour, whilst others offer a completely bespoke service down to underside thread count.

Both have their advantages. The off-the-shelf imports are typically cheaper compared to bespoke, how, the benefit of a custom sofabed greatly outweighs the additional costs. At sofabed.co.uk, you choose the model, the fabric, the size and additional upholstery options including whether you want a memory foam mattress or spring type and scatter cushions.

 

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New Fabrics

We are delighted to annonuce the addition of four new fabrics in our popular Tweed range.  Tweed Light Grey, Fudge and Grey are modern tweed that offer a tactile and robust finish that will complement and decor.  As well as these “plain” tweeds we have also added something a little different with a Tweed Herringbone fabric in a light grey finish.  All these new tweeds will look the part on our full range of bespoke manufactured sofa beds.  These new fabrics are in stock now and are available to try before you buy with our free fabric swatch service.

Tweed Fudge Fabric

Tweed Herringbone Light Grey Fabric

Tweed Light Grey Fabric

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The Definitive Sofa bed Buying Guide from sofabed.co.uk

Choosing the right sofabed for you and your home is a big decision, but should not be a daunting one. Two of the main considerations are undoubtedly the sofa beds style and its comfort, but these are not the only things you will need to consider. How will your new sofabed fit into the intended space and how will it complement your existing décor and furniture are equally important considerations. This sofabed buying guide from sofabed.co.uk will hopefully go some of the way to helping you choose the perfect sofa bed for your home.

Measuring for a sofabed
There is nothing worse than getting your new sofabed delivered and discovering it is too big or indeed to small for the intended room. To make sure your sofa bed is the perfect fit, we would recommend that before ordering you measure the length, width and height of where the sofabed will be positioned in your room. This measurement should also take into account the open size of the sofabed when it is acting as a bed. On sofabed.co.uk you will find all these dimensions in the details of each sofabed model.  It is also worth noting the position of any windows that may need to open near the sofabed and any other furniture in the room. All our sofabeds are made to order and delivered fully assembled so it is very important that any doors, corridors or other structures you’ll have to get the sofa bed through are measured.

Different Sofa bed mechanisms
There are a variety of sofabed mechanisms available to buy with the main ones being either a click-clack action or a fold out action. Over the years we have the experience of having manufactured sofabeds with a variety of actions and there are benefits to each type. We believe that the pull out and lift up mechanism is the best solution available. With this type of action the cushions are removed and the bed is then pulled out from the front of the sofa, with the bed lifting from the base. Crucially the back of the sofa remains in place meaning that they are ideal for placing against a wall or in an alcove.

Sofabeds as a seat
Lots of sofabeds are bought for spare bedrooms, studies or other upstairs rooms. However it is becoming more and more common for guests to stay in living rooms and other downstairs rooms. This of course means that your new sofabed will need to be equally comfortable as a sofa and as a sofabed . Every customer has different requirements, which is why we offer an extensive range of models. For some people a single seat cushion fits the bill aesthetically and practically and a model like the Devon Sofabed is ideal. For others a traditional pair of seat cushions, such as those on the Norfolk Sofabed, fits the bill.
The back cushion can be fixed, like on the Madrid sofabed, or be cushions, like the Taunton Sofabed. For those preferring a firmer seat a fixed back maybe the best solution.

Sofa bed care
Sofabeds can come in for a lot of use both as a seat and as a spare bed. To keep your sofabed in the best condition possible we have a few handy suggestions. Arm caps are a great way to extend the life of your sofa bed. Cut from the same fabric as the sofabed they blend in perfectly and are shaped to seamlessly sit on the sofabed arm. Matching scatter cushions are another good option for creating that extra bit of comfort and for protecting the seat cushions.
Back cushions are filled with fibre which in time will start to compact if left alone. A good idea is to regularly plump these cushions helping them to keep their shape and retain their comfort.
All the fabrics on sofabed.co.uk are contract grade fabrics with a high Martindale rub count. This means that they will last for years to come. As they are made from upholstery grade man made fibres they will be naturally resistant to stains. Should something become spilt on a sofabed we would recommend wiping this up immediately and for ongoing cleaning the use of a damp cloth.

What size to choose?
When it comes to sofabeds most people will go for a classic 2 seat model that contains a small double bed. These are a great choice for any room in the house. You could also go for an upgrade to a wider sofabed which will give you both a wider seat and a double bed mattress. For a lot of customers though space is at a premium. Spiral staircases, loft conversions, narrow boats, flats and apartments are all places that sofabeds are bought for. In these locations compact sofabeds with no arms or box beds are a great choice. Box beds can also be great choices for a living room where they can be used as an ottoman or pouffe. For even smaller spaces a single box bed like the Sussex Single Box bed is a good choice. With all the same attributes as a double box bed it contains a single bed and can be used as a single seat or pouffe.

Classic or Contemporary
Some styles never go out of fashion and others are a temporary fad. One thing for sure though is whether you choose a classic or a contemporary sofabed is all down to personal preference. It is also possible to make a classical sofabed contemporary by pairing it with a modern fabric. Some sofabeds, like the Chesterfield, have never gone out of fashion. When paired with a classic fabric they add elegance and style to any room. Others like the Chelsea are bang on trend particularly when covered with a vibrant velvet.

Made to order or off the shelf
Like most household items sofabeds come in many shapes and sizes and also in many prices. Some retailers choose to sell cheap imports that are available in one colour, whilst others offer a bespoke service. Both have their advantages. The off the shelf import has one obvious advantage it is cheap. Bespoke manufactured sofabeds maybe more expensive, but the benefits can greatly outweigh the additional costs. Being able to choose the model, the fabric, the size and the optional extras make for a sofabed as individual as the customer.

So there you have it the complete guide to choosing the best sofabed that will last you for years to come.

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Buy Direct From The Manufacturer– You know it makes sense!!

Whenever you make the decision to buy something, from the smallest impulse buy to larger considered purchases, such as a sofa bed, you have the choice to buy in many different ways.  You can buy direct from the manufacturer, from a retailer or from a distributor and that is before we even get into online and offline purchases!

Although all three options can offer different advantages and experiences, we believe that buying direct from the manufacturer, like www.sofabed.co.uk, offers you the greatest benefits. When you buy direct there is every chance you will get a better product at a better price. So when it is time to buy a sofabed we think that there are at least 6 reasons to consider buying direct from www.sofabed.co.uk.

  • There is no middle-man involved when you buy direct. Online retailers, distributors and high street shops have numerous expenses that they pass on to the customer. Buildings, employees, advertising and transport all need to be paid for. These extra costs inevitably get incorporated into the end price. At sofabed.co.uk we have no partner retailers to pay we have a factory and a website, that’s it. This means our costs, and our prices are always low.
  • When you order an item from the manufacturer, there are a lot less companies involved in its distribution meaning it is much more likely to get to you in top condition. At sofabed.co.uk we either deliver ourselves or via our online carrier. Either way it is a 2 man
  • Product miles are a key issue for the whole planet and buying local has never been more important than it is right now. When you buy from a local manufacturer you know that your new sofabed has not been shipped around the world. The sofabed only need to be transported from the factory to your house.
  • As you are buying direct from the manufacturer your product is made to order to your specification. With sofabed.co.uk you choose the style of sofabed, the fabric, the mattress, if you want arm caps, how many scatter cushions you want and even if you want an extra wide sofabed.  It truly is your sofabed your way.
  • Buying British makes sense. co.uk is a true British manufacturer.  We have 2 factories one in Cheshire and one in Staffordshire.  We buy all our raw materials such as wood, foam, fibre and fabric from UK based businesses. So as well as helping to support the British staff we employ, you are helping to support the staff in our supply chain.
  • When you buy from a retailer that sources its products from overseas there is a huge time lag between order and delivery.  Also should there be any issues with your order it take an age to rectify.  When you buy direct from a small manufacturer you can be assure of a quick turn around.  At www.sofabed.co.uk we manufacture and deliver our sofabeds in only 28 days.  Also should there be an issue we try to remedy the situation straight away.

So there you have it 6 great reasons to buy direct from the manufacturer.