Updated : January 20, 2025
Published : January 20, 2025
Guides

When buying a sofa bed, most people consider how comfy it is to sit on or how quickly it transitions into a bed for last-minute sleepovers. These are valid points, of course. But the type of fabric your sofa bed is made from is just as important. And it’s often overlooked until everyday life puts it to the test. Fidgeting guests, tossing and turning all night is the last thing you want.

The material of your sofa isn't just about looks; it’s the surface that takes on your life. It’s where kids plop down with sticky fingers, pets stretch out like they own the place, and those crumbs from late-night snacks inevitably end up. Day after day, your sofa bed handles the hustle of home life without a break. From spills and stains to just being your go-to relaxation spot, the fabric plays a starring role in how well your sofa bed fits into your life.

Here are some sofa bed materials you can consider for your living room.

Cotton

Cotton is one of the best fabrics for sofa beds, especially if you live somewhere with a warm or humid climate. It’s naturally breathable, which keeps you cool and comfortable. Other fabrics can trap heat, but cotton always feels light and airy.

What’s even better is its versatility. Cotton can look totally different depending on the style you choose — sleek and modern in a solid colour, playful and bold with patterns, or even cosy with a textured weave. It adapts easily to your room's vibe, whether that’s a minimalist studio or a lively family space.

However, cotton fabrics are sensitive to prolonged sunlight exposure, which can cause fading over time. To retain its look, place your sofa bed in a shaded area or use curtains to manage the amount of direct light it gets.

One thing to watch out for is stains, as cotton isn’t naturally resistant to them. Opting for a patterned fabric can help disguise small marks, or simply choose a removable, washable cover so you won’t have to stress about everyday spills or accidents.

Linen

If you can’t stand the look of a creased sofa, linen might be a challenge. It wrinkles — a lot. That said, the wrinkles give it a lived-in, comfortable feel that some people love. Linen sofa beds are lightweight, breathable, and have a natural feel that suits warmer climates. The texture can range from smooth to slightly rough, adding a bit of character to the room.

Linen is tough enough for daily use. It holds up well in busy homes with kids or pets, and over time, it softens, which only adds to its comfort. It’s low-maintenance when it comes to cleaning, but it’s not the kind of fabric you’ll want to leave too exposed to stains or dirt. It may take a little extra care, but linen’s timeless, relaxed vibe makes it worth the effort.

Velvet

Velvet offers a rich, upscale vibe that makes any sofa bed a statement piece. When light hits it, the colours reflect beautifully, giving depth and vibrancy you don’t often get with other materials. Sophisticated? Absolutely. But is it practical? Well, that depends on what you’re buying.

If you’re investing in a pull-out sofa bed with a separate mattress, velvet is a great choice. You get that plush, sumptuous texture for lounging while the actual mattress provides sleep-friendly comfort. But for a click-clack sofa bed, where the backrest folds to form the sleeping surface, velvet might not be the most suitable choice. It can feel slightly slick and might trap more heat, which some people may find uncomfortable if used as a primary sleeping space.

Another thing to remember is upkeep. Velvet looks and feels stunning, but it’s a magnet for dust and pet hair. For spaces with heavy use, performance velvet is a smart alternative. Made from high-quality polyester, it offers the same luxurious look but handles daily wear much better. It’s more resistant to fading, stains, and crushing.

Microfibre

If you're constantly using your sofa bed for guests, binge-watching, or afternoon naps, you probably don’t want something that requires too much upkeep. Microfibre makes life easier. Its ultra-tight weave means spills sit on the surface, so you’ve got time to grab a damp cloth before stains even have a chance to settle.

For a full refresh, a quick once-over with a steam mop or carpet cleaner is all it takes. Unlike natural fabrics that fade in the sun or wear out quickly, microfibre holds its colour and texture for years. Even if your sofa sits next to the window, sunlight won’t wash out its vibrancy.

Forget being limited to greys and beiges; microfibre gives you colour freedom while standing up to daily life. From rich jewel tones to soft pastels, there’s something to suit every space and style.

Sometimes it can get a bit static-prone, and if you have pets, their fur might cling to it. But for its ease of care and variety of looks, microfibre is hard to beat for sofa beds that see a lot of use.

Leather

“I believe a quality leather sofa is always in style and gets better with age. The key is to embrace the natural wear and tear that makes it look more loved and worn in.” - Keria Schultz

Leather sofa beds are tough, long-lasting, and age gracefully, developing a soft, lived-in feel over time. Whether you're going for a mid-century vibe or something more rustic, leather has a way of seamlessly tying the room together.

Leather sofa beds also have the practical benefit of being resistant to stains and allergens, which is a huge plus. They hold their shape well and can handle a busy household without losing their appeal.

One downside is the price. Leather sofa beds can be an investment, so they might not be ideal if you like to revamp your look frequently. Plus, the colour options are limited compared to fabric, which might feel restrictive for some people.

If you're after the look but watching your budget, faux leather is a good alternative. It mimics the appearance of real leather and fits more comfortably into a range of price points.

Bouclé

Bouclé is a soft and textured fabric created with looped yarn fibres. Becoming popular in the 1940s and a key material in mid-century furniture and fashion. Its unique texture adds character without overcomplicating a space, which is why it’s made a strong comeback in modern interiors.

For sofa beds, bouclé offers more than just aesthetics; it’s practical and forgiving. The naturally uneven surface of the fabric hides small marks or signs of wear, making it easier to maintain over time. The texture also gives it a snug, cocoon-like feel.

When it comes to care, bouclé requires attention due to its looped construction, which can trap dust and dirt. Avoid using heat or harsh cleaning products. Stick to mild, water-based solvents, and avoid overly soaking the fabric. With the right care, bouclé sofa beds can retain their texture and beauty for years.

Final Words

We’ve just walked through some of the most common sofa bed materials, but the options don’t end there. You’ve got alternatives like cork and bamboo if you're looking for something eco-friendly, or other fabrics that could suit your space even better. It all comes down to your personal preferences.