Updated : January 16, 2025
Published : January 15, 2025
Guides

A sofa bed is often the perfect solution when you’re hosting guests in a home without a spare room. It’s an easy fix — pull out the bed and voilà, you’ve got a comfortable place for your visitors to sleep. But here’s what we don’t think about enough: where do all their belongings go? Without a proper spot for clothes, bags, and personal items, things start piling up quickly.

A coat ends up draped over a chair, an open suitcase sits awkwardly on the floor, and shoes are shoved under the sofa. Toiletries are scattered across coffee tables and side tables. Not to mention, your living room suddenly feels like anything but relaxing. As a host, it’s hard to maintain that inviting and tidy vibe with all this extra stuff.

A sofa bed with built-in storage can be the answer to this problem. Instead of having your guests' belongings scattered around the room, a storage sofa bed gives them a place to neatly store their things. Whether it's hidden drawers under the cushions, a compartment for their shoes, or space to tuck away extra blankets, the storage options help keep the room organised and calm. Your guest will have easy access to their items, and you won’t have to worry about the clutter taking over.

We've put together a helpful guide to help you shortlist the right sofa bed with storage for your lifestyle.

Types of Sofa Beds

When choosing a sofa bed, the first thing to consider is what type works best for your living room. It all comes down to your lifestyle and how you use the space. Here are a few types of sofa beds you might want to explore.

Futon Sofa Bed

Futons have come a long way from their hall of residence days. Modern futons are not just practical for students, they also bring a sleek, Japanese-inspired aesthetic to your home. These low-seated sofa beds are designed for small spaces, offering both a comfy place to sit and an easy way to accommodate guests when unfolded into a bed.

Whether you need extra functionality in a studio flat or want to maximise versatility in your living room, futons are lightweight, easy to move, and mostly built for frequent use. From soft to firm mattresses, you’ll find options to meet your comfort preferences.

Daybed

A daybed works well in smaller spaces like flats, student housing, or even living rooms. It’s a hybrid between a sofa and a bed but with its own unique design. Instead of cushions, it uses a mattress, often the size of a twin bed, though other sizes like queen or king can also fit depending on the frame.

The mattress is firmer and thinner, offering support for lounging or sitting, without the plush softness of a sofa. Many daybeds feature a headboard that usually stretches along one side and fits neatly against the wall for a clean, space-saving aesthetic. You’ll also find some daybeds with added armrests for extra style and comfort.

You can style your daybed in different ways based on how you want to use it. Add throw pillows along the back to create a cosy seating area for watching TV or reading. Keep a throw blanket handy for a quick nap. At night, swap the accessories for bed pillows, sheets, and a comforter to turn it into a proper sleeping space.

Corner Sofa Bed

A corner sofa bed will usually have a right-angled design that makes smart use of space. The most popular design is the L-shape. For rooms with a bit more wiggle room, there are U-shaped and C-shaped sofa beds.

A U-shaped design has a rounded, inviting look and works perfectly for creating a relaxed living space. On the other hand, a C-shaped sofa bed is ideal for larger families. With their three sections forming a curved 'C', they offer all the space you need to unwind and lounge comfortably.

Many modern corner sofa beds are modular, which means you can customise them to suit your taste. These sofas are made of separate sections or modules that are easy to rearrange. You could have a 2- or 3-seater with optional extras like middle sections, armrests, or even a matching ottoman to build the perfect corner or chaise setup.

Loveseat Sofa Bed

Unlike larger sofa beds, a loveseat sleeper is tailored to single sleepers or couples who enjoy a snug, intimate setting. With most models, the seat cushions or base pull forward, revealing a fold-out mattress that turns the loveseat into a compact bed. Depending on the design, the mattress might be thin and foldable or thicker for extra comfort.

Alternatively, some loveseat sofa beds don’t use mattresses at all. Instead, the backrest folds flat, and you use the sofa’s cushions as the sleeping surface.

Chaise Sofa Bed

A chaise is a long chair usually attached to the end of a sofa or sectional. It’s built for stretching out in a comfortable, half-sitting, half-lying position, giving you a more relaxed way to sit. It’s not just an extra seat; it also helps complete the look of a room while providing extra comfort.

When paired with a sofa bed, a chaise becomes even more practical. Convertible chaise sofa beds switch effortlessly between a comfy lounge and a full bed. There are also sectional chaise sofa beds, which let you rearrange pieces to fit your space and needs. In some designs, the chaise hides a pull-out bed, offering an extra sleeping area for overnight guests.

Sofa Beds Storage Options

Sofa beds with storage give you two functions in one – a place to sleep and a spot to tuck things away. They help keep rooms tidy by offering space for extra bedding, pillows, or seasonal items. Some designs lift from the base, revealing a compartment underneath, while others have drawers that slide out from the front.

Sectional sofa beds often include storage in the chaise, giving you a larger compartment without taking up extra floor space. Compact designs sometimes hide storage beneath the armrests or in the backrest. These options work well in small apartments or guest rooms where every bit of space counts.

When choosing one, look for sturdy frames and easy-to-use mechanisms. Soft-close drawers or hydraulic lifts make accessing storage smoother and less noisy.

Choosing a Sofa Bed with Storage: What You Need to Consider

It isn’t smart to buy a sofa bed with storage without first having a plan. You’re investing in something that’s not just a couch, but also a bed with integrated storage. That’s not going to come cheap. If it is, that’s a red flag. You’ll want something that holds up over time, especially if you plan on using it regularly.

Here are a few key factors to consider before making your decision.

Purpose

First, figure out why you need the sofa bed. Is it mainly for guests and sleepovers? In this case, you’re better off with a larger model like a corner sofa bed. If your sofa bed is more for your home office and the occasional guest, go for something sleek and discreet, with neutral tones and subtle storage to keep the design professional.

On the other hand, if you mostly need the sofa bed for yourself, to relax with a book or take an occasional nap, you don’t need to go all out. A simple daybed or a loveseat would do the job just fine, offering comfort without overwhelming the space. So, take the time to consider how you’ll really use the sofa bed and make sure it fits your needs.

Size

Just like regular beds, sofa beds come in different sizes, and the size you choose depends on how many people need to sleep on it. Most sofa beds are designed to comfortably fit two people, but if you're planning to accommodate more or fewer, you need to consider which is the right size for you.

For a single sleeper, you'll want a sofa bed that's at least 137cm x 175cm. If it's for a couple, go for something at least 191cm x 200cm

Now, if you're thinking of having three people sleep or relax on the same sofa bed, the ideal size would be 239cm x 200cm. That gives everyone enough space without feeling too packed together.

Remember, the bigger the sofa bed, the more room everyone will have to move around. But if you’re tight on space, you might need to consider how much room you’re willing to dedicate to the bed.

If the sizes above are confusing, here’s a straightforward breakdown to help you choose the right sofa bed based on your needs and available space:

Sofa Bed Size	Best For	Space Considerations
2-Seater Sofa Bed	Single adult or child	Great for tight spaces, but offers limited sleeping space
3-Seater Sofa Bed	Two sleepers comfortably	Works well in medium to large spaces, offers good sleep comfort
4-Seater Sofa Bed	Two adults who need plenty of space to spread out	Best for bigger rooms, but may be too large for smaller spaces

Another thing to consider is the space around your sofa bed. When measuring, make sure you consider both the folded and extended positions. Ideally, leave at least 30cm of space on one side, or even better, on both sides. This extra space will ensure that the room feels comfortable and that the sofa bed doesn’t crowd the area when it's set up.

Unfolding Mechanism

If there’s one thing that used to make people wary of sofa beds, it was the unfolding mechanism. In the past, they were often bulky, complicated, and a real hassle to set up. But thankfully, modern sofa beds, like Furl’s, are much much easier to handle. Now converting them from a sofa to a bed and back is smoother than ever. Still, it’s worth understanding what you’re getting into before you buy.

One of the most popular options today is the click-clack mechanism. To transform the sofa into a bed, simply push or pull the backrest down until you hear it click into place. It’s easy to use, and once it clicks, you’ve got a flat surface to sleep on. When you’re done, just lift the backrest back up, and the sofa clicks back into its original position.

Another option is the pull-out sofa bed. These work a bit like a drawer. The mattress is hidden inside the sofa, and when you need a bed, you pull it out, and then unfold the frame. Some pull-out models, especially corner sofa beds, even come with extra legs that provide additional support when the bed is fully extended.

Lastly, easy-open sofa beds are designed to be as smooth as possible. These often include a latch or handle that, when pulled, opens the bed in one smooth motion. The bed’s already built into the frame, so there’s no need for pulling out a mattress or fiddling with extra parts.

Storage Capacity

Choosing the right capacity depends on how often you plan to use the sofa bed storage and what fits your lifestyle. Consider what you’ll store in it – is it for everyday use or occasional needs?

For daily use, the storage should be easy to reach and spacious enough for items like blankets, pillows, or frequently used bedsheets. A front drawer or lift-up base works best since you’ll access it regularly.

If you’re using it as a guest space or makeshift wardrobe, look for larger compartments. These can hold extra bedding, clothes, or even luggage when guests stay over. Sectional designs with storage in the chaise or deep under-bed compartments offer more room for bulkier items.

Some sofa beds balance both needs, with smaller sections for everyday items and larger spaces for less frequent use.

Storage Purpose	Capacity	Best Feature
Daily Essentials	Medium	Quick-access drawer or lift-up base
Guest Wardrobe	Large	Deep chaise storage
Occasional/Seasonal Use	Extra Large	Full under-bed compartment
Delicate Items	Compact	Hidden armrest or backrest storage
Minimal Storage	Small	Slim discreet pocket

Mattress Quality

You can’t just go with any old mattress for your sofa bed; it’s important to consider what works best for your comfort and how you’ll use it. If your sofa bed doubles as a guest bed, the mattress will influence how your guests feel in the morning. A saggy, too-thin mattress won’t do anyone any favours, and you'll likely end up with grumpy visitors.

Many basic sofa beds come with thin mattresses that are more of an afterthought than anything else. If you're planning to use it regularly, look for one with a mattress that’s at least 12-20cm thick. This thickness provides proper support while still folding neatly into the frame.

The type of mattress you choose also matters. Memory foam mattresses adapt to your body’s shape, which is great if you move around in your sleep or are sharing the bed. Latex mattresses, though a bit more expensive, last much longer and offer consistent support. If you’re after something that stays cool and has a traditional feel, innerspring mattresses are worth considering. They’ve got that slight bounce and firm support.

If you need a budget option, air mattresses are lightweight, easy to pack away, and adjustable, but they’re not as sturdy for long-term use and more times than not, deflate each night they are used. Hybrid mattresses combine coil support with foam or latex for a balanced feel.

Seat Cushioning

The seat cushions on a sofa bed affect how the whole piece feels, looks, and holds up over time. If the cushioning isn’t right, you’ll feel it every time you sit or sleep on it.

For daily use, high-density foam is one of the best options. It’s firm, holds its shape, and doesn’t flatten out after a few months. This type of cushioning gives solid support when sitting and stays comfortable even when the bed is folded out.

Memory foam seat cushions are softer and mould to your shape, which can feel luxurious but might not give the same level of firm support when used daily. They’re great for lounging but can compress over time if the sofa bed gets a lot of action.

For a middle ground, poly fiber or foam blends give a softer sit without sacrificing too much structure. They’re comfortable but might need fluffing now and then to keep their shape. If you like a slightly plush feel without the sink-in sensation, blends work well.

Pocket coil seat cushions (like the ones in some mattresses) are another option. These have springs wrapped in foam, providing bounce and support. They hold up longer than plain foam and prevent that "flattened pancake" look that cheaper cushions get over time.

If you prefer a softer seat that still holds its form, down or feather-blend cushions add a more relaxed feel. However, they need regular fluffing and might not give the firmest base when used as a bed.

Sofa Bed Care Tips

Now you know how to choose a sofa bed with storage, let’s have a look at long-term maintenance tips. Sofa beds with storage come with multiple moving parts that require proper care to ensure longevity. While choosing a reputable brand will certainly give you a solid base, a bit of routine care goes a long way in making sure your sofa bed lasts.

Frame & Mechanism Maintenance

If your sofa bed starts to squeak or feels stiff when unfolding, a quick spray of lubricant on the joints and hinges can fix it. Do this every six months.

Tighten bolts and screws periodically. Loose hardware can strain the frame and shorten its lifespan.

Even if you don’t use the bed often, fold it out every couple of months to keep the mechanism moving smoothly.

Storage Compartment Care

Dust can build up in storage compartments. Vacuum inside at least once a month, especially if you store bedding.

Too much weight in the storage can damage the frame over time. Store lighter items like linens or seasonal clothes instead of heavy items. If you plan to store bulkier things, make sure the compartments are durable and spacious enough to handle the extra weight.

Upholstery Care by Material

Different materials handle life a little differently, so a one-size-fits-all approach won’t work. Here’s how to keep each type of upholstery in good shape.

Leather

Leather’s tough but needs regular care to stay soft and avoid cracking. A quick wipe-down with a soft cloth every week helps keep dust from settling. Every six months, use a leather conditioner – it’s like moisturizer for your sofa.

Blot the spills right away with a dry cloth, and avoid soaking the leather. If you leave it too long, the stain sets, and water makes things worse. If possible, keep the sofa bed out of direct sunlight or use curtains to soften the exposure.

Bouclé

Bouclé has that cozy, textured vibe, but those little loops can trap dust faster than you’d think. A soft brush attachment on your vacuum once a week keeps it clean. If there’s a stain, dab (don’t rub) with a damp cloth and mild soap. Rotate the cushions every now and then to stop certain spots from wearing down faster than others. It helps the fabric age more evenly.

Velvet

Velvet loves attention. So if you skip the care, your sofa bed will start to look flat and dull. Run a soft brush over it regularly to keep the pile lifted. Spills need quick action – blot gently with a dry cloth. Rubbing will crush the fabric, and water can leave marks. For deeper cleaning, a dry cleaning foam designed for velvet does the trick.

Linen

Linen is laid-back but needs a little care to keep that effortless look. Dust builds up, so vacuum often with a brush attachment. If you spill something, gently blot the area with a damp cloth and mild soap. Linen shrinks when it gets too wet.

If the sofa bed sits near a window, try to position it out of direct rays or use light curtains. If it wrinkles (which it will), a quick steam smooths it out without damaging the fabric.

What Makes Furl’s Storage Sofa Beds Different?

Furl’s sofa beds with storage tackle the issues most people grumble about, delivering comfort, ease of use, and durability all in one package.

Effortless to Use

In just three seconds, our sofas turn into a full-sized bed. The sofa bed mechanism glides smoothly, making it easy to switch between sofa and bed, even if you’re half-asleep.

Standard Bed Height

We didn’t stop at function. Our sofa beds sit at the same height as a regular bed, so getting in and out feels natural.

Sturdy & Supportive

We designed our sofa beds to provide solid support for both the bed and sofa, keeping everything stable and secure.

Mattress Options That Actually Support You

Most sofa beds come with thin, disappointing mattresses that barely reach 9cm in thickness. We offer options up to 18cm, giving you the kind of support and comfort that feels just like a proper bed. From 2- to 5-seaters, we size our sofa beds so you can customise whatever design you want to whatever size you need.

Customisable Storage

Our storage options adjust to fit your needs. Whether you want deep compartments or hidden nooks, you can configure the sofa bed accordingly.

Final Words

Whether you frequently host overnight guests or just want the option of an extra bed, a sofa bed is a smart choice. Many models now come with added storage features, like compartments for blankets, pillows, or even a hidden drawer for other essentials. Some might offer more customisable options like shelves or adjustable sections.

When choosing the right storage sofa bed for your home, consider your specific needs. Think about the size of the space, the mattress thickness for comfort, and the type of storage that works best for you.