How to Make a Sofa Bed More Comfortable

1. Layer up with blankets and throws 

Putting in a little more effort when making up a sofa bed will go a long way. Lay a throw across the foot of the bed and add a decorative cushion (or two) on top of the pillows.  

When your sleeper sofa isn’t being used as a bed, you can also scatter the cushions and place the throw over the backrest for everyday use.  

2. Maximise comfort with a mattress topper

Sleeper sofas often have thinner mattresses than traditional beds. This is so that they can fold away neatly for everyday use.  

Adding a mattress topper will ensure maximum comfort and can be removed and easily stored when the bed is packed away. Make sure to check your mattress size before you buy for a perfect fit. 

3. Pile on the pillows 

Being generous with your pillows will provide extra back support when reading and relaxing in bed.  

On a sofa bed, the angle between the base and the backrest can often feel a bit stark, so a few extra pillows will help to create a more comfortable incline. 

4. Flip the mattress 

As with any bed, regularly flipping or rotating the mattress will help to keep it comfortable and in good condition for longer.  

If your mattress can be detached from the base, try to flip your mattress every six months. This will prevent it from becoming worn in certain areas, which can lead to it becoming lumpy and uneven.  

5. Add supportive slats  

If your sleeper sofa pulls out and extends, you can add a few extra slats made from furniture board underneath the mattress to offer some extra support.  

Just remember to remove them when turning the bed back into a sofa so that it folds away correctly.  

6. Clean the upholstery 

Simple but effective, keeping your seat cushions and upholstery in pristine condition will make sure that your sofa bed looks and feels brand new.  

Although they’re prone to harbouring crumbs left behind from movie snacks and TV dinners, you’re your cushions clean by getting between them with the hoover on a regular basis. 

Additionally, if the cushion covers are removable, put them in a cold wash with gentle detergent from time to time. Otherwise, spot cleaning with a damp microfibre cloth will help to keep your upholstery in top condition.  

7. Indulge in luxury bedding

Sleeper sofas are sometimes treated as an afterthought, made up with old sheets and a spare blanket or two.  

By opting for a higher tog duvet and a matching bedding set made from cosy fleece or a quality cotton, your sofa bed will feel that bit more special.  

Choose tranquil shades that co-ordinate with the rest of the room. Sage green, pale greys and dusky pinks will complement a whole host of interior styles. 

8. Create a calm environment

A few easy interior design touches will go a long way when it comes to creating a restful and indulgent sleeping space. Sofa beds are usually found in living rooms or home offices, but making a few quick changes will help to make these spaces feel more like a conventional bedroom. This can help your guests to feel at home and drift off easily.  

Start by investing in a plush rug to add warmth to uncarpeted floors and ensure that any distracting standby lights from TVs or computers are turned off. Instead, you can create some relaxing lighting by swapping these for a floor lamp or table lamps for a more inviting glow.  

9. Maintain the mechanism

A creaking bed is never conducive to a restful night. Whatever type of sofa bed you have, keeping the mechanism in good condition will help to keep any squeaks and creaks to a minimum.  

If your sleeper sofa is prone to squeaking, lubricate any metal joins with a little WD40, which will also help to prevent rusting. It’s also worth checking any screws and bolts regularly and tightening or loosening them as needed.  

10. Replace the mattress

Occasionally, replacing the mattress is the only solution to an uncomfortable sofa bed, particularly if it’s old or has been very well used.  

Before investing in a replacement, check which size and style is compatible with your type of sofa bed to make sure you get the perfect fit.  

Whether you have guests on the way or are sleeping on a sofa bed yourself, with these handy tips you can make a sleeper sofa as comfortable as any traditional bed. From thoughtful finishing touches with soft furnishings to replacing your duvet, there’s something for every budget.

Now you know how to make a sofa bed more comfortable, share your own tips with us @Homebase_UK or visit our Ideas & Advice hub for more interior inspiration.