Futon Sofa Bed

New futon sofa beds on the market today are getting better every year. As far as sofa beds come, this is an inexpensive method of getting the convenience of a regular springed sofa bed. In fact, it just may be more comfortable too.

Futon sofa beds provide excellent back support but also are extremely comfortable when folded up as a sofa. There are several different types of futon sofa beds available on the market today which can be divided primarily into 2 categories:

• Bi-folds, and

• Tri-folds

Bi-Fold Frame

The bi-fold design only requires the futon to be folded into two sections when converting it to the sofa. The frame usually has a similar single fold line. These are often the easiest to maneuver when converting between the sofa and bed configurations. In addition to this, many of the mechanical versions (spring assisted folding) use this frame type, as well as the “wall huggers”.

Tri-Fold Frame

Tri-folds on the other hand require the futon to be folded into three sections but often allow for an alternative lounge style seating in one of it’s arrangements. Although the tri-fold often requires more work to convert to the sofa or into the full bed configurations, having the ability to have a lounge configuration is sometimes beneficial.

With either the bi-fold or the tri-fold, there are a few other considerations when selecting the right type of futon sofa bed for your room. First, if you are going to be converting it between the sofa and the bed configurations often, you might want to find a frame that converts easily. Some frame models come with a spring assembly to assist in the converting process for example.

Mechanically assisted frame

With most futon sofa bed frame models, you will be required to pull the frame away from the wall prior to switching to the bed configuration. However, if you are planing on doing this often, you might want to consider a “wall hugger” frame which allows you to keep the sofa against the wall and will switch to the bed configuration without needing to pull it out. This can be extremely convenient, especially if you do not have someone around to help.

Futon mattresses themselves can weight 50-100 pounds and be very awkward to maneuver by yourself. Many of the models require you to reposition the futon after switching configurations. Try to find one with easy operation should you not have frequent help.

The last thing that should be mentioned is the mattresses themselves. If this is going to be a primary sleeping place for someone, an 8″ mattress is likely a better choice as they are a bit more comfortable. However, for futon sofa bed that is primarily used for a sofa, a 6″ thickness is plenty. However, they can also be found in a 4″ thickness.

If you have ever slept on a fold out bed, you will know that they are not usually comfortable. Futon mattresses are comfortable and will provide your guests with much more comfort than a standard fold out sofa bed. When comparing the two side by side, the futon sofa bed wins hands down in comfort and price. Just make sure you find one you like.

Good luck.