A pull out sofa bed isn’t just a clever space saver — it’s one of the most versatile furniture investments you can make. Unlike a futon, which relies on folding cushions to form a sleep surface, a pull out sofa bed hides a dedicated mattress mechanism that delivers real-bed comfort for guests or daily use.

If you’re shopping for a sleeper sofa that looks stylish by day and transforms into a restful bed by night, understanding how it’s built is essential. Before you buy, here are the 7 key things you should know.

Top 7 Things to Know Before Buying a Pull Out Sofa Bed

1. Understand the Pull Out Mechanism — Ease of Use Matters

At the heart of every pull out sofa bed is its mechanism. Most models feature a fold-out metal frame that supports a foldable mattress, neatly stored beneath the seat cushions.

In most designs, the hidden bed pulls out smoothly with a front handle — the entire frame unfolds like a compact folding bed, resting securely on metal support legs. This design keeps the seating cushions separate from the sleeping surface, maintaining both comfort and hygiene.

When comparing models, pay attention to mechanism ease of use. A well-engineered frame should open and close quietly and effortlessly, without dragging or stiffness. If you plan to use it frequently, test it in-store or look for verified customer feedback about the mechanism’s reliability.

2. Mattress Comfort — The Hidden Heart of a Sleeper Sofa

What truly separates a pull out sofa bed from a futon is its mattress comfort. Inside most designs lies a foldable, independent mattress, typically split into two or three sections to fit the hidden frame.

Common mattress types include:

• Innerspring mattresses – provide firm, traditional support, ideal for balanced durability.
  

• Memory foam mattresses – contour to the body for pressure relief.
  

• Hybrid mattresses – combine foam and coils for a balanced experience.
  

For daily use sofa beds, thicker mattresses (5–6 inches thick) can provide extra cushioning, but a 4-inch thick spring mattress (approximately), like the one included in our Arrtle pull out sofa beds, is carefully engineered for firm yet supportive comfort. Its coil construction supports proper spine alignment and ensures durability for occasional or moderate use.

Verdict: Enhance comfort by adding a high-quality mattress topper or fitted pad, which can improve softness without altering the frame or mechanism. For most homes and guest rooms, this combination delivers a sleep experience close to a standard bed while keeping the pull out sofa compact and easy to use.

3. Frame Durability — What’s Beneath the Cushion Counts

A sleeper sofa’s strength starts with its frame construction. High-quality pull out sofa beds use solid hardwood or reinforced metal frames that can handle daily folding, unfolding, and full body weight during sleep.

Avoid cheap particleboard structures that can warp or loosen over time. Check for sturdy welds, stable hinge joints, and locking legs that keep the bed level when extended.

If you plan to use your pull out sofa bed nightly, frame durability should be one of your top priorities — it’s the foundation of both comfort and longevity.

4. Size and Dimensions — Measure for Sitting and Sleeping

Before buying, carefully review size and dimensions — both when folded as a sofa and extended as a bed.

Common configurations include:

• Twin sleeper sofa: fits one person, ideal for small apartments or studios.

• Full size: accommodates one adult comfortably or two smaller sleepers. 

• Queen sleeper sofa: sleeps two adults comfortably, the most popular choice for guest rooms.

Typical Dimensions	Bed Width	Bed Length	Sofa height
Twin Sleeper Sofa	39–42 inches	75–80 inches	30–35 inches
Full Sleeper Sofa	53–55 inches	75–80 inches	30–36 inches
Queen Sleeper Sofa	60–65 inches	80–85 inches	30–36 inches

Ensure there’s 80–90 inches of clearance in front of the sofa to fully extend the mattress without crowding the room. Always measure both the available floor space and any furniture that may be nearby (coffee tables, cabinets, or ottomans) to guarantee smooth operation and comfortable sleeping arrangements.

5. Style & Fabric — Comfort Meets Design

Modern pull out sofa beds no longer sacrifice aesthetics for practicality. Today’s designs come in a range of silhouettes, from minimalist to mid-century, upholstered in performance fabrics, leather, or bouclé.

Choose a material that balances comfort and maintenance — for example, stain-resistant woven textiles for families, or soft leather for a refined touch. A neutral color palette also ensures long-term flexibility with changing décor.

6. Intended Use — Occasional Guest Bed or Daily Use Sofa Bed?

Not all sleeper sofas are built for the same purpose.

• Occasional use: For guest rooms or limited use, a basic innerspring mattress and standard frame may suffice.
  

• Daily use: If it doubles as your main bed, prioritize mattress quality, sturdy frame design, and smooth mechanism operation.
  

In other words, a daily use sofa bed should feel like a real bed at night and a true sofa by day — not a compromise on either side.

7. Setup, Maintenance & Longevity

Pull out mechanisms are designed for convenience, but proper handling extends lifespan:

• Open and close using both hands to reduce strain on hinges.
  

• Keep the mechanism clean and lubricated occasionally.
  

• Rotate or air out the mattress periodically to maintain freshness.
  

With good care, a quality pull out sofa bed can last as long as a standard sofa — often 8–12 years.

FAQs About Pull Out Sofa Beds

1. How to make a pull out sofa bed more comfortable?

Comfort often depends on the quality of the built-in mattress. If your pull out sofa bed feels too firm or thin, add a memory foam mattress topper or a high-quality mattress pad to enhance softness and support. You can also use a fitted sheet to keep layers from sliding and replace worn-out mattresses if the bed is used regularly. Maintaining proper alignment of the folding mechanism ensures even surface support for better sleep comfort.

2. Does sofa bed mean pull out?

Not always.
A pull out sofa bed specifically refers to a sofa with an extra hidden, foldable mattress that pulls out from beneath the seat — offering a sleep experience closer to a real bed.
A sofa bed, however, can also refer to futon-style designs or click-clack mechanisms where the backrest folds down to form the sleeping surface.
In short: all pull out sofas are sofa beds, but not all sofa beds are pull outs.

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3. How long does a pull out sofa bed last?

A high-quality pull out sofa bed typically lasts 7–15 years, depending on materials and usage frequency.
Look for a durable metal frame, sturdy joints, and a supportive mattress to extend its lifespan.
If you plan to use it daily, investing in a sleeper sofa with a spring or webbing support system will ensure both comfort and longevity.

4. Is a pull out sofa bed good for everyday use?

Yes — but choose wisely.
Modern pull out sofa beds with high-density cushions, reinforced frames, and hybrid or memory foam mattresses can easily handle daily use.
If you’re furnishing a studio apartment or guest space, opt for a sleeper sofa with an easy-fold mechanism and removable covers for easier maintenance and better hygiene.

Conclusion: The Smart Way to Choose a Pull Out Sofa Bed

When it comes to balancing style, comfort, and versatility, a pull out sofa bed is hard to beat.
Its hidden foldable mattress mechanism gives you the comfort of a real bed, while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic for daily living.

Compared with futons, which rely on shared seat cushions, sleeper sofas with independent mattresses provide superior comfort, better body support, and an overall more restful sleep experience.

If you’re seeking the best of both worlds — a chic living room centerpiece by day and a comfortable sleep solution by night — a pull out sofa bed is your answer.