The Best Sleeper Sofas for Overnight Guests, Tested and Reviewed
Transform your living room into a guest bedroom in minutes.
We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.
A sleeper sofa easily converts from a comfy couch during the day to a roomy bed at night. Unlike the creeky sleeper sofas with uncomfortable mattresses and prodding springs you may remember from childhood, today's sleeper sofas have come a long way with easy-to-set-up designs that convert to a bed in minutes. These functional sofas are ideal for small-space living, and now your out-of-town guests will finally have a comfy place to rest — all without having to set up an air mattress.
We rounded up a list of the best sleeper sofas to help get your visitors settled. We sent a feedback survey to Good Housekeeping's consumer panel, which includes thousands of Good Housekeeping readers and testers, to learn more about their favorite sleeper sofas, culminating in 3,472 survey responses. Our picks include top models we tested firsthand and sofas deemed comfy and easy to use by our panelists, whether you want a traditional pull-out style sleeper sofa, a futon-style sofa or a luxe sectional.
Our top picks:
- Best Overall: Pottery Barn Pearce Square Arm Upholstered Sleeper Sofa
- Best Value: Mercer41 Grattan 81.1" Velvet Sleeper Sofa
- Best Pullout: Ashley Bladen Full Sofa Sleeper
- Best with Storage: IKEA Friheten Sleeper Sectional
- Best Customizable: Joybird Briar Sleeper Storage Sectional
Pottery Barn Pearce Square Arm Upholstered Sleeper Sofa
Pros
- Compact
- Good balance of firmness and plushness
- Panelists reported that this sofa has lasted years in their homes
Cons
- Made to order; may take a few months to get delivered
Pottery Barn is popular for its long-lasting, comfortable sofas and its impressive range of fabric and color options. The Pearce sofa line was a favorite among our panelists both as a sleeper and a traditional sofa. Our survey respondents found that the cushions (stuffed with a mix of down-alternative fibers, feathers and down) struck a great balance between plushness and firmness. They gave this sofa high marks for comfort, support and appearance, saying it looks amazing in their homes. One even said she still "loved it" after owning it "for over 10 years." The 5-inch memory foam mattress in the sleeper is infused with gel for a cooler, more comfortable feel.
This style comes in a multitude of fabrics and colors to suit a wide variety of design preferences. And if you can't decide, you can order free swatches from Pottery Barn to review your options before you buy. You can also customize the number of back and seat cushions from one to three. The bench option (one seat cushion) offers a seamless feel, ideal for lounging or napping.
Dimensions: 83" x 40" x 38" | Bed size estimate: Queen (60" x 72") | Bed type: Mattress | Delivery timing: 2–3 months, depending on the design
Mercer41 Grattan 81.1" Upholstered Sleeper Sofa
Pros
- Helpful customer service
- Trendy velvet material
- Budget-friendly price
Cons
- Online reviewers say that cushions sag with use
Recline into bedtime thanks to this futon-style sleeper sofa. Its luxe polyester velvet fabric is on trend and available in both neutrals and bolder shades. Shipped in boxes to your door, this sofa bed comes together in only eight steps. One online shopper said, "It's so easy to put together." Plus, dozens of our panelists appreciate the simple and seamless ordering process through Wayfair. Online reviewers of this sofa bed agree, adding that Wayfair's customer service is helpful if there are delivery issues or if pieces show up damaged.
This sofa has a chic design with a tufted back and square arms. With memory foam cushions and spring coils, it's designed to be supportive, but won't feel as plush as sofas with down or feathers. Some online reviewers complain of the cushions sagging or "deflating" with extended use.
Dimensions: 81.1" x 39.4" x 33.5" | Bed size estimate: Twin | Bed type: Cushions | Delivery timing: 1–2 weeks
Pros
- Soft faux leather material
- Online reviews say the cushions and the bed are comfy
- Worn leather appearance
Cons
- Extra delivery fee
More than 800 of our panelists have purchased their sofas from Ashley. They especially liked Ashley sofas for being both stylish and comfortable. The Bladen Full Sofa Sleeper is a pullout couch with a traditional look and a spacious full-size mattress inside. Online reviewers praise how comfy the sofa and bed are to lounge on. One impressed reviewer shared, "We've had guests sleep on the bed for a full week without complaint." They also love the faux leather material's worn-in look and super soft feel.
Ashley does charge an extra delivery fee. You can choose between "No-Hassle Delivery" which includes delivery to any room plus assembly, or just "Doorstep Delivery" for a lower cost. Outfit your whole living room with matching pieces from the Bladen line like a recliner, ottoman and loveseat.
Dimensions: 90" x 36" x 38" | Bed size estimate: Full (52" x 72") | Bed type: Mattress | Delivery timing: 3–4 weeks, depending on location
Pros
- Built-in storage
- Reversible chaise attachment
- Soft material
Cons
- Upholstery is prone to pilling
In small apartments, space-saving pieces can make all the difference. This sleeper sectional from IKEA features storage in the chaise — ideal for holding spare pillows, blankets and sheets. To convert the sleeper sofa into a bed, just remove the back cushions and pull the underframe out and up into place. You can purchase this sofa online for either in-store pickup or at-home delivery. Pickup is free while delivery costs extra depending on where you live.
Like all IKEA furniture, there is assembly required at home, but with this sofa, you can customize the piece while building it. Choose which side you'd prefer to put the chaise — and you can always reverse it later. Online reviewers and a Textiles Lab analyst who have used this couch share that the material, although soft, is prone to pilling.
Dimensions: 90.5" x 59.5" x 26" | Bed size estimate: Full (55" x 80") | Bed type: Cushions with pull-out trundle | Delivery timing: 1–2 weeks, depending on location
Joybird Briar Sleeper Storage Sectional
Pros
- The chaise opens up for storage
- Over 70 different color options
- Mid-century modern style
Cons
- Longer delivery times
While most sofas are available in only a few neutral colors, this sleeper sofa from Joybird is available in over 70 different shades and a range of fabric types, including pet-safe upholstery, velvet, chenille and bouclé. Whether you prefer classic neutrals or bold hues, this mid-century modern sofa will elevate your living space. You can also upgrade the standard foam mattress to a TEMPUR foam mattress for a more responsive feel.
The chaise opens up for extra storage to keep pillows, sheets and blankets at the ready for overnight guests. Because the sofas are made to order based on your customizations, Joybird has longer delivery times than many other brands.
Dimensions: 112" x 60" x 35" | Bed size estimate: Queen (60" x 72") | Bed type: Pull-out | Delivery time: 4–8 weeks
Albany Park Sleeper Sofa
Pros
- Available in faux-leather, upholstery and velvet options
- Separate packages make it easier to move up tighter spaces
- Supportive memory foam
Cons
- Our tester initially received a defective model
Delivered in boxes for easy at-home assembly, this sofa from Albany Park is ideal for apartments since there's no risk of it getting stuck in a narrow staircase or hallway. It's available in vegan leather, woven fabric or velvet made from synthetic materials. You can also choose between gold or walnut legs. The brand claims its seat cushions have pocket coils surrounded by high-density memory foam.
"I love the style and size of this sofa — it is made for apartment living!" reported one GH analyst after testing it. She initially received a defective model, but she applauded the brand for quickly sending her a replacement. "Leaning on the armrests, laying with your feet up or curling up on one side to watch a movie are all comfortable positions," she said.
Dimensions: 87.4" x 35.5" x 31.5" | Bed size estimate: Twin (42" x 75") | Bed type: Futon | Delivery time: 1–2 weeks
Pros
- Reviewers say fabric is easy to clean
- Sleep Kit with bedding is included
- Comes in three compact boxes
Cons
- Sleep Kit is designed to fit the Nomad sofa and may not fit other couches
To convert this sofa into a bed, use the brand's Sleep Kit, which consists of a thin memory foam mattress topper, a custom couch-size sheet set, a quilted blanket, a pillow and an eye mask. Simply open the bagged kit, lay the mattress out on top of the couch, cover the mattress with the sheets and the Nomad is ready for bedtime.
Online reviewers found the sofa setup to be much easier than expected and loved the olefin fabric, sharing that it's easy to clean and "feels great." If you don't love a traditional woven material, you can choose a velvet or leather sofa instead. Our tester loved that the included kit's memory foam mattress helped to create a comfier feel for her overnight guests by providing plush support and removing the indentations between her couch cushions. The kit is designed to fit Burrow's Nomad sofa, but you can use it on other narrow couches as well; it's not ideal for a deeper couch with wider cushions.
Coordinating furniture deliveries can be frustrating, but you don't have to worry about that with Burrow's sofa bed. It's delivered by mail in three compact boxes.
Dimensions: 86" x 35" x 33" | Bed size estimate: Twin | Bed type: Cushions with mattress kit | Delivery timing: 1–3 weeks
Interior Define Sloan Chaise Sleeper Sectional
Pros
- Earned high ratings for comfort, support and style
- Customizable fabric, cushion and wood options
- Free fabric swatches available
Cons
- Extended shipping times
If you love stretching out on a sectional-style sofa but also want the option of a pullout bed, this sleeper sofa checks every box. Interior Define lets you customize the sofa completely with tons of different fabric options. The brand will even send you free swatches to check out before ordering. You can also specify the leg color, chaise length, seat cushion style and type of fill. Note that you cannot switch which side the chaise is on after purchasing.
Our survey panelists were blown away by the fabric selection of 100-plus options and loved the "individuality" of each sofa. There are even leather styles available for a higher price. Panelists who own this specific sofa model gave it high ratings for style, comfort and support. Survey respondents shared that they experienced elongated delivery times, and the brand notes it can take anywhere from 10 to 14 weeks for the product to ship. Online reviewers say that when the product arrives, the white-glove delivery process is seamless.
Dimensions: 89" x 40" x 37" | Bed size estimate: Queen (60"x 72") | Bed type: Mattress | Delivery timing: 10–14 weeks
West Elm Harmony Modular Sleeper Sofa
Pros
- Modular pieces can be rearranged in different spaces
- Popular sofa brand according to on our survey
- Option for both a pull-out mattress and a storage chaise
Cons
- Expensive
Modular sofas can adapt from home to home because they're designed to grow or shrink with your space as you move houses or apartments. This Harmony sofa from West Elm can be customized with a pull-out sleeper sofa and a storage chaise. The cushions are fluffy and soft for a cloud-like lounging environment. When designing a custom sofa, you can also choose a traditional style or an L-shaped sectional design with a corner seat. Larger customized styles can retail for well over $5,000. If you don't want to design your own modular sleeper sofa, the Haromy line includes a standard three-seater and a sectional (pictured).
Many survey respondents recommended West Elm for its long-lasting couches. One panelist who owns a modular sofa from the brand called it "very comfortable," while another who owns a sleeper sofa said it's "compact while also offering a sleeper-sofa function."
Dimensions: Depends on the modular pieces chosen | Bed size estimate: Queen (60" x 72") | Bed type: Mattress | Delivery timing: 2–5 weeks, depending on the material
How we test the best sleeper sofas
At the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we have evaluated all types of sofas and couches, including traditional sofas, modular sofas, curved sofas and small sofas for apartments. To find the best sleeper sofas available, we distributed a sofa survey to Good Housekeeping's consumer panel, asking them to give feedback on the couches they currently own or have purchased in the past decade. We analyzed 3,472 survey responses before making our selections. This survey data provided insight into everything from overall quality and comfort to style to ease of delivery and setup to durability and long-term use.
To narrow down our list, we focused on a few key points:
- Delivery and assembly: We considered each brand's delivery and assembly policies, if there were hidden delivery fees, white glove delivery options and if it came assembled or required DIY assembly.
- Comfort: Both the sofa itself and the sleeping area need to be comfortable. Our surveys focused extensively on the feel of the cushions and mattress.
- Ease of use: We evaluated ease of use by looking at the setup directions for each style, noting whether it was simple or challenging to set up the sleeper sofa for a guest.
- Value: Sleeper sofas are available in a huge price range from futons under $300 to sleeper sectionals retailing over $5,000. We considered each product's price compared to its overall quality.
What to look for when shopping for sleeper sofas
There are a few things you'll need to consider when deciding on the best sleeper sofa for you and your home:
✔️ Size: First, we recommend measuring your space to ensure not only that the sofa will fit perfectly but that it will also be able to fit through your doorframes and into your home. If you have a small space, opt for a sleeper sofa that folds down or pulls out into a Twin-size bed. If you're hoping to accommodate more guests, try a larger sofa that converts into a more spacious Full- or Queen-size bed.
✔️ Mechanism: Sleeper sofas come in a wide variety of styles and shapes with different mechanisms to convert sofas into beds. Here are the most common ones:
- Pullout couches: This style has a real mattress stored inside. After removing the seating, you pull a handle to transform your sofa to an actual bed. These beds require more space than their counterparts below.
- Sofa beds: The back of the sofa folds down or a trundle pulls out to create a bed without an additional mattress. They're a space-efficient and convenient option. While some are similar to a futon, they're generally larger and include armrests.
- Futons: They fold flat to make a bed but lack sofa cushions altogether — a great option for small spaces that can't accommodate a full-size pullout couch.
✔️ Bed type: Be sure to consider the bed type and upholstery because both affect the overall look and feel of your sofa:
- Cushions: For sofa beds and futons, the cushions themselves will double as the mattress, so it's key that you like their feel and fabrication. Typically, the seat cushions are filled with foam that's wrapped in either down or polyester fibers for support and comfort. Although it's more expensive than polyester, down filling gives a plusher feel.
- Mattress: Pullout couches in particular use actual mattresses that are stored inside the couch. The mattresses are typically made of foam without springs, and if there are springs, the mattresses tend to be on the thinner side, so it's easier to compress them into a sofa when not in use.
FAQs about sleeper sofas
Where is the best place to buy sleeper sofas online?
Online furniture brands are making it easier than ever for consumers to make big purchases online, thanks to less arduous setups and more lenient return policies. Even before you buy, some companies will mail you fabric swatches free of charge to help ensure you love the color and feel of the fabric you purchase. When ordering a sofa, expect delivery times to range from 1 to 10 weeks. To ensure you have your sofa when you need it, schedule delivery far in advance, especially if you're ordering custom fabric.
Based on our extensive surveying, the featured brands above are great places to buy a sofa online.
How do you make a sleeper sofa more comfortable?
If you love the look of the sofa but end up not loving the mattress, you can purchase a new sofa mattress — just double-check to ensure it's the correct size. To make your sleeper sofa even more comfortable, we love to add throw pillows and a soft, cozy blanket for a stylish look and an extra comfy feel.
What is the lifespan of a sleeper sofa?
There is no set lifespan for a sleeper sofa, and how long it lasts will vary based on the sofa's construction and how often it’s used, according to textiles expert Lexie Sachs. As a rough estimate, she says you can expect a sofa to last around 8 to 10 years.
Do you need special sheets for a sleeper sofa?
Not necessarily. Regular bed sheets should fit on your sleeper sofa mattress. Most sleeper sofa mattresses are in between traditional mattress sizing. For example, we noticed that many sleeper sofas advertise as Queen-sized, but have 60" x 72" mattress dimensions while a traditional Queen mattress is 60" x 80". Also, sleeper sofa mattresses tend to be around 5 inches thick, which is thinner than most traditional mattresses. However, we have found in testing that the Queen sheets still fit albeit a bit loose. When purchasing a sleeper sofa, confirm the mattress's size to ensure you own bed sheets that will fit. You can purchase specialty sheets designed for sleeper sofas if you prefer a better-fitting sheet.
Emma Seymour (she/her) is the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance.
Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.
The Best Sleeper Chairs
The Best Table Lamps for Any Space
What Is Gradual Decluttering? Experts Weigh In
21 Window Sill Decorating Ideas for Added Charm
