A sofa bed is one of the most versatile pieces of furniture you can own. It functions as a stylish sofa during the day and provides a comfortable sleeping space at night, making it a perfect choice for homes with limited space or for those who love to entertain guests. However, just like any other piece of furniture, a sofa bed requires regular maintenance to ensure it stays in top shape for years to come.
In this blog, we’ll share some practical tips on how to look after your sofa bed, so it remains a cosy, functional, and long-lasting investment.
1. Rotate and Flip the Mattress Regularly
One of the most important aspects of maintaining your sofa bed is taking care of its mattress. Over time, mattresses can sag or develop uneven wear, especially if the sofa bed is used frequently.
- Rotate the mattress every three months to ensure even wear.
- Flip the mattress (if it’s double-sided) periodically to prevent indentations from forming.
By keeping the mattress even, you'll improve its comfort and durability, ensuring a restful sleep for your guests.
2. Use a Mattress Protector
A mattress protector is an inexpensive yet highly effective way to safeguard your sofa bed mattress from spills, dirt, and allergens. Sofa beds are often used for multiple purposes, which increases the chance of accidental spills and stains. A washable, waterproof mattress protector will help you extend the life of the mattress by acting as a barrier against wear and tear.
Plus, it's easier to wash a mattress protector than to clean an entire mattress!
3. Clean the Upholstery Regularly
The upholstery on your sofa bed is subject to daily wear and tear, which can lead to staining, dust build-up, and even unpleasant odours if not cleaned regularly. How you clean it depends on the material:
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Fabric Sofa Beds: Vacuum the upholstery every week to remove dirt, dust, and debris. If there are stains, use a fabric-friendly cleaner. Be sure to check the care label to ensure you use the right product.
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Leather or Faux Leather Sofa Beds: Wipe down the surface with a damp cloth and use a specialized leather conditioner or cleaner every few months to keep it supple and crack-free.
4. Keep the Sofa Bed Mechanism in Good Shape
Sofa beds have a metal mechanism that allows them to transform from a sofa into a bed. Over time, this mechanism may wear down or become stiff, making it harder to open and close.
To prevent this:
- Lubricate the moving parts of the mechanism with a silicone spray or a light oil once a year. This will keep the bed opening and closing smoothly without squeaking.
- Be gentle when transforming the bed—avoid slamming the frame open or shut, as this can weaken the joints or damage the mechanism.
5. Avoid Overloading the Bed
While sofa beds are designed to hold the weight of people sleeping on them, overloading the bed with heavy items or sitting multiple people on the extended bed frame can strain the mechanism and the mattress.
When using the bed feature, make sure it's treated like a normal bed, with reasonable weight limits in mind.
6. Air Out the Mattress
Sofa bed mattresses are often folded up for long periods, so they can develop odours or feel stale if not aired out. Every few months, remove the mattress from the sofa bed and allow it to air out in a well-ventilated room for a few hours.
This helps to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to mould, mildew, or unpleasant smells, especially in humid environments.
7. Check the Frame for Signs of Wear
The sofa bed frame, whether it’s wooden or metal, is the foundation of the entire structure. Regularly inspect the frame for signs of wear, cracks, or loose screws.
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Wooden Frames: Look for any warping, cracking, or splitting in the wood. If necessary, tighten any screws or bolts that may have become loose.
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Metal Frames: Check for rust or corrosion, especially if the sofa bed is in a humid environment. Use a rust remover or protective spray to keep the metal in good condition.
8. Use Bedding Wisely
The right bedding can make a big difference in how your sofa bed feels. Thin, compact bedding is easier to store within the sofa when it's in the couch position and won’t put undue strain on the mechanism. Choose bedding that complements the bed’s size—using bedding that’s too thick can make it difficult to fold the bed back into the sofa.
Also, ensure that bedding is washed and stored properly when not in use. Fresh, clean sheets will enhance the comfort and appeal of your sofa bed.
9. Keep Pets Off the Sofa Bed
Pets can scratch upholstery, shed fur, or cause stains, so it’s best to keep them off the sofa bed if you want it to stay in good condition. If your pet loves lounging on your sofa, consider using a washable pet cover or throw to protect the fabric.
10. Don’t Sit on the Edge of the Mattress
While it’s tempting to sit on the edge of the mattress when it's extended, this can put unnecessary pressure on the structure, especially on thinner mattresses. Encourage guests to sit properly on the sofa when it’s in bed mode to help distribute weight more evenly and avoid damaging the mattress or frame.
Final Thoughts
A well-maintained sofa bed can serve you and your guests comfortably for many years. By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to keep your sofa bed looking fresh, functioning smoothly, and providing optimal comfort. Whether it's a small piece in a cosy apartment or a spacious fold-out in your guest room, your sofa bed is a valuable asset—so treat it with care!
Looking for more home furniture care tips? Stay tuned to our blog for more advice on maintaining and enhancing your living space.