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The Best Sleeper Sofas for Overnight Guests

Transform your living room into a guest bedroom in minutes.

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best sleeper sofas for overnight guests

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A sleeper sofa easily converts from a comfy couch during the day to a roomy bed at night. Unlike the creeky sleeper sofas with lumpy mattresses and prodding springs you may remember from your past, today's sleeper sofas have come a long way with easy-to-set-up designs that convert to a bed with just a few adjustments. 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.

Here at the Good Housekeeping Institute, our experts in the Textiles Lab have rounded up a list of the best sleeper sofas to help get your visitors settled. We sent a feedback survey to our 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 from sofa owners who shared what they loved and didn't love about their couches — from comfort and durability to delivery and appearance. 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 sleeper sofa, a futon-style sofa or a luxe sectional.

    1
    Best Overall

    Pottery Barn Pearce Square Arm Sleeper Sofa with Memory Foam Mattress

    Pearce Square Arm Sleeper Sofa with Memory Foam Mattress
    Credit: Pottery Barn

    Pros

    • Hundreds of design combinations: fabrics, cushions, size, etc.
    • Cushions offer 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 be delivered

    Popular for its long-lasting, comfortable sofas and its impressive range of fabric and color options, Pottery Barn is our go-to recommendation for standard sofas and sleeper sofas. The Pearce sofa line was a favorite among our panelists.

    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. We love the bench option (one seat cushion) for a seamless feel — ideal for lounging or napping. Keep in mind that the sofa is made to order so it may take a few months to be delivered.

    The 5-inch memory foam mattress in the sleeper is infused with gel for a cooler, more comfortable feel for your guests.

    WHAT USERS SAY: Our survey respondents found that the seat cushions (stuffed with a mix of down-alternative fibers, feathers and down surrounding a foam core) struck a great balance between plushness and firmness. They gave this sofa high marks for comfort, support and appearance, commenting that it looks amazing in their homes. One even said she still "loved it" after owning it "for over 10 years."

    RELATED: Best Sleeper Chairs

    Sofa dimensions83" x 40" x 38"
    Estimated bed dimensionsQueen (60" x 72")
    Bed typeMattress
    Delivery time4–12 weeks, depending on design selections
    a pottery barn pearce sleeper sofa with the mattress pulled out on a wooden floor against a white wall, good housekeeping's best sleeper sofas
    Pottery Barn
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    2
    Best Value

    Ashley Bladen Full Sofa Sleeper

    Bladen Full Sofa Sleeper

    Pros

    • Soft, worn faux-leather material
    • Panelists and online reviewers said delivery is convenient
    • Online reviews said the cushions and the bed are comfy

    Cons

    • Final price and delivery fees may vary based on location

    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 pull-out couch with a traditional look and a spacious Full-size mattress inside.

    Before buying from Ashley online, know that the price may vary slightly based on location, and the company does charge an extra delivery fee. Choose between no-hassle delivery, which includes delivery to any room plus assembly, or doorstep delivery for a lower cost. Both panelists and online reviewers said delivery is convenient.

    You can outfit your whole living room with matching pieces from the Bladen line like a coordinating recliner, ottoman and loveseat.

    WHAT USERS SAY: Online reviewers emphasized 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, sharing that it's easy to clean. Some reviewers found the cushions to be a bit firm for lounging but others appreciated the structure.

    Sofa dimensions90" x 36" x 38"
    Estimated bed dimensionsFull (52" x 72")
    Bed typeMattress
    Delivery time1–3 weeks, depending on location
    a brown leather ashley furniture bladen full sleeper sofa with the mattress pulled out and a brown quilt on top, good housekeeping's best sleeper sofas
    Ashley Furniture
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    3
    Best with Storage

    Joybird Briar Sleeper Storage Sectional

    On Sale
    Briar Sleeper Storage Sectional
    Credit: Joybird

    Pros

    • The chaise opens to stash bedding or other belongings
    • Trendy mid-century modern style
    • Over 70 different color options

    Cons

    • Longer delivery times

    While most sofas are available in only a few neutral colors, this sleeper sofa from Joybird is available in more than 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 modern sofa will elevate your living space. You can also upgrade the standard foam mattress to a TEMPUR foam mattress for a more responsive, comfier feel for your guests.

    The chaise opens up for extra storage to keep pillows, sheets and blankets at the ready for visitors, and the bed is a traditional pull-out. Because the sofas are made to order based on your customizations, Joybird has longer delivery times than many other brands, and delivery time can vary based on location.

    WHAT USERS SAY: Our survey panelists are fans of Joybird's mid-century flare. One shared, "I adore the style. There were so many options for fabric and legs. I got exactly what I wanted." When asked what she liked about her sofa, another user detailed, "It's exceptionally comfortable for a sleeper sofa and [I] have received many compliments about the bed itself." A panelist who opted for the "pet-safe" fabrication agreed that it's truly is easy to clean.

    Sofa dimensions112" x 60" x 35
    Estimated bed dimensionsQueen (60" x 72")
    Bed typePull-out
    Delivery time4–8 weeks, depending on design selections
    a grey joybird briar sleeper storage sectional in a home with the bed set up and the storage chaise open, good housekeeping's best sleeper sofas
    Joybird
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    4
    Best from IKEA

    IKEA Friheten Sleeper Sectional

    Friheten Sleeper Sectional
    Now 11% Off
    Credit: Ikea

    Pros

    • Built-in storage
    • Reversible chaise attachment
    • Soft material and cushions

    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, simply 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.

    WHAT USERS SAY: 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. One user shared that putting together the sofa wasn't difficult, thanks to the detailed instructions.

    Online reviewers and a Textiles Lab analyst who have used this couch share that the material, although soft, is prone to pilling. Our analyst was impressed by how easily the sofa transformed. "I've struggled to convert more traditional sofa beds, but this one is a breeze in comparison. The pull-tabs make it so easy to extend the bed, and I love that I'm able to keep bedding conveniently inside the chaise."

    Sofa dimensions90.5" x 59.5" x 26"
    Estimated bed dimensionsFull (55" x 80")
    Bed typeCushions with pull-out trundle
    Delivery time1–2 weeks, depending on location
    orange sleeper sofa from ikea extended into a bed in a living room setup
    IKEA
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    5
    Best Sectional

    Interior Define Sloan Chaise Sleeper Sectional

    Sloan Chaise Sleeper Sectional
    Credit: Interior Define

    Pros

    • Earned high ratings from our panelists for comfort, support and style
    • Customizable fabric, cushion and wood options
    • Sleek yet cozy look

    Cons

    • Extended shipping times

    If you love stretching out on a sectional-style sofa but also want the option of a pull-out bed, this sleeper sofa checks every box. Interior Define lets you customize the sofa completely with tons of different layouts, leg types, cushion fills and fabric options, and the brand will even send you free swatches to see them firsthand before ordering. Specify the leg color, chaise length, seat cushion style and type of fill, but the chaise location is static after you make your selects.

    The comfy couch is also available in a corner style, standard sleeper sofa and sleeper chair depending on the layout of your space.

    WHAT USERS SAY: We love the sleek yet cozy design of this one, and our survey panelists were blown away by the fabric selection of 100-plus options, including one who especially loved the "individuality" of each sofa. Panelists who own this specific model gave it high ratings for style, comfort and support and said the brand's couches are more comfortable than the ones they've owned from other popular brands.

    Some panelists shared that they experienced elongated delivery times, and the brand notes it can take anywhere from 10 to 12 weeks for the product to ship. Online reviewers said that when the product does arrive, the white-glove delivery process is seamless.

    Sofa dimensions89" x 40" x 37"
    Estimated bed dimensionsQueen (60"x 72")
    Bed typeMattress
    Delivery time10–12 weeks
    a cream sleeper sofa from interior define that's fully extended in a living room setup
    Interior Define
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    6
    Best Modular

    West Elm Harmony Modular Sleeper Sofa

    Harmony Modular Sleeper Sofa
    Now 15% Off
    Credit: West Elm

    Pros

    • Modular pieces can be rearranged in different spaces
    • Popular sofa brand according to 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 (or more than one if you please) 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, a corner sofa or an L-shaped sectional design, but know that the larger customized styles can retail for well over $5,000. If you don't want to design your own modular sleeper sofa, the Harmony line includes a pre-designed standard three-seater and a sectional (pictured).

    WHAT USERS SAY: Many survey respondents recommended West Elm for its long-lasting couches. One panelist who owns a modular sofa from the brand described it as "very comfortable," while another who owns the sleeper sofa said it's "compact while also offering a sleeper-sofa function."

    When asked to compare her West Elm sofa to others she has owned, one panelist shared, "This is the most luxurious and comfortable sofa I have ever owned." She added that none of her previous couches "were as nice as the West Elm" sofa she purchased.

    RELATED: Best Modular Sofas

    Sofa dimensionsDependent on the modular pieces chosen
    Estimated bed dimensionsQueen (60" x 72")
    Bed typeMattress
    Delivery time2–5 weeks, depending on design selections
    a beige west elm harmony sleeper sofa with the mattress set up and the storage chaise open, good housekeeping's best sleeper sofas
    West Elm
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    How we choose the best sleeper sofas

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    In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we have evaluated all types of couches, including traditional, modular, curved sofas and small sofas for apartments. To find the best sleeper sofas available, we distributed a survey to Good Housekeeping's consumer panel, asking them to provide 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 simple 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

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      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:

      • Pull-out 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 pull-out 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.
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      Where is the best place to buy sleeper sofas online?

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      Based on our extensive surveying, the featured brands above are great places to buy a sofa 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 one 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.

      How do you make a sleeper sofa more comfortable?

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      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.

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      What is the lifespan of a sleeper sofa?

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      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?

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      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 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.

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      Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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      Emma Seymour is the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab associate director at the Good Housekeeping Institute. She’s been at Good Housekeeping for more than five years, overseeing in-Lab and consumer tests. She has written multiple furniture features, including stories on the best bed frames and the best sectional sofas. With a degree in fiber science and apparel design from Cornell University, she has extensive product-testing experience. She surveyed sleeper sofa owners to update this article.

      Amanda Constantine joined the Good Housekeeping Institute in 2022 as a home and apparel reviews analyst. She has written about furniture and home goods, including stylish recliner chairs and the best cheap couches. For this article, she reviewed thousands of data points from the Textiles Lab's sofa survey for relevant information regarding sleeper sofas and sofa beds from popular or top-tested brands.

      Headshot of Emma Seymour
      Emma Seymour
      Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Associate Director

      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. 

      Headshot of Amanda Constantine
      Amanda Constantine
      Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst

      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.

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      best sleeper sofas for overnight guests
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