A sofabed is one of the most practical pieces of furniture you can own. It blends comfort, function, and style—ideal for guest rooms, home offices, or small flats.
But because it serves double duty as both a sofa and a bed, it can experience more wear and tear than a standard piece. That’s why maintaining both its appearance and comfort is key if you want to get the most from your investment.
This guide covers everything you need to know to keep your sofabed in top condition for years to come.
Understand Your Sofabed’s Materials and Construction
To take proper care of your sofabed, you need to know what it’s made of. The type of upholstery, mattress style, and frame material all influence how you should clean, maintain, and use the piece.
- Check the fabric type – Polyester, velvet, chenille, and faux leather all have different care instructions, so always read the manufacturer’s label first.
- Identify the frame – Is it metal or wood? Each reacts differently to weight, moisture, and movement.
- Know the mechanism – Whether it’s a click-clack design or a fold-out metal frame, ensure you understand how it opens and closes.
- Inspect the mattress – Thinner sofa bed mattresses often need extra care or added support to stay comfortable.
Understanding the components of your sofabed allows you to tailor your maintenance routine and avoid accidental damage.
Clean the Upholstery Regularly
Keeping your sofabed clean not only improves hygiene but also helps preserve the look and feel of the fabric. Dust, crumbs, and spills can quickly build up, especially in the seat creases and fold-out areas.
- Vacuum weekly – Use an upholstery brush to remove dust, crumbs, and pet hair, particularly around seams and crevices.
- Tackle stains quickly – Blot (don’t rub) spills immediately with a clean, damp cloth. Use fabric-safe stain removers for stubborn marks.
- Use gentle cleaners – Avoid harsh chemicals. For routine cleaning, a mixture of mild soap and water often works best.
- Wash cushion covers if removable – Follow the washing label closely, and air dry to prevent shrinkage.
A regular cleaning schedule stops dirt from becoming embedded and keeps your sofa bed looking smart and inviting.
Rotate and Plump the Cushions
The seat and back cushions on a sofabed can lose their shape faster due to the added weight and movement of converting it into a bed. Keeping them plump ensures better support and a more polished appearance.
- Rotate regularly – Swap cushions around if they’re the same size to distribute wear more evenly.
- Plump daily – Give your cushions a good shake and knead to redistribute the filling and reduce flattening.
- Consider cushion inners – Foam cushions may benefit from being replaced or topped up after a few years.
- Use a vacuum – For scatterbacks or feather-filled cushions, use the vacuum’s suction to reintroduce air for a fuller look.
Cushions are the first thing guests see and sit on—keeping them fresh is essential for style and comfort.
Protect the Mattress for Long-Term Comfort
Most sofa bed mattresses are thinner than standard ones, which can make comfort a challenge over time. A few simple additions can make a world of difference.
- Add a mattress topper – A foldable memory foam topper can enhance softness and improve support.
- Use a mattress protector – It guards against dust mites, spills, and body oils, extending the mattress's lifespan.
- Let it breathe – After guests leave, air out the mattress to prevent moisture build-up and odours.
- Flip if allowed – Some mattresses are double-sided and benefit from being flipped or rotated every few months.
These tips help avoid sagging and ensure your guests enjoy a restful night’s sleep.
Keep the Mechanism Running Smoothly
The conversion mechanism is what makes a sofa bed functional—but it can wear out if not looked after properly. Routine checks help prevent jamming, squeaking, or damage to the frame.
- Open and close gently – Never force the mechanism. Use smooth, even pressure.
- Tighten screws – Periodically check for loose bolts or screws and tighten as needed.
- Lubricate moving parts – Use silicone spray or a light machine oil on hinges and joints if the mechanism starts to squeak.
- Avoid overloading – Don't sit or stand on the edge of a partially folded frame, which can cause warping or damage.
A smooth, silent mechanism extends the life of your sofabed and ensures quick transitions from sofa to sleep mode.
Use Throws and Covers to Preserve Appearance
Using removable accessories can be one of the easiest ways to extend the life of your sofabed while making it easier to maintain. They also offer an opportunity to refresh the look of your room whenever you fancy a change.
- Protect high-contact areas – Use throws on the armrests and back cushions to shield from hair oils and friction.
- Choose washable options – Machine-washable throws or slipcovers make upkeep simple and quick.
- Style with intention – Select throws and cushions that complement your décor while hiding everyday wear.
- Seasonal swaps – Lighter cotton in summer, warmer fleece in winter keeps things looking—and feeling—fresh.
Good quality accessories add a layer of defence while letting you customise your look throughout the year.
Keep Pets and Kids in Check
If your household includes pets or children, your sofa bed will likely face extra challenges. From muddy paws to sticky fingers, prevention is far easier than cleaning up after the fact.
- Use pet-friendly covers – Opt for tightly woven, dark fabrics that resist snagging and hide pet hair.
- Establish rules – Encourage children not to jump or eat on the sofa bed to avoid early wear and tear.
- Invest in stain protection – Fabric protectors can help repel spills and make cleaning easier.
- Trim pet nails – This helps reduce accidental scratches or tears in the upholstery.
With the right habits and a bit of planning, your sofabed can remain stylish and functional even in busy family homes.
Store Bedding Smartly
Keeping bedding handy is essential if your sofabed gets regular use. But storing it the wrong way can lead to clutter, odours, or even mould. If your model includes under-seat storage, make the most of it.
- Use breathable bags – Store duvets, pillows, and sheets in cotton or mesh bags to allow air circulation.
- Avoid overstuffing – Don’t cram the storage area so full that it damages cushions or mechanisms.
- Freshen regularly – Use lavender sachets or baking soda pouches to keep stored bedding smelling fresh.
- Rotate bedding – Swap out what’s stored every few weeks so that nothing gets musty or neglected.
A tidy storage setup ensures that bedding stays fresh and your sofabed remains practical for guests.
Position Your Sofabed Wisely
Where you place your sofabed matters more than you might think. Strategic positioning helps avoid unnecessary wear and keeps it more comfortable to use and maintain.
- Leave room to unfold – Measure carefully to ensure there’s enough space to extend the bed without moving furniture every time.
- Avoid direct sunlight – Prolonged exposure to UV rays can fade upholstery and dry out fabrics.
- Keep away from radiators – Excess heat can damage the fabric and warp wood or metal frames.
- Use rugs underneath – Rugs can prevent wear on flooring and reduce sliding, especially on hard surfaces.
The right location means better durability and a more user-friendly experience all round.
Refresh and Restyle Over Time
Even the best-maintained sofabeds will eventually show signs of age. Instead of replacing the whole thing, try refreshing what you can—keeping your furniture looking newer for longer.
- Swap cushions and throws – New colours or textures can instantly modernise the space.
- Reupholster if needed – A high-quality frame can often be re-covered at a fraction of the cost of a new sofa.
- Replace worn mattresses – Some models allow for mattress replacement, restoring comfort without a full replacement.
- Touch up frames – Wood or metal frames can often be painted or buffed for a fresher appearance.
These small investments can extend your sofabed’s life by years and help maintain a cohesive, stylish look.
Conclusion
A sofabed is one of the most flexible pieces of furniture you can own—but to keep it looking great and feeling comfortable, regular care is a must. From cushion maintenance and cleaning routines to mattress care and smart storage, a little effort goes a long way.
By understanding how your sofabed is made, protecting it from daily wear, and using accessories smartly, you’ll enjoy both its comfort and style for many years to come. Whether you're hosting guests, relaxing with family, or simply making the most of a small space, a well-maintained sofabed will always deliver.