IKEA Sofa Beds

IKEA Sofa Beds Review UK (2024)

Last updated: 01.11.2023 Reading time: 8 Min.

So, you’re thinking about getting an IKEA sofa bed? 🤔

IKEA can be a good option for budget buyers looking for a cheap and convenient product.

But some quality alternatives might better impress your guests during their stay.

Our comparison review will guide you through fantastic alternatives that outmatch the best IKEA sofa beds in the UK. 🤯

Buckle up! 👇

IKEA Sofa beds

Advantages

  • One of the most affordable retailers for furniture.
  • Delivery is often quick, and orders can also be collected from your local IKEA store.
  • Flat-pack furniture is easy to assemble and store away.
  • 10-year guarantee on all IKEA sofa beds.

Disadvantages

  • Cheap low-quality materials that don’t withstand the test of time.
  • IKEA sofa beds and mattresses can be uncomfortable.
  • Delivery charge and higher assembly cost.
  • Self-assembly on some sofa beds can be difficult.
  • IKEA products usually contain Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).

What is the best IKEA sofa bed?

IKEA has a huge selection of sofa beds to choose from.

But which one is the best?

Here are quick IKEA sofa bed reviews of some of our favourite options.

IKEA Friheten corner sofa bed

The Friheten corner sofa bed by IKEA is a popular choice.

ikea friheten corner sofa bed

ikea friheten sofa bed

There is plenty of seating space on this corner sofa, perfect for movie nights. 🍿

The hidden storage underneath is also a great way to store cushions or board games.

But we believe that there are better quality products out there that deserve a spot in your living room.

IKEA Nyhamn sofa bed

The IKEA Nyhamn sofa bed is one of the most convenient options with its simple click-clack mechanism.

ikea nyhamn sofa bed

nyhman sofa bed opened up as bed

You can change it from sofa to bed within seconds by simply pushing the backrest down.

Despite the compact frame, this three-seater space-saving sofa bed folds into a double size when open. 🙌

It has a removable cover that can be washed at up to 40°C.

But we think the Happy Beds Aurora sofa bed is a similar product with a much more premium look. ✨

BUY AURORA SOFA BED£ 269.99

It even comes with a soft-touch velvet fabric and a 5-year guarantee. 🤞

IKEA Lycksele chair bed

The IKEA Lycksele chair sofa bed provides more sleeping options without compromising space.

This simple chair bed design folds into a single bed, perfect for the occasional guest. 🧳

It comes with a removable cover and is available in various colours.

ikea lycksele chair bed

lycksele chair bed pulled out

You can even get two-seater options if preferred.

However, we think the Jay-Be Footstool sofa bed is also worth considering. 🤔

BUY JAY-BE FOOTSTOOL BED£ 749.99

It's even more compact and is made in the UK with sustainable materials. 🌎

IKEA sofa bed features

We’ve mentioned some of the best IKEA sofa beds already…

But what is it that makes these Swedish sofa beds so popular? 🧐

IKEA's ample storage options

Multiple IKEA sofa beds and IKEA day beds come with integrated storage.

The Friheten, mentioned above, has hidden storage underneath the seating.

Many of the day bed options, in contrast, have built-in drawers.

Storage is key, particularly for those who live in flats with limited storage space available. ⛺

IKEA isn’t shy about storage, and most of their sofa beds have storage options.

IKEA's great design

Another key aspect of IKEA products is the simplicity of their designs.

IKEA sofa beds have a sleek and clean look that is ideal for a minimalist style in a contemporary home. 🏠

IKEA sofa beds, 2-seater IKEA sofa beds, and great IKEA sofa beds are amongst the most popular style choices.

IKEA's unbeatable price point

For IKEA, one of its biggest selling points is the price.

The company provides some of the most budget-friendly sofa beds in the UK market.

However, we often what that while IKEA sofa beds can be a great option for those on a budget, they often compromise on quality.

If you're looking for high-quality alternatives, check out some of the below options.

Our favourite UK budget-friendly sofa beds:

Types of IKEA sofa beds

Once you’ve decided on the most important factors for your new sofa bed, this will help to narrow down the type of sofa bed you need.

ikea sofa bed types

Below, you'll find a list of all the available IKEA sofa beds!

Single IKEA sofa beds

Single-size sofa beds that sleep one person are great for children, occasional guests, and small spaces. 🙋

The mattress usually measures around 90 x 190 cm (3’ x 6’3”), the same size as a single bed.

The IKEA Lycksele, which we've looked at above, is a popular option.

But you can also turn to our guide on the best chair beds in the UK for even more compact sofa bed options.

Double IKEA sofa beds

Double IKEA sofa beds sleep up to two people. 👫

These are ideal for those who have couples staying overnight, or who want to give their guests a bit more comfort.

IKEA double sofa bed mattresses usually measure around 135 x 190 cm (4’6" x 6’3”), the same size as a double bed.

Corner IKEA sofa beds

Corner options are usually L-shaped sofas.

They can come as 2-seater or 3-seater options, with a chaise or corner piece.

Sizes differ, but they are usually bulky and need to be in a room with more space. 🌌

Corner IKEA sofa beds are ideal for living rooms where the sofa will be used regularly.

ikea friheten sofa bed in room

ikea friheten sofa bed with bedding

The IKEA Friheten is a corner-bed sofa and one of IKEA's bestsellers.

2-seater IKEA sofa bed

2-seater IKEA sofa beds are compact whilst still offering plenty of seating and sleeping space. 🛋️

These sofas have 2 seats, which can usually be folded down into a sofa bed via a click-clack mechanism.

Some IKEA 2-seater sofa beds also have a pull-out mattress.

IKEA 3-seat sofa beds are also available for those needing extra room. However, these are usually much wider, so ensure you have the space available before you buy.

How to choose an IKEA sofa bed

IKEA sofa beds come in many styles, shapes and sizes. 🤯

Choosing what kind of sofa bed you need depends on your own individual needs and preferences.

Consider the following criteria:

  • How much space do I have available?
  • What room do I want to use for the sofa bed?
  • How many people does the sofa bed need to sleep?
  • How often will the sofa bed be used?
  • What is my budget for a sofa bed?
  • What style/colour/fabrics suit my living space?

Once you know the kind of sofa bed you are looking for, this will help to narrow down your options. ✔️

Are IKEA sofa beds comfortable?

We would be lying if we said IKEA sofa beds were the most comfortable options available.

If you’re looking for a cheap-as-chips product that will not be used often, then an IKEA sofa bed is your best bet.

They can be a brilliant choice for children who can sleep on lower-quality products without suffering from back pain. 🧒

But, particularly for older guests, an IKEA sofa bed will likely provide an uncomfortable sleep.

back and neck pain graphic
Cheap and unsupportive sofa beds will cause back and neck pain.

Guests staying more than one night deserve a bit more comfort.

Nobody wants to wake up sore and tired on Boxing Day morning because your cheap IKEA sofa bed kept them up all night.

And there’s no reason a sofa bed should be any less comfortable than a regular mattress.

If you have the budget, you could look at some of the more premium alternatives below.

Our favourite UK luxury sofa beds:

How can I make my IKEA sofa bed more comfortable?

So, you have an IKEA sleeper sofa but want to improve how it feels?

The last thing you need is your guests having to visit their chiropractor after visiting you.

Don’t worry! 😅

Before you decide to throw the sofa bed in the skip, there are ways you can try to enhance its overall comfort. ☁️

Consider investing in a mattress topper

A mattress topper goes on top of the sofa bed, mattress, or futon to offer a layer of additional comfort and support.

mattress topper graphic
Mattress toppers can add some extra comfort to your mattress.

Mattress toppers won't fit over all sofa beds, but you usually wouldn't have a problem with any pull-out mattresses.

If you're looking for a high-quality but affordable mattress topper, we'd recommend the Panda Memory Foam Mattress Topper. 🐼

It offers orthopaedic support and comes with a hypoallergenic bamboo cover for sensitive skin.

BUY PANDA TOPPER£ 99.95

Upgrade your guest pillows

Pillows can make a world of difference to a good night’s sleep, but their importance is often overlooked.

Luckily, they're usually one of the most affordable ways to impress your guests. 💡

woman hugging pillow graphic
Upgrading your pillows can make a world of difference to the feel of your sofa bed.

The Emma Original pillow is a great pillow for your overnight visitors.

You won't know which sleeping position your guests will prefer, but the Emma pillow can be adjusted to suit all sleep styles.

It features multiple layers that can be added or removed to find the perfect fit.

EXTRA 5% OFF WITH
SLEEPHEROUK5Click to copy code

BUY EMMA PILLOW£ 75

We usually recommend that side sleepers keep all three layers, while back sleepers should sleep on two layers and stomach sleepers only on one.

Save up for a better sofa bed

Sometimes, planning ahead of time is the best solution. 🤔

Is it your turn to host during the holidays and you’re anxious about those coming to stay?

Often people don't realise that sofa beds have as much as a 4 - 10 week wait for delivery. 🚚

If you prepare months in advance and order ahead of time, you don’t have to limit your options to the IKEA range.

Instead, consider some of the best sofa beds available in the UK.

price performance ratio graphic
Instead of compromising on quality, why not plan your purchase in advance?

By purchasing earlier, you can even consider retailers with finance available so you can spread the cost before it's time to start Christmas shopping.

Dreams, for example, has interest-free finance options available on all sofa beds over £500. 💳

SHOP DREAMS SOFA BEDS

Our favourite Dreams sofa beds:

What else does IKEA sell?

IKEA isn't just famous for its sofa bed selection.

In fact, IKEA sells a whole range of furniture products to make your home more aesthetically pleasing.

IKEA’s most popular products include:

While we're not fans of all IKEA sleep products, they often have great other furniture options.

IKEA sofa bed accessories

For those who already have an IKEA sofa bed, you might want to add some accessories to complete or change the look of your sofa bed.

Replacing the covers often keeps the sofa bed in good condition and improve its overall lifespan with a fresh new look.

You can also buy cushion pads and cushion covers to add style to your sofa bed's overall look.

Should you buy an IKEA sofa bed?

An IKEA sofa bed can be a great choice for those on a tight budget or in need of fast delivery.

However, if you have time to wait and some extra cash to spare, consider investing in a better-quality sofa bed instead.💰

You should never compromise on quality, particularly for your sleep.

If you have frequent guests, you should also do everything you can to give them a comfortable stay. 🥰

You don’t want your visitors checking into a hotel on their next visit, so offering them better-quality sleeping arrangements is ideal.

Check out some of our favourite affordable UK sofa beds:

Frequently asked questions

  • How do you assemble an IKEA sofa bed?


    IKEA sofa beds can be assembled by following the instructions that come with your IKEA furniture. 

    The difficulty level of assembly will depend on the type of IKEA sofa bed you buy. 

    Usually, it takes 2 people to assemble an IKEA sofa bed and shouldn’t take more than a few hours.  

    You should have basic tools to hand, such as an Allen key, hammer, and/or screwdriver. 

    The video below can give you a good understanding of how an IKEA sofa bed is assembled:

    If you struggle with self-assembly, consider asking a friend or relative to help.

    You can also check the assembly documents in the product's details before finalising your purchase. 

  • How do you open an IKEA sofa bed?


    IKEA sofa beds open differently depending on which one you buy. 

    Some IKEA folding beds with click-click mechanisms can be easily opened by pulling the backrest of the sofa bed forward or backwards and then laying it flat. 

    Other IKEA sofa beds come with wheels on the base of the bed that can be pulled out and extended. 

    Alternatively, some other IKEA sofa beds follow a fold-out method.

    Here, you can simply remove the back cushions and unfold the seat. 

    Check your IKEA sofa bed's assembly guide to see the design's structure. 

  • Where can I buy an IKEA sofa bed?


    IKEA sofa beds are available for purchase at most IKEA stores or online

    Just type the product name or article number of the sofa bed into the search bar of the IKEA website, and it'll bring up a variety of results.

    Some IKEA products may also be available on Amazon in the UK, with free Prime delivery. 

Holly

Holly Matthews

Senior Content Writer

Holly has been a content writer at Sleep Hero UK since 2021. With an MA degree in literature and previous experience working at a leading UK bed retailer, she is committed to using her skills to guide others towards making better sleep choices.

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