10 Sleeper Sofas That Don't Look Like Sleeper Sofas

Style: "Think about how the sleeper will function day-to-day," says Wolf. "Is it for frequent guests or just occasional overnights? If it’s part of your main living area, prioritize a streamlined silhouette that doesn’t look like a sleeper. Today’s best designs blend seamlessly into modern interiors. Avoid bulky roll arms and overstuffed cushions, which can instantly date a room."

Peltier agrees: Slimmer profiles work best, especially in smaller spaces where scale matters. "The final touch would be a stylish upholstery that blends right in with your existing setup." Having trouble deciding? Most major brands offer free swatches, so you can see what works in your space before committing.

Comfort: "Comfort is everything, so your choice of mattress is key," notes Wolf. "For example, a memory foam option can make all the difference for overnight guests. I also love when a sofa has extra-plush seating to offset the sleeper mechanism when it’s closed. That’s what really separates a great sleeper from a so-so one."

Materials: "Look for sleeper sofas with sturdy frames—think solid, kiln-dried wood—and durable upholstery," says interior designer Shelby Van Daley of Daley Home. Kemnitz adds that performance fabrics are her go-to, especially if kids or pets are in the mix. "Leather ages beautifully, and performance fabrics are cozy and hold up well with everyday use."

Mechanism: Sleeper sofas usually come in three forms: "click-clack," where the back folds down; pull-out styles with a concealed mattress; and trundles that slide out to reveal a hidden cushion. "I personally prefer designs that eliminate the metal bar and instead use a platform-based system," says Wolf. "They're quieter, more supportive, and take up less space. Some models, like Luonto’s electronic sleeper, even open in about 15 seconds with virtually no effort—just remove the pillows and press a button."

Size: "Size will play a big factor when selecting a sleeper sofa," says Van Daley. "You want to make sure that the sofa fits your space—and that there's still room for a queen or king bed when it’s pulled out."

It's also worth paying attention to seat depth and back height. "The sofa still needs to function as an everyday sofa, not just a once-a-year guest bed," says Peltier.