Often the small area of a room forces you to choose a sofa with a roll-out mechanism. During the day it serves as a resting place, and at night it easily turns into a bed. This multifunctional piece of furniture should not only save space and be comfortable, but also match the interior and style of the room. However, first of all, you should pay attention to the build quality, because the sofa should last for many years.
Pros and cons of a sofa with a roll-out mechanism
Before you go shopping, you need to carefully study the pros and cons of this option. It has quite a lot of advantages:
- saving space due to small size;
- large selection, can be matched to any style;
- strength and long service life;
- range of prices from the most budget to the most expensive;
- looks appropriate in any room.
But there were some drawbacks:
- the sleeping place turns out to be quite low;
- due to folding blocks, the base may be uneven;
- such sofas should be handled carefully so as not to damage the mechanism;
- Some models do not have armrests.
Dolphin
The “dolphin” layout mechanism is different from all previous ones: during transformation into a bed, it does not affect either the seat or the back of the sofa. An additional section of the same width simply slides out from under the seat. Then it stretches up and forward, aligning itself in height with the sofa and forming a single surface.
Photo: ercol.com
You can also find a more compact sofa with a dolphin folding mechanism - for example, so that the additional section is smaller than the main seat. This model will take up less space when unfolded and will fit even in small rooms - such as a kitchen or hallway.
Roll-out mechanism Eurobook
This is the most popular model, which has earned trust due to its ease of expansion and spacious sleeping area. Short consumers may find it uncomfortable because the seat is too wide when folded, making it uncomfortable to sit leaning on the backrest.
The device is classic and reliable: the top is retractable, on casters. Having rolled out the back part, we get the back of the sofa. If handled with care, the mechanism will last for many years, and an additional advantage of this option is the possible presence of a drawer for underwear.
Types of sofas by type of transformation
Probably, few of us think about how many folding mechanisms there are for sofas, until it comes to purchasing this piece of furniture. Let's try to figure out what types of sofas there are by type of transformation.
Book
The book is one of the simplest and most familiar mechanisms from childhood. To unfold such a sofa, the lower seat must be raised all the way (in some models until it clicks) and lowered. After this, the backrest also lowers. To fold the sofa back, you need to repeat the movements in reverse order.
Pros:
- Strength and durability: frames are usually made of metal or wood;
- Ease of use: to assemble and disassemble such a sofa, you do not need a lot of physical strength and time;
- Under the seat and back there is a drawer for bed linen or other things.
Minuses:
- The sofa-book should stand at some distance from the wall (usually a distance of 20-30 centimeters) or when folding and unfolding it will have to be moved, which is not very convenient;
- Some models may have depressions between the seat and backrest: pay attention to this when choosing.
Sofa book “Mario” Slim
"Click-Click" and "Tango"
“Click-Klyak” or “Tango” are improved versions of the Book, which some experts do not even consider to be independent layout mechanisms. The only difference between these sofas is the ability to unfold the sofa not completely, leaving the back in an intermediate position.
This is interesting! The mechanism for transforming sofas “Click-Klyak” received this name because of the pleasant characteristic sound that can be heard when the backrest is folded.
In Tango sofas, you can fix not only the backrest, but also the armrests in different positions.
Sofa with click-clack mechanism from La Forma, model “Eveline”
Eurobook: roll-out and walking (“Tick-Tock”)
Nowadays the Eurobook is the most popular mechanism for folding out sofas. There are two versions of the mechanism: withdrawable and walking.
To unfold the roll-out Eurobook, you need to roll out the seat, put soft pillows in the drawer underneath it, thanks to which it is comfortable to sit on the folded sofa, and lower the backrest. The main disadvantage: frequent movement back and forth may leave marks on the floor.
The walking Eurobook or Tic-Tac is an option that does not create such a problem. In this mechanism, the seat seems to “take a step” and is fixed without touching the floor. The back goes down the same way.
Pros:
- If you remove the pillows, the sofa can be used as a single bed without folding it out;
- A simple layout mechanism that does not require physical effort;
- When unfolded, the joint between the seat and back is not noticeable.
Minuses:
- The wheels of a roll-out eurobook can leave marks on the floor;
- The Eurobook is as uncomfortable as a sofa without pillows, which, when unfolded, completely or almost completely occupy the drawer. Because of this, it cannot be used to store other things.
Sofa bed with Eurobook mechanism, model “Baker 2”
French folding bed
The French folding bed is an option for infrequent folding, because... The mechanism is not very durable compared to most models and can wear out quickly. To unfold such a sofa, you need to remove the pillows and take out a structure folded into three rolls, which is placed on special supports-legs (sometimes there may be only one support).
Pros:
- French folding beds are often beautiful, comfortable and soft models that are very easy to fold. The possibility of layout for them is more of an additional plus than the main purpose;
- Huge selection of designs.
Minuses:
- The mechanism is not suitable for permanent use when unfolded;
- Sleeping on a French folding bed can be uncomfortable: the mattress is hard and about 6 centimeters thick.
Versace sofa bed with French folding mechanism
American folding bed (“Dionysus” or “Sedaflex”)
An option similar to a French folding bed, but suitable for daily use. The models have a thicker and softer mattress, and the supports are stronger, often made of steel. In addition, the mattress folds not in three, but in two folds.
Pros:
- An American folding bed or Sedaflex can be folded out every day;
- One-piece mattress without a joint between the seat and back.
Minuses:
- Lack of storage box;
- When unfolded, the sofa looks less aesthetically pleasing than, for example, books or Eurobooks.
Double sofa "Sydney", American folding bed
"Dolphin" ("Kangaroo" or "Microlift")
The “Dolphin” sofa mechanism is one of the best options for a nursery or teenager’s bedroom: you don’t need any physical strength to unfold it. It is enough to pull the seat, and then the platform hidden inside will “emerge” like a dolphin and take the desired position.
Note! The Dolphin mechanism is usually equipped with corner sofas. Sometimes this option is even more convenient than the classic one, because in such models there is space for a drawer for bed linen.
Pros:
- Convenient folding mechanism;
- Comfortable and flat surface for sleeping;
- The mechanism of the Dolphin sofa is considered the most durable;
- Possibility to choose between a classic and corner sofa.
Minuses:
- Not all models have drawers for bed linen, and even if they do, they are not very spacious.
Vario corner sofa bed with Dolphin mechanism
"Puma"
The transformation mechanism of the “Puma” sofa is very similar to the “Dolphin” variation, and both classic and corner sofas are also on sale. The main difference is a softer and smoother folding, which is sometimes even more convenient. Also, the retractable parts of the Puma sofas do not touch the floor.
Sofa with Puma mechanism, model “Sorrento”
Roll-out sofa or “Telescope”
“Telescope” is another good option that does not require physical strength to unfold. Like the Dolphin and Puma, you need to pull it by the seat and roll it back all the way: all three sections themselves will occupy the desired height. You definitely won’t have to think about how to unfold the sofa.
Pros:
- Convenient folding mechanism;
- Smooth sleeping surface;
- Availability of a box.
Minuses:
- Sofas with a “Telescope” mechanism are always very heavy: unfortunately, they cannot be made lighter while maintaining the advantages of the design.
Sofa with “Telescope” mechanism
"Accordion"
The back of the “Accordion” sofa is folded into two parts like an accordion. If you unfold it and roll it out, the structure can easily be transformed into a bed. The mattress of such a sofa has no seams and is not divided into separate parts.
Pros:
- Simplicity: no one will have to think about how to lay out the sofa;
- Lack of additional elements - pillows.
Minuses:
- The springs of the sofa may begin to creak when unfolded if you do not take care of them.
Mechanism "Accordion", model "Mark"
"Elf" or "Lit"
A fairly simple and light sofa that can easily be transformed into a single bed. To do this, you just need to lower the side parts and remove the pillows. On sale you can find models with and without drawers under the sofa seat.
Roll-out mechanism Pantograph
The same Eurobook, only in this case the sofa does not have casters. For the device to work, you need to pull the middle of the seat towards you. Having risen up, the second part will move away and form a space where the backrest is placed.
This sofa will not scratch the floor as the mechanism does not come into contact with it. Other advantages include a large, comfortable sleeping area and simplicity of design.
There is only one drawback: this option is quite expensive.
"French folding bed"
In Russia, models with a “French clamshell” transformation mechanism are not particularly popular. But such sofas are economical and easy to use.
The lightweight metal frame of three sections hides in the seat and requires minimal effort to unfold. On top, the frame can be equipped with wooden armor, mesh (metal or wicker), and fabric covering.
The disadvantages of a simple and lightweight design are also obvious:
- the sofa cannot be used without a separate mattress;
- the mattress must be stored separately;
- the lighter the frame, the lower the permissible weight of the sleeper;
- during each unfolding it is necessary to control the vertical position of the supports;
- no linen drawer.
When unfolding, you need to remove individual seat cushions each time. The compactness of the sofa increases the number of separate storage areas for mattresses and bed linen.
How to choose a sofa with a roll-out mechanism
The sleeping place is formed from three parts, two of which are hidden under the base. By pulling the lower part forward, they roll out and form a bed.
This is a compact option, so a roll-out sofa is suitable for small rooms. In addition, it is durable and reliable. However, with frequent use, some models can damage the floor covering.
Features of the frame, upholstery and design
Upholstery suitable for daily sleep
Upholstery is made from natural, synthetic and mixed fabrics. Please note some features of the materials:
- leather upholstery looks beautiful and lasts a long time, but bed linen slides on it, rolls up or bunches up at the feet;
- fabric with natural wool does not slip, but can be pricked;
- The best choice is a mixed fabric containing synthetic and cotton fibers;
- beautiful velor or flock fabrics wear out over a couple of years from frequent use and lose their luxurious appearance;
- jacquard upholstery is quite resistant to abrasion and fading, but it is quite expensive.
The most common fabrics used for sofa upholstery:
Flock
Chenille
Velours
Gozhka
When choosing upholstery, the color of the fabric is also taken into account. On fabric with a pattern, stains are less noticeable, plain fabric looks more stylish and is suitable for the living room, and for a nursery it is better to choose a two- or three-color option.
What is a quality sofa frame made of?
The frame of a sofa intended for constant sleep must be durable and of high quality. The best option is a wood frame. But all manufacturers are trying to reduce production costs. Therefore, most often the frame is made of wood and chipboard. When choosing a sofa, you need to make sure that the chipboard used to make it is laminated or coated with paint.
The thing is that chipboard, especially new ones, can emit formaldehydes, which are harmful to health. Therefore, it is prohibited to use non-laminated chipboard for furniture production, but some manufacturers may ignore this requirement.
In addition, pay attention to the build quality of various components. All parts must be fitted accurately and securely fastened.
Conrad draw-out mechanism
Its other name is telescope. This is due to the type of decomposition: if you pull the lower part towards you, the other two will roll out behind it, forming a sleeping place.
Even daily use will not harm the mechanism. Also, this type of folding sofa does not spoil the floor.
The disadvantage of kondar is its heavy weight and high sleeping area, so this option is not suitable for a children's room.
Book
Let's start with one of the oldest and most common types of sofas. How to unfold a sofa book? Its backrest lowers to a horizontal position and lifts the seat behind it. After a click, the backrest is fixed and the seat is lowered back - and the result is a full-fledged bed.
Photo: morganallendesigns.com
The mechanism of the book is very simple, but not without its drawbacks. The main disadvantage: such a sofa should not stand close to the wall, otherwise its back will be impossible to lower. So it is better to install a sofa book in the central part of spacious living rooms. And in small rooms it will have to be constantly moved.
Roll-out mechanism Click-clack
This is an improved version of the Eurobook. When you want to watch movies reclining, it can be folded down to one click. This way the backrest will only recline halfway. If you need a place to sleep, the base rises to two clicks.
Most products have additional linen drawers. Click-klyak is a fairly budget model, in most cases it costs no more than a book. It is very comfortable thanks to the mattress, which takes up the entire product.
But it has a significant drawback: each time it is unfolded, the sofa will need to be moved away from the wall, since it will require space in the back to assume a lying position.
"Accordion"
To make the sofa comfortable for sitting, but acquire the required length when unfolded, an “accordion” design was invented. The main feature of the design was the back, which is made up of two frames connected by hinges.
Expensive models with this transformation mechanism are equipped with spring or vacuum closers, simplifying folding and unfolding, eliminating impacts and damage to the hinges. A child can easily cope with such mechanisms. The disadvantages of the design include the difficult choice of installation location (you need to provide free space in front of the sofa), a small linen drawer, and increased requirements for the quality of the metal frame.
Tips for those who buy upholstered furniture for sleeping
- When choosing in a store, do not rush; pay attention not only to the dimensions and appearance, but also to the internal condition of the product.
- Evaluate the mechanism for modification. Metal elements must be durable, well painted and securely connected to each other.
- Find out what the frame is made of. It can be wood, metal or chipboard. If the base is made of a third material, it will not last long.
- Check how filled the filler is. On each part of the product it should be of different density. The hardest one is on the seat. It is better if it consists of polyurethane. The foam will sag too quickly.
- The fabric should be durable, and the seams should be even and well stitched. Thin ones will quickly deteriorate or look ugly. Leather is not necessarily the best upholstery. Now there are many new materials that are not inferior to it in quality.
- If the product squeaks already in the store, do not buy it.
- Models with a metal frame are considered the most convenient and durable, as it is easier to repair and more reliable.
- A good manufacturer provides at least 18 months of warranty.
- You need to sit or even lie on the sofa to understand whether you are comfortable.
