Detailed review of chair-beds, popular transformation options

Mechanisms for chair-beds differ in the degree of reliability and ease of use. Some of them are intended for daily use, while others are intended for unfolding only from time to time. In addition, the mechanism for the chair-bed largely determines how smooth the sleeping surface will be. This is especially important if the furniture will be used as a permanent sleeping place for one of the family members. The more even the surface the unfolded chair forms, the better the conditions for sleep, the stronger and healthier it will be.

Tip: If the chair-bed is used daily, it is recommended to purchase a special mattress for sofas (topper). It levels the surface of the chair-bed, smooths out irregularities and joints, extends the service life, and also gives the chair-bed orthopedic properties.

Rating of chair-beds

When compiling a list of the best products, we consulted with designers, developers and distributors of furniture products. The experience of each specialist exceeded 15 years of work. Their knowledge and skills helped us compile a list of criteria by which we compared products:

• Frame materials;
• Upholstery, filler;
• Folding method;
• Dimensions folded and unfolded;
• Bed parameters;
• Load capacity;
• Appearance, style, color options.

The result of the comparative analysis was a top list of 10 positions. For convenience, we have divided it into 4 subsections - budget products, products with an accordion transformation element, folding beds, options for use by children. Review monitoring identified the strengths and weaknesses of each nominee.

Roll-out mechanism

When unfolding, the seat base is pulled towards itself, and additional sections are pulled out. The seat is turned over, resulting in a fairly flat sleeping area.

The main disadvantage is the presence of gaps between the individual parts of the mattress. Another feature is the low height of the bed, usually it does not exceed 25-30 cm, which can be inconvenient for tall people and the elderly.

Best Cheap Chair Beds

If price is the determining factor when choosing such products for you, we offer the first selection of the rating. These are cheap, but functional, reliable and durable designs in a pleasant design. VyborExpert considers three nominees to be the best in 2022.

Your sofa Roger

A transformable chair-bed in a minimalist design is designed for a load of up to 100 kg. The manufacturer offers several upholstery options: beige, brown, black. There are versions with and without a linen box.

The design consists of a steel frame, which is particularly durable. A hard mattress 8 cm thick made of polyurethane foam will be useful for people with back problems. It is not difficult to unfold, just pull the bottom part and the transformation mechanism will turn the accordion from 3 folded parts into one even one.

A wide, full-fledged sleeping place will fit well into the loft style. Its dimensions: length 200, height 91, width 97, depth 108 cm. All mechanisms work properly, without any complaints.

The upholstery material is dense; velor fabric for furniture “Luna” is used. For optimal shock absorption of the torso, slats are installed under the sleeping area. The weight of the mini-sofa with a linen box is 50 kg, without it 42 kg.

Advantages:

• Suitable for any interior;
• Upholstery in different colors;
• Hard mattress;
• Easy removal of the lower stand;
• The presence of slats under the berth;
• Inexpensive.

Flaws:

• The metal frame is visible from the side;
• No armrests.

The model looks good in the interior of a loft office. It will serve as a sleeping place for those who stay late at work and do not want to waste time on the way home. It is not recommended to exceed the permissible load.

MnogoMeb Amsterdam

The model from the Russian furniture factory “MnogoMeb” can complement any interior with its classic design. It differs from the first nominee in the presence of armrests and an accordion transformation mechanism.

The frame consists of timber (solid wood) and high-quality plywood. The upholstery of the armrest is made of artificial leather, the sofa itself is made of soft velor, both options are organically combined with each other. The mattress is filled with compacted foam, which gives softness and elasticity.

The material is hypoallergenic and during manufacturing is treated with an antifungal and antibacterial agent. It has increased wear resistance and, due to its elasticity, instantly restores its original shape.

For comfort, the mattress is equipped with a spring block that evenly distributes the load and supports the position of the spine. Dimensions are: width 95, depth 115, height 80, length 155 cm.

Advantages:

• Reliable folding mechanism;
• Availability of armrests;
• Frame strength;
• Hypoallergenic mattress;
• Soft upholstery.

Flaws:

• There is no linen drawer;
• Short bed length.

The upholstery of the armrests well hides all the folding elements of the frame, making the appearance more neat. If the material becomes dirty, it is recommended to clean it with a soapy water solution.

Solo latte

An armchair-bed with a drawer for linen from the Moscow factory "Sharm-Design" is combined with the classic style of the interior. Designed specifically for long-term, daily use, suitable for children. Can withstand loads up to 150 kg.

The frame consists of timber from coniferous and deciduous trees, fastened with a tongue-and-groove joint using PVA glue and natural shrinkage. There is a spacious linen box, the bottom of which is made of fiberboard. The mattress is filled with polystyrene foam, which has good thermal insulation properties.

The material is high quality, does not crumble, and will last a long time. The principle of assembly/disassembly is a French folding bed. Straight-shaped wooden armrests are firmly attached to the sides for increased comfort.

Upholstery in brown fabric. The top pillow is removable, has a soft filling, and can be used for sleeping. Total weight 35 kg, dimensions: height 93, depth 94, length 199, width 82 cm (berth 62 cm).

Advantages:

• For daily use;
• Frame strength;
• Closed design;
• Availability of linen compartment;
• Comfortable armrests;
• Laconic design.

Flaws:

• Narrow bed width;
• Solid armrests.

The design is closed, so the entire frame with the folding element is hidden inside. Cleaning with a vacuum cleaner is recommended. If the surface is treated with an antistatic agent, the dust will not stick as actively.

Material of construction

It is important that each element of the chair’s design is light and durable, and that the joining between them occurs without problems. Often the designs of chair-beds have metal parts. Typically stainless steel is used for this. Such parts do not bend, do not deform, and can withstand a lot of weight. Many mechanical parts are made of wood. Softwoods are often used; they are cheaper, but easier to damage. Medium and hard varieties are more expensive, but their resistance to mechanical damage is higher.

If we are talking about budget furniture, chipboard is often used in the manufacturing process. This model can last a long time, the main thing is that the material is properly processed.

The best accordion chair beds

The second category of the top rating is the best designs with a folding accordion mechanism. This is a transformation in just one simple movement, where no special effort or skill is required. Judging by the reviews, three nominees received approval from Vyborexperta.ru and users this year.

Charm Corfu beige and eco leather chocolate

Orthopedic transformer from the Moscow factory "Sharm-design" for daily and intensive use. Withstands loads up to 120 kg. Features a combined upholstery. Folds out like an accordion.

The comfortable and versatile model fully corresponds to the anatomical shape, which gives maximum comfort during rest. The frame is made of wood, the filling material is multilayer polyurethane foam. The upholstery of the sides of the sofa is made of chocolate-colored eco-leather and successfully harmonizes with different interior styles.

The set includes a pillow made of beige upholstery fabric. During operation, the material does not deform, does not stretch, and does not wear out quickly. It is breathable, facilitates air circulation, and does not provoke excessive sweating.

The height of the seat is suitable for knee level and is 95 cm, which is important for relaxation in a sitting position, depth 101, width 80 cm. Bed parameters: length 194, width 60, height 47 cm. There is a drawer for linen at the base of the structure.

Advantages:

• Withstands heavy loads;
• Good sized linen drawer;
• Convenient design;
• Nice design;
• Quality of materials.

Flaws:

• Stainless color of pillow upholstery;
• Narrow sleeping area.

The mini-sofa is equipped with rigid wooden armrests that are firmly attached to the sides. Over time, they do not wear out, so even after many years the furniture will look good. Soft pillows are cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or clothes brush.

Relax Rio

Folding mini-sofa without armrests from the Russian upholstered furniture factory "Relax". Attracts attention with its modern design, successfully combined with the interior of the room in the Art Nouveau style. The transformation mechanism is an accordion.

The frame is made of 2 metal segments. There are support legs made of durable plastic at the end with nickels, which increase the stability of the structure and also protect the floor from scratches. The upholstery is made of soft furniture velor with a velvety texture that is pleasant to the body.

The material retains its original appearance for a long time and is undemanding in maintenance. Hypoallergenic, does not fade in the sun, keeps its shape well. The mattress filler is high-quality polyurethane foam, characterized by high elasticity and firmness.

Polyurethane foam has air cavities, thanks to which air passes through well, which means it allows the body to breathe. Eco-leather piping in contrasting color. Dimensions: height 90, width 95, depth 107 cm. Sleeping area 87x200 cm.

Advantages:

• Modern design;
• The legs do not scratch the floor;
• Spacious sleeping area;
• Frame strength;
• Long service life;
• Practicality.

Flaws:

• Grease stains are difficult to remove from the surface;
• Price.

The product is practical in that when folded it frees up space in the room, and when unfolded it acts as a full-fledged sleeping area for one person. It is recommended to clean the lint with a microfiber cloth soaked in a soapy water solution.

Wally Tolly Milena

Furniture with armrests from the domestic furniture factory “Wolli Tolly” looks cozy and comfortable. It has a medium level of rigidity, is decorated in a modern style, and is suitable for rooms with any interior.

The transformation mechanism is simple and convenient - an accordion. To use the furniture, just lift the seat and then pull it towards you. The layout will take a minimum of time. Strong and wear-resistant fittings ensure high-quality operation of the mechanism even during intensive use.

The frame is made of metal, its non-separable parts are firmly welded together, which makes the product more stable. The material does not deform, does not rust, and has a long service life. The filler is polyurethane foam with high supporting properties.

The upholstery of the mini-sofa is a light-colored furniture fabric that retains its shape for a long time and is also resistant to ultraviolet radiation. Dimensions are: 97x91x105 cm, sleeping area 200x80 cm.

Advantages:

• Easy to unfold;
• Ergonomic armrests;
• Footrests do not scratch the floor;
• Metal frame;
• Good width of the bed;
• There is a bolster pillow.

Flaws:

• Upholstery color.

The model is complemented by a pillow in the shape of a cushion. It is made of the same material as the main upholstery. It fits comfortably under the lower back and can be used as a main pillow while sleeping.

The best recliner chair beds

The folding bed mechanism is a double fold, when a structure with a frame and legs extends from under the seat to create a sleeping area. It is distinguished by its reliable base and compactness when folded. Two nominees were recognized as the best in the context of the review by VyborExpert.ru.

Solo

A folding chair-bed with a drawer and armrests from a Russian manufacturer can withstand an increased load of up to 150 kg per bed during prolonged use. The transformation method is a French folding bed.

The frame is made of wooden beams (6x4 cm), fastened with a tongue-and-groove joint using PVA glue and natural shrinkage. Coniferous timber is complemented by high-quality plywood, environmentally friendly and safe. The raw materials have good performance qualities: resistance to mechanical stress and moisture.

The design is highly durable and has a long service life. Polystyrene foam filling, comfortable sleep. The mattress provides the necessary support for the sleeping person's body.

The matting upholstery in a purple shade matches the classic style of the interior. The material is environmentally friendly, does not cause an allergic reaction, and does not require maintenance. Dimensions 93x94x82 cm with a weight of 35 kg, sleeping area 62x199 cm.

Advantages:

• Reliable layout method;
• Hard back;
• Hypoallergenic upholstery material;
• Functional armrests;
• Spacious linen box;
• Bright colors in the catalog.

Flaws:

• There may be snags and tugs on the upholstery;
• Narrow sleeping place.

Straight armrests made of wood do not wear out. The manufacturer has provided a drawer for linen, which is very convenient to use. The loft style looks elegant and strict. There are several color options to choose from.

Charm-Design classic M velor Paris

A model with armrests from Moscow that can withstand loads of up to 120 kg. It will be relevant for use for recreation in small apartments. The transformation method is a French folding bed.

The frame is strong and reliable, made of pine timber (4x6cm), PVA glue + natural laying. Plywood and furniture wood have a beneficial effect on the microclimate of the house, release biologically active nutrients, and have increased performance qualities.

Polystyrene foam filler. This is a hypoallergenic material that is not a breeding ground for bacteria and microorganisms. It does not deteriorate under the influence of moisture, it is quite resistant to it.

The upholstery is combined: the sides and soft armrests are covered with brown eco-leather. The velor mattress is painted with a Parisian theme. Dimensions of the mini-sofa: height 101, depth 83, width 87 cm with a weight of 35 kg. Sleeping place 190x62 cm.

Advantages:

• Comfortable design for relaxation;
• Soft armrests;
• Capacious box;
• Hypoallergenic filler;
• Printed design;
• Practical eco-leather upholstery.

Flaws:

• You cannot stand on a disassembled bed;
• Low for older people.

The mini sofa has a closed design, so the entire folding element is hidden inside, which is aesthetically attractive. The presence of a spacious compartment provides for a compact arrangement of bedding.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

If you plan to use a folding chair for daily sleep, you need to purchase a mattress with an orthopedic base. Otherwise, months later you may face serious problems with your spine.

You can choose a model with storage space

Oddly enough, folding phones have practically no disadvantages. Especially if you purchase a quality product.

Sometimes malfunctions in the operation of the transforming mechanism occur, but this will be excluded provided that it is used correctly and carefully.

The best chair beds for children

The last subsection presents transformers for use by children. When selecting nominees, emphasis is placed on environmental friendliness of raw materials, comfort, compactness and visual appeal. Within the Vyborexperta.ru top, two products of the current year were recognized as leaders.

Mobi Nice

A children's copy from a large Russian enterprise "Mobi" with a transformation method - roll-out. The technology is simple, the design is not heavy, but for comfort you need more free space. The maximum load is 60 kg.

The frame consists of combined materials such as plywood and fiberboard with a thickness of 1.6 cm, which is durable and lightweight. Chipboard with impregnation, which protects the structure from the effects of fungi and bacteria, as well as from harmful insects. Laminated chipboard is moisture resistant. There is a closet for bed linen with dimensions of 75x64.5x100 cm.

Mattress filling: PU foam on a bent-laminated base. The set includes 2 decorative pillows made of contrasting fabric, with polyester fiber “balls” inside. Support legs made of plastic. Decorative edging is used as decoration.

Matting upholstery has over 25,000 abrasion cycles. It has high wear resistance and is easy to clean. Dimensions when folded: 111x80x84 cm. Sleeping area: 195x77 cm. The height of the armrest from the seat is 12 cm. Weight with packaging is 47 kg.

Advantages:

• Art Nouveau style;
• Pillows included;
• The frame is protected from fungi and bacteria;
• Easy folding;
• There is a spacious linen drawer;
• Wide sleeping area.

Flaws:

• Limits on carrying capacity.

For additional tightening of the material, buttons resembling a tie are provided on the back. Assembly is simple, an inexperienced user can handle it even without instructions.

Colombo BP

Chair-bed without armrests with a load capacity of up to 120 kg from the Sharm-Design factory. Suitable for a children's room in a loft style. The transformation mechanism is an accordion; when unfolded, it forms a surface suitable for healthy sleep.

The frame is strong and reliable, made of wooden beams, fastened together with a tongue-and-groove joint using PVA glue. The filler is medium-hard polyurethane foam, the advantage of which is firmness and elasticity. Its breathability gives the furniture good hygienic properties.

The upholstery is made of plain chenille fabric, durable and pleasant to the touch. If you take proper care of it, its attractive appearance will last for a long time. The legs are made of durable plastic, low, and do not scratch the floor.

All mechanisms work properly for a long period. For convenient extension of the front part, roller wheels are provided. The dimensions of the product are 95x101x76 cm. Sleeping area is 194x70 cm. Weight with packaging is 40 kg.

Advantages:

• Laconic design;
• Reliability of the frame;
• Nice upholstery;
• Compactness;
• There is a box for storing things;
• Good hygienic filling properties.

Flaws:

• Low legs, inconvenient to clean under the bottom;
• No armrests.

The folding mechanism is well balanced, does not jam and does not allow distortions. Can be used even by children, as changing the format requires minimal effort.

Types of upholstery

Upholstered folding chairs are available in a wide range of colors and prints. The coating material can be:

• Cotton. This is an environmentally friendly, hypoallergenic material, which is mainly used in the production of upholstered furniture for children. Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting instability in the face of all kinds of stains and dirt, as well as rapid wear.

• Tapestry. Typically used in the production of economy class models. The fabric is quite resistant to abrasion and has a long service life.

• Velor, flock and chinilla. Most often they are used for upholstering expensive chair models. Such materials are very durable, flexible, resistant to wear and fading.

• Faux leather or genuine leather. These materials are used for elite class models. This type of upholstery is expensive, but has many advantages, including long service life, durability, comfort and ease of cleaning.

Natural fibers that are hygroscopic and retain heat can also be used in production. Such materials have high strength and durability, they are quite warm and pleasant to the touch.

Fabrics can also be impregnated with water-repellent compounds to extend the life of clothing.

How to choose a chair-bed

The transformers presented in the top differ in several parameters and appearance. Only with a thorough approach to selection can you get the desired and functional piece of furniture. We recommend taking into account the dimensions, folding method, materials, filling and upholstery composition.

Dimensions

The comfort of use and the ability to be installed in the right place in the room depend on this parameter. For example, in a small room, a large product with wide armrests would be inappropriate. And in a spacious living room, a miniature sofa will look meager.

Be sure to compare the space with the dimensions of the product when unfolded. Check the length and width of the bed so that there is enough space for a comfortable sleep. Compare these characteristics with the user's age, equipment and weight (it should not exceed the load limit).

Transformation mechanism

When creating functional transformers, manufacturers use different folding methods. The most popular and easy to use are the accordion, book/eurobook, roll-out method, clamshell, etc. It’s good if you have the opportunity to try it in action.

Material

The reliability and durability of a product of this type will depend on the frame material. Affordable products are made from chipboard. Wooden beams are environmentally friendly and safe for health, but they are more expensive. Metal pipes are a compact and not so heavy option, and the price is the “golden mean”.

Filling and upholstery

Which filler option to choose depends on the conditions and frequency of use of the furniture. For daily sleep, the preferred option is one with orthopedic properties - polyurethane foam, spring block.

When it comes to upholstery, it's more a matter of aesthetics. The coating made of matting, velor, and flock looks attractive. Practical and easy to care for – these are products covered with eco-leather. The color scheme also decides a lot in the selection process.

Features of internal filling

Very often, sofa beds are filled with polyurethane or foam rubber, as this is a fairly inexpensive padding. The main thing is that the filler is included so that the seat does not sag and retains its beauty.

Latex and Periotec are tougher. Their main advantage is restoration of shape.

There is also a filling made from special spring blocks, which is used for the orthopedic version.

Cases

There are different types of covers that will not only decorate your chair, but also extend its life.

They are classified by design and type of material. You can buy a cover or sew it yourself. Materials used: velvet, cotton, flora, can also be carpet and faux fur.

You can buy a cover or sew it yourself

Which chair-bed is better

After getting acquainted with the ten nominees from Vyborexperta.ru and the evaluation criteria, you just have to make the final decision on which one to buy. We do not give specific recommendations, since everything is individual, but we advise you to pay attention to several interesting offers this year:

• MnogoMeb Amsterdam - a product with a mattress included, hypoallergenic, treated with an agent against fungi and bacteria;
• Solo – a chair-bed for daily use, a universal option for both adults and children;
• Charm Corfu beige and eco-leather chocolate - an orthopedic chair-bed with combined upholstery, ensuring anatomically correct body position;
• Colombo BP is a small children's chair-bed in a modern design, pleasant soft upholstery, reliable frame.

An ideal transformer is furniture that saves space without sacrificing human comfort and performance characteristics. It can easily move indoors, quickly transforming from a compact seating area into a spacious and comfortable place to sleep.

Tick-tock (Eurobook)

The "tick-tock" chair-bed transformation mechanism works as follows: when the seat is extended, the back of the chair is turned over and lowered - this design allows you to place the model with virtually no gap with the wall, which saves space.

Models of the “walking Eurobook” type do not slip on the floor, which allows you to avoid damaging the floor covering.

The variety of models is not exhausted by the listed options, and below we will consider several more popular mechanisms: