Pull-out couches come in handy when you have overnight guests.
They’re affordable, easy to use, and come in an array of styles and colors. But are they comfortable?
Comfort Of Pull-Out Couches
Pull-out couches aren’t the most comfortable option available. Nevertheless, while they may not be as plush as a regular couch, they’re still a much better option than offering your guests sleeping bags and air mattresses.
Let’s discuss why pull-out couches can be uncomfortable and some of their advantages and disadvantages.
Why Are Pull-Out Couches Uncomfortable?
Pull-out couches are designed to be practical and functional.
However, manufacturers don’t put much thought into their comfort.
Here’s why.
1. Size
Size is one of the main reasons why pull-out couches aren’t comfortable.
They’re usually small, and many can barely accommodate a full-sized adult.
This means if you’re tall, there’s a good chance your feet will hang out in the air!
Plus, having limited space makes it hard to stretch out and get comfortable.
2. Material
Every pull-out couch has a support bar that helps to pull it out.
The problem with this bar is that it’s made of stiff metal and is the main reason we get those awful backaches.
In addition, pull-out couches are generally made of hard plastic and thin padding, making them difficult to sleep on.
3. Mattress
Pull-out couches often have a thin mattress. Also, the cushions may not be thick enough.
So, these couches tend to feel rigid and lumpy when you lay on them.
How To Make Pull-Out Couches Comfortable?
The most obvious solution is to get a new thicker mattress. Yet, that costs money.
So, if you’re looking for a quick solution that doesn’t cost a lot of money, there are other ways to make your pull-out couch more comfortable.
Take a look.
1. Pillows
An easy way to make your pull-out couch cozier is to add pillows.
You can find pillows and cushions specially designed for blow-up mattresses and couches.
These are made of several layers and thick padding to make them much more comfortable.
2. Mattress Topper
A mattress topper is a layer added to the mattress to make it softer and more comfortable.
Memory foam is an excellent example of a mattress topper.
You can place it on top of the pull-out couch mattress for additional comfort.
It works by molding to the shape of your body, thus offering better support.
In addition, the memory foam acts as a cushion between your body and the metal bar.
The only thing you have to watch out for is the thickness of the mattress.
If it’s too bulky, it might not fit into the opening when it’s time to push the couch back in.
3. Adjust How You Sleep
Another way to make pull-out couches more comfortable is by adjusting your sleeping position.
For example, try sleeping on your side with your knees bent so that there is less pressure on your back.
However, if you’re tall or heavy-set, this may prove to be a bit difficult.
You can also position some cushions or pillows under your legs and feet as well as behind your back to offer additional support and comfort.
Pros Of Owning A Pull-Out Couch
While pull-out couches aren’t comfortable by themselves, they do offer some advantages.
1. Maximize Space
Pull-out couches are an excellent option for people who want to maximize room space.
Designers often use them to make a space seem larger than it actually is.
The couch also serves two functions. So, you get more options for the price of one.
2. Guest-Friendly
Pull-out couches make it easier to have friends and family over.
Even if you don’t have enough space, just pull out the couch, and get an instant bed for two!
Plus, they’re easy to use, quick, and convenient.
3. Budget-Friendly
It can be more economical for you to get a pull-out couch than to get a standard bed.
One reason is they’re not designed to be as sturdy and durable as a standard bed.
They’re also not made of the same high-quality materials, which makes them more affordable.
Cons Of Pull-Out Couches
Despite the advantages, there are a few disadvantages associated with pull-out couches.
1. Not Well Made
Pull-out couches tend to be uncomfortable even when closed up.
They usually come with thin cushions and flimsy frames that make them feel like they could break apart at any moment.
2. Not Durable
Pull-out couches don’t have a long lifespan.
Unlike regular couches, they’re meant to be used occasionally and not repeatedly.
If you intend to use them daily, choose one made from more durable materials, such as leather or steel.
They’ll last slightly longer and add appeal and charm to your home.
Pull-Out Couch Alternatives
Due to the low cost of pull-out couches, they often look cheap and tacky compared to other furniture.
So, if you’re looking for a more stylish alternative to pull-out couches that serve the same purpose, consider getting a sleeper couch or a futon.
1. Sleeper Couch
A sleeper couch is a piece of furniture with a collapsible bed inside a couch.
They’re pretty comfortable compared with pull-out couches.
In addition, they’re available in many color and upholstery options, making it easy to match them with the rest of the decor.
It’s pretty easy to turn a sleeper couch into a bed.
Yet, it requires more effort to convert it back into a couch.
In addition, the frames are generally less durable than pull-out couches.
Another difference is that sleeper couches don’t come with cushions.
So they tend to be slightly uncomfortable when closed and used as a couch.
They’re also more expensive than their pull-out counterparts.
2. Futons
A futon is a couch that doubles as a guest bed.
The thick mattress on a futon is used as both the cushion for the seating and the mattress.
Futons are designed for long-term use and can last for many years.
They also tend to be more comfortable than the other two options, thanks to their thicker, well-padded cushions and wider frames.
Moreover, futons have a much broader price range than pull-out couches or sleeper couches.
This means you can find budget-friendly models that offer your home a high-quality, aesthetically pleasing design.
Still, they’re usually found at a higher price range compared with pull-out couches or sleeper couches.
This means you’ll need to set your budget before getting one for your home.
In addition, futons need extra room when you open them up.
So they take up more space than the standard sleeper couches and pull-out couches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are sleeper couches and couch beds the same thing?
Sleeper couches have a mattress within their frame that you can fold or unfold.
The mattress is hidden below the frame when used as a couch and comes with separate cushions.
On the other hand, most couch beds are similar to futons in that they don’t usually come with a pull-out mattress.
They also don’t come with any cushions or pillows.
How much weight can a pull-out couch hold?
It all depends on the size of the pull-out couch.
A twin sleeper can hold up to 250 pounds, while a full-size sleeper bed holds around 500 pounds.
