Question: Is it Time to Ditch the Old Sofa Bed?My sofa bed is old now, and I'm told the mechanism is too. I have once replaced the mattress, but still it is not comfortable. It could be the mattress frame is not made like they are today? How do I compare Jennifer sofa beds with the Sofa Bed Company or any others?
Answer: Even with older sofa beds, sometimes simply replacing the mattress does the job nicely. If you are planning to replace yours, then get in touch with a retailer that carries the sofa bed brand that you purchased in the first place. It is easier then to find a mattress that fits nicely.
Another way to make the sofa bed mattress more comfortable is to cover it with a mattress topper. Add another layer underneath the mattress. The idea is to provide ample padding.
With older sofa beds, you may also find that the supporting bar can be felt through the mattress making it uncomfortable. Discomfort from the dreaded bars can be minimized by placing folded blankets or old comforters directly on top of them.
You may hear suggestions for putting plywood pieces under the mattress for more support. The problem that I see with that solution is that you have to remove those pieces before you fold the sofa bed back up. Plywood is not exactly light, either. However, if the sofa bed stays open all or most of the time, then it may not be a bad idea.
When these measures fail to make any difference, especially when it sags or has problem with the frame it is time to get a new one. These are structural problems that go beyond simple aesthetics. If you are using your sofa bed as your primary sleeping surface, then you might be putting your back in trouble. It is simply not worth it. This then, is a good time to say goodbye to your old sofa bed.
You are correct when you say that older frames were made differently. Newer frames, even for the most inexpensive sofa beds are made differently, and are much more comfortable. Sofa beds have improved tremendously over the years and can be just as comfortable as beds.
When you do go to buy a sofa bed, don't forget to try it out. Sit on it to see how comfortable it is. Don't just let the salesperson demonstrate how it opens and shuts. Open it yourself to see how well the mechanism works and whether it glides open smoothly. Check to see that you can fold it back up without having to strain. Test drive your sofa bed!
Above all, after opening it, don't forget to lie down on it to see whether it offers the level of comfort you need. A good sofa bed should last you years.
When trying out sofa beds and sleepers, you may find that inexpensive ones such as those from Jennifer Convertibles are just as comfortable as a more expensive brand. What you need to remember is that the more expensive brands are expensive because of what is inside the sofa, that is better quality frames, supports and filling. That is also why they tend to last longer.
As with buying any other piece of furniture, you will have to consider your pocket book as well as your needs. If you are using the sofa bed as your everyday bed, then it makes sense to get the best that you can. You need it to be comfortable as well as sturdy.
However, if it is in a room that is seldom used, then you can get away with one that is comfortable, but may not last as long. If it is not getting much use anyway, it will still last a long time.
