Sofa beds get a bit of a bad rap — and to be fair, we’ve all had that night. The stiff frame. The mysterious squeak. The pillow that mysteriously disappears halfway through the night.
But things have changed.
These days, IKEA’s putting in the work to prove that a good night’s sleep doesn’t have to cost a fortune — or ruin your living room aesthetic. Whether you’re hosting overnight guests, setting up a cosy game room, or just want a multifunctional piece, IKEA sofa beds might just surprise you.
And if you’ve found the one functionally but not visually? That’s where we come in — custom sofa covers can make even the most basic sleeper sofa look like a designer piece.
But before we dive into the best of the bunch, let’s break down what actually makes a sofa bed worth your space (and your sleep).
What makes a good sofa bed actually good?
Sofa beds aren’t all built the same — and let’s be honest, some of them sleep like a trampoline in disguise. If you’re wondering what separates the nap-worthy from the nightmare-inducing, here’s what to look for:
Firm but forgiving cushions
The sweet spot is something that supports your spine without making you feel like you’re camping on the floor.
A smooth transformation
If unfolding your bed feels like solving a Rubik’s cube, it’s not the one. You want a setup that’s quick and painless — especially at midnight.
Daytime good looks
A sofa bed has to pull double duty. It should blend with your decor and not scream “guest furniture from 2009.”
Storage perks
Built-in compartments? Yes, please. Great for hiding pillows, bedding, or that throw blanket you’re not quite ready to part with.
Let’s dive into our top picks for the best IKEA sofa beds. And yes, we’re keeping it real about the hits and the misses.
IKEA sofa bed guide: Our top 5 models that actually work for real homes
1. Best overall IKEA sofa bed: FRIHETEN
Quick take: Practical, compact and surprisingly stylish — the FRIHETEN is IKEA’s no-nonsense sleeper with just the right amount of cleverness. Think guest-ready, movie-night approved, and always up for a storage win.
Price: USD 749
Best for: Budget-conscious hosts, small-space dwellers, and low-maintenance lounging
Hackability: Fully slipcoverable in both 3-seater and corner sofa versions
Our thoughts
The IKEA FRIHETEN is an upgrade of the brand’s MANSTAD — slimmer arms, a neater profile, and a fuss-free setup. It’s available in two models: the 3-seater sofa bed and the corner version. They both have a hidden storage compartment under the chaise (because clutter doesn’t spark joy).
Comfort-wise, it’s on the firmer side. For occasional guests or weekend naps? Totally fine. But if someone’s crashing here regularly, a memory foam topper will go a long way.
The design is modern, minimal, and works well in almost any living space. We especially love the lower armrest — a plus for taller folks or serial sprawlers. It is easy to see why this model is a best-seller and why it regularly makes its way on best sofas lists.
And of course, when the original IKEA fabric doesn’t cut it, our custom slipcovers can transform the Friheten into a centrepiece. Whether you want something bold, neutral, or pet-friendly, we’ve got you (and your chaise) covered.
2. Best sectional IKEA sofa bed: HOLMSUND
Quick take: Deep-seated, storage-friendly and fully customisable — the IKEA HOLMSUND brings both form and function to your guest space. If you love rearranging cushions until they’re just right, this one’s for you.
Price: USD 1,099–1,149
Best for: Flexible setups, pillow people, and sneaky storage lovers
Hackability: 100% slipcoverable in both configurations — chaise included
Our thoughts
The IKEA HOLMSUND was a quick favourite when it was first launched, and we can still see why. Between the wedged arms, five movable back pillows, and that glorious hidden storage, it’s a sofa that works hard without looking bulky.
Comfort-wise, the seat cushions lean firm. The back pillows are a game-changer — shift them around to create your perfect lounging (or napping) setup. And the design? It’s deep, cosy, and made for layering throws and textures.
Even better, you can switch the chaise to either side — and yes, our custom slipcovers work with all of it. Whether you’re dressing it up or down, the Holmsund is built for real-life living (and guests who overstay their welcome).
3. Best value for money sofa bed: SKÖNABÄCK
Quick take: Compact, fuss-free and surprisingly comfy — the IKEA SKONABACK is a budget-friendly sleeper that doesn’t try too hard, but still gets the job done. Great for small spaces, spare rooms, or unexpected overnight guests.
Price: USD 499
Best for: Occasional sleepers, first flats, and low-effort setups
Hackability: Unfortunately, it cannot be slipcovered
Our thoughts
If you’re after a straightforward, no-frills sofa bed that won’t eat up your entire living room (or your wallet), the SKONABACK deserves a look. It’s slim, lightweight, and one of IKEA’s more compact sleeper options — perfect for tighter spaces or as a backup in your home office.
Like any IKEA sofa bed it’s on the firmer side, but is thought to be comfortable and spacious even if you’re on the taller side. The extra storage space under the seat is certainly an added bonus.
If you’re looking for a pop of colour in your living space, the SKONABACK is a good choice. It comes in IKEA’s colour of the year 2025 (Knisa bright blue) and Vissle yellow green. Don’t worry, if you get tired of the colour, you could always get a made-to-measure sofa cover.
4. Best IKEA daybed: BRIMNES
Quick take: Affordable, compact and packed with storage — the IKEA BRIMNES sofa bed is a small-space powerhouse with a minimal design and maximum practicality.
Price: Around USD 249
Best for: First homes, kids’ rooms, and anyone who loves hidden storage
Hackability: N/A
Our thoughts
The BRIMNES might not win any design awards out of the box, but don’t underestimate it. This compact sleeper does a lot with a little. It’s ideal for spare rooms, student flats, or anywhere you want an extra bed and extra storage, without taking up too much space.
The roomy drawers make it kid-friendly — think off all the storage space you have for toys and bits and bobs. The pull-out bed function is simple and smooth, making it so that even your kids could do it.
The comfort of this day bed comes down to the kind of mattress you buy. Choose from IKEA’s extensive range.
5. Best versatile: LINDÅKRA
Quick take: Sleek, adaptable and seriously functional — the IKEA LINDAKRA is your go-to for style that plays well with others. It’s equal parts sofa and sleeper, without looking like it’s trying too hard.
Price: Around USD$799
Best for: Versatile living spaces, grown-up interiors, and a seamless sofa-to-bed switch
Hackability: It could be tricky because of the storage compartment. You would need a made-to-measure sofa cover, which we offer of course.
Our thoughts
If you’re after a sofa bed that looks like it belongs in your living room and moonlights as a comfy guest bed, the IKEA LINDAKRA nails the brief. Its shape is perhaps what makes it most unique. In fact, the footstool which doubles as a coffee table makes it versatile and innovative.
What makes LINDÅKRA a standout is how well it fits into all kinds of spaces. It’s compact enough for small apartments, but stylish enough for a main lounge. Whether it’s your daily sofa or a guest room hero, it adapts effortlessly.
With clean lines, slim arms and a subtly tailored silhouette, it feels elevated without being fussy — perfect for everything from Scandi to transitional interiors.
Your sofa bed deserves a glow-up
Maybe it’s seen one too many movie nights or hosted one too many guests — either way, your sofa bed could use a little love. A made-to-measure slipcover = instant refresh.
65 Comments
by Mei Leong
Dear Sarah
Thank you for your reviews. Do you have a review of the Backabro sofabed with chaise? I know that it has been discontinued but there are still some stores selling the Backabro 2 seater and the 3seater with chaise in London. I bought a 3 seater 2 years ago for my daughter in Melbourne and she loves it.
Hoping to compare it with the Friheten and Holmsund and/or Villasund..
Thank you very much.
Mei L
by Sarah
Hey Mei,
We do have a review for the Backabro sofabed with chaise. It’s a little older but still very useful, you can check it out here: https://www.comfort-works.com/news/ikea-vilasund-and-backabro-review-return-of-the-sofa-bed-clones/ Aesthetically, my personal favourite is the Holmsund. 🙂
Hope this helps!
by Subba
Hi,
Do you have review of DJURSBO
https://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50363277/
How will be the durability of coated fabric?
How does this compare with Holmsund?
by Sarah
Hi Subba,
We don’t have a review on the Djursbo but it does look like a rather nice IKEA model, aesthetically speaking.
I believe the coated fabric on it is a Faux leather and the coating is to give it a more shiny finish and feel.
As for the durability, I’m not entirely sure how the the coated fabric on this one will hold up.
In terms of comfortability between the Djursbo and the Holmsund, I believe the Holmsund would most likely be a lot of softer, as there are more back cushions.
Also there is more depth on the Holmsund, which gives you more space.
You should definitely check out your local IKEA showroom though. 🙂
Hope this helps!
by Lana Vi
Hi Sarah,
I am looking at SANDBACKEN sofa on the IKEA web site. What can you tell about this one?
Thank you.
Lana Vi
by Sarah
Hi Lana,
The Sandbacken is rather new to the IKEA catalog. I haven’t had the chance to head to IKEA and try it out myself.
I do like that you are able to move the ottoman around and potentially use it as a Chaise.
It does use a foam mattress which I would assume is rather thin but you can definitely make it comfy with some blankets a pillows.
With IKEA sofas, I always think it’s better to go to the showrooms and test them out first.
Hope this helped! 🙂
by Elizabeth
Do you think you’ll design a cover for the sandbacken?
by Felicia
Hey Elizabeth
It might be in the pipeline 🙂 We’ll drop you a line when it’s been introduced.
by Ginny Sang
Do you have a review for the Vretstorp convertible sofa ?
by Naomi
Hey Ginny,
We haven’t got our hands on the Vretstorp yet, so we have no idea what it’s like in terms of comfort.
Design-wise, this sofa-bed sure is impressive as not only does it seamlessly fold out into a bed, it also has a compartment underneath to accommodate the L-shaped back cushions when it’s not in use.
Here’s a visual of the Vretstorp in action: https://www.ikea.com/my/en/p/vretstorp-3-seat-sofa-bed-hallarp-beige-s19320110/
Definitely saves space – we’d recommend checking it out at your local IKEA store (if possible) to test it out for comfort!
Good luck 🙂