Mechanisms for transforming sofas, what are the pros and cons. Types of transformations of folding sofas Types of folding sofas

The sofa has become an integral and absolutely necessary part of our home life. But, if it will be used as a sleeping place, its choice becomes an even more serious task. Choosing the right sofa bed for any of the rooms of an apartment or house is very important. After all, you have to deal with him every evening and morning.

In this article we will talk about choosing a sofa folding mechanism and which layout mechanism to prefer. We will tell and show how sofas are laid out.

How to evaluate the mechanism for turning a sofa into a bed

There are four criteria for this:

1. how the bed is located relative to the back - perpendicular or parallel;
2. whether the mechanism is so reliable that it can withstand daily use, or is it only suitable as a guest sofa;
3. how convenient is it to lay out the sofa;
4. is it possible to quickly fix the mechanism if it breaks.

It should be noted that if the bed is parallel to the back, it will always be narrower than the sofa that unfolds forward (perpendicularly). After all, with an increase in the width of his bed, the depth of the seat and the height of the back of the sofa increase accordingly, and it becomes uncomfortable to sit on a folded sofa. While the width of the perpendicular berth is equal to the width of the sofa.

Eurobook

Eurobook is one of the most popular sofa folding mechanisms.

When unfolded, the bed is located parallel to the back.
To expand the sofa, the eurobook seat stretches forward.
The back rests flat and rests on the seat.

Characteristics:

• the bed is stable and comfortable;
• the eurobook sofa usually has a box for linen;
• The Eurobook sofa mechanism is reliable, can withstand loads up to 240 kg. But, if it still breaks, then it is not repaired;
• it folds out easily and quickly, but this requires the sofa to stand a short distance from the wall or it will have to be moved back and forward again daily (will this cover your floor?).

Accordion

Accordion sofas are valued for their high compactness, reliability and comfortable sleeping place.

To unfold the "accordion" sofa, its seat must be pulled out by a special strap, and the back folded in half unfolds like an accordion.
To fold the accordion sofa, the front part must be raised until the mechanism operates, and then lowered by pressing on the edge to fold the back and slide.

Characteristics:

• high and wide berth with a box for linen;
• the sofa mechanism "accordion" is easy to use and reliable;
• sofa "accordion" is inconvenient for laying out on carpets with a long pile;
• breakdowns are easily eliminated, but the mechanism requires periodic lubrication;
• at loads over 180 kg daily transformation is not recommended.

Dolphin

A popular and widely used sofa folding mechanism, especially in corner models.

The deployment is parallel.
The lower section of the "dolphin" sofa is pulled out and put forward for a special loop.
The section rises up and becomes part of the bed.

Characteristics:

• sleep comfortably;
• corner models are equipped with linen drawers;
• daily transformation is possible, but on carpets with long pile it is difficult;
• the mechanism of the sofa "dolphin" is reliable, easy to manage, quickly changes in case of breakage;
• withstands a load of up to two hundred kilograms, but the stationary and retractable parts after some time can sag to varying degrees.

click-clack

Click-clack sofas are the most comfortable for relaxing due to the presence of a relax position of the back or armrests.

The deployment is parallel.
When unfolding, the sofa is tilted onto the back and moved forward. The seat is lowered horizontally.
The back of the "click-clack" sofa can be fixed in the third position (except for lying and sitting) - half-sitting.
There are also single models of click-clack sofas, in which only the sides fall.

Characteristics:

• a narrow place to sleep without a back;
• in the unfolded state, most often there is no support for the pillow and head, since the sidewalls in most models are also lowered;
• there is a linen box;
• to expand the sofa, you need to move it away from the wall;
• click-clack sofas are inexpensive;
• the click-clack mechanism is reliable for daily transformation, it is easy to replace if necessary;
• if there are no retractable legs and the sofa is laid out, then it is not recommended to sit on the edge.

Cot

Sofas with a folding mechanism - a choice for a living room with a bed "just in case".

The spread is perpendicular.
There are several types of such mechanisms with slight differences. The most common French and American models.
The clamshell sections unfold sequentially. Each of them is mounted on metal legs.
The strongest are American folding beds. But in any case, they are not suitable for daily transformation. This is a guest sofa.

Characteristics:

• compact when folded;
• have a box for linen;
• the sleeping surface is not very flat;
• daily transformation is contraindicated, frequent use leads to loosening and sagging;
• the folding mechanism of the sofa is simple and easy to repair.

25.07.2019

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In this article, we will briefly and informatively talk about the most common sofa transformation mechanisms that are presented on our website. Our goal is to help you quickly navigate these not always clear names and find the right option for you.

To do this, we will consider sofas from the point of view of the consumer, and these are just 2 main criteria:

1. convenience of daily unfolding of the sofa;

And now let's list the most common sofa mechanisms:

1. Book;
2. Tick-tock;
3. American folding bed (Sedaflex);
4. French folding bed (Mixotoile);
5. "mechanism in 3 additions";
6. Spartacus.

Withdrawable mechanisms:

7. Eurobook (Eurosofa);
8. Dolphin;
9. Kangaroo;
10. Konrad (telescope).

"Book". The principle of using this mechanism is simple: you need to raise the seat until it clicks, and then lower it - while the backrest also drops. "Book" - the simplest mechanism in terms of use - it is easy to lay out and difficult to break.

Pros: the sleeping place is located along, and not across the wall. Such a folding mechanism is perfect for small spaces, because it does not take up much space, both assembled and disassembled.
Minuses: when laying out the sofa, it must be moved away from the wall, which is quite inconvenient for daily use. There is a risk of damaging the floors if you do not lift the sofa. In the place where the back and base are connected, a tubercle or notch may form, which interferes with comfortable sleep and limits space.

"American folding bed" or Sedaflex. Here the bed consists of two sections. To unfold the sofa, you need to remove all the cushions, pull the seat up and towards you by the special handle and unfold the sections until they rest on the supports. The sofa unfolds in two stages: first, the first section opens, and the second one unfolds behind it. Maximum load - 240 kg.

Pros: reliable transformation mechanism, made of high-quality wear-resistant materials. Sedaflex sleeper is flat without creases and bends. This sofa has a reinforced metal frame and mesh, which provide high structural rigidity and comfortable sleep. Also, this model allows you to use high-quality 12-cm mattresses.
Minuses: there is no linen box and there may be seams on the sleeping surface.

"French cot" (Mixotoile). This transformation mechanism is similar to an American clamshell, but unlike its “American version”, it consists of three parts, and otherwise, the folding principle is absolutely identical. The "French folding bed" has a fully metal frame, to which a high-density canvas awning is attached with the help of springs. Under the tarpaulin there are special wooden slats that give the sofa an orthopedic effect. The maximum load on the mechanism is 180 kg.

Pros: soft bed, equipped with a 50 cm thick mattress.
Minuses: uneven sleeping place, does not have a linen box.

"Spartacus". Structurally, the mechanism is identical to the "French clamshell" - it also consists of three sections and unfolds in a similar way. However, there is a significant difference that can affect the purchase decision. "Spartak" is equipped with a reinforced metal mesh, which allows it to withstand high loads, and you can use the sofa for daily sleep. Maximum load up to 240 kg.

Pros: Due to the reinforced frame, the model is highly durable, and therefore its durability indicators are higher. Has a spacious bed.
Minuses: like all clamshells, the Spartak mechanism has a not very aesthetic side view when unfolded. Due to the improved quality, the mechanism will cost more than the "clamshells".

"Tick-tock." The main advantage of tick-tock is its ease of use. The mechanism unfolds in no time: pull the seat up and forward, and then lower the backrest to the vacant seat. You can even do it with one hand! In this case, the maximum load on the bed is 240 kg.

Pros: the mechanism provides a spacious sleeping place and does not touch the floor covering when unfolding.
Minuses: when folded, the sofa has a fairly wide seat, which is not always convenient. If the mechanism breaks, the repair will cost quite a large amount.

Mechanism "in three additions" and the "French clamshell" mechanism are essentially the same. They fit the same and look the same. But many manufacturers share them, explaining that they use different materials for manufacturing. Therefore, when choosing a sofa with such a mechanism, specify what it is made of in order to avoid surprises later. The maximum load per bed is 180 kg.

Pros: soft and wide bed.
Minuses: there is no box for linen, the bed has bumps, and when unfolded, the sofa does not look very aesthetically pleasing.

Pull-out mechanisms.

IMPORTANT! Pay attention to the rollers and supports on the "roll-out" sofas. They must be made of soft materials - this will ensure the safety of your floor!

"Eurobook"- This is an improved version of the "book" mechanism. It is worth saying that this is one of the most popular vacant mechanisms on the market. The model consists of two parts: a back and a seat, and also has a spacious laundry box. To expand the sofa, you need to remove the back cushions, roll the seat towards you as far as it will go, and lower the back back into the vacant seat.
All parts of a sofa with such a mechanism should fit snugly against each other, but if cracks appear in the sofa, this indicates a low quality of the product. Maximum load is 240 kg.

Pros: such a sofa looks good both against the wall and in the middle of the room (it can be used for zoning the room, if space permits). "Eurobook" provides a full-fledged spacious bed. Minuses: when extended, the seat "rides" on the floor and may damage the floor covering.

"Dolphin"- perhaps one of the most convenient and common mechanisms on the market. It is very easy to unfold: just roll out the additional section from under the seat and pull the fabric handle towards you - the sofa is ready for use. The maximum load on the mechanism is 200 kg.

Pros: Sturdy construction guaranteeing the durability of the mechanism. The sofa provides a spacious sleeping place, there is a capacious linen box.
Minuses: when unfolded, there is a barely noticeable joint between the seat and the roll-out section.

"Kangaroo". This mechanism is very similar to the previous one in terms of the type of unfolding. Its only difference from the "dolphin" is a higher bed.

Pros: solid construction, a wide bed, the presence of a large linen box.
Minuses: in the unfolded state there is a joint between the seat and the roll-out section.

"Konrad" (telescope). This mechanism consists of three sections. For unfolding, it is necessary to pull the lower roll-out part (the first section), behind which all the others will extend. After you have put forward all the sections, you need to take the top of the first section and unfold it, laying it on the second. IMPORTANT! "Telescope" is very compact compared to other mechanisms, and also has an orthopedic grille. The maximum load per bed is 180 kg.

Pros: Compact when folded and space when unfolded.
Minuses: hard to move - the mechanism and the sofa are heavy.

1. If funds allow, choose a hardwood sofa frame (oak, beech, birch).
2. Carefully inspect the mechanism, it should have a manufacturer's mark on it. Unfold and fold the sofa, while all the positions of the back and armrests indicated for the model should work.
3. If you are looking for a sofa "for a long time", then it is better to choose a model with an independent spring block, it is much more durable than the usual "snake", dependent spring block or simple polyurethane foam (PPU).
4. When buying a sofa with a mechanism on a wooden base, give preference to oak, beech or birch - their wear resistance is much higher than that of other types of wood.
5. Remember, the length of the bed depends on the design of the sofa. If you are tall, pay attention to Eurobook type sofas or sofas with roll-out mechanisms. Their kinematics allows you to make a bed longer than two meters.

Happy shopping! Visit the website to see our range.

• cannot be moved close to the wall - there should be 20–30 centimeters left for free play when unfolding;
• an uneven sleeping place is obtained due to a clear separation of soft surfaces in the middle;
• transformation requires some effort.

"Eurobook", "Tick-tock", "Pantograph"

An equally popular model on the market is the eurobook sofa. He has a very simple way of unfolding: the seat is pushed forward, and the backrest fits into the vacated space.

In the “Tick-Tock” model, the transformation takes place on weight along a semicircle trajectory on springs, that is, it is not necessary to carry the retractable block along the floor. This makes such a mechanism more attractive, and the model is sometimes called the "Walking Eurobook".

The advantages of sofas include:

• reliable mechanism;
• ease of unfolding;
• spacious inner drawer;
• flat bed;
• choice of sizes.

Of the shortcomings, a deep seat can be noted, which may not always be convenient. But this problem is easily solved with the help of sofa cushions.

"Accordion"

This type of transformation of upholstered furniture has firmly won the sympathy of consumers. This can be explained by the increased reliability of the design and the ease of turning the sofa into a bed. To unfold it, you need to lift the seat and pull it towards you. At the same time, the backrest, consisting of two parts, moves forward, and all the elements are laid out like an accordion in one plane.

This is a stable and easy-to-use model, but it has one significant drawback - there is no box for linen.

Withdrawable or "Telescope"

The layout mechanism of the structure is very convenient. First, the main seat of the sofa rolls out to the stop. At the same time, the headrest of the bed extends from behind the back. An additional seat or lumbar soft part is placed in the resulting niche between the two sections of the sofa.

"Telescopes" when folded are very compact, so they can be used even in small spaces. After the transformation, a fairly wide and comfortable bed is obtained.

The disadvantages include the small height of the bed and the fact that the movable mechanism can damage the flooring.

Folding bed - French type, American (sedaflex) and Belgian

In sofas of this type, the bed is pulled out from under the seat, and then the sections are unfolded and placed on supports or legs.

French - sections are folded three times under the seat. To expand the structure, you must first remove the top cushions. Not very suitable for frequent use, as the mechanism wears out quickly.

American (sedaflex) - unlike the previous model, it has two sections and is completed with a thicker mattress. When the sofa is laid out, the low back is lowered and becomes part of the bed. Reinforced mechanism allows you to use it as an everyday place to sleep.

Belgian - can have both two and three additions. The filling and height of the mattress depends on this.

Dolphin and Kangaroo

The design of furniture with a durable reliable mechanism "Dolphin" is simple and convenient. To expand the sofa, you need to pull out a special block from under the seat, and then remove the second part of the structure from it upwards and towards yourself.

Experts consider this mechanism the most durable of all types. They are often equipped with corner models. They have a spacious and flat place to sleep, and a box for storing bed linen is installed in the side part.

The mechanism "Kangaroo" differs from the "Dolphin" in the ability to create upholstered furniture with higher legs.

"Conrad"

A sofa with such a folding mechanism is considered the most comfortable for sleeping. The design has the ability to use spring blocks. The mattress is close in parameters to orthopedic, which improves the quality of night rest.

It is not difficult to lay out such a sofa: the part located under the seat is pulled forward, and with it the rest of the sections. A distinctive feature and an undoubted plus of the sofa with the Konrad mechanism is its compactness when folded and the ability to turn into a comfortable bed.

"Lit" or "Elf"

If you need to get a small place to sleep, then you should pay attention to compact models with the Lit or Elf mechanism. When unfolding, it will be enough to lower the adjustable armrest, and the sofa will turn into a comfortable single bed. In this case, the back does not move, and the seat becomes a sleeping place.

"Puma"

The Puma design differs from other models in that it does not touch the floor when unfolded. The mechanism is equipped with a special spring system that allows you to reduce the force during transformation: you need to grab the front edge of the seat, push it up and easily pull it towards you. The middle part of the bed gently rises from the inner space and takes its position.

The designs are very durable, they can be both straight and angular, while the latter have a box for linen.

With unfolding on the floor

This is the most budgetary model of all transformation mechanisms. Two sections of the bed are laid out directly on the floor, as they do not have supports. When folded, they are inside the case. For daily use, this type is not very comfortable. It is better to use it as a guest option.

"Spartacus"

The mechanism "Spartacus" resembles the "French cot", but has a welded grille, which strengthens the entire structure. Therefore, such models can be used for everyday use. The inconveniences are the same as in all folding beds: in order to unfold, you must first remove the pillows, and there is no box for storing linen.

"Recliner"

The Recliner sofa layout mechanism is equipped with a special system that allows you to change the angle of the backrest, and a footrest. Such models are high-tech, often have vibration massage systems and remote control using a remote control.

The sofa is designed taking into account the anatomical features of a person, so it is convenient to relax on it by adjusting the position of the back and stand. The disadvantages include the high cost and the impossibility of a full-fledged layout to get a bed.

Transformer

Models "Transformer" have a swivel type of unfolding, they look stylish and modern. Turning such a sofa into a bed is very simple: one part rolls back at an angle of 90 degrees and moves back. It turns out a spacious place to sleep.

For convenient unfolding, the sofa is equipped with rubberized wheels, so moving the swivel part is not difficult. The mobile module can also be moved in the opposite direction. Some models have a fold down back and all have two large storage drawers.

"Caravan" and "Daytona"

"Caravan" allows you to transform a sofa into a bed due to a complex metal structure. The main plus is that it unfolds in just one movement, and in its normal state it takes up little space. This makes it possible to install such models in small spaces. They fit especially well in the interior of the children's room.

"Daytona" - the design of a new generation of double decomposition. To turn into a bed, you need to pull the backrest, which falls and wraps under the bed. It is very convenient that you do not need to remove the pillows during the transformation. Strength and durability is ensured by a metal welded frame and elastic straps. Great for daily use.

"Saber"

Refers to roll-out, but the design of the "Saber" is more complicated than that of similar models. The seat moves forward if the backrest is moved forward towards you. At the same time, the backrest and headrest tip over and lie on the spacious inner box. It turns out a bed on which you can sleep comfortably.

What to look for when choosing a sofa

When choosing, it is necessary to inspect the mechanism, ask the seller in detail about the pros and cons of various modifications. The service life of new furniture will depend on the correct selection of the design.

You can draw and take with you a plan of the room indicating the dimensions, so as not to be mistaken with the dimensions and accurately calculate how the model you like will be placed, whether there is enough space for unfolding.

It is worth clarifying information about the filler. Be sure to independently assemble and disassemble the sleeping system and make sure that the transformation is convenient.

Block filler

Manufacturers use a variety of materials to fill the soft parts of furniture: pillows, backs, seats, armrests.

1. Spring blocks - provide additional comfort for the body during sleep, there are three types: dependent, "snake", independent.
2. Polyurethane foam (PPU) or foam rubber - highly elastic and inexpensive, environmentally friendly, has good elasticity.
3. Felt and padded jacket - natural materials, the first is obtained from sheep and goat wool, the second - from cotton wool. Felt acts as a protective layer for polyurethane foam and spring blocks, while their surface becomes more resistant to wear. The padded jacket is laid between layers of filler for increased comfort.
4. Sintepon is an inexpensive and high-quality artificial filler that gives furniture softness, elasticity, is not susceptible to the formation of fungus, but does not hold its shape well.
5. Hollofiber - looks like fluffy balls of different sizes, made from polyester fibers, quickly restores its original shape, warm and soft;
6. Holcon (strutoplast) - elastic and warm, environmentally friendly, does not absorb moisture and odors.
7. Periotek is a modern non-woven material consisting of polyester fibers, durable, resilient, breathable, fireproof.
8. Struttofiber - wear-resistant, elastic.
9. Latex is a natural material used in the manufacture of expensive models of upholstered furniture, has increased elasticity, is non-toxic, quickly restores its original shape, does not cause allergies, and has a long service life.

For sleep, it is preferable to choose models with spring blocks. They will give the body the greatest relaxation and proper rest. The main advantage of such systems is durability and strength.

It is important to understand the features of the device of various models before buying and choose the most suitable one depending on the purpose and frequency of use. Experts do not advise buying the cheapest options, because the quality will be low, and the service life will be short.

Video

Watch a video showing popular ways to transform upholstered furniture.

Manufacturers of upholstered furniture use a variety of layout mechanisms for sofas. There are no universal options. Depending on the method of operation, the size of the room and some other conditions, one or the other is chosen.

In order not to make a mistake, you need to listen to the advice of experts. They will help you understand what factors you need to pay attention to in the first place. All groups of mechanisms are classified according to certain criteria. This makes it much easier to figure out which model is best suited.

studying, which mechanism for transforming sofas is better a number of recommendations should be taken into account. There is a generally accepted rule. All sofas are conditionally divided into guest types and designed for daily sleep. If the mechanism is chosen correctly, the furniture will last a long time. Its operation will be comfortable.

If the sofa will be laid out often (sleeping variety), you should not purchase products with a complex layout procedure. In this case, it would be useful to remember the golden rule: the simpler the better. Guest sofas, on the contrary, are not designed for the daily movements of the system. Therefore, their mechanism will not be as strong as that of sleeping varieties.

Attention should also be paid to such criteria as the maximum load of the bed, the orthopedic qualities of the model, its appearance, the layout procedure, the comfort of the bed, and also the convenience in the sitting position. That's why sofa transformation mechanism is an important factor influencing the choice.

Guest models

Guest type sofas have a design that does not take up much space. The appearance of such furniture is very unusual, interesting. Such mechanisms include "French folding bed", "Sedaflex", "Dionysus", etc. The main purpose of such furniture is to surprise guests, ensuring their maximum comfort during their stay in the hosts' house.

Comfort in a sitting position is important, but you won’t be able to kill two birds with one stone, you will have to sacrifice comfort when laying out. Mechanisms for transforming corner sofas require a significant investment of time and effort in order to transform furniture into a place to sleep. First you need to remove the seat cushions. After that, the mechanism is activated.

If you believe the reviews, rest in such a bed leaves much to be desired. These types of sofas are usually cheap. You can sleep on them, but not all the time.

Sleeping sofa

The second group includes furniture designed for daily sleep. When laying out, you do not need to spend a lot of time. Sleep will be comfortable. Devices of this type include the "book" and its main variations. The most famous of them are "click-clack" and "Eurobook".

This type includes angular varieties. The most popular in this group is recognized the transformation mechanism of the sofa "dolphin", well, or"puma". Also bright representatives of furniture for daily sleep are sofas "telescope" and "ribalto".

Such mechanisms are very easy to operate. Their transformation is quick and easy. The sleeping place has sufficient rigidity. It is flat and comfortable. Such mechanisms are designed for a large number of transformation cycles.

"Book" or "click-clack"

One of the simplest is sofa book. Transformation mechanism involves raising the seat. At this point, a click occurs. The sofa comes back down already unfolded.

Click-clack models are a slightly improved version of the book. Such devices have an intermediate position. At the same time, a person can be in a “relaxation” position. The back does not go all the way down. Therefore, a person is located on the sofa half-sitting.

The advantage of the presented models is reliability and durability even with daily transformation. This option is ideal for apartments with a small area. Floor covering can be anything.

The disadvantage is the limitation in design, simple appearance. The back and seat of such models must be identical in length. A variety of "click-clack" should not be placed close to the wall.

"Eurobook"

One of the most common models today is the Eurobook. The sofa transformation mechanism is considered one of the most reliable. When folding, the seat is pushed forward. Under it opens a space for storing bed linen. The back rests on the vacated space.

The advantage of such a system is the minimum number of mechanical elements. Therefore, there is practically nothing to break in such furniture. According to consumers, these are durable reliable products. The sleeping area is very spacious. In addition, there is a rather large box below. It is convenient to store bed linen and bedding here. The sofa can be installed near the wall.

As for the disadvantages of such products, people note that the seat slides on the floor. Therefore, special attention is paid to the coating. In general, the "Eurobook" is a solid reliable mechanism that will serve its owners for many years.

"Pantograph"

One of the analogues of the "Eurobook" today is the "pantograph". The sofa transformation mechanism is also quite simple. It is necessary to raise the seat at an inclination of about 45º. Then it is lowered and pulled down and towards itself. The back goes down. This is how the bed is made.

Below is a laundry compartment. Some models of the presented variety can be transformed from a direct to a corner version of upholstered furniture. And it doesn't matter if you want to turn it right or left.

The advantage of this mechanism, judging by the reviews, is that the seat does not roll out on the floor surface. It simply slides out without touching the flooring of the room. The improved design causes an increase in the cost of such sofas.

"Cot"

The "clamshell" type has several popular design options. The principle of transformation here is simple. The bed is located directly under the seat. For the front panel, which is located below, the seat moves forward. There is a French and an American folding bed. Their principle is very similar.

The French one is pulled out in the form of a scroll, which unfolds in 3 stages. This mechanism is compact in size, so it is built into even very sophisticated sofas. However, this model is not used on a daily basis.

The American clamshell is designed for heavy loads. This sofa is practical and durable. However, this feature significantly raises the price of this furniture. To transform the sofa, you need to lift it a little, and then pull it towards you. This type of mechanism does not harm the flooring, but it needs to be lubricated periodically to avoid squeaks.

Withdrawable mechanism

One of the best options for sleep is considered roll-out sofa. Transformation mechanism here is very simple. The berth is obtained by rolling out additional sections from under the base. Due to its simplicity, the presented mechanism is called one of the most reliable.

Another advantage of such products is the absence of requirements for the size of the room. It is installed even in small rooms. Moreover, in the unfolded state, the place to sleep will be long and even.

The disadvantage of such mechanisms is the exactingness of the type of flooring. It should be strong, not sag under the weight of the sofa. In the process of transformation, the base slides on the floor. Nothing should interfere with this movement. It is better if the selected model of the presented type has rubber wheels.

Buying a sofa is a very responsible process, because such furniture is bought for more than one year. The choice must be approached with special care so that the new sofa is comfortable for all family members, successfully harmonizes with the interior and pleases with its functionality for a long time.

First of all, the sofa is a comfortable relaxation area after a hard day, a place for friendly gatherings and watching movies. Often it is also used as a place to sleep. When buying, we usually pay attention to the appearance, but it will be much more important to make sure of the quality of the material and check the folding mechanisms of the sofas.

Before you go on a furniture shopping trip in search of a sofa, answer the following questions:

1. How much space do you intend to allocate for the sofa when folded and unfolded?
2. How often are you going to lay out the sofa?
3. In what mode will the sofa sleeper function: daily or as a guest option?
4. What load should the sofa withstand?
5. Do you need a special place to store clothes?
6. How much are you willing to spend on a purchase? Which model should you pay attention to: a budget option or a sofa with a more complex mechanism and reliable details?

Types of mechanisms, pros and cons

Types of sofas by folding mechanism:

• retractable, or withdrawable (on rollers): withdrawable, dolphin, eurobook, conrad, pantograph;
• folding: tango, book, elf;
• deployable: accordion, French cot, American cot, Spartak.

Let's consider in more detail each of the options.

Book

Having such a mechanism for transforming sofas, a piece of furniture is converted into 2 positions: a seated version and a sofa for sleeping. To turn the sofa into a sleeping place, its back is simply folded back. It will not have to be moved away from the wall during this process, since during installation it will be necessary to take into account that the design of the furniture requires a small gap between the wall and the back.

Parts of a sofa with a "book" mechanism are two metal or wooden frames with fixed or other soft filler. At the bottom, there is often a compartment for storing clothes.

Pros:

• strength;
• reliability;
• ease of use;
• can be used frequently without the risk of breakage and wear.

• has only two positions - lying and sitting;
• the inability to move the sofa tightly against the wall.

Tango

"Tango" is the prototype of a sofa folding system called "click-clack". Many manufacturers seek to simply surprise the buyer with a beautiful new term. In general, this system is very much like a classic "book". There is only one difference - when unfolding, such a sofa can also take intermediate positions, and not just “sitting-lying”. The backrest can be adjusted to a comfortable level. These sofas are equipped with a bed storage box.

• fixation of the back in several positions;
• compact size;
• when unfolded, the sofa creates a surface without bumps.

Minus - you can not attach the back tightly to the wall.

Eurobook

Such a mechanism for unfolding classic sofas, like the Eurobook, is easy to identify by pushing the seat forward on roll-out rollers. In this case, a niche is formed in which a part of the sofa, which previously served as the back, fits.

• ease of converting the sofa into a bed;
• reliability of the mechanism;
• plenty of space to sleep;
• large niches for storage.

Minus — due to excessively large seats on the sofa, people with small stature and children will not feel comfortable, because they will not be able to lean on the back.

Dolphin

This is the most popular mechanism for transforming corner sofas. To unfold it, you need to pull the loops attached to the section under the seat. The movement should be up and towards you. The section will roll out and stand next to the seat, forming a large bed. The laundry box is located in the non-roll-out part of the seat.

Note: The dolphin mechanism exerts a heavy load on the sofa body, so you need to make sure that it is made of high-quality wood.

• comfortable bed;
• simplicity and ease of deployment.

Minus - not very long service life with the active use of the mechanism.

Pantograph

These types of folding sofas can often be found under the name "puma" or "tic-tac". This system arose as a variant of the Eurobook, only without roll-out rollers. Inside there is a spacious bed box.

To transform this sofa, you need to pull up the seat of the sofa, grabbing its edge in the middle. With this movement, you will activate the mechanism that pushes the seat up and forward and opens the legs of the support. In the resulting niche, lay the back-pillow.

• comfortable place to sleep;
• easy folding mechanism;
• does not spoil the floor covering with rollers.

Minuses:

• the mechanism is expensive;
• very wide seat.

The sleeping surface of such a sofa is represented by three sections. To straighten them into a plane, you just need to pull the edge of the seat. For frequent use as a bed, such furniture is not recommended, since these types of sofa folding mechanisms wear out very quickly.

Tip: For unfolding, you need to take care of the presence of a fairly large space.

Plus - when assembled, this sofa is very compact.

Minuses:

• the sleeping surface has irregularities;
• short service life.

Roll-out sofa

The bed has two segments that are hidden in the sofa body. To unfold, you need to pull the bottom part so that it rolls forward. After that, the pillow leans back into the vacant space.

• very durable and reliable mechanism;
• comfortable place to sleep;
• compact dimensions when assembled.

Minuses:

• roll-out rollers can scratch the flooring when unfolding;
• low bed.

Accordion

"Accordion" got its name for some resemblance to the musical instrument of the same name. The sleeping space of the sofa stretches in a peculiar way, moving forward at the moment of unfolding, and then rests on the extended mobile legs. When folded, such a sofa has compact dimensions, but more space is required for transformation. The storage compartment is located in the back of the sofa.

• reliable and stable mechanism;
• long service life of the sofa;
• ease of transformation.

Minuses:

• there is no built-in place for linen;
• draw-out type of mechanism can cause scratches on the flooring.

Spartacus

To transform such a sofa into a comfortable place to sleep, you need to pull the seat so that it decomposes in three steps and stands on extended legs. This type of folding sofas was jointly developed by Russian and Italian craftsmen. Such furniture is very well suited for sleeping. The design of the mechanism provides a long berth. In fact, this is a more durable French clamshell, complemented by a welded metal grill.

• strength and durability of the mechanism;
• ease of use;
• as a bed can be used often;
• comfortable sleeping place.

Minuses:

• there is no place to store the bed;
• before unfolding the sofa, you need to remove it from it.

Note: There is also a mechanism for laying out Ifagrid sofas, which is similar to Spartak, but also has some differences.

Conrad or Telescope

To expand such a sofa, you need to pull on its lower part. The sections will roll out one after the other, like a telescope, and stand on the supports.

This type of furniture differs from classic roll-out sofas by the large height of the bed.

• reliable mechanism;
• can be used daily;
• compact volume;
• there is a box for linen;
• sleep comfortably.

Minus - the sofa is very heavy due to the massive mechanism.

Sedaflex (American folding bed)

Such a sofa unfolds like a French folding bed, but unlike it, it has not a three-fold, but a two-fold system and a thicker mattress.

• very strong mechanism;
• compact;
• has a quality .

Minuses:

• no storage box.

Elf

This is a sofa with a swivel transformation mechanism. The armrests at the time of the transformation of the bed are bred to the sides, and a comfortable place to sleep is obtained. The armrests in this sofa can be adjusted in height and have several positions.

• compact model;
• comfortable bed;
• due to the use of lamellas, an orthopedic effect is obtained;
• Armrests can be adjusted to suit individual needs.

Minuses:

• the sofa cannot be leaned close to the wall;
• the bed is located in the same place as the seat.

The name of this type of mechanism comes from the English "recline" - to lean back. The transformation takes place thanks to complex mechanisms hiding in the depths of the sofa. With their help, you can adjust the inclination of the backrest and push the footrest to the desired position. In some models, there are also special pillows with vibration massage. The most expensive models are equipped with an electric motor that is controlled by a remote control.

Pros:

• ease of management;
• you can adjust the sofa to the needs of your body;
• comfort in any position.

• very high cost;
• you can only sit, because there is no position for sleeping.

Sofa with unfolding on the floor

The bed has two sections. When folded, they hide inside the sofa body. To convert such a sofa, you need to pull up on the inner edge of the seat. Then make a soft jerk forward and on yourself. The sleeping place does not provide for any supports and is laid out directly on the floor.

• small dimensions when folded;
• the cheapest type of folding sofas.

• not a very comfortable bed;
• there is no area for storing bedding.

What to choose?

As a result, you can determine which of the sofa folding mechanisms has become the best in its category:

• eurobook - the most reliable mechanism;
• tango is the most comfortable to sit on;
• dolphin - the most spacious;
• pantograph, accordion and roll-out - the most comfortable for sleeping;
• tango, eurobook and roll-out - have special storage compartments;
• roll-out and elf - the most compact;
• The book is the most affordable.

When buying any sofa, be sure to inspect its folding mechanism, consult the seller on this matter, ask questions and demand answers to them. The service life of the sofa and the convenience of its use depend very much on the correct mechanism. If the sofa will rarely be laid out, then you should pay attention to compact models, but not intended for frequent transformation.

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