What are good substitutes for a bed in a small apartment?

Here’s a list of good bed substitutes for small apartments, covering space efficiency, comfort, and setup needs:

Koala Sofa Bed [3rd Gen]

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Seamlessly shifts between sofa and bed, saving valuable floor space.
• Plush cushioning offers exceptional comfort for both sitting and sleeping.

Cons

• Covers can't be removed for washing, so spot cleaning is needed.
• May not suit those who prefer a traditional mattress feel.

The Koala Sofa Bed [3rd Gen] offers a space-conscious solution, converting from a sofa to a bed with a straightforward pull, avoiding complicated hardware. Its compact size fits well in different small apartment layouts.

Comfort is addressed through its integrated Kloudcell® topper and multi-layer seat cushions, allowing the unit to function as both a supportive sofa and a bed for regular use.

Assembly is simple, tool-free, and suitable for one person, while maintenance involves vacuuming and spot cleaning. The removable, machine-washable covers make it easy to keep the sofa bed fresh and clean.

Shelter Queen Sleeper Sofa (80")

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Doubles as a sofa and bed, maximizing apartment space.
• Gel memory foam mattress ensures a cool, cushy sleep.

Cons

• Requires removing cushions and pulling out the bed to convert.
• Mattress is shorter than a standard queen, which may not suit tall sleepers.

The Shelter Queen Sleeper Sofa features a compact design, measuring 80 inches wide and expanding to 90 inches deep when converted to a queen-sized bed. It includes concealed, removable support legs, helping maximize available floor space in small apartments.

The sofa comes with a gel-infused memory foam mattress that contours to the body and dissipates heat, with mattress dimensions slightly shorter than a standard queen. Converting the sofa to a bed involves removing the cushions and pulling out the mattress, which can be done by one person.

Minimal assembly is required, and routine upkeep involves spot cleaning and avoiding direct sunlight.

Birch Lane Nikhil Upholstered Daybed

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Functions as both a sofa and a bed, freeing up floor area.
• Soft upholstery makes lounging and sleeping comfortable.

Cons

• Assembly needs basic tools and a bit of time.
• Not ideal for those needing a larger sleeping surface.

The Birch Lane Nikhil Upholstered Daybed offers a compact solution for multipurpose rooms, serving as both a sofa and a bed to maximize available space. Its streamlined profile fits easily into various room layouts, making it well-suited for apartments or home offices.

The upholstered surface provides comfort for sitting and sleeping, and the mattress supports everyday use. Transitioning between seating and sleeping modes is simple and convenient.

Assembly is typically straightforward, requiring only basic household tools. Maintenance involves regular vacuuming and occasional spot cleaning, with removable cushion covers making it easier to keep the daybed clean.

DHP Cambridge Gas Lift Upholstered Platform Bed with Storage Compartment and Button Tufted Headboard and Footboard

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Hydraulic lift reveals hidden storage, reducing clutter.
• Tufted headboard adds style and sturdy support for sleep.

Cons

• Occasional lubrication needed for the lift mechanism.
• Assembly can be easier with two people.

The DHP Cambridge Gas Lift Upholstered Platform Bed maximizes storage in small spaces with its hydraulic lift mechanism that elevates the mattress, revealing a large compartment underneath for storing items like clothing and linens.

Its platform structure eliminates the need for a box spring, making it well-suited for apartments with limited space. Sturdy bentwood slats provide solid support for everyday use, while the upholstered headboard and footboard add a decorative touch.

Assembly can be handled with basic tools, and the process is simplified with clear instructions.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning of the upholstered surfaces.

Edge 65W Queen Murphy Bed by Bestar

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Folds up into a cabinet, clearing floor space when not in use.
• Supports regular queen mattresses for familiar comfort.

Cons

• Professional installation is strongly recommended.
• Requires ample wall and ceiling clearance.

The Edge 65W Queen Murphy Bed by Bestar folds vertically into a 65-inch-wide cabinet, allowing for more open floor space when not in use. It requires a ceiling height of at least 91.4 inches and needs 30 to 36 inches of clearance when unfolded.

The bed accommodates standard queen mattresses between 8 and 12 inches thick, supporting up to 1,000 pounds, and uses a flexible slat system for added comfort.

Folding and unfolding is assisted by a dual piston mechanism.

Installation typically calls for professional help, including securing to wall studs or masonry, and baseboard removal.

ZINUS Lorelai 14 Inch Metal Platform Bed Frame

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Minimalist frame with ample underbed storage for bins or boxes.
• Steel construction is sturdy and reduces mattress movement.

Cons

• Needs regular tightening of bolts to prevent squeaks.
• No headboard or footboard included by default.

The ZINUS Lorelai 14 Inch Metal Platform Bed Frame offers a space-saving solution with 12.4 inches of underbed clearance, making it suitable for storing bins, boxes, or other belongings.

Its minimalist metal structure blends easily into different room designs without adding bulk. The steel frame and metal slats provide sturdy support for various mattress types, eliminating the need for a box spring. Anti-slip tape on the slats helps keep the mattress in place.

Assembly generally takes less than an hour and requires basic tools, all of which are included.

Maintenance involves occasional dusting and checking hardware for tightness.