What sofa beds are best for a shared student apartment?

Here’s a list of sofa beds for shared student apartments, with details on size, comfort, conversion ease, and extra features.

Koala Sofa Bed [3rd Gen]

Why pick Koala Sofa Bed [3rd Gen]

• Quick one-step conversion is perfect for busy student life.
• Soft and supportive Kloudcell® topper ensures comfortable sleeping and lounging.
• Eco-friendly materials and sizes fit any room layout.

The Koala Sofa Bed [3rd Gen] offers a compact footprint, making it suitable for shared student apartments with limited space. Available in Single, Full, and Queen sizes, it accommodates varying needs and room layouts. The sofa bed uses a dual-layer polyurethane foam mattress with a Kloudcell® topper, balancing support and softness for both sitting and sleeping. Converting it from sofa to bed is straightforward, requiring only one step without tools. The design includes multipurpose cushions for added comfort, and the frame is made from FSC® certified poplar plywood and MDF. Fabric choices include a Luxe edition with recycled polyester content.

IKEA FRIHETEN Sleeper Sofa

Why pick IKEA FRIHETEN Sleeper Sofa

• Built-in storage keeps bedding and essentials organized.
• Flexible chaise placement adapts to any apartment setup.
• Firm cushions offer reliable support for both seating and sleep.

The IKEA FRIHETEN Sleeper Sofa offers a practical option for shared student apartments due to its compact dimensions: 88 5/8" wide, 41 3/8" deep, and 32 5/8" high as a sofa, expanding to a 56 3/4" by 78 3/8" bed. Firm cushions provide solid support for seating, while the foam mattress creates a firm surface for sleeping, which may not suit those who prefer a softer feel. Converting the sofa to a bed involves removing the back cushions and pulling out the underframe. Additional features include under-seat storage and a chaise that can be positioned on either side.

CB2 Movie 56" Sleeper Sofa

Why pick CB2 Movie 56" Sleeper Sofa

• Compact size suits tight shared spaces effortlessly.
• Easy pull-out mechanism converts to a twin bed instantly.
• Plant-based polyfoam and stylish hardwood legs add a modern touch.

Measuring 56 inches wide by 40 inches deep and 27 inches high, this sleeper sofa fits well in compact living spaces, making it a practical choice for shared student apartments. It transitions from a sofa to a twin-sized bed with a simple mechanism—just remove the uni-cushion and pull out the mattress. The seat features multilayer soy- or plant-based polyfoam, and the 5.25-inch mattress blends coils and foam for comfortable seating and sleeping. Removable hardwood legs are cognac-stained, and the design emphasizes ease of conversion, though there are no built-in storage or adjustable backrests included.

Article Nordby 87" Sofa Bed

Why pick Article Nordby 87" Sofa Bed

• Simple slide-out design makes switching from sofa to bed easy.
• Durable polyester upholstery stands up to daily student use.
• Solid wood legs provide stability and a sleek look.

The Article Nordby 87" Sofa Bed has an 87-inch width, making it suitable for shared apartments where space is at a premium. Its compact design and slide-out sleeper mechanism allow it to transition smoothly from a sofa into a 54” x 72” bed, offering multifunctional use. The seat features high-density foam and polyester fiber for firm support, while the back cushion is filled with polyester fiber. Some users note that the mattress feels firm at first; adding a topper can help. The conversion process is straightforward, manageable by one person, and the sofa is built with solid wood legs and durable polyester upholstery.

Joybird Braxton Sleeper Sofa

Why pick Joybird Braxton Sleeper Sofa

• Sleek profile fits well in small student living rooms.
• Plush, tufted cushions offer cozy seating for long study sessions.
• Detachable legs make moving and setup hassle-free.

The Joybird Braxton Sleeper Sofa measures 79" wide by 36" deep and 37" high, making it a practical choice for smaller apartments where maximizing space is important. Its compact design allows for easy placement without dominating a shared living area. The seating area is comfortable for everyday use, and the high-density foam mattress provides a supportive sleep surface for overnight guests. Converting the sofa to a bed is straightforward, using a simple pull-out mechanism. Additional features include detachable legs for easier moving and bolster pillows, which add comfort and a subtle style element to the overall design.

Crate & Barrel Peyton Twin Sleeper

Why pick Crate & Barrel Peyton Twin Sleeper

• Fold-out design is easy for anyone to operate quickly.
• Wide arms and generous cushions maximize comfort for guests.
• Anti-tilt and headrest features add safety and adjustable support.

The Crate & Barrel Peyton Twin Sleeper measures 61.5" wide by 41" deep and 29.5" high, making it a suitable choice for small living spaces where maximizing floor area is important. Its design features wide taper arms and cushioned seating, providing comfort for both sitting and sleeping. The fold-out mattress combines an innerspring system with a foam mattress and damask woven surface, aiming to support a restful night’s sleep. Transitioning from sofa to bed is straightforward with a simple fold-out mechanism. Added elements such as a locking tilt-up headrest and anti-tilt design contribute to its overall functionality.