Among the upholstered furniture, the American folding sofa is popular. It is used for rest and as a sleeping place. For convenience, buyers are offered sofas with an American folding mechanism. Types of models, advantages, disadvantages, what is better to choose - a device with a mattress or without it. Let's consider these and other questions.

American folding sofa
An American folding bed in the living room is ideal for everyday sleep

Lack of free space in the room is a problem for many apartment owners. The model with transformation is popular and in demand among buyers. The folded device with the American folding bed mechanism does not take up much space. When unfolded, it will please with functionality. The sleeping area is wide and comfortable.

Comfortable sofa
Today there are comfortable sofas for sleeping and relaxing.

Sofa bed - double folding mechanism. When unfolded, a large sleeping area is formed perpendicular to the back of the device. Two sections are connected to each other with hinges.

General view of the sofa
General view of the sofa bed and its frame for sleeping

This transformation is called an American folding bed. The name is not connected with the country of manufacture. There are about a hundred types of devices, most of them are made in Europe and a few in America.

Sofa unfolding diagram
We unfold the sofa like an American folding bed

The American folding sofa bed is easily transformed. There are models that can be unfolded without removing the upper cushions. They are fastened with belts, which is very convenient. Even a child can handle it.

Users often choose such devices. When folded, they do not take up much space. They can be placed even in small rooms.

Orthopedic sofa bed
An orthopedic sofa bed is much more functional than a standard bed for small spaces

Types

A sofa with such a mechanism has two types of unfolding. In the first case, you need to remove the upper part, which occupies the entire area of ​​the sofa and serves as a seat. Such a sofa bed turns into a place to sleep by pulling the handle up and towards you. The bed unfolds and becomes ready for use. This is an outdated type.

Sleeping area under the pillows
When assembled, the entire mechanism is located under the seat cushions; you need to remove the seat cushions and then pull out the folded bed.

Another way of unfolding is new, called sedaflex. The seat does not need to be removed, it is attached to the base of the bed. If the sofa is positioned, the seat will be under it. Pillows are not used during sleep, they retain their normal appearance longer. A distinctive feature is the presence of a folding mattress, headboard, and a durable frame.

Sedaflex mechanism
The American folding bed with the sedaflex mechanism can be unfolded without removing the seat cushions, as they also participate in the transformation of the sofa

According to the type of design, the stock can be:

  • straight (used for children's rooms, bedrooms);

    Straight sofa bed
    Straight sofa with “American folding bed” mechanism in folded and unfolded form
  • corner (usually chosen for the living room, large dimensions, more difficult to place).

    Corner sofa bed
    Corner sofa bed with “American folding bed” mechanism

Advantages and disadvantages

Scheme of a folding sofa
Scheme of a folding sofa with dimensions of a sleeping place

Let's list the main advantages of a sofa with an American folding bed mechanism.

  • The device has a massive base, which makes it stable and prevents any sliding.
  • The sleeping area has a simple transformation mechanism; the folding arches are made of lightweight and very durable metal.
  • The models have reliable functionality. They withstand enormous loads throughout the entire period of use. They remain durable for a very long time.
  • This model has a wide sleeping area. Maximum comfort for vacationers is ensured.

    Dimensions of the sofa
    Dimensions of a living room sofa with a sedaflex mechanism
  • The bed with the American folding mechanism has comfortable seats. It can be used for rest even in its unassembled form, without sacrificing comfort.
  • Almost always, an American folding bed is equipped with an orthopedic mattress. They are suitable for people who have spinal diseases or often suffer from insomnia.
  • The sofa does not damage the floor. It does not leave marks or dents. It can be safely placed in rooms with expensive flooring.
  • The appearance of the American folding bed perfectly matches the classic design. Suitable for home and apartment.
  • The ability to withstand a large weight of vacationers, up to 200 kg as standard. There are options with reinforced slats. They can withstand a load of up to 250 kg.
  • The basis is a mechanism with its own frame. Other elements are attached to it. It can be brought into the room in parts and assembled inside.
  • Large range of models. You can choose any style.
Luxury corner leather sofa
A luxurious leather corner sofa bed will be appropriate in spacious living rooms, which at night will turn into a bedroom for you or your guests.

The cost of a sofa with an American folding bed is relatively low. This is a plus for many buyers. The market also offers expensive sofas with a sedaflex mechanism, but there are models of excellent quality at a very reasonable price.

We spread it out in two stages
The sofa with the sedaflex mechanism unfolds in two steps

The main disadvantages of models with the American clamshell mechanism.

  • Sedaflex looks massive. The American folding bed is not the best choice for small apartments.
  • The design has springs that can creak loudly over time, causing discomfort.
  • The transformation mechanism in the American folding bed does not provide for linen drawers. Even if they are there, the bed will take up a lot of space.
Interesting model of a sofa bed
An interesting model of a sofa with an American folding bed and a spacious drawer for linen

How to choose

First, evaluate what the mattress is located on. A sofa with a sedaflex mechanism has a surface:

  • in the form of an awning;

    Awning mechanism
    Awning mechanism of the American folding bed
  • gratings;

    Folding bed with a lattice
    Folding bed with electrically welded grate and straps at the base
  • lats.

    Sofa frame with slats
    Sofa frame with slats in the head and central parts, elastic straps at the legs

It is recommended to pay attention to a sofa with the bases of the last two types, on them the mattress will not sag.

An American folding sofa can have a mattress:

  • Ordinary;

    Folding bed with a regular mattress
    Folding sofa bed with a regular mattress
  • Orthopedic.
Orthopedic mattress
The mechanism of the American folding bed initially assumes the use of a fairly thick orthopedic mattress

The latter is definitely better. It can be with or without springs. In the first case, it will be much softer to sleep, but such options also have disadvantages - after a while, dust and moisture accumulate inside. The metal begins to deteriorate.

Sofa for a boy's room
Sofa for a boy's room with a sedaflex transformation mechanism

For the child's spine, it is better to take a mattress without springs. The transformation mechanism is one of the main selection criteria. Depending on the frequency of use, purpose, and type of flooring in the room, a suitable option is selected. The sedaflex sofa should fold out conveniently and easily.

Modern sofa beds
Modern sofa beds have a complex design, with a hidden mechanism inside.

The more often the sofa is used, the better the quality of the upholstery should be. Consider the presence of animals at home. If you have a cat, a material that is not damaged by its claws will do. There are many of these on the market. Do not choose low-quality fabrics. They will quickly lose their original appearance. Keep in mind that the purchase will be used for a long time.

Soft sofa for living room
A soft sofa for the living room with pleasant rounded shapes and an “American folding bed” mechanism

If there are small children in the house, then choose materials that are easy to clean from dust, various liquids, and other types of dirt.

Red sofa bed
The red sofa bed with the sedaflex mechanism will become the highlight of your interior

You need to choose the American folding bed option depending on the overall interior. Be sure to consider the color scheme and style of the room.

Remember the main characteristic – convenience. In the store, ask the sellers to unfold the sofa. Personally evaluate its comfort. Only then make your choice.

Corner sofa bed in the living room
The corner sofa bed fits perfectly into the living room interior, can accommodate a large number of guests when folded and becomes an additional sleeping place for the night

Video: American folding bed transformation mechanism