February 15, 2024

Choose the right mattress topper for your sofa bed or futon

Convertible sofas and futons make it possible to accommodate guests or even serve as a primary bed in small apartments and studios. However, the padding of a sofa bed or futon is rarely as comfortable as a standard mattress. If you’re tired of feeling uncomfortable on your fold-out frame or waking up with back pain, it’s time to consider a mattress topper for a sleeper sofa. This simple addition can significantly enhance sleep quality - whether for you, your family, or your Airbnb guests.

How a mattress topper transforms your sofa bed

Sofa beds and futons are practical, but their built-in mattresses are usually thin, firm, and designed to fold, sacrificing comfort in the process. Over time, these mattresses flatten out and lose support. The result? Poor sleep, aching joints, and stiff mornings.

A sleeper sofa mattress topper adds an extra layer of cushioning and spinal support. It evens out the sleeping surface, absorbs movement, and reduces the feel of the frame underneath. If your fold-out bed or futon is used regularly, investing in a topper for a convertible sofa is essential for restful sleep.

woman making sofa-bed

Best types of mattress toppers for sofa beds and futons

Quilted toppers - thinner, flexible, easy to fold inside

Quilted toppers are often lighter and more compact than foam options. They're ideal if you want to leave the topper inside your sleeper sofa when closing it. These toppers provide extra softness without excessive thickness, making them perfect for occasional guest beds or Airbnb setups. We recommend our Bamboo Quilted Mattress Pad for its breathable design and ultra-soft finish.

Memory foam toppers - higher comfort, pressure relief

When comfort is your priority, a memory foam topper for sofa beds offers superior pressure relief. It molds to your body, supports spinal alignment, and helps reduce tossing and turning. For regular use, such as sleeping on a futon topper every night, this is the top-tier option.

Hybrid or reflex foam - balance between flexibility and support

Looking for a middle ground? A hybrid or reflex foam topper combines moderate thickness with flexible support. It adapts to the contours of the body while maintaining the foldability needed for sofa beds. Our Reflex Mattress Topper is an excellent choice, it fits well on fold-out beds and avoids that “sinking” feeling.

Maintenance Tip: To extend the lifespan of your topper, rotate it regularly and let it air out. For memory foam, avoid leaving it folded too long, open it up occasionally to maintain its shape.

Choosing the right topper for your sleeper sofa

The right mattress pad for sofa bed depends on your setup and frequency of use. Here’s what to consider:

Occasional use (guest room, Airbnb): A thinner, quilted topper is often sufficient and easier to store.
Frequent use (studio apartment, daily sleep): Opt for memory foam or reflex foam with 2 to 3 inches of thickness for maximum comfort.
Storage space: If you plan to fold the topper inside the sofa, keep the thickness under 2 inches. For thicker options, store separately when not in use.

Storage Tip: Roll your topper instead of folding it when storing separately to avoid permanent creases. Use a breathable storage bag and keep it in a cool, dry place.

Sofa bed vs futon: which topper fits best?

While the goal is the same - better sleep, the structure differs:

Sofa beds: Have foldable frames, so flexibility and low profile are crucial for toppers.
Futons: Usually sit on a flat platform; they can accommodate thicker toppers and offer more storage flexibility.

For futons, a thicker memory foam topper works well and won’t interfere with closing mechanisms. For sofa beds, keep the thickness moderate and test the closure before deciding.

Viscosoft’s top picks for sofa beds and futons

At Viscosoft, we offer a selection of high-quality toppers that fit perfectly on convertible beds:

Bamboo Quilted Mattress Pad - Lightweight, foldable, great for guest beds
Active Cooling Memory Foam Topper - Ideal for daily use and warm sleepers
Reflex Mattress Topper - Balanced comfort and easy to store

Conclusion

Whether you’re upgrading a guest room, preparing an Airbnb sleeper sofa, or sleeping daily on a futon, a quality topper can completely transform your experience. If you need something foldable and light, go for a quilted topper. For more support and pressure relief, choose a memory foam topper for sofa beds.

And don’t forget: maintenance matters! Follow our guide on how to maintain your mattress topper to keep it in great condition for years to come.