Are you thinking about buying a daybed? Here are 10 questions (and answers) to think about before you buy, so you can find the best daybed sofa for you…
1. What are Daybeds Used For?
One of the advantages of daybeds is that you can use them in multiple ways. Consequently, they make a good investment for the money because you can use them more often.
- Sleeping: First, you can use daybeds for sleeping. In fact you can buy them in twin or full sizes to sleep 1 or 2 people.
- Lounging: Second, their cozy “enclosed” style with back and armrests make them a great place for reading, playing games or watching movies. Stack a bunch of pillows to add an extra level of plushness.
- Seating: Third, you can sit on a daybed like a sofa. You can even set them up in a family room, den or living room and style them to look more like a couch.
- Storage: Some daybeds have pull-out drawers underneath the seats. Therefore, you gain a bunch of extra storage space in addition to your bed, sofa and lounger.
2. Can Adults Sleep on Daybeds?
Yes, the average length of a standard daybed is approximately 6 1/2 feet long and most beds used regular-sized mattresses. Therefore, average height adults can fit on one laying down.
3. Can You Use a Daybed Everyday?
Yes, you can use a daybed as a regular everyday bed. Keep in mind that daybeds use regular sleeping mattresses, just like beds.
That being said, this type of bed can have a firmer feel because the frame doesn’t include a box spring. So, if you prefer a more plush sleeping set-up, a daybed may not be for you.
I’d also suggest investing in a higher quality frame (vs a cheap one) if you want to use it every night for sleeping.
4. Do Daybeds Come in Full Size?
Yes, you can buy daybeds in twin or full sizes and even a few queen beds. The larger size can be more comfortable for adults to sleep. Plus, they make larger loungers – they remind me of a double chaise.
The extra depth you get from full-size daybeds make them really inviting. However, keep in mind that they do take up extra space in the room.
5. Do Daybeds Come with Mattresses?
Although some daybeds can include mattresses, many that you find online will not. This works to your advantage because you get to choose a mattress that you like best. Plus, you can choose how much you want to pay.
When people don’t know what type of mattress to buy for their daybed, I suggest a Linenspa Hybrid. They have a medium-firm feel (great for sitting and sleeping), and they’re affordable. Plus, you can get an 8″ tall twin mattress that fits trundles perfectly.
6. Does a Daybed Need a Box Spring?
No, most daybeds don’t use or have room for a box spring. Instead, they have a built-in open slat system that supports the bed and allows healthy air flow to the mattress.
Although this set-up may makes sleeping surface a little more firm, it keeps the cost down because you don’t have to purchase a box spring. And typically, the extra space goes toward storage drawers or an extra trundle bed.
7. How Much Do Daybeds Cost?
Because daybeds come in variety of styles, materials and sizes, the price ranges greatly. For example, you can find a cheap metal daybed frame for as little as $120-150.
On the other hand, upholstered bed frames, beds with trundles and larger beds will cost more. For instance, the Baxton Studio Anabella costs over $1,000 – but has a modern, contemporary tufted upholstery that you could easily use in a living room.
On average, I’d say many twin daybeds with storage or trundle run between $400 and $600. That price doesn’t include mattresses or bedding.
8. What is the Difference Between a Daybed and a Futon?
Both futons and daybeds are versatile pieces of furniture that you can use for both sitting and sleeping. However, there are a few key differences.
1. Design: Generally, futons fold up and down, converting from a couch into a bed, while daybeds maintain a fixed position.
2. Size: Daybeds are usually larger and more spacious than futons. As a result, futons usually fit better in more compact spaces.
3. Mattress: Daybeds often use a regular bed mattress, whereas futons typically have a thinner, more flexible mattress or foam. Consequently, people often find them more comfortable for sleeping.
9. How Do You Decorate a Daybed?
- Bedding: These days, you can choose from variety of bedspreads, comforters and mattress covers that create a cozy look for your bed. In addition, you can select bedding that matches the upholstery of the bed frame to make it look more like a couch.
- Cushions: Next, get plenty of pillows to line the seatback and armrests. Larger sizes can give your daybed a taller sofa look, especially if you use a uniform color throughout.
- Add Functional Furniture: Think about how you will mainly be using your daybed. Will bookcases or side tables come in handy on either side of the bed for working or reading?
- Incorporate Lighting: Wall sconces, table lamps or clip lights (on a nearby bookcase) can provide adequate task lighting that make a daybed more functional.
10. Where Do you Put a Daybed?
Don’t assume that you can only use a daybed in a spare bedroom. Depending on the style you choose, they can work virtually anywhere…
- Guest room for overnight guests.
- Living room for sitting, entertaining and relaxing.
- Home office or den for reading, working and napping.
- Bedroom for kids.
- Outdoors on a patio, deck or by the pool. See the Outdoor Wicker Daybed and the Patio Bed with Canopy.
