Folding Sleeper Chairs

Chloe Hughes Interior Design Expert

Chloe is a highly-regarded expert in all things vintage and antique. She’s excited to share her vast knowledge with readers and clients wishing to infuse their homes with a mixture of old-time warmth and modern comfort. In addition to her design work, Chloe regularly volunteers at her local community center, teaching DIY projects to adults and kids.

Updated 06/04/2021

Do you want the concept of a sleeper sofa and a much smaller medium? Then how 'bout consider the innovative concept of a sleeper chair. You heard us correctly. This is a chair that pulls out to a sleeper which is essentially a twin bed. It is a great household item to have for both sitting purposes and if you have a single guest dropping in.

Buying Guide

Chairs that fold out into a twin-sized bed are often called sleeper chairs. The designs are so diversified that one of these chairs can fit almost anywhere. Perfect spots can include a quiet loft, a noisy teen's room or in the living area of a small apartment.

Not all pull-out beds are found in sofas. Sleeper chairs are compact for small spaces. They also offer so much more in modern design and originality. Look for other names like futon chair, chair bed, or convertible chair.

What are the best materials for sleeper chairs?

Durable and easy to clean materials make sleeper chairs practical and wearable. Some of the best choices for sleeper chairs include:

Fabric - Any imaginable fabric is used in creating a sleeper chair. Cotton, polyester, linen, fake fur and microfiber are a few of the choices available for personal preference. Animal prints and kid's favorite colors and characters can also be found.
Leather/Leatherette - Leather or leatherette is a favorite material for use in a single chair. Simple contemporary styles allow movement to different areas of the home. Wherever an additional bed is needed, leather fits right in.
Metal - Legs and arms are often made of stainless steel or metal of painted matte finish. Frames that hold a pull-out sleeper are also metal and adhere to national safety guidelines for durability and weight standards.

What types of sleeper chairs are there?

Pull-Out - A pull-out sleeper module can be indiscrete until bedtime. What can look like a seat cushion on a base can turn into a pull-out bed. The base shell hides the lower half of the bed beautifully. The cushion folds over to complete the mattress top. Vintage models that pull up and out to extended metal legs are still also available. Fabrics that reflect today's styles make sleeper chairs a great addition at reasonable prices.
Fold-Over - New to the furniture scene are the fold-over cushions that fold down on secure arm rests to deliver an amazing twin bed. Models that sit close to floor simply fold over without having to have aid from arm rests. Smaller models are perfect for a child's room for when they have friends over. Fun colors in fur or patterns of cotton/polyester blends are perfect for casual use.
Adjustable Back - A chair can have up to 7 different adjustable levels for the back. From a sitting position to a lying flat posture, a bed is instantly available. The adjustable back also comes in handy for a propped up bed position while watching TV.

How to style with sleeper chairs?

The styles available in sleeper chairs are sleek and modern. Rounded or square upholstered arms and back are appropriate for contemporary or minimalist decors. Taller chairs with pencil legs fit in with urban industrial or modern designs with ease.

How to care for sleeper chairs?

Casual sleeper chairs should be vacuumed regularly. Spot clean with an upholstery cleaner when needed. If a mattress is included, wipe down with a damp cloth and disinfect after each use. Read the manufacturer's care manual for any specific cleaning instructions.