American folding bed mechanism sofa

The sofa is one of the most common types of upholstered furniture due to its versatility. As a rule, when choosing, preference is given to folding models that connect the sitting area and the sleeping area.

upholstered furniture furniture — Among the upholstered furniture, the American folding bed sofa is popular.

One of these models is a sofa equipped with a transformation mechanism called "American clamshell".

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How does the American folding bed sofa work?
Types of sofas
How to choose the right sofa
Advantages and disadvantages of the mechanism
How to care for a folding sofa
Video: mattresses for an American folding bed - types and how to choose
Sofas with different types of mechanisms in the photo

How does the American folding bed sofa work?

A sofa with an American folding bed mechanism with an orthopedic mattress is equipped with a Sedaflex mechanism.

white sedaflex sofa — Sedaflex is a mechanism that folds out into a large bed.

There are two types of unfolding models:

With the removal of the pillow. This cushion is a seat that takes up the entire surface area of the sofa. After removing the pillow, you need to pull the handle up, then towards yourself, and then unfold the cot. This is historically the first version of the model.
Without removing the pillow. In this case, the pillow is attached to the main part of the bed by means of belts, and therefore it does not need to be removed. When the sofa is unfolded, she is under it. This is a more familiar type of Sedaflex.

Note! If necessary, the removable pillow can be used as an additional place to sleep, but at the same time it will quickly lose its presentable appearance.

With the help of sedaflex technology, the sofa is transformed into a large bed.

An American folding bed can be easily confused with a similar type of furniture - a French folding bed. However, there is a fundamental difference between them: the American type is twofold, and the French one is three. If the sofa is planned to be regularly used as a bed, then the American folding mechanism is preferable.

This is due to the fact that it allows you to use a thicker mattress (including orthopedic) compared to the French version. When the models are triple-folded, it will be possible to use extremely thin mattresses.

Transformation mechanism — The transformation mechanism of the French clamshell is widespread.

The frame of the sofa is made of metal. Bent-glued wooden orthopedic battens are firmly docked to it. In the first designs, the base was mesh, consisting of small or large cells, but in this version the mesh sagged and was abandoned.

frame click-gag — The frame makes these sofas reliable and comfortable.

In modern models with the "Sedaflex" mechanism, a combined version is used: in the upper and core parts, a lath base is installed (as more comfortable), and in the lower - in the form of elastic belts.

how to choose a mattress for a bed — Particular attention should be paid to the choice of mattress. Not only comfort depends on it, but also health.

American folding bed mattresses are thick enough. The standard options are models with a thickness of 10, 12 and 14 cm. They can be of various types, spring or polyurethane foam.

mattress quality — The quality of your sleep will depend on the quality of the mattress.

In modern designs, multilayer mattresses are usually installed, with a soft filler layer on top and a spring block on the bottom.

Types of sofas

Straight sofas

These are classic models that are extremely popular and comfortable. Their main advantage is their small size, which allows them to fit even in extremely confined spaces.

straight turquoise sofa — The straight sofa is a classic that fits into any interior.

At the same time, a straight sofa-bed with an orthopedic mattress can also be large. Some models are equipped with armrests.

Modular sofas

Such models are stylish and functional solutions, differing in options and combination possibilities. A modular sofa is formed from many sections, and its size depends on their number and dimensions.

modular sofa for large spaces — Modular sofas are often purchased for larger spaces.

In fact, such a sofa is a designer, when purchasing which you can choose not only the upholstery, color and filling material, but also the size, quantity, shape and location of the component elements.

Thanks to their versatility, the modular models are well suited for use in break rooms, living rooms, home theaters and other multi-functional environments.

modular white sofa — Any configuration can be made from a modular sofa.

You can independently choose the configuration of furniture, using the component parts, including separately, for example, as an armchair or ottoman.

Corner sofas

Such models are optimal for small rooms in which all the free space is valuable. Their shape allows you to create a comfortable seating area, making the most of the available space.

corner turquoise sofa — Corner sofas are usually placed in rooms with a large area.

Moreover, they can be placed not only in the corners of the room.

Note! There are corner sofas on wheels with a side corner located to the left or right of the central part of the sofa. Such models are very convenient if the room is often rearranged.

How to choose the right sofa

When choosing a sofa, consider the frequency of the sofa and who will sleep on it.

american clamshell — For convenience, customers are offered sofas with an American folding bed mechanism.

The following criteria should be taken into account:

Frequency of use. If the furniture is not planned to be used often, then you should opt for a model with a sleeping surface made of fabric with increased strength. If a constant sleep is expected on the sofa, then it is better to choose a model equipped with a metal mesh and arcuate battens made of strong and thin wood.
Upholstery color. It should organically fit the overall design of the room. The material used for sewing must be durable and easy to maintain, in particular cleaning. The latter is especially true for sofas installed in children's rooms.
Upholstery seams. You should pay close attention to them, since the presence of tensions or distortions indicates errors made during cutting. Because of this, the cover will not last long.
The presence of extraneous sounds. To make sure that they are absent, the sofa should be folded and unfolded several times. If sounds are heard, then the model should be discarded.
Convenience. It is worth checking it in all possible ways - sit down on the sofa, lie down on it folded and disassembled.
Suitable dimensions. They are selected depending on the build and age of the person for whom the product is intended, as well as on the size of the space in the apartment.
Brand and value. It is optimal to choose models from well-known manufacturers with a good reputation, and not to skimp on quality.

Note! The comfort check should be done without fail, preferably by those who will sleep on the couch.It is worth checking the comfort in the usual sleeping positions.

Advantages and disadvantages of the mechanism

The following advantages of the mechanism can be distinguished:

Silence. In the process of folding and unfolding, the mechanism does not produce extraneous sounds.
Stability of the unfolded structure. It is achieved through the presence of a massive base.
Ease of disassembly. It is provided by the material for the manufacture of arcs, with the help of which the sleeping place is unfolded. They are made of lightweight and durable metal.
Withstand high loads. The sofas cope well with loads of up to 200-250 kg throughout the entire period of operation.
Wide and comfortable sleeping place. The sleeping surface is flat, has no bumps and creases. The set, along with the sofa, traditionally includes an orthopedic mattress.
Wide seat depth. This ensures the comfort of sleeping for one person, even if not disassembled.

Note! Most floor coverings are free of foot marks. The exceptions are linoleum and carpet.

swivel sofa in a small apartment — In a small apartment, a sofa with a swivel mechanism will help save space.

A number of disadvantages can also be distinguished:

Lack of linen cases. This is due to the fact that the entire space under the seat is reserved for the folded berth.
The possibility of a squeak. This is due to the design feature that provides for the presence of springs. In addition, some of the materials used as a basis in the production of a berth begin to sag over time.
Massive appearance. This disadvantage extends to small apartments, for which this sofa model is poorly suited due to the lack of compactness and occupying a large amount of space.

Small rooms use bedroom design ideas with a sofa instead of a bed.

Note! There are a number of models that are an exception and have linen boxes, but they are extremely massive, and therefore not suitable for small apartments.

How to care for a folding sofa

To keep the upholstery clean for a long time, while maintaining strength and wear resistance, its surface should be cleaned every three days from animal hair, dust, crumbs and other small debris. This can be done with a vacuum cleaner or a soft brush.

what is a sofa-book — This type of furniture unfolds like a book and has two positions - sitting and lying.

If complex contaminants have formed on the surface, then they should be removed using specialized means designed for a specific type of fabric.

Folding sofa part — The folding part of the sofa is made in the form of a metal frame.

Here are some general tips for furniture care:

carry out cleaning movements in the direction of the pile of the upholstery material;
if liquid gets on the surface, get it wet, and do not wipe it off;
do not use aggressive cleaners containing acids when caring for the surface of the sofa;
when wet cleaning the sofa, use it only after it is completely dry;
in case of breakdown of mechanical structural elements, replace them with new ones, which will only extend the life of the sofa.

folding sofa in the living room — For sleeping, you can use a folding model.

An American folding sofa bed with an orthopedic mattress is an extremely convenient option for upholstered furniture for any room, from the living room to the nursery.

Folding sofas are most often with a metal frame.

Such models allow you to provide a full-fledged sleeping place, a seating area and a seating area, while being able to successfully fit into any interior.