How to Buy a Daybed

What Is a Daybed?

This versatile piece of furniture is both a bed and a couch. It has a back and two arms, just like a sofa, but it's also a comfortable bed that takes no work or extra room to set up.

Can a Daybed Be Used as a Regular Bed?

A daybed can absolutely be used every day for nightly sleep. Just make sure to choose a design built for such a purpose. You'll want one that comes with a durable frame and quality mattress, rather than a 'sofa-like' one with seat cushions.

What Size Bed Is a Daybed?

The measurements of a daybed are usually Twin size, 39"x75". While not as common, Full size daybeds, 54" x 75", are also available. If you are looking to replace a daybed mattress, make sure to measure the platform (the 'pocket' of the daybed in where the mattress will go), to confirm your daybed's dimensions.

Daybeds can have open space under the seating area, like a couch on legs, or a trundle bed or drawers underneath the mattress frame.

A living room daybed is an ideal solution when you're short on space and want a room to serve double-duty as both an office or den and a guest room. It provides a couch for sitting during the day and transforms easily into a bed at night.

A kid’s daybed is also a good choice for children's rooms and dorm rooms. It's a nice place to lounge with friends during the day, and at night, it's a comfortable bed to sleep in. If your child loves to host sleepovers, look for a daybed with a trundle — a low pull-out bed, usually on casters, that rolls under the daybed when not in use. If you don't need a trundle, consider a daybed with drawers underneath – for extra storage.