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The IKEA Friheten sleeper sofa is one of the most popular budget-friendly convertible couches you can buy. It offers a pull-out bed, built-in storage, and a clean, simple design. But nearly everyone agrees it’s firm. In this guide, we’ll get into what that means, why it matters, and how you can tweak it for more comfort while keeping things easy and practical. We’ll cover user reviews, memory foam and topper hacks, pros and cons, and tips to help you decide if the Friheten is right for your home.
What is the Friheten Sleeper Sofa?
The Friheten Sleeper Sofa is a sofa that can turn into a bed. It’s made by IKEA, a brand known for its smart, space-saving furniture. The Friheten is especially helpful for people who live in small homes or want an extra bed for guests without needing a full-size guest room.
When folded, it looks and works like a normal sofa. When pulled out, it becomes a bed that’s big enough for two adults. It also has hidden storage under the seat, which is great for keeping blankets, pillows, or anything else you want to tuck away.
What Makes the Friheten Popular?
- Multi-function design: It works as a sofa, a queen-size bed, and has built-in storage under the chaise section. The sectional model costs around $899; the regular sofa around $749
- Affordable price: It gives solid value for the price, especially compared to pricier convertible couches .
- Modern look: Clean lines and neutral colors (dark gray, light gray, brown‑orange, black) fit many decors , ikea.com
- Storage space: Under-seat storage is praised as roomy and practical
Comfort & Firmness
1. Firm Seat & Mattress
- Reviewers regularly describe it as “a bit firm,” “firm though comfy,” or “not too soft or too hard.”
- Sit testers in showrooms and long-term users rate it around 7/10 firmness, a solid si,t but not plush .
- One user called it “the most comfortable sleeper couch I’ve ever tried,” even with its firmness, noting no pokey springs
2. Potential Drawbacks
- Firmness may lead to back aches or discomfort for some, especially older adults .
- Center cushions can feel uneven the pulled-out mattress feels firmer than the seat
- Arms and cushions may sag over time; tightening bolts or flopping cushions weekly helps maintain shape
Covers are stationary, can’t flip them, and replacement covers are limited unless sourced from third parties like Comfort Works .
Build Quality and Materials
The Friheten has a solid build and is designed to last. IKEA uses particleboard and plywood for the frame, along with polyurethane foam for cushioning.
While it’s not made from luxury materials, it’s strong enough for daily use. Most users report that it lasts for several years without major issues.
Common Materials Used
- Frame: Plywood, solid wood, and fiberboard
- Cushions: High-resilience polyurethane foam
- Upholstery: Polyester fabric (easy to clean)
It comes in multiple fabric options like dark gray, beige, blue, and black, so you can pick what suits your home best.
Size and Dimensions
Knowing the size helps you plan the space better. The Friheten is compact but roomy enough for two adults.
Dimensions (Approximate)
- Sofa Length: 90.5 inches (230 cm)
- Depth: 36.6 inches (93 cm)
- Bed Size (when pulled out): Full/double bed around 55 inches wide x 80 inches long
It fits well in most living rooms, guest rooms, and studio apartments.
Is It Easy to Convert from Sofa to Bed?
Yes, the Friheten is designed for quick and simple transformation. You don’t need tools or muscle power to convert it.
How It Works
- Pull out the underframe from the front.
- Flip the backrest down flat.
- That’s it, it’s ready to sleep on.
You can switch between sofa and bed mode in under a minute. It’s very handy for unexpected guests or daily use in small apartments.
Setup and Assembly
Like most IKEA furniture, the Friheten comes in a flat pack and needs assembly. But don’t worry—it’s not too hard. You get an instruction manual with step-by-step pictures. The assembly may take 1 to 2 hours, depending on your experience.
Tips for Easy Setup
- Use a power screwdriver if you have one
- Follow each step closely, don’t skip ahead
- Ask a friend to help you with lifting and adjusting parts
- Watch video tutorials online if needed
Once it’s built, it’s sturdy and ready to use for years.
Style and Design
The Friheten has a clean, modern design. It’s not flashy or bold, but it looks neat in almost any room. If you like simple, functional, and modern furniture, you’ll love its look.
It fits well with:
- Minimalist decor
- Scandinavian interiors
- Contemporary homes
- College dorms and urban apartments
What’s Great & What to Consider
1. Pros
- Works as both a sofa and a bed
- Firm support for back and sleep
- Hidden storage is very useful
- Compact size fits small spaces
- Easy to convert into a bed
- Affordable price
2. Cons
- It may feel too firm for some users
- Needs assembly
- Not ideal for people who want a plush, soft sofa
- Fabric may wrinkle over time
Conclusion
The Friheten Sleeper Sofa is a smart, stylish, and space-saving choice for modern homes. It offers reliable comfort, firmness, and functionality without breaking the bank. While it may not feel like a high-end plush sofa, it gets the job done and then some. Its strong frame, helpful storage, and easy transformation into a bed make it a practical favorite for students, small families, and budget-conscious shoppers alike. If you prefer firm seating, enjoy clean design, and want extra storage, the Friheten could be your perfect match.
