Blog
Click Clack Sofa Beds: How They Work and What to Check
Key takeaways
- A click clack sofa bed has a hinged backrest that locks in three positions: upright, halfway and flat.
- Measure the open bed footprint, plus a small gap behind the backrest, not just the sofa width.
- Click clack Sofa Beds are quick to convert, but the sleeping surface is usually thinner than a pull-out or a standard bed.
- Storage versions exist, but check where the space sits and whether it stays usable when the bed is open.
- Check the permanent fire safety label, cushion depth and doorway access before you order.
Click clack sofa beds have a hinged backrest that tilts through three positions: upright for sitting, halfway for lounging and fully flat for sleeping. There is no mattress to pull out. They suit guest rooms and small spaces, but check the open bed size, cushion depth, fire label and doorway access before you buy.
If you’re weighing up a Sofa Bed for a spare room, a studio or a lounge that doubles as a guest space, the click clack is often the simplest style to live with. It is also spelt clic clac, and the two names mean the same thing. This guide explains how it works, what sizes to expect and what to check before you choose one.
What is a click clack sofa bed and how does it work?
A click clack sofa bed is a sofa with a hinged backrest on a metal frame. You lift the back slightly, lower it, and the mechanism makes a ‘click’ as it locks into each position. You can usually do it with one hand and no heavy lifting.
The three positions explained
- Upright (sit): the backrest is raised, and the piece works as a normal sofa.
- Halfway (lounge): the back drops to a reclined angle, which is handy for TV or reading.
- Flat (bed): the backrest lies level with the seat, creating one flat sleeping surface.
To go back, lift the backrest until it clicks up through each stage. The mechanism usually needs a small gap between the backrest and the wall, so don’t push the sofa hard against the skirting board. Leave a few centimetres and check the product’s measurements.
One thing to know: the sleeping surface is the seat cushions plus the back cushions laid flat. That means there is a join where seat meets back. Thicker, firmer cushions make that join less noticeable.
Click clack vs other Sofa Bed types: which suits a small space?
The right style depends on how often you’ll use the bed and how much floor space you have. Here is a quick comparison.
| Type | How it converts | Best for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Click clack | Backrest tilts flat | Small rooms, guest rooms, quick conversion | Thinner sleeping surface; needs a small gap behind |
| Pull-out | Mattress unfolds from under the seat | Regular guests wanting a mattress feel | Needs more floor space in front; heavier to open |
| Corner Sofa Beds | Varies by design | Larger living rooms, family use | Takes up more room and is harder to move |
| Pop Up Sofa Beds | Lift-and-pop frame | Occasional use, compact spaces | Check the comfort and size carefully |
Consumer testing backs up the trade-offs. Which? notes that click clack designs are among the easiest Sofa Beds to convert and are generally smaller, but they tend to be slightly thinner and less comfortable than other types. That is a fair summary, and it is why the cushion and size checks below matter.
You can browse our full range of Sofa Beds to compare styles side by side.
Which size to choose: double click clack sofa beds and smaller options
Always measure the bed footprint, not the sofa width. One retailer’s worked example shows a sofa 111cm wide that reaches 185cm long once flat. A sofa that fits your wall may not fit your floor when opened.
Typical sofa dimensions vary by design, but a two-seater is often around 180 to 195cm wide and 85 to 95cm deep when used as a sofa. Bed widths on click clack models commonly fall around 115 to 141cm, depending on the model. Always use the exact measurements on the product page.
| Size | Typical UK mattress size | Suits |
|---|---|---|
| Small double | 120 x 190cm | One adult comfortably, two for a night or two |
| Double | 135 x 190cm | Couples for occasional stays |
A click clack sofa bed double gives the most sleeping room, but it is also the biggest piece to fit. Remember that sleeping surfaces on Sofa Beds are not always the same as standard mattress sizes, so compare the stated bed dimensions, not just the label.
How to measure your room
- Note the sofa’s open length and width from the product page.
- Mark that rectangle on the floor with masking tape.
- Add a small gap behind the backrest for the mechanism.
- Leave walking space on at least one side so you can get in and out of bed.
- Check radiators, door swings and low windows.
Click clack sofa beds with storage: where is the space?
If your room is tight, click clack sofa beds with storage are worth a look. The storage usually sits beneath the seat, either in a lift-up section or a box under the base. That can be a good place for spare bedding, pillows and throws.
Not every click clack has storage, because the mechanism and frame take up space underneath. Before you choose, check:
- Where the opening is: does it open from the seat, the front or the side?
- Whether it works when the bed is flat: some designs block access once converted.
- Internal size: look for the stated dimensions so you know what will fit.
- Clearance: make sure there’s room to lift the seat or pull out the box.
If storage matters more than sofa-bed convenience, a proper storage bed may serve you better. Our guides to storage beds and the differences between ottoman, divan and drawer beds can help you decide.
What should you check on upholstery and frame?
Everyday use shows up weak spots fast, so look at the details rather than the photos.
- Cushion depth and fill: deeper, high-resilience foam usually feels better to sleep on. One UK retailer suggests 15 to 20cm as a good depth, but treat that as a guide rather than an industry rule.
- Fabric: tighter weaves and wipe-friendly finishes cope better with family life. Check the care instructions.
- Frame and mechanism: a sturdy frame, smooth hinges and a firm lock matter more than the legs or trim. Retailers describe build quality in different ways, so compare the specification on each listing.
- Fire safety label: sofa beds are covered by the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988. New upholstered furniture should carry a permanent compliance label. Look for it, and be cautious if one looks stapled on or missing.
This also matters if you rent out a furnished property, because the same rules apply to furniture you supply to tenants. For commercial settings such as B&Bs, you need furniture that meets commercial fire standards, so check that the product is suitable.
Daily sleeping or occasional guests: which is right?
Be honest about how you’ll use it. For occasional guests, a click clack is a sensible choice. It converts in seconds, takes up little room and doubles as everyday seating.
For regular overnight use, the thinner sleeping surface and the join between seat and back can become noticeable. One retailer suggests that if you will sleep on a Sofa Bed more than two to three nights a month, a pull-out style may be a better fit. If it’s a nightly bed, a proper bed frame and mattress is the more comfortable long-term option.
Here’s a simple rule of thumb:
- Occasional guests, small room: click clack.
- Frequent guests, more floor space: consider a pull-out or corner design.
- Every night: choose a bed and mattress instead.
If you’re sorting out a spare room for visitors, our guide to the best Sofa Beds for guests goes into more detail.
Delivery, doorway checks and assembly
Sofa Beds are bulky and heavy, so check access before you order. A little planning avoids a lot of stress on the day.
- Measure the packaging route: front door, hallway, stair turns and the final doorway.
- Check the product’s boxed or assembled dimensions: they are usually on the listing.
- Clear the route: move shoes, rugs and small furniture out of the way.
- Plan the space: decide where it will sit before it arrives.
- Check assembly needs: some arrive ready to use, others need legs or a backrest fitted.
Furnmart offers free delivery to the UK Mainland with no minimum spend. Delivery to Scottish Highlands and offshore postcodes depends on the item and may carry a surcharge, and we don’t deliver to Northern Ireland. Our UK-based support team can answer questions by phone or email if you’re unsure about access.
Where to buy click clack sofa beds in the UK
When comparing click clack sofa beds for sale, look beyond the headline photo and check the open dimensions, cushion details, label information and storage. Furnmart’s Click Clack Sofa Beds category brings the range together, and you can also browse wider Sofas and Sofa Beds. If you find the same item cheaper elsewhere, our price match guarantee may apply, subject to terms.
Conclusion
A click clack Sofa Bed is a practical, quick-to-convert choice for guest rooms and small living spaces, as long as you measure the open footprint and check comfort, fire labelling and access. Browse the full Furnmart range of Beds, Mattresses, Sofas and Furniture, with delivery across UK Mainland and Multiple Payment Options.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between click clack and clic clac?
There is no difference. Clic clac is simply another spelling of click clack, and both describe a sofa whose backrest tilts and locks into several positions. You may see either spelling on product pages.
Are click clack sofa beds comfortable to sleep on?
They are comfortable enough for occasional guests, especially with deeper, firmer cushions. Which? notes they can be slightly thinner and less comfortable than other Sofa Bed types. For regular sleeping, a pull-out or a proper bed is usually better.
Can two adults sleep on a click clack sofa bed?
A double click clack can sleep two adults for a night or two. A small double or smaller size is better for one person. Check the stated sleeping dimensions, because they can differ from standard mattress sizes.
How much space do I need behind a click clack sofa bed?
Leave a small gap between the backrest and the wall so the mechanism can move freely. The exact gap varies by design, so check the product’s instructions. Also allow floor space for the full open bed length.
Do click clack sofa beds need a fire safety label?
Yes. Sofa beds are covered by the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988, and new items should carry a permanent compliance label. If a label is missing or looks poorly attached, ask the seller before buying.
Do click clack sofa beds come with storage?
Some do, usually beneath the seat. Many do not, because the mechanism and frame take up space. Check where the opening is, the internal dimensions and whether you can still reach the storage when the bed is flat.
