French folding sofa, features, folding method

The housing area does not always allow for additional guest beds in case of frequent visits from friends or relatives. We have to look for ways to rationally use free space, choosing an alternative option for sleeping space. Ideally, such furniture should successfully combine a stylish appearance, a high level of comfort and reliability of the transformation mechanism - a French folding sofa with a three-section base fits perfectly into these criteria. The model is more practical than all its analogues, every element here is carefully thought out, from its appearance it is difficult to guess that the design is folding. Since the range of French folding beds is quite large, an untrained user will need to find out the operating principle, advantages and disadvantages of this furniture - this is the only way to choose the optimal model for themselves.

What is

A sofa with a French folding bed mechanism is one of the most common and popular models of transformable upholstered furniture. The origin of the name is due to the location of the very first manufacturer of three-section folding systems - it was founded in France. The popularity of the design is explained by its compactness, ease of use, relatively affordable price, and various design options for this furniture.

The transformation mechanism consists of three sections connected to each other by a hinged fastening. The folding of the sofa is carried out in two stages, as a result of which these elements form a single plane. The service life of the product, the thickness of the mattress, and the comfort of people resting on this structure depend on the type of base.

The following is used as a support under the mattress of a French folding sofa:

A metal frame, inside of which a durable synthetic awning is fixed, or, as an option, wire mesh. The tent structure is reminiscent of Soviet-made cots. The wire mesh base is similar to the armored (spring) beds of the same era. Both options have one significant drawback: over time, the surface loses its elasticity, making it impossible to stay comfortably on the sofa. Such supports cannot withstand a load of more than 90 kg, even for short-term use. Despite the most affordable prices among possible modifications, now sofas with this type of base are practically not produced.
Lamels (armor). The mattress is supported by bent-glued wooden slats. The battens are made with a certain bend directed towards the mattress to compensate for the weight of the sleeper. The material used is inexpensive hardwood (beech, birch), glued into a curved strip 12-15 mm thick. In some designs, an awning covering is pulled over the battens to more evenly distribute the load and also reduce sagging of the mattress. Bases with more than 10 lamellas are considered orthopedic and can withstand weights of over 150 kg. The structures belong to the middle price category, mainly intended for guest use - it is in this mode that they will last longer.
Spot-soldered lattice. A reliable and durable solution, which, despite its high cost, is in demand among consumers. A metal mesh attached to springs does not stretch under a person’s weight, making it possible to create a permanent sleeping place with an orthopedic mattress, increasing the load on the structure to 200 kg. A French folding sofa with a base made of welded metal mesh is the only option suitable for everyday use as a sleeping place.

A compromise solution is lamellas in combination with an awning covering. Wooden gratings are placed on the sections located at the head and in the middle; the rest of the base, which is expected to be least loaded, is made of awning or wire.

Model "French clamshell"

Three-section folding bed

Spot-welded grid

Metal frame with synthetic awning

Lamels

Types of French folding beds

French folding beds differ in the type of bed base.

Tent.
Woven mesh.
Armor (lamellas).
Awning and armor.
Welded mesh.

The French folding sofa bed is really similar to the most ordinary folding bed, also consisting of three segments.

Only here the entire mechanism is hidden inside the sofa, under its main seating area.

Bases in the form of an awning and woven mesh are not used by modern manufacturers, since they turned out to be the least durable and sagged during use, creating unfavorable conditions for the position of the spine.

Today, transformation mechanisms have up to 10 slats combined with an awning - thanks to this design they can withstand a lot of weight.

However, daily use of the mechanism often leads to its rapid breakdown.

Armor is a more acceptable option. Made from wood, they provide a flat surface, but over time they can bend unevenly under the weight of the body. Together, the awning and battens give a double effect. This is both a flat surface and load distribution thanks to the awning.

Such a base, equipped with 8-10 battens, can support a weight of up to 180 kg.

Some models are equipped not with armor, but with a welded lattice - the surface of the sleeping area in such sofas is more rigid compared to armor and an awning.

And the most durable (load up to 200 kg) and durable option is welded mesh. The absence of wooden elements minimizes the likelihood of damage to the mechanism, and the welded grille, suspended on springs, does not bend under the weight of the body.

A rare folding bed is equipped with an orthopedic mattress with a spring block and multi-layer filling.

But if this is so, then this sofa will successfully replace a good bed.

Advantages and disadvantages

Using a sofa with a French folding bed mechanism as a permanent sleeping place is a rare occurrence. Most often, this comfortable furniture is used for short-term relaxation: watching TV, friendly gatherings or reading a favorite book. This influenced the functionality and design of the sofa, and formed a number of positive and negative characteristics of the furniture. Among the advantages of sofa design:

Compact when folded. The depth of the furniture is within 65 cm, while two-section folding structures occupy at least 85 cm.
Solving the problem of lack of sleeping places.
The ability to translate original design solutions into reality.
High load capacity - can withstand loads of up to 200 kg.
Simple, convenient transformation.
Durability, partly due to the fact that the folding mechanism is used relatively rarely.

Separately, it is worth noting several more positive features of this furniture:

Folding beds for sofas are interchangeable, since they have similar designs and sizes, this allows you to change a failed element without much difficulty.
Models with a welded mesh base can be used as a permanent bed with an orthopedic mattress.
It is possible to use a removable cover to protect the surface of the sofa from dirt.

Compactness

Easy transformation

High load capacity

Possibility of using a removable cover

Stylish design
Meanwhile, the “French clamshell” model also has disadvantages:

To use the sofa as a bed, the lower cushions must be removed (there is no temporary storage space for them).
This furniture is not intended for permanent sleeping.
There are no drawers for storing bed linen and other things, with the exception of large corner models.
On most French folding sofas, only thin (no more than 60 mm) mattresses can be used.
The length of the sleeping place does not exceed 185 cm - it will be uncomfortable for a tall person to sleep.

On some models, the folding base quickly breaks down with frequent use, creaks during sleep, and is limited in load.

People with spinal problems and children are not recommended to regularly sleep on a French folding bed.

Not intended for daily sleep

No storage drawers

Assembly mechanism

The folding structure is completely hidden inside the sofa. There is a pillow on top of the seat; it is not part of the structure. You can transform a folded sofa for sleeping very easily and quickly. The mechanism has built-in automatic metal support legs; the design has a convenient handle located in the front part of the berth.

To unfold the sofa book, you need to remove the pillow, pull the special handle towards you and pull out the mechanism. It unfolds like a regular folding bed.

The folding mechanism consists of three sections and folds into three. The first head section is supported by hinges on the mounting angle. The next two sections - head and foot - are installed on metal legs in the shape of the letter “P”. During the transformation of the sofa, the legs unfold automatically.

How to unfold

Even a teenager can transform a sofa. Young children should not try to do this on their own, as the design contains moving metal elements that are quite difficult to control.

The sofa unfolds as follows:

First you need to remove the bottom pillows, after removing the cover. On some designs, you will have to move the side armrests and rear cushions.
The next step is to lift the top part by pulling it towards you (some models have a special strap for this).
Having laid out the sections, you need to check the degree of reliability of fixation of the metal legs - they should stand as level as possible.

The mechanism of the French folding bed is folded in the reverse order; the process should not cause any difficulties. All manipulations when transforming the sofa should be performed smoothly, without making sudden movements.

There is no need to apply excessive force if the mechanism does not work, as the hinge joints are vulnerable to angular loads and break easily.

How to choose?

When going to the store to make a purchase, you need to remember several basic selection criteria:

Price. The price of the same sofa from different manufacturers can differ significantly from each other. Therefore, it is recommended to decide in advance on the maximum cost that you are willing to pay for it.

Brand awareness. When buying a product from a well-known manufacturer in a company store, the risk of running into a fake or low-quality product is much lower.

Build quality. Here it is the sofa folding mechanism that deserves special attention. It should work clearly, easily, not jam and not force you to make strong efforts. You should be able to unfold the sofa easily and quickly.

Frame base. There are two options here: a tent-plate base and a frame mesh with additional pipes. The first option is more comfortable and soft, so this folding sofa will be more comfortable for everyday use. The second version of the folding bed has less softness, but greater strength.

Mattress. It is not always sold complete with a French folding bed

Therefore, it is very important to decide whether you will purchase it separately to suit your taste or whether you will be content with what the manufacturer offers.

Based on these basic selection criteria and your desires, you can easily choose and purchase a truly high-quality and durable folding bed in accordance with your wishes.

Manufacturing materials

In addition to the folding mechanism, the French folding sofa consists of a body, a mattress and upholstery. The quality and appearance of these elements directly depend on the material from which they are made. The design of the housing must be strong enough, but not heavy, since the heavy weight makes transportation difficult and increases the load on the floor covering.

The following frame materials are common:

Solid wood. Internal elements are most often made from coniferous species (pine, spruce), since this is the most affordable material, which has a relatively low weight and sufficient strength. The use of hardwood in the frame is less preferable due to its greater mass, labor-intensive processing and high cost. Elements made of oak, ash, walnut and other species are more often found in exterior decoration.
The most affordable option for making an internal frame is particle board. Plywood is significantly stronger and more expensive, and is used in structures of complex shapes or as base elements. Laminated chipboard is rarely used in upholstered furniture, except for the manufacture of external parts.
The metal frame is stronger and more durable in use than wood or its derivatives. External parts can be chrome plated or made of more expensive non-ferrous metals.

Manufacturers often combine wood and other materials. For example, the supporting structure is made of metal, chipboard is used for the sides and back, and decorative elements are made of hardwood and decorate the outside of the sofa.

The mattress is either included with the sofa or purchased separately. Its perimeter size should be 3-5 cm smaller than the base. Furniture polyurethane foam (PPU) or foam rubber are most often used as a filler for the product. The thickness of the mattresses does not exceed 6 cm, which does not provide the proper orthopedic effect. It is permissible to use thicker mattresses (7-10 cm) on a base with a metal lattice.

Woven fabrics, natural or artificial leather are used as upholstery materials. A leather sofa looks luxurious, but requires some care and is more expensive than fabric-covered products. A compromise option is artificial leather, which, when manufactured well, is quite difficult to distinguish from genuine leather. Among woven upholstery, microfiber, velor, jacquard, matting and tapestry coverings are common.

Existing differences between French and American clamshells

It is difficult for an unprepared buyer to see the difference between the sofas offered in stores: their assortment is so large that only preliminary preparation will help make the right choice.

The “French clamshell” transformation mechanism differs from the American prototype.

The American folding bed includes two stages of decomposition, so it has the ability to use a thicker and more comfortable mattress (up to 15 cm). The thickness of the berth built into the French version is up to 6 cm. Because of this, American-type sofas are considered a more common option for permanent use, and French - for guest use.

However, the American version has a significant drawback: the non-standard sizes of the offered models. In the event of damage resulting in the frame breaking, it is very difficult to replace it. In this regard, the mechanism for transforming a “French folding bed” sofa is much more economical: pieces of furniture are produced in standard sizes. This greatly simplifies the process of replacing the mattress and frame.

There is also a similarity, it lies in the principle of folding out the sofa “French folding bed”: the mechanism consists of several identical sections that are connected by hinges, and it unfolds perpendicular to the back.

In addition, both American and French models are very diverse: you can find armchairs, corner and straight sofas.

Criterias of choice

When choosing a sofa with a French folding bed mechanism, you need to take into account a number of criteria. Usually they pay attention to the type of base, build quality, upholstery material, brand and mattress. Basic recommendations:

If you plan to permanently use the furniture as a sleeping place, relatively comfortable sleep is possible only on tent-plate surfaces or welded metal mesh.
You should make sure that all the moving elements of the sofa work smoothly, without creaking or excessive effort when transforming the base. The presence of backlashes and distortions between the frame elements indicates a defect, which will soon lead to failure.
For a French folding sofa, the manufacturer of the base mechanism is very important. Products from dubious brands, as a rule, will not last even a year, even with rare use.
In the living room, a sofa upholstered in leather or textured fabric with a pronounced pattern, such as tapestry or jacquard, looks better. Leatherette is more appropriate in the kitchen - it is cheaper than its natural counterpart, more practical than fabric, and does not absorb odors. You should not use expensive and light-colored types of upholstery in a children's room. The main criterion is ease of cleaning.
The choice of mattress depends on the intensity of use of the bed and the type of sofa base. For tent, slatted and combined surfaces, thin (6 cm) mattresses made of polyurethane foam or foam rubber, which in most cases come with the sofa, are suitable. This option is optimal for guest furniture. For regular sleep you will need a welded base and a 10 cm thick mattress.

The “French folding bed” model is a comfortable, compact piece of furniture that combines elegant design and versatility of construction. Naturally, replacing a full bed with a sofa, even with a high-quality base and mattress, will not work. But for occasional “guest” use it will be the best option.

It is worth choosing models with a mattress included

It is important to pay attention to the build quality

It is worth making sure that all moving elements work without distortions and backlashes

Furniture design is also important

Tips for choosing and photos of products

The most common folding beds are equipped with a fairly thin mattress, the weight of which does not exceed 60 mm. This element is made mainly from sheet foam rubber. If you are not lazy and search a little, you can find models whose mattress reaches 75 cm. Typically, such mattresses are installed on a base made of welded mesh.

The mattress must perfectly match the width of the frames. Otherwise, the bed will not fold up easily. To do this you will have to use force.

Before deciding to purchase a French-type folding sofa, carefully study this model and understand the parameters. It should be taken into account that the width of the folding bed will be significantly less than the width of the sofa seat.

When choosing a folding sofa, you should follow these tips:

Please pay attention to the brand that manufactured this furniture. Branded furniture will last much longer than the same from unknown companies. Let the number of armor or slats be within 8 or 10

This will ensure the greatest endurance of the sleeping place. Check the build quality. To do this, you need to carefully monitor the fastening of seams and joints. Ask the seller for a technical passport for the product and make sure that the manufacturer's tag is present. Decide on the stiffness you need. If you require a product of increased rigidity, then give preference to a sofa with a welded mesh. Let the store check the transformation mechanism in front of you. Ideally, it should fold and unfold fairly easily.

During operation, try to treat the folding mechanism with care, and the product will serve you for a long time. Make timely repairs if necessary. You can repair the product yourself, but it is better to seek the help of a specialist.

Photo

Peculiarities

Externally, the folding sofas look quite respectable. They are equipped with voluminous pillows and armrests and are available in various design options. The transforming structure is securely hidden from view under the seat, which in some varieties is also part of the frame. “Folding beds” enjoy stable consumer demand, which is due to a number of positive properties of these convenient and practical models.

A huge assortment with a wide variety of shapes, colors and designs allows you to choose a product for any interior, and a wide price range makes it possible to purchase a sofa at a comfortable price. As for the shape, clamshells are produced both in the traditional straight version and in the angular version.
Due to the fact that the transformation mechanism folds forward, the width of such sofas is not too large. This makes them very popular among owners of small spaces in which installing full-size samples is problematic.
Most models are distinguished by their low cost, which makes it possible to get a guest bed for a reasonable price, as well as a comfortable sofa for daytime relaxation.
Some types of “folding beds” transform into a spacious double bed that can replace a bed. Moreover, many of them, equipped with reinforced modules, are designed for the installation of orthopedic spring mattresses that can withstand up to 200 kg.
When unfolding the bed, the body of the sofa remains in place and does not move relative to the wall (unlike, for example, a sofa-book). This allows the flooring to remain intact and attractive for a long time. However, despite the fact that folding and unfolding such sofas is quite easy, it is not recommended to trust small children with such work. This is due to the fact that the movable joints of clamshells are vulnerable to lateral loads, and inappropriate handling can lead to failure of the mechanism.

Despite the obvious advantages, folding sofas still have disadvantages. These include the absence of a linen drawer inside the body, the place of which is occupied by folding modules of the transformation mechanism, as well as a short sleeping place, which rarely exceeds 185 cm. Considering the dimensions of standard pillows, we can conclude that such sofa models are not suitable for tall people. Moreover, many types of “folding beds” are not intended for organizing a permanent sleeping place and can be used as a guest option.

It should also be noted that not all models can be used in combination with spring orthopedic mattresses - some of them are designed to accommodate thin (up to 6 cm) foam rubber or polyurethane foam samples.

Another disadvantage of folding sofas is the fact that when unfolded, the legs on which the bed frame rests, under the influence of the weight load, press down the carpet, leaving unsightly prints on it. Crumpled pile spoils the appearance of the floor covering and requires constant combing.

However, the main disadvantage of many folding sofas is their creaking, caused by friction between the metal parts of the structure. In addition, budget models, the base of which is made of an awning, very quickly stretch under the influence of the weight load and begin to sag. However, for the sake of fairness, it should be noted that the considered disadvantages are more inherent in one of the varieties of such sofas - the “French folding bed”. Other types are considered quite reliable designs and can compete on equal terms with other transforming mechanisms, as well as with double beds.

French sofa in the interior

The French sofa book can be used in any interior style. Simply choose the appropriate material and upholstery pattern. Also, these small sofas can be used in almost any room.

In the kitchen

Most often, a corner sofa is selected for the kitchen - this model adds coziness and warmth to the interior, and if the sofa folds out, then, if necessary, it can be used as an additional sleeping place (for example, for guests or a child).

In the living room

For the living room, both a straight sofa and a corner sofa are suitable. The variety of models and materials is so wide that you can easily choose a sofa that perfectly matches your existing interior.

As a rule, the living room is the largest room in the house, so you can safely choose a three-seater French folding sofa for it. Despite the large number of sleeping places, thanks to the hidden folding mechanism, the sofa still remains compact and not bulky. This option will be useful when accommodating a large number of guests, but it can also be used as a daily sleeping place.

In the bedroom

A French sofa will look organic in the bedroom. To equip a sleeping place, it is better to choose a double sofa

This base also has an orthopedic effect. You can use the mattress that comes with the sofa, but it is better to choose a special orthopedic one that matches the parameters of the French bed.

If you are looking for a cozy and comfortable sofa that can easily be transformed into a sleeping place if necessary and without taking up extra space, then French folding sofas will be an ideal option. In addition, this is a successful addition to any interior. A multifunctional, stylish and beautiful sofa will look natural in any room. All you have to do is choose a model with the characteristics that suit you.