How To Make A Couch From A Twin Mattress? Easy Step-by-step Guide

Helen Skeates
Helen Skeates
18 min read

There are three stages to follow if you want to turn a twin mattress into a sofa. DIY projects like this one are always interesting to read about since they offer such a practical solution to the problem of what to do with old mattresses. It’s possible that you’ll have fun doing it!

This guide is written with the newbie in mind, so don’t let the thought of DIY scare you away. You will acquire the skills necessary to erect a framework, add a covering, and put the whole thing together. Without further ado, let’s get started right now turning a twin mattress into a couch.

How to Make a Couch from a Twin Mattress

Step 1: Get Yourself the Best Twin Mattress

First, you need to figure out if you’re going to be the one sleeping on the Twin mattress you’re trying to convert into a couch or if you’ll be using it for guests. Your circumstances may be unique, but I’ll provide two possibilities:

  • Which of these three sleeping positions do you prefer: your back, your side, or your stomach? What constitutes an ideal bed’s firmness depends on how you prefer to sleep.
  • How often do you sleep with your significant other? Can you tell whether he or she has peculiar sleeping habits? Your answer to this question will determine whether you require two matching mattresses or two mattress sets.
  • You may be a restless sleeper if you answer yes to the following question: If so, be wary of spring mattresses because of their propensity to make noise. And with foam mattresses too, as they often have weak edge support.
  • Did you know that tossing and turning in bed is a sign of sleeplessness? If so, be wary of spring mattresses because of the noise they are prone to make. And this is especially true of foam mattresses, as their lack of solid edge support makes them prone to tipping over.

You should do some reading on the subject and study before making a purchase, so keep that in mind. There are a plethora of models to choose from, but you should focus on finding one that meets your specific needs. In the end, that’s what will ensure your own personal ease. It could be more expensive than you anticipate, but it’s an investment in your future health and happiness.

How to Make a Couch from a Twin Mattress | Memory Foam Talk

People will occasionally sleep on it besides you (e.g. when guests stay overnight). If that’s the case, it’ll be difficult to discover mattresses that will satisfy your guests for the foreseeable future. There are, however, a plethora of good mattresses available that provide enough back support but lack fancy extras. For less than a hundred dollars, you can get a decent model.

The following is a helpful hint:

Whatever you end up paying for a Twin mattress, you should check that the manufacturer provides a guarantee and has reasonable return and refund procedures. For online purchases, this is of paramount importance. This year, Happysleepyhead has compiled a list of the top twin mattresses available for purchase online, and you can check out their research to discover which brands made the cut.

Good news, though, is that

You can return your mattress if you decide it isn’t comfortable or if it turns out to be faulty, as most companies now offer some sort of trial term for their products.

Step 2: Get Yourself a Bed Frame

When it comes to mattresses, your only choice is to buy one, but there are many more options when it comes to bed frames, many of which are much more reasonably priced.

Make a bed with a frame you made yourself.

Make a bed frame out of pallets.

When both of these solutions fail, the next best thing is to buy a ready-made bed frame. Doing so shouldn’t be that challenging. It’s important to remember that you’ll need a bed that doesn’t have any kind of headboard or footboard. It’s sold at IKEA and other retailers like it.

Bed frames exist for those who wish to convert a Twin bed into a sofa. Their ability to be stacked is what gives them that name. Simply stack one bed frame over another, like you would LEGO bricks. They can be separated and placed next to one another to form a King-sized bed, or united in the shape of a L to serve as a couch or sofa. Such a piece of furniture may be purchased for around $150.

Step 3: Get Something to Cover Your Mattress With

This is the configuration I would use if I were to convert a Twin mattress into a couch:

  • a fitted mattress cover to go on top of the mattresses;
  • the fitted variety of sheet to provide a snug fit on the topper and maintain its position;
  • Blanket, the kind big enough to wrap around the bed and keep you warm.

You are free to mix and match however you choose, but a mattress protector is a must.

Why?

Your bed will require more protection than a standard bed if you plan to use it as a couch, even sometimes. You probably don’t want to replace your mattress every time someone spills a cup of coffee on your couch.

You may add an extra layer of defense to your mattress with a protector that goes between the mattress and the sheets. This type of clothing may normally be washed in a washing machine. If you use it, you won’t have to throw away and wash the entire mattress every time it becomes a little grimy. On laundry day, you can just toss it in the washer with your other blankets.

Step 4: Get Some Pillows

To me, an L-shaped bed made of just two flat mattresses would be too sparse a design. The good news, though, is that you can give this ergonomic answer a dash of flair.

The finest aspect is that

These days, you can find just about every kind of accessory you want.

There are two common shapes for long back cushions: the rectangle and the triangular wedge. Smaller decorative pillows can be whatever shape or size you like. A few additional supports can be added as well. And I haven’t even gotten into the plethora of hues and prints yet!

Long story short, you can customize your Twin bed sofa in many ways. Who knows, it can end up looking much more stylish and trendy than the ones you will find in stores.

Short version: there are a lot of options to personalize your Twin bed sofa. You never know, it might out out looking even cooler and more on-trend than the ones sold in stores.

How to Make a Couch from a Twin Mattress

Step 5: Bed or Couch? Choose the Purpose Yourself!

The decision as to how this furniture will be arranged now rests squarely in your lap.

You can create a comfortable space for watching a movie with your loved ones, visiting with friends, or reading a nice book by arranging two beds in an L-shape and topping them with pillows and blankets.

When it’s time for bed, clear the bed of extra pillows and blankets, push the two Twins back together to become a King, and climb into your freshly made bed.

Moving the beds every night and morning can be a hassle and is dangerous for the floors. The advantages, though, are substantial. To sum it up, for a relatively modest outlay of cash, you can enjoy the dual benefits of a soft bed and a relaxing sofa. This is an excellent choice for a studio or efficiency apartment, as well as a guest bedroom or other modest area.

An empty corner of the room is required for the construction of a sofa out of a Twin size mattress; this is not a downside, but rather something to keep in mind.

Now, here’s the deal:

In order to properly support a couch arrangement, the walls must be used as backrests. If there is no wall behind the cushions I recommended you buy, they will collapse under your weight. However, after you’ve pushed the mattresses against the walls, you can relax in the Twin bed in a brand new style as your loved ones make jokes about your future in ergonomics.

How Do I Turn My Mattress Into A Couch?

You now know that you can convert a twin-size bed into a couch without so much as cutting it in half. However, you may easily convert your regular bed into a day bed at home if you have a larger mattress. Imagine a couch that doesn’t use up too much room when you’re not using it.

You can customize the size of your couch by having the mattress trimmed to suit the frame precisely. Then, with the help of a table saw, you can rapidly fashion a plywood couch leg. Get the bed’s head and foot boards ready, as well as the back board, two board strips for the frame, and the crosspieces.

Each crosspiece needs a screw hole drilled into it so it can be attached to the frame’s face and back. Next, use screws to attach the footboard to the rest of the backboard, and use wood glue for further strength elsewhere in the structure. Last but not least, insert the trimmed mattress onto the sofa frame or day bed and hide the screw holes with wooden plugs, sand, or finish.

Does Two Twin Mattress Equal A Full?

Since it is one of the smallest available, the twin mattress is frequently converted into a sofa. When two twin mattresses are put together, the resulting size is almost identical to that of a king-size mattress (which is much larger than a full bed). Please keep in mind that a full mattress is only 54 inches wide and 75 inches long, whereas a king mattress is 76 inches wide and 80 inches long.

A king-size bed can be made by putting together two twin-size mattresses and using a flat sheet or blanket over them. Because a queen mattress is wider and longer than a twin, you won’t get the most out of a twin-sized sheet. The blanket will fall short of the side of the bed and pool at the foot of the mattress.

Since the combined size of two twin mattresses is larger than that of a full, it is a good idea to use them in this way if you need a huge bed. However, some people may experience discomfort at the midpoint.

Our Selection of the Best Twin Mattresses

Best Twin Mattress Overall: Avocado Green

The most well-liked mattress by the company is the Avocado Green one. According to our research, it is the best twin mattress available today. Wool and cotton that are certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and latex that are certified by the Global Organic Latex Standard are used to make this product, making it an excellent option for eco-conscious consumers (GOLS). The vegan version, which utilizes more cotton instead of wool, is available from Avocado for the same price. Since it’s a hybrid, you should expect it to dissipate heat better than a traditional foam mattress. This could be a nice option for you if you tend to get somewhat warm when you sleep.

The Avocado is an excellent option for both back and stomach sleepers due to its medium-firm texture. However, it may be too firm for those who prefer to sleep on their sides. The plushness of the mattress can be increased by attaching a pillow top for an additional $400. The Avocado is one of the more expensive twin mattresses on our list, coming in at $1,099. While it may not be the most cost-effective choice, buyers can feel secure knowing they have a full year to exchange or return the item.

Good Budget Twin Mattress: Zinus Cooling Copper Adaptive Hybrid Mattress

The Zinus Cooling Copper Adaptive Hybrid Mattress comes in at the lowest price point of all the products we looked at for our Best Twin Mattresses list at just $288. It also boasts the lowest price tag in our top five, coming in only $450, making it the only twin bed that qualifies.

The Zinus combines the best features of traditional innerspring and modern memory foam mattresses. Copper-infused memory foam, a moisture-wicking cover, and coils that assist make the mattress more breathable make this a fantastic option for overheated sleepers.

Experts agree that the Zinus is best for back sleepers, but caution that stomach and side sleepers may experience discomfort on the mattress.

Best Twin Mattress for Hot Sleepers: Layla Memory Foam

The Layla Memory Foam mattress is our top pick for those who tend to get hot when sleeping. This mattress features a gel memory foam layer infused with copper, which may improve heat dissipation and odor management. More mattresses that are great for warm sleepers are ranked in our Best Cooling Mattresses of 2022 guide.

The Layla’s ability to be flipped makes it stand out from the other twin mattresses here. One side of a flippable mattress is typically softer than the other, while the other is typically between medium-firm and hard. This benefit is especially useful for children whose tastes develop over time. Although it can be turned over, the Layla may not provide sufficient support for people who weigh more than average when they sleep. Those under 230 pounds are advised to give it a try, as stated by expert evaluators.

While the Layla’s price tag of $328 is higher than that of the Zinus’ $288, it more than makes up for it with a lifetime warranty that covers all models. For example, the Zinus only has a 10-year guarantee.

Good Hybrid Twin Mattress: The DreamCloud

Memory foam, polyfoam, and pocketed coils are just some of the materials that make up the DreamCloud’s several layers. It’s ideal for heavier people because of its 14-inch thickness and medium-firm feel. Those who weigh less than 130 pounds and sleep on their sides may find a softer mattress more comfortable.

This twin bed’s cover is made from cashmere, which may help keep sleepers cool, and its coils enhance airflow, so it’s a good option for those who suffer from night sweats. Subsequently, a layer of gel memory foam relieves pressure and helps maintain proper posture.

Good Memory Foam Twin Mattress: Casper Original Foam

The top layer of the Casper mattress is created with the company’s patented AirScape technology, which employs perforations in the foam to increase airflow and, potentially, aid in the mattress’s ability to dissipate body heat. Casper differentiates out from other foam mattresses because of its zoned support, which may provide additional abdominal and back support for some sleepers. The stronger foam is strategically placed to support the hips and lower back, while the softer foam is placed under the shoulders to relieve pressure.

The Casper Original has been lauded by critics for its ability to accommodate both side and stomach sleepers, making it a good choice for kids whose sleeping habits are likely to evolve. If you’re on a tight budget, you should know that the Casper costs $895 for a twin size mattress. In case you’re interested in learning more about your options in all-foam beds, we’ve compiled a list of the Best Memory Foam Mattresses.

Who Is a Twin Mattress Best For?

Twin beds are the smallest of the common mattress sizes, making them ideal for children, single people, and cramped quarters. In college dorms, however, the normal mattress size is a twin XL, which has the same width as a regular twin bed but five inches longer.

The twin size is the most affordable, but it’s not a good choice if you or your spouse are very large, or if you have a pet that sleeps with you. Some twin mattresses are available with a flippable construction, providing two firmness levels in one bed, which is ideal for children whose sleep preferences may change as they become older.

How to Buy a Twin Mattress

Whether you’re looking for a mattress in store or online, you’ll find that the vast majority of models come in a twin size. Think about what kind of mattress you want to sleep on before you buy a twin bed. People who prefer to sink into their mattress when sleeping, and are on the lighter side, will find a memory foam bed to be a really comfortable option. Heavy sleepers may find additional support in an innerspring mattress. Hybrid mattresses have the benefits of both traditional innersprings and modern foam technology, allowing for the support and responsiveness of a spring mattress while yet offering a cooler night’s sleep than on an all-foam bed.

Some twin mattresses provide extra support for the hips, shoulders, and lower back, which are common areas of pain. Some models of twin beds include built-in fans and other cooling mechanisms, making them ideal for hot climates. Look for mattresses that have a layer of coils, as these provide better ventilation than foam.

Given their compact nature, twin beds also have the lowest bedding costs of any standard mattress size. Many retailers also offer sleep trials and free shipping on twin-size beds to get buyers to try them out in the comfort of their own homes before making a purchase. The best time to buy a twin mattress is around holidays like Black Friday and Labor Day.

How to Make a Couch from a Twin Mattress – Guide from Experts - Bloggy Moms Magazine

FAQ

What are the dimensions of a twin mattress?

A twin mattress is 38 inches wide and 75 inches long, as defined by industry standards. A full-size mattress, in contrast, is also 75 inches in length but 54 inches wide.

A queen-size bed, which is significantly bigger than both of these options, is the better choice for couples who want to sleep side by side. It’s broader than a twin bed by 22 inches, coming in at 60 inches in width. Further, at 80 inches in length, it is five inches longer than its identical counterpart.

How much does a twin mattress weigh?

We found a wide variety in weight for the twin mattresses we tested, from 41 pounds (the Layla) to 62.79 pounds (the Zinus). Foam beds are typically lighter than hybrid and innerspring types since they lack the steel coils found in their construction, however this is not always the case. Because of their smaller size and lighter weight, twin-sized mattresses are more portable than other common mattress sizes.

What is the cheapest twin mattress?

On our site, you can get twin-size mattresses for as little as $200 or as much as $1,000. Our research has shown that the Zinus Cooling Copper Adaptive Hybrid Mattress, which retails for $288, is the best value for money when it comes to twin mattresses.

Conclusion

You don’t need many tools to convert a twin mattress into a daybed or a seat. Making a couch from a twin mattress can be as hands-on as you like, requiring only building skills, or as hands-off as you buy a frame and some prefabricated sofa parts. Whatever the case may be, this project is easy enough that anyone can give it a shot and reuse an old twin bed.

Helen Skeates

Helen Skeates

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