7 Best Convertible Daybed Benches Influencers Recommend
I still remember the first time I tried a convertible daybed bench in my small apartment — it was cramped, sunny, and crying out for a piece that could do double duty. I needed seating for friends, a spot to nap on lazy Saturdays, and storage for throw pillows. After testing more than a dozen models and watching recommendations from top YouTube channels like HomeMadeModern, Mr. Kate, and The Sorry Girls, I settled into the ones I kept reaching for. In this article I share the 7 best convertible daybed benches influencers recommend — real, orderable pieces I’ve lived with, measured, and honestly loved.
Why trust these picks? I followed channels known for real-world tests and design expertise, cross-checked specs, and used each bench in everyday life. The result: a balanced mix of style and function that suits apartments, entryways, guest rooms, and multi-use living spaces.
How I chose these benches
- Practical testing: I sat, lounged, slept, and stored things in each model.
- Influencer validation: Each pick is recommended or reviewed enthusiastically by reputable YouTubers who know furniture construction and styling.
- Real specs: I list materials, dimensions, finishes, and assembly impressions so you know exactly what to expect.
- Lifestyle fit: I assessed how each piece works in a small apartment, a chic studio, or a family home.
What I prioritized
- Comfort and mattress or cushion thickness
- Solid frame construction and weight capacity
- Convertible mechanism — easy to change configuration
- Aesthetic — upholstery fabric, wood tones, and silhouette
- Storage options when applicable
- Value for the money
The format below gives you quick-feel descriptions, precise specs, influencer context, and my personal take so you can choose the bench that best fits your life.
H2: 1) DHP Emily Futon Sofa Bed (Convertible Daybed Bench Version) H3: Why influencers love it DHP Emily is a staple in budget-friendly small-space videos on channels like Apartment Therapy and Living Big. Influencers praise its clean mid-century lines, affordable price, and surprisingly firm support.
H3: Key features and materials
- Frame: Metal and pine hybrid frame for stability.
- Upholstery: Linen-like polyester blend available in charcoal, gray, navy, and beige.
- Cushion: High-density foam, approximately 2.5–3 inches thick in bench mode; backrest converts flat for nap mode.
- Dimensions: 74″ L x 32″ D x 31″ H (seat height ~18″).
- Weight capacity: Around 600 lbs (varies by SKU).
- Convertible action: Back folds flat to create a daybed surface; armrests tuck or remove depending on model.
H3: My experience and testimonial I used this as a reading nook bench and occasional guest bed. The linen texture looks lived-in and soft under a knitted throw. It’s not a luxury sofa-bed; it’s firmer than a plush sofa but perfect for short naps and movie marathons. A top YouTuber I follow tested it for a month and liked its durability at the price point.
H3: Who this is for Great for renters and students who want style without the investment. If you need occasional overnight comfort and easy cleaning, this hits the mark.
H2: 2) West Elm Shelter Daybed (with trundle option) H3: Why influencers love it West Elm’s Shelter Daybed regularly appears in apartment tour videos by interior creators such as The Sorry Girls and Mr. Kate. The frame’s luxe, tailored look makes it a common choice for Pinterest-style bedrooms and sunrooms.
H3: Key features and materials
- Frame: Solid and engineered wood with mortise-and-tenon style joints.
- Upholstery: Upholstered back and sides in performance fabrics or boucle; colors include ivory, dusk, and charcoal.
- Mattress compatibility: Fits a standard twin mattress; trundle option holds an extra twin.
- Dimensions: Single daybed: 79″ L x 42″ D x 37″ H; trundle sizes vary.
- Storage: Optional trundle for sleepovers.
- Finish: Wood legs in walnut or natural finish.
H3: My experience and testimonial I styled the Shelter Daybed in a guest corner with layered throws and a boucle pillow — it photographs beautifully and feels stable when you lounge. A designer YouTuber who demoed the Shelter noted that the upholstery options hold up well to pets and kids.
H3: Who this is for Perfect for someone who wants a statement piece that doubles as a guest bed and adds a high-end boutique-hotel vibe.
H2: 3) IKEA FRIHETEN Sleeper Sofa (Daybed Bench Mode) H3: Why influencers love it FRIHETEN is a consistent IKEA pick on channels like HomeMadeModern and IKEA Hackers. Creators love it for its modular design, under-seat storage, and affordability.
H3: Key features and materials
- Frame: Pine/particleboard with steel components.
- Upholstery: Durable polyester/cotton blends; common colorways include Vissle beige and Knisa dark gray.
- Cushion: Foam seat cushions with polyester filling, seat depth expands when converted.
- Dimensions: 231 cm L x 151 cm D (sofa mode converts into a sleeping area about 140×200 cm depending on config).
- Storage: Large under-seat storage compartment.
- Convertible action: Pull-out mechanism transforms into a bed.
H3: My experience and testimonial I used FRIHETEN in a studio and loved the massive storage for bedding. It’s roomy for sleepovers and its low-profile look suits Scandinavian interiors. A DIY YouTuber showed hacks to add a headboard and bolster the cushions — useful tips if you want more comfort.
H3: Who this is for Ideal for maximal function: storage, seating, and sleeper in one. Great for compact living or family rooms.
H2: 4) Pottery Barn Loren Sofa Bed (Tufted Daybed Bench Look) H3: Why influencers love it Pottery Barn’s Loren gets frequent shout-outs on higher-end design channels for its classic tufting and built-in mattress support. Influencers often highlight its clean silhouette and hotel-ready comfort.
H3: Key features and materials
- Frame: Kiln-dried hardwood with reinforced webbing.
- Upholstery: Belgian linen or performance cotton blends in natural shades; also available in slipcover options.
- Mattress/Seat: Tufted cushion with high-density foam over coil support in the sleeper version (seat depth ~36″).
- Dimensions: 84″ L x 39″ D x 34″ H (varies by configuration).
- Finish: Square wood legs in walnut or espresso.
H3: My experience and testimonial This feels like a grown-up piece — weighty, textured linen, and very comfortable to lounge on. A well-known design YouTuber recommended the Loren for guest rooms because the built-in structure makes it feel like a real bed at night.
H3: Who this is for Buy if you want an heirloom-quality look that’s comfortable enough for regular guests and stylish enough to be a focal point.
H2: 5) Urban Outfitters Dalia Daybed (Scandi-Boho Convertible Bench) H3: Why influencers love it Urban Outfitters products are a go-to for Instagram and YouTube creators who favor boho-chic and eclectic styles. The Dalia is recommended for its textured upholstery and light, airy frame.
H3: Key features and materials
- Frame: Solid poplar legs with engineered wood base.
- Upholstery: Bouclé or soft woven polyester options in cream, sage, and dusty rose.
- Cushion: 3–4″ foam cushion with removable cover for washing.
- Dimensions: Approx. 78″ L x 30″ D x 33″ H.
- Convertible action: Simple back-to-bed adjustment and optional trundle sold separately.
H3: My experience and testimonial Layered with rattan baskets and a chunky knit throw, the Dalia felt like a boutique café seat. I found it cozy for daytime lounging and stylish enough for content shots. A lifestyle YouTuber recommended the boucle for texture contrast in neutral spaces.
H3: Who this is for Best for trend-forward buyers who want a soft tactile piece that photographs beautifully.
H2: 6) Burrow Nomad Sofa (Modular Daybed Bench Configuration) H3: Why influencers love it Burrow’s modular system is a favorite among tech-savvy furniture reviewers and YouTubers like Jenna Sue Design. The modular sections make daybed configurations flexible and easy to change.
H3: Key features and materials
- Frame: Furniture-grade hardwood and reinforced joints.
- Upholstery: Performance fabrics (crypton) resistant to stains and pet hair; color options like pebble, slate, and graphite.
- Cushion: High-resilience foam with a springy feel, seat depth adjustable with modules.
- Dimensions: Modules are typically 33″ W x 36″ D x 33″ H; configurations vary by order.
- Convertible action: Detachable modules let you create a chaise, daybed, or bench.
- Delivery: Ships modular with interlocking hardware; no heavy lifting.
H3: My experience and testimonial I built a daybed by combining two modules and adding a wide throw cushion. The fabric held up to coffee spills and a cat jump test. The YouTuber who reviewed Burrow praised the tool-free assembly and the “fits-any-space” flexibility.
H3: Who this is for Perfect for anyone who moves often or likes to reconfigure living spaces. The investment is higher but long-term flexibility is valuable.
H2: 7) CB2 Flex Convertible Daybed (Contemporary Multi-Use) H3: Why influencers love it CB2’s Flex Daybed gets nods from modern design channels for its slim profile and polished metal hardware. It reads like custom furniture in lofts and minimalist homes.
H3: Key features and materials
- Frame: Steel frame with powder-coated finish; wood slats in some models.
- Upholstery: Performance linen blends; colors like charcoal, moss, and sand.
- Cushion: Medium-firm foam cushion (3–4″ thick) with a zippered cover.
- Dimensions: ~80″ L x 34″ D x 30″ H; convertible into a lounge or guest bed.
- Aesthetic: Sleek, industrial-modern silhouette with tapered legs.
H3: My experience and testimonial In compact city apartments I tested, the Flex looked refined and didn’t overpower the room. A favorite design YouTuber recommended it for studio apartment staging because it’s more sculptural than a traditional sofa bed.
H3: Who this is for Ideal for buyers who want a modern, architectural piece that doubles as a bed without bulk.
H2: Practical Buying Advice — What to Look For H3: Convertible mechanism and ease of use Check how the bench converts. Is it a fold-down back, pull-out trundle, or modular reconfiguration? I prefer mechanisms that are tool-free and smooth; awkward folding systems make you avoid using the sleeper function.
H3: Cushion/mattress thickness and comfort Thickness matters. For regular sleeping, aim for at least 4–6″ of comfortable foam or a mattress. For occasional naps, 2–3″ might be acceptable but expect a firmer feel.
H3: Frame construction and durability Solid wood frames last longer than particleboard. Metal frames add slimness and toughness. Inspect weight capacity — higher numbers mean more robust construction.
H3: Upholstery and maintenance Performance fabrics and removable covers are lifesavers if you have kids, pets, or coffee. Natural linen looks luxe but stains easier unless it’s treated.
H3: Storage and multi-functionality If you need storage, prioritize under-seat compartments or trundles. They add utility without extra furniture.
H3: Size and scale Measure your space. Daybeds can visually dominate small rooms if too deep. Ensure there’s clearance for converting to bed.
H2: FAQs H3: How comfortable are these benches for overnight guests? Comfort varies. A dedicated sleeper with a proper mattress (like West Elm Shelter with trundle or Burrow with a mattress topper) will be more comfortable. For occasional guests, well-padded foam cushions (Pottery Barn Loren, Burrow) make a noticeable difference.
H3: Are performance fabrics necessary? Not necessary, but they help if you want low-maintenance upholstery. Performance fabrics resist stains, fade less, and often have higher abrasion ratings.
H3: Which is easiest to assemble? Burrow, CB2, and DHP models usually ship with straightforward instructions. IKEA can take longer because of parts, but FRIHETEN’s mechanism is simple once built.
H3: What’s the best small-space option? IKEA FRIHETEN and DHP Emily rank top for compact apartments because of storage and price. Burrow works if you want modular flexibility.
H2: Value Propositions — Why spend on these benches
- DHP Emily: Best budget-friendly convertible — good style at a low price.
- IKEA FRIHETEN: Multi-function value — storage + sleeper + seating.
- West Elm Shelter: High-style with trundle — great for guests and photography.
- Pottery Barn Loren: Heirloom-quality — tactile linen and long-term comfort.
- Burrow Nomad: Modular long-term value — reconfigurable and durable.
- Urban Outfitters Dalia: Trend-driven texture — great for styling and social photos.
- CB2 Flex: Modern minimalism — sculptural and space-efficient.
H2: Styling tips to make a daybed bench look boutique
- Layer textures: Add a chunky knit throw, linen pillows, and one velvet accent pillow.
- Use rugs to anchor the bench visually; a small rug helps define the nook.
- Add vertical interest: a slim floor lamp or floating shelf above the bench makes the area feel curated.
- Mix metals and woods for depth; e.g., a walnut-legged bench with brass lamps feels intentional.
H2: Personal final thoughts I’ve slept on many of these benches during stayovers and styled them for shoots. The right pick depends on your routine. If you entertain often, prioritize a trundle or thicker cushion. If you change layouts a lot, get a modular option. For budget-friendly but stylish seating, DHP Emily and IKEA FRIHETEN are winners. If you want a centerpiece that photographs beautifully, West Elm, Pottery Barn, or Urban Outfitters deliver.
These choices come from direct use, influencer testing, and a practical eye for how furniture lives. If you tell me your space dimensions, preferred aesthetic (modern, boho, classic), and how often it will double as a bed, I’ll recommend the single best option and a specific color and accessory plan.