How to style a sleeper sofa to make it look more expensive and luxurious for your overnight guests

If you're hosting overnight guests over the holiday period then a sleeper sofa is going to be prime real estate in your home as of next week.

Whether it’s close family or surprise guests, your multi-functional spaces often become the unsung heroes of the season. But knowing how to style a sleeper sofa to make it exude the same level of sophistication as the rest of your interiors – and your own bed – can be hard to master.

To help you create a home away from home for your loved ones we've sought the help of the experts to divulge their very best sleep-inducing tips.

How to style a sleeper sofa

'When hosting this Christmas, styling a sofa bed is all about blending comfort and functionality with subtle festive charm,' says Rhiannon Masters, head of brand at Piglet in Bed.

From selecting the right textiles to perfecting the art of accessorizing, these expert-backed tricks will make your sleeper sofa look more expensive while ensuring your guests feel like they’re staying at a boutique hotel. Sleepover season has never looked so chic.

1. Treat it like any sofa during the day

Your sleeper sofa doesn’t have to scream “guest bed” when it’s not in use. So treat the sleeper sofa as a permanent part of your design rather than a temporary fix to help you host guests without a guest room.

'A sleeper sofa should be treated and styled like any other sofa to ensure it feels intentional and cohesive within your space,' says interior designer Marie Flanigan.

'Pair it with side tables and lamps to create balance and provide practical surfaces for lighting and decor. Beautiful throw pillows in a mix of textures and patterns can soften the look and add personality,' she adds. A high-quality rug can also anchor the sofa in the room and help it feel like a more cohesive part of the design.

2. Choose bedding wisely

Investing in beautiful, well-made bedding rather than pulling something from the back of the linen cupboard shows your guests that their comfort isn’t an afterthought.

Start with breathable, high-thread-count sheets, and avoid old, mismatched bedding; instead, opt for a set that coordinates with your room’s decor – whether that room is your living room, office, or family room. And be sure to get them the best pillow and comforter you can afford.

'Scalloped detailing on bed linens and trimmings adds a charming touch that effortlessly elevates the overall aesthetic,' suggests designer Gray Walker. 'This design element strikes a perfect balance between whimsy and timeless elegance, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels both playful and sophisticated.'

3. Add layers of cozy textures

You don't want your guests to feel like they're staying on a makeshift bed but instead a guest room that feels inviting, cozy, and thoughtful.

'Start with layers of cozy textures,' adds Rhiannon from Piglet in Bed. 'Think luxury linen sheets, wool blankets in warm earthy tones paired with accent cushions that echo the feels of the season – rich greens, deep reds, and striped patterned accents.'

'For a truly inviting touch, drape a linen quilted throw or a knitted blanket of your choice across the foot of the bed,' she continues. 'This adds a cozy farmhouse feel with a modern twist and is also practical for those colder nights when your guests want to pull over an extra layer.'

4. Don't forget pattern and color

'People often set up a sofa bed with basic bedding, plain sheets, a duvet, and pillows, however, we’d suggest dressing your sofa bed in the same way you would any other bed,' Rhiannon continues.

'Texture paired with pattern adds depth and nostalgic charm which will make your guests feel a sense of homeliness.' Pattern and color bring personality and charm to your sofa, making it feel intentionally styled.

Even if the sleeper sofa itself is neutral, adding bold cushions or throws can completely change its vibe. Stripes, plaids, and florals are versatile prints that can fit a range of interior design styles while feeling festive enough for the holidays.

5. Finish with little luxuries

In order to be a really great host, try to predict their needs and mimic the experience of a luxury hotel with sleep-ready scents, a stack of books, and even fresh flowers.

'So your guests feel more special than ever, keep a small side table nearby with essentials like a carafe of water, a scented candle, and a phone charger to create that home-from-home experience,' suggests Rhiannon.

Not everyone likes to sleep at the same temperature so provide a basket of extra blankets and throw cushions. Blackout blinds are essential but often forgotten in rooms that aren't typically used for sleeping, like a home office that doubles as a guest room and dimmable lamps provide both ambiance and reading light.

'Don’t forget to layer in accents like a cozy throw, a nearby floor lamp, or a small piece of art to create a polished, inviting space,' Marie advices. 'These final, thoughtful touches help your sleeper sofa feel like a centerpiece rather than an afterthought.'

Whether you’re hosting for the holidays or just preparing for impromptu visitors, your guests will appreciate all the effort you’ve put into making their stay special.