What tools are typically needed to assemble a sofa bed?

Here's a complete list of tools you’ll need to assemble a sofa bed, with their purposes, main features, and usage tips.

Koala tool-free assembly (no tools required)

Why Koala tool-free assembly is a good choice

• Eliminates the need to purchase or borrow any tools.
• Greatly speeds up the assembly process.
• Makes setup accessible for people of all skill levels.

The Koala Sofa Bed is designed for tool-free assembly, meaning no additional tools are needed during setup. The sofa bed’s components are engineered to fit together easily, streamlining the process for users. This approach allows for quick assembly, with sections clicking or sliding into place. Although the process is straightforward, it’s generally advised to have two people involved, especially when handling larger models, for added safety and ease. After assembly, it’s best to let the sofa bed decompress for several days to ensure the comfort materials settle properly. For care, spot cleaning is recommended to preserve the fabric.

Phillips-head screwdriver

Why Phillips-head screwdriver is a good choice

• Ideal for driving screws securely into the frame.
• Reduces slippage with its cross-shaped tip.
• Commonly found in most households and toolkits.

A Phillips-head screwdriver is commonly required when assembling a sofa bed, as many of the screws used feature a cross-shaped recess. This tool offers a cross-tip design that fits securely into the screw head, helping to minimise slippage and facilitating efficient tightening or loosening of screws. Its self-centring feature ensures proper alignment, contributing to accurate assembly. When using a Phillips-head screwdriver, it is important to match the screwdriver size to the screws provided to avoid damaging either component. Fully engaging the tip with the screw head and tightening only until secure can help prevent stripping or material damage.

Flathead screwdriver

Why Flathead screwdriver is a good choice

• Useful for slotted screws on many sofa beds.
• Simple design ensures easy handling.
• Readily available and fits multiple applications.

A flathead screwdriver features a flat blade designed to fit screws with a single horizontal slot, commonly used in furniture assembly. When assembling a sofa bed, it is utilised to tighten or loosen slotted screws that hold components such as legs, brackets, and support structures in place. These screwdrivers come in different sizes, making them adaptable to a range of screw heads encountered during assembly. For best results, select the appropriate blade size for each screw and ensure proper alignment while turning. Maintain a firm grip and apply moderate force to avoid slipping or damaging the screw and surrounding materials.

Allen/hex key set (metric)

Why Allen/hex key set (metric) is a good choice

• Provides a secure grip for hex screws.
• Offers multiple sizes for different fasteners.
• Ensures sturdy and stable assembly.

An Allen or hex key set (metric) is commonly required for assembling sofa beds, as it fits the hexagonal bolts and screws typically used in furniture frames. These L-shaped tools come in various sizes to match different fasteners, helping to secure legs, arms, and support beams efficiently. Many sets include ergonomic handles or T-grip options, which can make handling more comfortable during longer assembly sessions. When using an Allen key, select the correct size to avoid damaging screw heads, and apply steady pressure. Avoid over-tightening, which may strip threads or damage components, and use the tool’s long arm for extra leverage when necessary.

Rubber mallet

Why Rubber mallet is a good choice

• Prevents surface damage when tapping components together.
• Allows gentle force for snug fits.
• Versatile for different assembly materials.

A rubber mallet consists of a soft rubber head and a handle, commonly made from wood or fibreglass. This tool is helpful during sofa bed assembly for gently tapping joints or dowels into place without causing dents or scratches on wood or finished surfaces. Its non-marring impact helps maintain the appearance of the furniture, while the controlled force allows pieces to be joined securely. To use it effectively, hold the handle firmly near the end for better control and apply gentle, measured strikes. Regularly inspect the mallet for cracks or signs of wear to ensure safety during use.

Adjustable spanner (or small socket set)

Why Adjustable spanner (or small socket set) is a good choice

• Accommodates various nut and bolt sizes easily.
• Reduces the need for multiple spanners.
• Compact and simple to store.

An adjustable spanner, sometimes referred to as a crescent wrench, is designed with a movable jaw to fit different sizes of nuts and bolts commonly found in sofa bed assembly. This versatility helps streamline the process, as you won’t need several fixed-size spanners. Its compact build allows for easy handling and storage. Most adjustable spanners are made from robust materials, suitable for repeated use. For safe and efficient operation, always ensure the jaw is set snugly to the fastener before tightening. Maintain a secure hold while in use, and avoid over-tightening, which can damage threads or frame components. Regular inspection ensures continued reliability.

Power drill/driver with hex and Phillips bits (optional)

Why Power drill/driver with hex and Phillips bits (optional) is a good choice

• Greatly speeds up screwdriving tasks.
• Reduces hand fatigue during long assembly.
• Provides consistent and controlled torque.

A power drill or driver fitted with hex and Phillips bits can be useful for assembling a sofa bed, especially when dealing with multiple screw types. The ability to switch between different bits allows for straightforward compatibility with both hexagonal and cross-head screws. Adjustable torque settings help control screw tightness, reducing the risk of stripping or damaging fasteners. An ergonomic design can minimise fatigue if the assembly process is lengthy. For safe and effective use, always select the correct bit for each screw, start with low torque settings, grip the tool firmly with both hands, and wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.

Measuring tape

Why Measuring tape is a good choice

• Ensures accurate placement of sofa bed parts.
• Helps verify available space before assembly.
• Retractable design makes it easy to carry and store.

A measuring tape is a useful tool for checking lengths and distances during sofa bed assembly, helping to confirm that components and available space align as required. It typically displays both metric and imperial units, with a flexible blade for measuring around corners and a locking mechanism for holding the tape in place while marking or checking dimensions. To use effectively, it’s best to double-check measurements before proceeding and avoid stretching the tape too far, which can affect accuracy. Retracting the tape slowly and storing it in a dry location helps maintain its condition and ensures safe handling.

Utility knife/box cutter

Why Utility knife/box cutter is a good choice

• Easily opens packaging and trims excess material.
• Retractable blade design improves safety.
• Quick blade changes keep assembly efficient.

A utility knife or box cutter is commonly needed during sofa bed assembly to cut through packaging materials such as cardboard, plastic, or cable ties. It can also be useful for trimming excess fabric or upholstery as required. Retractable blades and ergonomic handles are standard features, designed to prioritise safety and comfort during use. Quick blade replacement mechanisms help maintain efficiency throughout the assembly process. For safe operation, always select a suitable blade length for the material and keep blades sharp to ensure clean cuts. Retract the blade and store the knife securely when not in use to avoid accidental injury.

Spirit level

Why Spirit level is a good choice

• Ensures your sofa bed sits evenly on the floor.
• Prevents structural issues from uneven assembly.
• Simple to use for reliable alignment.

A spirit level is a straightforward tool used to check whether surfaces are perfectly horizontal or vertical during sofa bed assembly. By ensuring that the bubble sits evenly between marked lines, you can confirm that the frame components are properly aligned, which helps avoid issues with uneven seating. This tool provides reliable measurements, making it easier to achieve a balanced assembly and reducing the need for repeated adjustments. For best results, ensure the level is clean and placed on a stable surface before use. Regularly check its accuracy by testing on a flat surface, and store it safely to maintain its effectiveness.