When it comes to sofa beds, the mechanism at the heart of the design makes all the difference. Belgian manufacturer Sedac-Meral has been leading the way for decades with innovative, durable, and easy-to-use sofa bed actions. Among their best-known systems are the Sedaflex and SomToile ranges. Both are designed to combine comfort with practicality, but they serve slightly different purposes depending on the type of sofa bed you are building or buying.
Whether you are a furniture manufacturer, upholsterer, or simply someone researching the best sofa bed option for your home, understanding these mechanisms will help you choose the right system for quality, comfort, and reliability.
What is the Sedaflex Mechanism?
The Sedaflex is a two-fold or three-fold metal action sofa bed mechanism. It is widely used in high-end and mid-range sofa beds across Europe thanks to its proven strength and smooth operation. With this mechanism, the mattress folds neatly into the sofa base and unfolds in just a few simple movements.
- Durability: Sedaflex systems are made with robust steel frames, built to withstand frequent use without compromising on stability.
- Mattress Options: Typically available with different mattress thicknesses and widths, allowing manufacturers to tailor the comfort level.
- Ease of Use: Designed with user experience in mind, the Sedaflex unfolds in seconds, making it ideal for both occasional guests and daily sleeping solutions.
- Applications: Perfect for residential sofa beds, contract furniture, hotels, and serviced apartments.
The Sedaflex mechanism is often chosen for its balance of strength, affordability, and comfort. It is the “workhorse” of the sofa bed industry.
What is the SomToile Mechanism?
The SomToile is another Sedac innovation, but it is quite different in concept. Instead of a folding mattress, SomToile uses a slatted sleeping surface with a separate mattress that can be stored within the sofa. This design provides enhanced comfort as it removes the need to fold the mattress inside the mechanism.
- Superior Comfort: With a flat sleeping base and independent mattress, SomToile feels more like a traditional bed.
- Simplicity: The action opens quickly and smoothly without the need to handle a folded mattress.
- Durability: Like Sedaflex, the SomToile is built from high-quality steel and designed for long-term use.
- Applications: Commonly used in higher-end sofa beds, contract furniture, and situations where sleeping comfort is prioritised over compact storage.
For hotels or residential settings where the sofa bed will be slept on regularly, SomToile is often considered the premium option.
Sedaflex vs SomToile: Which is Right for You?
Choosing between Sedaflex and SomToile depends on your priorities:
- If you need a cost-effective, robust, and easy-to-use mechanism suitable for both occasional and regular use, Sedaflex is an excellent choice.
- If your priority is maximum sleeping comfort, and you want the feel of a real bed without compromising sofa design, SomToile is the better option.
Both are backed by Sedac’s reputation for quality engineering and can be integrated into a wide range of sofa styles.
Why Choose Sedac Mechanisms?
Sedac Meral has been supplying mechanisms to the furniture industry since 1948. Their focus on engineering excellence means each product is tested for long-term durability, safety, and comfort. Sofa manufacturers and upholsterers across the world trust Sedac because:
- Their mechanisms are reliable and long-lasting
- They offer a wide range of designs for different sofa types
- They focus on user-friendly actions that require minimal effort
- They maintain strict European manufacturing standards
FAQs about Sedac Bed Mechanisms
Q: What sizes are available for Sedaflex and SomToile mechanisms?
A: Both come in a range of sizes to suit standard sofa bed widths. Sedaflex is often available in single, small double, and double sizes, while SomToile can accommodate larger sleeping areas thanks to its independent mattress system.
Q: Can these mechanisms be used for commercial furniture?
A: Yes. Sedaflex and SomToile are widely used in hotels, serviced apartments, and student accommodation due to their reliability and comfort.
Q: Which mechanism is easiest to operate?
A: Both mechanisms are designed for smooth operation. Sedaflex requires unfolding the mattress, while SomToile opens with a flat sleeping surface. If comfort and ease are the main factors, SomToile is often preferred.
Q: How long do Sedac mechanisms last?
A: With proper use, Sedac mechanisms are known to last for many years. Their steel construction is engineered for strength and tested for thousands of opening and closing cycles.
Q: Do Sedac mechanisms fit any sofa design?
A: Most sofa frames can be adapted to take a Sedac mechanism, but manufacturers should check technical specifications for fixing widths, mattress depths, and recommended clearances.
Final Thoughts
Sedac bed mechanisms such as Sedaflex and SomToile have set the standard in the sofa bed industry. By combining durability, ease of use, and comfort, they provide furniture makers and end users with solutions that truly stand the test of time. Whether you are looking for a reliable everyday sofa bed or a premium guest sleeping experience, Sedac offers a mechanism that delivers.
