What’s an RV Jackknife Sofa? (Including 5 examples)

Any RVer in search of a new sofa has undoubtedly come across the term “jackknife sofa.” But what exactly is it? In this article, we will take a closer look at RV jackknife sofas, their features, benefits, and provide you with five examples to consider.
Everything You Need To Know About RV Jackknife Sofas
Let’s delve into the ins and outs of these versatile pieces of furniture, covering what they are, how to care for them, and their many benefits.
What is an RV Jackknife Sofa?
At first glance, an RV jackknife sofa appears to be a standard couch. Made from leather or similar materials, it provides ample seating space for at least two people. However, what sets it apart is its ability to transform into a single-person bed. By sliding down the backrest, it creates a flat surface, making it ideal for accommodating guests during your RV trips.
The size of these sofas typically ranges from 60 to 75 inches in length, so it’s important to consider the available space in your RV before making a purchase.
How to Care for an RV Jackknife Sofa?
Caring for an RV jackknife sofa is similar to caring for a regular sofa. However, it’s crucial to be cautious when converting it into a bed and ensure there is enough room to avoid tears and damage. Read the manual that comes with the sofa for any specific cleaning instructions to keep it looking sharp and well-maintained.
What Are the Benefits of an RV Jackknife Sofa?
Owning an RV jackknife sofa offers several advantages that make it a popular choice among RVers:
Affordable
Compared to traditional pull-out couches, RV jackknife sofas are more budget-friendly. They are often priced up to $200 less, making them an affordable option for providing additional sleeping space for guests.
Space-Saving
These sofas take up less space compared to standard pull-out couches. This is particularly important in the limited space of RVs, where maximizing every square inch counts.
Easy Transition
Transforming the sofa into a bed is a simple process. In most cases, you can pull on the seat, and it will lay flat. This smooth transition is not always the case with other pull-out couches, making RV jackknife sofas a convenient choice.
Portability
Unlike sofa beds with heavy mattresses, RV jackknife sofas are easier to move. This feature is beneficial when installing or rearranging furniture in your RV.
Comfortable One Person Bed
When hosting guests, RV jackknife sofas provide a comfortable sleeping surface. By pulling on the sofa’s seat, you can offer your guests a cozy bed for the night. Some models even accommodate two people comfortably.
Now that you have a better understanding of RV jackknife sofas, let’s explore five examples that you can consider:
The Top 5 RV Jackknife Sofas
These five RV jackknife sofas stand out as the best options available on the market. Each offers comfort, durability, and versatility:
Lippert Components 68” RV Jackknife Sofa
The Lippert Components 68” RV Jackknife Sofa provides durability and comfort with its high-density foam. It easily converts into a bed with a simple motion, and the beautiful PolyHyde upholstery adds a touch of luxury. The material is also easy to clean. This sofa comes with a 1-year warranty.
Thomas Payne 68” RV Jackknife Sofa
Made with Euro-leather vinyl material, the Thomas Payne 68” RV Jackknife Sofa is not only easy to maintain but also offers a simple three-step conversion process. The high-density foam and padded backrest ensure optimal comfort. The sofa’s steel frame is resistant to scratches and rust.
RecPro Charles 60” RV Jackknife Sleeper Sofa
Despite its compact design, the RecPro Charles 60” RV Jackknife Sleeper Sofa offers exceptional comfort with its suprima fabric. This material is incredibly soft and tear-resistant. The metal bed frame provides stability, and the sofa turns into a bed within seconds. With four different color options, you can choose the perfect match for your RV’s interior.
Thomas Payne 68” RV Jackknife Sofa w/ Leg Kit
Featuring a mahogany color and PloyHyde Euro leather, the Thomas Payne 68” RV Jackknife Sofa w/ Leg Kit exudes luxury and is easy to maintain. The leg kit provides extra storage space, and the detachable kickboard enhances usability. This sofa offers the same great features as the previous Thomas Payne option with the added benefits of the leg kit and removable headboard.
RecPro Charles 70” Jackknife RV Sleeper Sofa
With its durable suprima fabric, metal frame, and a choice of four colors, the RecPro Charles 70” Jackknife RV Sleeper Sofa is a top contender. This sofa is tear-resistant, easy to clean, and built to last. Its generous length of 70 inches ensures ample comfort for a good night’s sleep.
Now that you have a selection of RV jackknife sofas to consider, you can make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comment section. We’re here to help!