Hosting relatives this summer? Here is how you can make room for more in your apartment

Foam sofa-cum-bed
The wooden pull-out sofa-cum-bed, which became quite the rage in the 1980s, has lost much of its fan following by now, thanks to its unwieldly structure. (After a heavy dinner, it’s the last thing anyone would want to grapple with.) In comparison, the foam sofa-cum-bed is comparatively much easier to unfold—and lighter on the pocket too! The two-seater option can turn into a comfy sleeping space for an adult (or two kids).
 

Pro-tip: Look for ones with removable covers and zippers to allow for multiple design options and easy washing. Available on Amazon.in

Sleeping bags and inflatable mattress
Seema Arolkar-Lad, a Mumbai-based travel buff who often ends up hosting pajama parties for her 7-year-old daughter and her friends, feels that one can save a lot of fuss by just keeping a few sleeping bags handy. “They are so convenient and comfortable when you are sleeping outdoors. It only makes sense to have more of these at home. They can be easily stashed away and hardly take up any space. And kids would find it particularly exciting lined up next to each other on the floor snuggled in these!”
 

Pro-tip: Check out the wide array of inflatable beds (that come with a manual pump) on www.amazon.in, or Quechua’s camping mattress on www.decathlon.in.

Futons
Have a corner big enough to hold a futon? Then get one immediately. Apart from their value as great boho decor, futons make for convenient couches and beds.
 

Pro-tip: When opened up, futon beds tend to be rather low-slung. Some people may also find them a bit hard on the back. You could place a downy quilt or featherbed on top for more height and comfort.

Windowsill
“An extra-wide windowsill can always turn into a great sleeping area, especially if you have large bay windows,” says Behrani. “Place a well-padded mattress on top, throw on a quilt or razai for extra softness, and, voila, you have a wonderful niche to sleep in.”

Pro-tip: To make your guests feel truly cared for, you could install a detachable shelf near the sill, as a place for a wireless charging dock for phones and to keep spectacles and books.

Mattresses
Order the ever-reliable gaddas that can be put together in a couple of days by your local upholstery maker. Or purchase padded, foldable mats that are quite a hit in all supermarkets these days. Make sure you have at least four to five of these stashed in your bed storage.

Pro-tip: After use, wrap them in plastic covers with naphthalene balls or camphor to prevent the musty odour that usually comes with prolonged storage.