In the case of our sofa like this, you unzip the top of back cushions (two -- you can see the black zipper line along the lower edge of the sofa's back in photo), and then remove seat cushions. Keeps sofa neat when not in use, and gives more space for bed to fold into back as shown when off. Oh, and it doesn't open the cushions -- that black zipper is solely for holding them in place. Hope that helps! Most comfy sofa bed ever!!

We bought a different model from American Leather and it uses fabric covered rods attached to the back cushions. These rods tuck in above the back cushions to hold them in place. The couch doesn't take up much room and yet opens into a queen size bed. Very comfortable too. American Leather sofas go on sale every September

How do I find the price and measurements for this American leather sofa bed?