Choosing a new sofa can be an exciting yet daunting experience. With so many options to consider from style to fabric to size, it’s important to think through all the factors to find your perfect sofa. Follow these six essential tips to make the sofa shopping process stress-free and successful.
Carefully Consider the Size
One of the most important factors when sofa shopping is getting the size right for your space. Measure the room’s dimensions, accounting for any existing furniture you plan to keep. Make sure to measure doorways too so you can ensure your new sofa will actually fit in the room.
Here are some size considerations to keep in mind:
- Seating Capacity – How many people do you want your sofa to seat comfortably? That will determine the length you need. Sofas range from a snug loveseat to a sprawling sectional.
- Traffic Flow – Make sure to leave enough space around the sofa so people can easily walk through the room without bumping into it. At least 36-48 inches clearance is ideal.
- Room Proportions – Avoid a sofa that overwhelms a small room or looks lost in a large one. Scale the size to fit the room proportions for the best look.
- Future Flexibility – Will you be moving any time soon or do you envision rearranging the room layout? Choose a sofa with versatile dimensions to give you flexibility.
Measuring carefully will ensure your new sofa is a perfect fit for both your space and seating needs. Don’t forget to double check those doorways too!
Select the Right Shape
In addition to choosing the right size, consider which sofa shape makes the most sense for your room:
Traditional Rectangle Shape
This classic shape fits well in long, narrow rooms. It can be positioned to face the TV or create a conversation area. Measure to find a sofa length that fits without blocking doorways.
Spacious Sectional
A sectional comprises separate sofa sections that can be arranged in different configurations. This makes a sectional perfect for large or open concept spaces. Arrange it to define zones or shape traffic flow.
Cozy Loveseat
Ideal for small spaces, a loveseat seats just two people comfortably. Loveseats can work well in a bedroom sitting area or small living room. Just be sure to have a secondary seating option for when you need it.
Chaise Lounge
This style has an extended portion that’s ideal for lounging and stretching out. If you like to read or nap on your sofa, the chaise lounge shape is a smart choice. Position it alongside a sofa or as a standalone seat.
Compact Apartment Sofa
For small urban apartments, look for sofa beds, futons, or space-saving slimline armless sofas. These compact styles maximize seating while minimizing their footprint.
Think about the activities you envision using your sofa for and how the shape can best support that flexible functionality within your unique space.
Select the Ideal Height
Sofa heights range from low and deep to higher and firmer. Consider these height factors:
- Seat Depth – Deep, plush sofas around 24 inches high are ideal for lounging. Firmer sofas around 18-20 inches high have less depth for an upright, conversational seating position.
- Ease of Getting Up – Lower sofas around 16-18 inches high are easier for those with mobility issues. Add firm, substantial armrests too.
- Appearance – Lower sofas feel more contemporary and laidback while higher seats offer a more elegant, formal aesthetic.
- Proportion – Make sure the sofa height suits the room. A low-slung sofa can look awkwardly small in a soaring great room.
Try out sofas at different heights to find your ideal blend of comfort and proportionality. Bring someone along when sofa shopping to get a second opinion on the right height too.
Select Durable Upholstery Fabric
Fabric durability should be a top priority when selecting upholstery. Assess these upholstery factors:
Fiber Content
- Natural Fibers – Linen, cotton, and wool offer softness and breathability, but they wrinkle easily and are prone to pilling. They suit lower-traffic environments.
- Microfiber – Extremely durable and stain-resistant, microfiber stands up well to kids and pets. It can feel less soft than natural fabrics.
- Polyester Blend – Blends like polyester-linen offer a good compromise of softness and durability. Make sure the blend has a high percentage of synthetic fiber.
- Leather/Faux Leather – Great for durability and easy cleaning, although some faux leathers can peel or crack over time. Top grain leather offers the most resilience.
Weave Tightness
Fabrics with a tight, flat weave will last longer than loose, irregular weaves prone to snagging. Rub a sample between your fingers. Tightly woven fabrics feel smooth.
Stain Protection
Look for integrated stain guard treatments or fabrics specifically treated to repel stains, especially if you have kids or pets.
Don’t sacrifice comfort for rock solid durability. Seek a good balance suited to your family’s needs.
Test Out the Comfort
A sofa might look nice online or in the store but feel uncomfortable once you get it home. Be sure to thoroughly assess comfort:
- Sit on the sofa for an extended time, mimicking how you’ll relax and lounge on it. Don’t just perch briefly to try it out.
- See if the depth feels comfortable for your body in both upright and reclined positions. Deep, plush sofas may not properly support your lower back when sitting upright.
- Bounce gently on the sofa to test the cushioning. It should be supple without sagging too much.
- Try out the armrests to be sure your arms can rest comfortably without cutting into your shoulders.
- Don’t let a salesperson rush you – take time to properly evaluate the sofa’s comfort.
Comfort varies by personal preference, body type, and health needs. Find a sofa tailored to your unique needs.
Examine Frame and Cushion Quality
The sofa frame and cushions provide the hidden support system for ultimate comfort and durability. Inspect these inner construction elements:
Frame
- Wood – Kiln-dried hardwood like birch is extremely durable and prevents warping. Avoid soft woods like pine that deteriorate faster.
- Metal – Steel or aluminum frames ensure stability and prevent sagging. Make sure metal is thick gauge; thin metal frames won’t last.
- Joinery – High-quality sofas have frames held together by glue, dowels, and corner blocks – not just staples. This prevents loosening and squeaking.
Cushions
- Filling – Premium cushion fillings like down-blend or high-density foam offer comfort, support, and durability. Polyester wrap keeps fill in place.
- Cores – Inner cushion cores made of sinuous springs or webbing provide essential underlying support and prevent sagging.
- Covers – Upholstery that can be removed and laundered helps cushions maintain their loft and shape.
- Construction – Avoid cushions attached with buttons only. Proper cushion construction uses both buttons and underlying velcro to keep fill from shifting.
Take off cushions to inspect inner construction. A well-built sofa frame and quality cushions will ensure comfort today and for years of everyday use ahead.
Compare Prices Carefully
The last step is assessing options to find a high quality sofa within your budget. Keep these price considerations in mind:
- Sales – Look for holiday sales, especially long weekends and seasonal clearance events. You can save significantly on big ticket sofas.
- Discounted Floor Models – Ask retailers if they offer discounts on floor model sofas. These can offer big savings off new sofas.
- Budget Brands – Brands like IKEA offer contemporary styled sofas at wallet-friendly prices, but inspect quality. Cheap construction won’t last.
- Buying Online – Online furniture sellers can pass savings from lower overhead costs to shoppers. Make sure to check reviews first.
- Financing Options – Many stores offer no interest monthly financing so you can get a nice sofa now and gradually pay it off over time.
With careful comparison shopping, you can find a sofa with all the features you want while staying within your budget. Quality construction and materials do tend to correlate with higher prices, so aim for the most sofa you can comfortably afford.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Sofa
How long should a quality sofa last?
With proper care and maintenance, a high quality sofa built using durable materials and construction methods should last approximately 15-20 years before needing replacement.
What’s the difference between a couch and a sofa?
A couch typically features a more casual, relaxed design with loose seat cushions and exposed legs. A sofa has a more tailored, formal design with tighter seat cushions and concealed legs. The terms are often used interchangeably.
Should I buy leather or fabric upholstery?
Leather resists stains, pet hair, and wear and tear better than most fabrics. But fabric sofas offer more color and pattern options. Choose leather for high traffic areas and fabric for a cozier, more customized look.
What size sofa makes sense for a small space?
For a small room, look for a compact two-seater loveseat or apartment sofa around 72 inches in length. Make sure to measure thoroughly so the sofa doesn’t obstruct doorways or dominate the room.
Should I splurge on a down-filled sofa?
Down filling provides unbeatable softness and cushioning, but it comes at a higher price point. Quality foam and down-blend cushions offer excellent comfort for a more affordable price. Focus your budget on quality construction and materials.
How can I arrange one sofa in a large living room?
Center the sofa on the longest wall to visually anchor the space. Flank it with matching chairs and accent tables to create a framed conversation area. Use area rugs to zone the space and make it feel welcoming.
Conclusion
Choosing a sofa involves a series of careful considerations from size to fabric to quality. Measure your space, assess your needs, and thoughtfully evaluate options to find your perfect sofa match. Invest time upfront doing your sofa research. This will ensure many years of comfortable relaxation ahead in your new quality sofa.
