Last updated on March 27th, 2024 at 11:16 pm
Discovering comfort on a snug couch after a long, exhausting day is a delightful experience. However, investing in a couch isn’t merely a straightforward task; it’s a substantial choice that influences your daily routine and the overall atmosphere of your abode. Amidst the extensive sofa styles available in the market, selecting the ideal one can pose a challenge. This Sofa Buying Guide is expertly crafted to assist you in navigating this process with ease, ensuring that you choose the sofa that harmonises seamlessly with your living space and suits your lifestyle impeccably.
Table of Contents
Determine Your Needs
First, consider how you plan to use the sofa. Do you need seating for a large family, or is it a sofa for a small apartment? Do you plan to use it for lounging and watching TV, or will it be used more for entertaining guests? The sofa’s size, shape and features should match the room size and primary function. Measure your space and sketch different sofa sizes to see what works best. Also, consider your lifestyle – if you have kids or pets, look for durable, stain-resistant fabrics.
Establish Your Style
Do you gravitate towards modern, contemporary sofas, or are you looking for something more classic and traditional? Contemporary sofas have clean lines and minimal decoration, while classic styles have more ornate details. Your sofa should complement your existing decor. Look at your space’s other furniture and architectural elements and choose a sofa with your overall aesthetic.
Select Ideal Materials
Sofa frames are typically made from wood, metal or a combination. When it comes to wood, Hardwood options like oak are renowned for their exceptional durability. On the other hand, softer wood varieties may be more budget-friendly but tend to have a shorter lifespan.
Metal like steel or aluminium is highly sturdy for sofa frames. Just be aware that fully metal frames can be substantial. As for cushions – foam provides the most comfort and support. If you opt for cushions filled with down feathers, they’ll initially provide a luxurious softness. But over time, they tend to lose their shape and may require more maintenance to retain their plush feel.
Test Drive Sofas In-Store
You must test out sofas on furniture stores in Perth before purchasing. Lie down on display models to check for comfort. Are the seat cushions firm but not too hard? Do your legs comfortably reach the floor? Can you quickly get in and out of the sofa? Stores will have a wide selection of styles before choosing the right one. Sit and recline on a couch for 10 minutes to determine the comfort level. Break the sofa in by mimicking how you’ll use it at home.
Fabric vs. Leather
Fabric and leather are the most common sofa upholstery options. Fabric is typically more affordable, very soft, and has endless style options. Leather has a luxurious look and feels buttery smooth. However, leather is much more expensive and prone to scratches. Fabrics made from linen, cotton or a cotton blend are very breathable. Microfiber is stain-resistant and easy to clean. Just be sure the fabric is resistant to fading, pilling or tearing.
Check the Cushions
A sofa’s cushions provide comfort and support. Back cushions should be firm and maintain their shape over time. Attached back cushions typically have more permission. Detachable cushions allow you to fluff and rearrange them. Eight-way hand-tied coils offer the most flexibility and support for seat cushions. Ensure cushions have at least 1.8 pounds per cubic foot of foam for adequate cushioning. Press down on the cushions to gauge their firmness and ability to spring back. Cushions that dent too much indicate lower-quality foam.
Buy The Right Size
A too-small sofa will crowd your space, while an oversized sofa will dwarf a room. Measure all entryways, halls and doors to ensure you can fit the sofa to your desired room. Sofa size is based on the length of the arms. A standard three-seater sofa is between 72 and 84 inches, while a loveseat ranges from 48 to 60 inches. Measure your space and use tape to indicate the sofa footprint, then ensure you have ample room for other furniture and walking around.
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The Bottom Line
Shopping for a new sofa set takes research, patience, and testing. But investing time upfront in finding the perfect sofa ensures your family can enjoy it for years. Follow these tips and enjoy the process of upgrading your home with a beautiful new sofa you’ll cherish.
