My 5 Top tips for sofa shopping
It may seem too early to think about Christmas and believe me I’m in agreement. However, if you want a new sofa in time for the festive period then October is the month in which to do so. For some companies it’s as early as the 18th October.
Purchasing a sofa is a big investment so here are my top 5 tips to help you save on costly mistakes and to make the process that little bit easier.
Does it fit?
This may sound like an obvious thing, but not only do you need to measure to see if you’ve allocated the right amount of room for the piece, you also want your sofa to have enough space in which to ‘breath’. It’s not just about whether it fits, but also if you’re able to have a side table or coffee table to place your coffee on. Or perhaps room for a floor lamp or table lamp to provide you with ambient and task lighting for when you are reading a book. Always think about the whole scheme of your room and how you use the space.
Also please do measure access points to see if your sofa can fit through the doors and into your room. Again, this may seem obvious, but it is a common mistake and often a costly mistake as many sofa companies will not allow you to return to the sofa if this happens.
Style
If you want a modern design, then sofas with a low back instantly give that cool vibe. Shapes can be boxy or curved but remember if you want a curved design it will take up more space in your room.
If you want something more classic and traditional consider button back, decorative legs and arms.
Sectional sofas are a good option if you have a large space and will give you multiple seating options which can adapt to your lifestyle.
How is it made?
Sofas are made from wood or metal. For longevity it’s best to opt for a hardwood as softwood is prone to warping and metal can bend over time.
Most sofas have springs (Serpentine springs) which add support. They can however press on the frame or sag over time if the metal is not heavy enough. My advice is to test the springs through the upholstery and see if they are close together and firm. If a sofa has no springs and is made from webbing or mesh this will feel uncomfortable to sit on and will not be as robust as a sofa with springs.
Fabric
If you are drawn to a bold colour or pattern then it is worth considering if you think you will still like this in 2, or 5, or 10 years as you will want your sofa to have longevity. Other options are to keep the sofa fabric neutral and add the colour and pattern through cushions, throws and lampshades. This is not to say that you shouldn’t have a bold colour or patterned sofa, and if you absolutely love it then I say go for it and enjoy.
Of course, choosing a lighter colour will show up more marks so if possible removable washable colours would be great if you’re opting for a lighter colour.
The texture and weight of the fabric is key in how hardwearing it will be and whether it will be suitable for your lifestyle. Also, for the extra little cost it is worth, whatever fabric or colour you go for, to add scotch guarding as this will add a level of protection from spillages.
Try before you buy
I always recommend testing out sofas before purchasing. Not only to see the full design in the flesh, but most importantly to see if it is comfortable for you. Most companies are open for viewing with the only difference being that you will need to book an appointment and of course wear a mask.
Happy hunting and here’s to you finding your perfect sofa.