The Complete Sofa Buying Guide

Before you begin shopping for a new sofa, there are four essential questions that you need to ask yourself. These questions will help you refine what you are looking for and make the entire process run a lot more decisively:

Look - What style of sofa do you like? Here you may want to consider the theme of your room and whether the couch will be the crucial feature of your room. Conversely, it may need to complement other furnishings that are already there.

Comfort - What is comfortable to you? For this factor, you need to consider whether you are looking for something soft to lounge on or a sofa designed to promote a good posture and support your back? This is where the type of sofa and its seat fillings are important to note.

Shape & Size – What will fit in your space? This will depend on how many you must seat and the size of the space you have will also come into play. This could be a tricky one to get right so you need to first measure up wisely before indulging yourself.

Function - What will your sofa be used for? Perhaps it will be a decorative piece that is only for occasionally use. Although, for many, sofas are in constant use by the entire family, including kids and pets in which case you may need a more robust and practical option.

Types of Sofas

Image: Genuine Leather Recliner Sofa Suite

There's a wide range of sofas and sofa beds on the market to choose from. Firstly, let's take a look at the most popular types.

Scatter Back

The scatter back sofa is hugely popular at the moment because of its comfortable and relaxed style. Something that is created by having a rigid frame, with loose cushions scattered at the back.

Fixed Back

Then there are fixed back seat sofas. These differ from scatter backs because they have no loose cushions. Instead, they have upholstered sprung seats. Something that gives them a slightly more formal and elegant look.

Cushion Back

Cushion backs are the next type of sofa you may wish to consider. In fact, this type of sofa has been popular for years, leading some to consider it as a more traditional option. It is often associated with a three-piece suite and can have regular or T cushions. The latter being cushions that create a T shape in front of the sofa arms.

Loveseats / Cuddlers

Trending are the ones with a swivel base, these tend to be like oversized rounded armchairs with most being able to comfortably cuddle up to 2-3 bodies hence why they are called love seats or cuddlers.

A loveseat might be the right choice for placing in front of bay windows or in a conservatory.

Recliners

If comfort is at the top of your list, you may wish to opt for a leather recliner sofa. These sofas come with reclining seats that can change your seating position by tilting the back section and extending the leg panel . Thus allowing you to be able to recline your back and put your feet up while reading or watching TV.

There are two types of recliners to pick from, including manual lever activated and fully automated electric versions. The latter being a sofa that will extend the reclining panels electronically by a push of a button for maximum luxury and comfort.

Sofa Beds

The above are not the only choices when it comes to choosing a sofa. In fact, there is one more that can’t be missed from this list and it’s probably one the most popular. Yes, it's the sofa bed, which isn't just a place to sit in the day but can also be converted into a bed to sleep on at night. Perfect for if you have guests to stay with regularly.

There are also many types of sofa beds to choose from, with the most basic type being the click-clack bed. These are simple to operate, although because they do not include arms. Therefore they may not be the best choice for daily use.

That is why many people opt for a trundle or fold-out sofa bed. These types are reasonably similar. Except for the fact that the trundle includes a bed underneath the sofa that pulls out. While the fold-out type is also super simple to use as all you need to do is pull the front part of the seat, and the bed will expand.

However, perhaps the most popular of all sofa bed styles is the 2 fold. These are slightly more complicated to operate than the simple fold out. Although they tend to come with thicker mattresses and great support. Something that does make this option very comfortable for anyone then ends up spending the night on them.

Sofa Styles

No matter what kind of space you have, you will find there is a style of sofa that will fit. We have categorised the styles in the following 4 styles which make up for most sofas available in the market today.

Chesterfield

At home in both study spaces as well as living rooms, this classic style with a rolled back and arms, and button details is most typically made of leather.

Traditional

There is a wide variety of traditional sofas on the market. This style often has arms that do not meet the front of the seat cushion and rounded wooden legs and feet. The arms will also have a rounded look and slope towards the back of the piece.

Modern & contemporary

If it's a fun, up to date look, you are going for then a modern sofa will fit the bill. Expect large cushions, straight arms, and loose back cushions. Thin metal feet complete the look.

Mid-century

For a more retro feel, a mid-century sofa works perfectly. They come in a range of fabrics and materials, but all share common features such as a clean and streamlined shape.

Shapes & Sizes

Now, you know all about the different types of sofas, it's time to look at the range of shapes and sizes they come in. Yes, that's right; you can get both sofas and, in some cases, sofa beds in a variety of configurations and sizes to fit your home and your needs.

Corner sofa

Probably, the most popular at the moment are the stylish and flexible corner sofas that aren’t only purchased to fit corners but can also be placed in the centre of a room if you have the space. Much favoured for the large sitting and lounging space they provide, corner sofas can act as room dividers as well. They can also be purchased with additional features such as concealed sofa beds and reclining footrests.

When choosing a corner sofa, you must pick one with the chaise portion in the correct place. This is because they come in left hand facing or right hand facing options. Corner sofas tend to be on the larger side too, usually being 3 seaters as a minimum. Therefore it is essential that you carefully measure the space and plan where they will sit before purchase.

Chaise sofa

One of the most elegant types of sofa is a “chaise longue”, a term used by the Frensh meaning 'long chair.' In fact, that is precisely what a chaise sofa is, as it has a more extended seat section. While the backrest is only present at the top of the couch rather than around the whole thing.

This is a good alternative option for smaller spaces, that won't fit a large three-seater or a full-sized corner sofa. The chaise sofa is a compact version of the two with the luxury of an extended seat where you can pull yourself to the side and put your feet up for a comfortable read or watch.

Armchairs

Armchairs are one of the most versatile types of seating available. This is because you can choose to match them to your sofa or select something contrasting to create interest.

Additionally, armchairs can be a feature in the room on their own. They are also an excellent way of providing the maximum amount of seating in an awkward or small space where a traditional couch would not fit.

Compact sofas

For smaller spaces, a compact sofa can be the best option. These couches only have a single seat and back cushion. They are often known as snuggle or love seats too.

2 seater sofas

For a mid-size space where you want the look of a full sofa, but don't quite have the room a 2 seater can work very well. You can expect this type of sofa to have two separate seat cushions and corresponding back cushions, or space enough for two people.

2 seaters also usually come in the same style and fabrics as the larger 3 seaters, meaning it's easy to create a coordinated look with other pieces in a space.

Large 3 seaters

Alternatively, if you are looking for more seating room or a sofa that will sit well in a more ample space, then a large 3 seater sofa is a great choice. In fact, the 3 seater remains the most popular size of sofa there is.

Materials

Often the first thing that catches the eye when shopping for a sofa is the material that covers it. This is significant because it needs to look right in the setting you will place it. Yet, it also needs to be hard-wearing enough to last for some time.

Leather

Leather is a popular material option for sofa. This is because it benefits from becoming more comfortable and improving in appearance with age. It's also a robust material that can be easily spot cleaned, making it an excellent choice for families with kids or pets.

Of course, genuine leather sofas will be among the more expensive options. Additionally, some people dislike that they take a little time to warm up in the cold weather.

Velvet

A sofa material that is bang on trend right now is velvet! It's easy to see why as well, because it's soft; it looks great and provides an additional exciting texture for your space.

Although, do consider that velvet doesn't age as well as some of the materials if you have a busy home so most consider it for occasional use. Also, looking after a velvet sofa requires special treatment because removing stains can be a tricky.

Fabric

There are a variety of materials that are used for fabric sofas, and they all have their own individual advantages and disadvantages to consider.

Cotton

For example, cotton sofas come in all sorts of colours and patterns, and they are easy to keep looking good as well. Combined with the comfort you can expect from this material, cotton tends to be an excellent choice.

Wool

In contrast, a sofa covered in a woollen fabric is a little more challenging to keep looking new. This is because wool fabrics do pill, and these will need to be removed. However, many consumers are happy to perform this occasional task because of the wonderful sense of warmth that a wool sofa provides.

Linen

The final fabric options to consider for your sofa is cotton linen. These types of sofas are much loved for their more relaxed appearance. Something that like a leather sofa means they tend to improve or at least maintain their appearance over time.

The only downside of a linen sofa is that they can also bobble with age. Something that means you will need to attend to this from time to time.

Construction Frame

The frame of your sofa is what will provide you with the right shape, and ensure that your couch is robust enough to last for a long time. With the best ones coming with 12-month guarantees of their quality.

What that means is, if your budget can stretch to it, always pick a sofa that has good structural frame integrity. Look out for sofa frames that have interlocking joints, and made of hardwood, here. The only exception to this being a couch built from high-grade MDF that has a similar structural quality.

Conversely, it's always best to avoid cheaply made MDF sofas, as well as ones that are stuck together with staples and glue. The reason being that it's doubtful they will be able to stand the test of time.

Seat Filling

When it comes to fillings, how much effort you are willing to put into the day to day maintenance for your sofa is critical. This is because some sofas require daily plumping of their cushions to ensure they both look good and are comfortable.

Foam

The good news is that if you choose a foam filling, you will be in for a low maintenance option. This is because it will spring back into its original shape when not in use without any additional plumping.

Fibre

Fibre sofas are also popular because they combine the low maintenance aspect of foam, with an added dimension of extra comfort and support. Something that makes them an excellent choice for people with posture and back issues.

Feather

Feather sofas may seem like the most comfortable option, but they also involved a lot of work to keep them looking good. In fact, you can expect to have to get up and plump the sofa even while using it with feather filling.

Pocket springs

This type of spring comes directly from bed design, making them particularly comfortable. The idea is that each individual, fabric wrapped steel spring works independently of the others. Something that means less of a dip when people of varying weights are using the sofa.

Coil spring

Alternatively, you may wish to choose a sofa with coil springs. The benefit of these types of springs is that they do offer good support. Although, the pocket spring option is generally thought of as more effective.

How to measure up your room

If you have a compact space, a busy room or just want to free up as much space as possible then getting the right dimensions for your sofa is important.

To help you ensure that the sofa you buy can be manoeuvred and fit into your space, we have put together a step by step guide on what you need to measure.

First of all, be sure that the sofa you buy will have a clear route to the location that you will place it in. That means measuring the stairs, doors, and even corridors in your home to ensure that the sofa will fill.

To do this, you will need a couch that is at least 10 cm smaller than the areas you will be taken in through. Otherwise, you may end up in a sticky situation. Its worth noting that you may be able to find a modular sofa that can come in individual seats and assembled inside your room. So read the description or call customer services to find out as its worth knowing.

Secondly, you should decide where your sofas will be placed in your room and measure the area by taking the maximum depth, length and don’t forget the height otherwise you may have to move those wall hangings or shelves to clear the head height.

When measuring your space check that it doesn't get in the way of any windows, stop the door from opening or block any other essential features of the room like fireplaces, tables or the TV cabinet.

Accordingly to your measurements you can know look at sofas and pay close attention to their dimensions ensuring they fall within your maximum allowance.

Here’s a few highlighted tips to take home with you when measuring up for your sofas:

If you are concerned about getting the sofa through the doorways, try to go for a modular sofa that can be assembled at home;
If you are buying a recliner, sofa bed, or other extendable couch, be sure to account for it when it is completely folded out. That includes the rear as well as the front remembering that most recliners also lean back too.
Before buying the sofa use brown masking tape to outline the dimensions of the sofa on to the floor to get an idea how it will fit into your space. You will be surprised how many times people misjudge a sofa size or get their room measurements wrong. This exercise will fork out these errors.

Final Thoughts

You probably didn’t know buying a sofa needs this much consideration but it’s not as complicated as you may think after reading this guide. And after all, education helps you make better decisions. Once you have a rough idea what you are looking for then check out our sofa sale where you are guaranteed to find great discounts on sofas and sofa beds across all ranges, shaped and sizes.

There you go, you can now confidently start shopping for your brand new sofa.

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