Buying a sofa for the first time is a big deal. There are several characteristics you must take into account because there are a lot of options out there. However, I have a few tips to keep in mind when purchasing your next sofa and some of my top retailers. Let’s get started!
Photo Credit Maiden Home
What to Look For
First off, this might seem odd, but you’ll thank me later. Measure the average length of everyone’s calves in the household. Then this is the measurement of your seat depth should be for a comfortable spot with both feet flat on the floor. Or, if you like to cross your legs, then a deeper depth will work but just know you’ll be sinking further back. Deep seats are not recommended for elderly family members. Keep in mind the back height. I am not a big fan of lower-back sofas because it doesn’t provide the support our bodies need for movie-watching or relaxing. This is essential for finding the right couch for your family. These items usually aren’t cheap, so you want them to be just right.
Photo Credit Arhaus
My Favorite Places to Shop
You want to look for retailers that offer sofas in performance fabrics such as Crypton or “inside out” and high-density foam in the cushions. The keyword you want to look for is high-density foam.
Some of my favorite retailers that carry Crypton and Inside Out are:
Right now, supply chain issues push the waiting period to be around 6-7 months across most retailers. However, Maiden Home is excellent quality (8-way hand tied, so it is super high quality) and has a 7-9 week lead time.
Photo Credit Maiden Homes
Sofa Upkeep
I love cleaning performance fabrics with my Bissell Little Green Machine for spot removal; it works super well. It is also portable and easy to move around when working with tight corners or spots that might be harder to reach. The best thing about all of these options is the high-performance fabrics that make stain removal a breeze. They are also very kid-friendly, so don’t be scared to get that white couch you’ve been dreaming of!
Photo Credit Arhaus
Keep in Mind
Additionally, think about the comfort level and height of your family members. Measure the depth of the cushion and match it as closely as you can to the measurement from the back of your knee to your butt. For example, your measurements measure out to be 22” from the back of your knee to your butt. Then you want a sofa to be as close to a 22” seat depth as possible with both feet planted on the floor. Or, if you like to “cross your legs” and lay lower and not as upright, then you can go for a deeper sofa.
I hope this information helps with your decision on couch buying and what you should look for! Let me know what is most important to you when searching for a sofa in the comments.