Nearly every living room has a sofa. Couches are great for tying a room together and giving people a place to sit or stretch out for a midday nap. However, there are many important factors to consider before setting up a new couch in your home. Here’s a helpful guide detailing what you should know before buying a new sofa.
Check and Double-Check the Size
The first and most crucial step when purchasing a couch is to make measurements. How much room do you have for your new sofa? Is there ample space for end tables or lighting fixtures? If you get a reclining sofa, will you have the necessary space in front of and behind the couch?
Before you even think about going shopping, determine the maximum sofa size your living room allows. Also, take a moment to check that you will be able to get the sofa through any doorways or hallways leading to the room to save yourself some hassle down the road.
Form or Function
As you’re looking for a sofa, consider your couch’s purpose. There are several different types of couches out there. Some people want a decorative antique couch with a lovely wooden frame, while others go for a deep, soft, comfy couch that can handle their weekend TV binges.
It’s good to have a rough idea of what purpose your sofa will serve before you buy so you don’t end up with something that doesn’t meet your needs.
Fabric and Color
Another thing you should know before buying a new sofa is that different fabrics serve different purposes. Cotton blends fade faster but are more durable and easier to clean, making them good family couches. Corduroy is sturdy but a pain if you expect to vacuum crumbs out of it. Linen won’t fade, but the material won’t hold up as long with regular use.
Find a fabric that matches the function of your sofa. Color plays a significant role in tying the room together with the rest of your living room furniture and décor. Plus, you’ll need to consider the shade of your sofa if any messy eaters plan on using it. You might want to avoid white if your family likes to have spaghetti night in front of the TV.
Knowing these helpful tips makes couch shopping a much more pleasant experience. Just remember what you need the sofa for and in what size before buying, and you’ll be ready to enjoy your new furniture addition. Good luck, and get comfortable.
