When it comes to choosing a sofa, the range of options can feel overwhelming. So, how do you pick the perfect one for your space? As you embark on your settee shopping journey, it’s crucial to think about your practical needs to avoid ending up with a piece of furniture that just doesn’t fit. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of when selecting your sofa.
Not measuring
This one’s very important! A lot of people walk into a shop and see a sofa, but they totally underestimate its size. Fail to measure your living room prior, and you could accidentally buy a sofa that’s too big to fit in your home. Use a tape measure to get a good idea as to the dimensions of your living room – and your front door – and look for a couch that fits within these dimensions.
Choosing the wrong fabric
There are many different types of upholstery fabric. This includes materials such as cotton, leather, silk and polyester – all available in an array of different colours and patterns. Avoid choosing a fabric that is unsuitable for your lifestyle. If you have pets or kids, you’ll need something that’s robust and easy-to-clean, like tough leather or microfibre. If you have allergies, choose a material that’s hypoallergenic, such as pure cotton or linen.
Choosing the wrong style
It’s important to consider the style of a sofa to make sure that it matches the décor in your home and similarly fits in with your lifestyle. Some sofas have arms, some sofas have legs, others have neither. Some have a modern and contemporary feel, while others have a more traditional feel (such as chesterfields and camelback sofas). Make sure that you don’t choose a couch that looks out of place in its surroundings.
Going over budget
Sofas can vary massively in price. It’s important to stick to a budget that feels comfortable for you. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider a second-hand sofa or a flat-pack new one – they’re often the most affordable. On the other hand, if you’re eyeing something more luxurious, be prepared to spend quite a bit more, and you may need to finance it. Just make sure you can handle those monthly payments and watch out for any optional extras that may be upsold to you that you really don’t need and can’t afford.
Overlooking accessibility
Figuring out how you’ll get the sofa into your home is essential. Will it need to be manoeuvred up a twisting staircase or along a narrow corridor? Measuring these spaces is important to ensure that there’s enough room. Flat-pack sofas are sometimes the only option for flats due to the difficulty with accessibility. Also, consider whether the sofa will need to be professionally delivered and assembled, or whether you can do this yourself.
Buying a used sofa in poor condition
Never buy a used sofa without first inspecting it in person. You don’t want to end up buying a sofa that’s broken or dirty. Check every angle of the sofa for damage or stains, and check there are no alarming creaks or uncomfortable lumps or sagging when sitting on it. It’s vital that your settee is comfortable and hygienic.
Not planning for the future
Will the sofa you’re choosing be suitable for your future needs? If you’re likely to have pets or kids in the near future, consider whether a delicate and expensive fabric like silk is an appropriate choice. If you’re getting older and developing mobility issues, consider whether a low sofa will be too difficult to get up from if your movement issues get worse. This will ensure that you don’t have to replace your sofa again in a few years.