Sofas

How to Choose a Sofa

After a long day there’s nothing better than relaxing on the sofa. And here you’ll find the comfiest options for sale, from sleek leather to plush microfiber, traditional to modern styles to complement your home, and accommodating features that’ll take relaxing to the next level, including reclining options, built-in cup holders and storage compartments. Let the stress melt away while you kick back on one of these stylish and comfortable sofas.

Size

The available space in the room will dictate how large or small you want to go with your sofa. Space-conscious shoppers will gravitate to 2 seater loveseats as great alternatives to bulky, 3 seater or more overstuffed couches. Traditional three-seat options are about 82 to 88 inches long and provide cozy seating for small groups. If you want to lie down comfortably, consider big sofas of 90 inches or longer.

For those who have large families, entertain regularly, or want space for two people to stretch out, a sectional or wide sofa might be the best choice. When paired with chaises, modular sofas are excellent places to sink in for a cozy nap or seat many guests. Keep in mind, the larger the couch, the more expensive it will be.

Style

Deciding what you want most from your sofa will help narrow down your search. If you value comfort above all, then you should look at the luxury of manual or electric dual power reclining sofas, or low profile pieces with large, deep cushions you can sink into, like Bridgewater or English couches. These casual-looking sofas fit well with most decor and are extremely comfortable. If you fancy the customizable, then you would like a sectional sofa. With the ability to form corner L- or U-shapes, oversized sectionals provide plenty of space to stretch out or entertain guests.

If you want decor-defining styles, look at more striking pieces like curved or round sofas or high back mid century models with elegant details like chrome legs. Camelbacks are great for formal environments. Conventional Chesterfields offer old-school, classic appeal with their button tufted upholstery and nailhead rolled scroll arms. The angular designs of studio, tuxedo and Lawson sofas make them top choices for modern, transitional and contemporary designs. Minimalists will love the armless slipper sofas.

Convertible options like like pull out bed sleeper sofas give a place to lounge during the day, and a place for guests to sleep at night. Adjustable and settee couches allow for even more comfort. These ultra versatile sofa options will make it an essential part of your home decor.

Color

You can find sofas in almost any shade light or dark, but picking the right color can be tough. Choose calm, muted earthy colors like pale cream, tan, brown or chocolate if you want to keep the design low-key, or add a vibrant color like red or orange for an eye-catching accent. Neutrals, like beige, black, white, charcoal or stone gray, work with most designs, though a splash of sage, olive or lime green, or navy, teal or royal blue color can liven things up in a subdued room. Remember to consider the shade of surrounding furniture, carpets, walls and drapes to be sure the sofa won't clash with your other pieces. If available request a fabric swatch to compare in your room to be sure the color will work well with your existing furnishings. Browse comfy sofas upholstered in solid colors or cute striped patterns.

Fabric

Choosing the right fabric comes down to comfort, durability, and upkeep. Linen, cotton, denim and silk are soft, natural fabrics but can tear or stain easily. They are best for sensible users. Shoppers looking for family seating should consider synthetic materials, like microfiber, olefin or vinyl. Durable and easy to clean, these fabrics can stand up to wear and tear from kids and pets. Faux or top grain leather and suede offers the best of both worlds. It is soft, durable, and relatively easy to maintain. However, leather sofas are usually pricier. Velvet sofas are another popular sofa material choice.

As such, cost should also be taken into consideration. Decide on your budget, because couch prices can vary by materials and size. Know whether you are willing to spend:

• Under $1000
• Under $500
• Under $400
• Under $300
• Under $200

5 Tips for Buying the Right Sofa for Your Living Room

The sofa is the centerpiece of your living room design. Since this piece of living room furniture could be the most used item in your home, it should be both beautiful and functional. Follow our five tips to find a sofa that creates the perfect look for your room.

What Will Fit in Your Room?
Before you start shopping for a new sofa, measure and determine the maximum dimensions your room and doorways can handle. Nothing will ruin your day like watching the delivery people take back your lovely sofa because it won’t fit into your home. Standard sofa widths can vary from 74 to 90 inches. So know your space limitations before you begin shopping.

Sofa Style Is Not About Stealing the Show
Since your sofa will likely be the largest piece of furniture in your living room, be careful about the pattern you choose. Your sofa will determine the style of everything else in the room. So choose a color and pattern that’s in harmony with the other furniture and accessories.

Remember the Classics
There is more to the look of your sofa than its fabric. Consider your sofa's silhouette and shape. There’s a reason some furniture designs are considered classic—it is because they have stood the test of time. In a few months, you don’t want to be unhappy with your living room because it looks dated. Styles like the club sofa, the camelback, or the chesterfield, for example, will help you create a smart, timeless look.

Think Inside the Box for Sofa Cushions
Much like a mattress, sofa cushions benefit from regular flipping. When possible, choose a sofa that has fully reversible cushions with supportive box construction. This will help your sofa keep its shape, and will limit the sagging that makes a sofa look old before its time.

Maybe It’s Not a Sofa at All
There is no rule that living rooms have to have a sofa. Depending on the look you are going for and the size of your living room, other seating options might better suit your needs. You could consider grouping together four club chairs or opting for a couple of sofa chairs, loveseats, or even a trundle sofa.

Buying your new sofa is an investment of time and money. We hope these five tips and our deals on inexpensive sofas make it easier and more rewarding.