Buying Guide: How to pick the right sofa

If you are planning on buying a new sofa, it is advisable to invest in a good quality piece that can last for years. Although most of the readymade sofas from reputed brands or stores look solid and feel heavy, the actual quality can be judged only after knowing about the different materials used for its fabrication. Here is a simple checklist that can help you to evaluate the quality of the sofa before you buy.

Check the Comfort

During the selection process, sit on both the corners and the middle of the sofa to make sure that the size, depth and back of the sofa is comfortable. If you plan on using the sofa as a couch, lay on the sofa to check its length and comfort level. All the edges of the sofa should be smooth to touch and the piece should not wobble.

Assess the Quality of the Frame

The quality of the wooden framework used to construct the sofa determines the strength and sturdiness of the piece. A good quality sofa frame is made out of kiln-dried species of hardwood like teak, oak, sheesham, walnut and maple. Lower grades of sofas are usually made of plywood or softwood.

Tip: Choose sofas where the legs are a part of the wooden frame as it makes the sofa stronger. Do not buy a sofa with metal legs as they are susceptible to scratches and can even damage the flooring.

Type of Springs

The bounciness of the sofa depends on the type of springs used for its fabrication. A good quality sofa comes with eight-way-hand-tied springs that make the seats comfortable and durable so that they do not sag. Also, check that the springs do not make a squeaking sound when one sits on the sofa.

Infill Material

Premium quality sofas use high-resilient (HR) polyurethane foam wrapped in synthetic fibres or natural feathers to give a soft and bouncy feel. Also, check the arms and the sides of the sofa and ensure that they are well padded so that you don't feel the wooden frame.

Upholstery Material

Do some research on the quality of the fabric or the leather upholstery that is used for upholstering the sofa. It is highly recommended you go for upholstery that is UV resistant and won't fade due to continuous exposure to sunlight. Fabrics like cotton and linen with a high thread count are highly preferred because they are breathable and comfortable but have a limited lifespan and may wear out after a few years. You can also opt for stain-resistant synthetic fabrics like polyester that are long lasting and easier to maintain. Opt for a sofa in genuine leather and avoid faux leather upholstery although it is more cost-effective. Note that faux leather may feel sticky in summers, wear out and flake over a period of time.

Warranty Period

The manufacturer should offer a good warranty period for repair or replacement of the sofa if there are any defects in the wooden frame, the quality of workmanship or any material defects. The warranty period usually ranges between 12 to 36 months (or more) depending on the type and cost of the sofa.

 

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