Finding The Best Sofa Style: Expert Tips For Buying a Sofa

Like beds, a sofa is a universal piece of furniture compatible with almost every setting, whether it's a living room, patio, office, or bedroom. This piece is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to read a book, watch TV, entertain multiple guests, take a power nap, and more.  

However, choosing the ideal sofa is tricky due to the vast array of options and styles. Consider factors like size, frame material, durability, upholstery, and more, contributing to acquiring the best couch for your home.  

Fortunately, this comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know to pick the ideal sofa. We will present tips and tricks to navigate and adequately assess essential aspects of buying a couch.  

Read on!  

Identifying a Sofa Worth Your Money  

Most sofas look the same, but not all are created equal. You can gauge whether the furniture is worth your money based on the manufacturer, sofa type, and materials.  

Fortunately, manufacturers list all elements used in creating a sofa, including the frame, type of upholstery, cushion grade, and more. In that case, here's what you need to know before placing your order for a visually appealing couch: 

1. Frame Material

The sofa frame is the "skeleton" that gives the furniture structural support and determines its shape. Additionally, this component's material significantly impacts the longevity and durability of your couch, making it a necessary consideration based on how you plan to use the piece.  

You can expect different performances, weights, and comfort levels based on the frame your sofa uses. In this case, there are four main types to consider, and these include: 

Wooden Frame 

Wooden frames are the most common option for building comfortable and durable couches due to their density and strength. Some high-quality wood manufacturers use oak, maple, pine, cherry, and cedar since they're resistant to moisture, stress, strain, splitting, and warping due to tight grains.  

Metal Frame 

Thanks to its strength and potential lifespan, metal is the next most used option for creating sofa frames for years of comfortable seating. Some common metals include iron, stainless steel, and aluminum.  

However, it's worth emphasizing that chemical compounds and heat treatment impact the effectiveness of the metal. For example, regular iron furniture is prone to corrosion due to moisture exposure; however, galvanized steel that's been sealed and treated will handle rusting and humidity excellently.  

Wicker Frame 

Wicker sofas are usually used outdoors and in patios; nevertheless, they help provide a natural and rustic touch when used indoors. As for durability, these options are long-lasting as the weaving technique of Wicker strengthens the already-strong material further.   

It's worth noting that Wicker has plant origins as it can be weaved from bamboo, seagrass, water hyacinth, and other plants. However, the options used for outdoor furniture, also known as All-weather Wicker, are produced from synthetic fibers like vinyl and Resin. 

Irrespective of your option, sofa frames from Wicker are guaranteed to be visually appealing and last a lifetime.  

Plastic Frame 

While wood is typically used for sofa frames, some manufacturers incorporate plastic in their couch structure design. The material is lightweight, resistant to moisture, and affordable, which makes it a budget-friendly option.  

However, it's important to note that plastic doesn't offer the same level of sturdiness as wood or metal, making it unfit for long-term use.  

2. Suspension System

Each sofa incorporates a suspension system, utilizing coils, webbing, or ties, which are crucial for the sofa's overall quality and comfort. Among the highly favored and comfortable methods suggested by experts are the eight-way hand-tied and sinuous spring options.   

Here's what you need to now know about both: 

Either-way Hand Tied 

Luxo Living and multiple experts recommend the eight-way, hand-tied strings as they're the highest standard system created to support all weight and movement. An eight-way hand-tied suspension involves individually tying the springs in all directions, resulting in improved weight distribution and comfort.   

While this system is excellent and functional, the intricate construction process causes sofas made with an eight-way, hand-tied system to be more expensive. Nevertheless, they're a worthwhile option if comfort is a primary concern.  

Sinuous Spring 

Sinuous Strings incorporate several thick wires connected to the sofa's wooden frame to provide additional support. This option is cheaper than the either-way Hand Tied suspension; nevertheless, it is effective when used by a competent manufacturer.  

This usability makes it one of the most popular sofa suspensions in the furniture industry as the S-shaped coils are packed tightly and evenly distributed weight. This excellent weight distribution results in a comfortable sofa for watching TV, reading, napping, and more.  

3. Comfortable Cushions

While your sofa needs a sturdy frame for longevity and excellent suspension systems for incredible stability, true comfort comes from the Cushions. The surface should easily accommodate your weight and conform to your shape for equal pressure distribution.  

In this case, two main Cushion categories provide maximum comfort, which includes Fixed/Tight cushions and Loose seat cushion. Here's what you need to know: 

Fixed/Tight Cushions 

Fixed Cushions are integrated into the sofa seat and cannot be adjusted or removed. This method ensures that they remain firm to the furniture irrespective of your weight, movement, etc. 

Besides functionality, this style is often used for a more sleek appearance and tuxedo sofa backs. Note that while this option is visually pleasing, it tends to wrinkle with time due to the more expensive length of fabric.  

Loose Cushions 

Loose Cushions contrast with their fixed counterparts as they're upholstered separately and installed on the sofa frame. This factor makes it possible to remove, strip, and even clean the covers more effectively.   

This cushion type is more comfortable since they don't require tight stuffing, making them perfect for lounging and relaxing in the living room. This style is alps found in two-seaters and three-seater, which are the most common sofa options to purchase   

Note that the material used in wrapping your Cushions contributes to the comfort provided. In this case, Dacron-wrapped foam Cushions are among the best and most widely available options for a usable couch. However, they're not the most comfortable, as 100 percent down is a better and more luxurious option.   

The only drawback with a 100-percent down sofa cushion is the tendency to sink right through, which can make it harder to get back up. In this case, combining both Cushions may be a worthwhile option for maximum comfort. 

Some of the best sofas use a Dacron-wrapped, high-density poly foam covered in a down-proof ticking casting. Ultimately, the cushion style and type depend on your comfort and personal choice. Both options are guaranteed comfort and durability, as a few cons are associated.  

4. Fabric

If you have pets and kids prone to scratches and spills, you'll need maximum care navigating the world of sofa fabrics. Essentially, you need one that can stand the test of time and maintain its pristine look, and opting for more robust options is the best decision.   

Some recommended sofa fabric options include: 

Performance Fabrics 

Luxo Living and other experts recommend performance fabrics for their exceptional durability. With these fabrics, worries about the heavy maintenance and care needed to own a white or ivory sofa are a thing of the past. Technological advancements make light grey, cream, or white sofas resistant to spills and scratches, making them excellent for a busy home. 

Washable Slipcovers 

If you find the slipcover visually appealing, you have an eye for quality since these washable options are highly recommended. They're easy to clean and maintain, ensuring your sofa looks beautiful and inviting.  

Slipcovers also allow you to change your sofa's look since you can buy multiple slipcovers and replace the old one quickly.  

Leather 

Leather has always been an excellent choice if you prefer furniture with very few requirements in terms of cleaning. A simple wipe-down is sufficient to keep it looking immaculate. However, if you have clumsy pets or kids who love to scratch, the leather may not be the best fabric since it doesn't hold up well under such circumstances.  

Woven Fabrics 

Woven fabrics with texture and subtle patterns are excellent for pet owners since they effectively hide stains, pet hair, and scratches. This factor ensures that your sofa remains in top-notch condition, irrespective of how your furry friends associate with the furniture. 

Other recommended pet-proof sofa fabrics include Low-pile fabrics like microfiber and synthetic velvet. These are a blessing for pet owners concerned about odors since there's less material to trap smells. Therefore, your furniture stays clean with a fresh scent. 

5. Measurement

In your quest for the perfect sofa, don't forget to carefully consider the shape and size of the room where it will reside. Before embarking on your shopping journey, take precise measurements of the room and the designated sofa area. With these accurate dimensions, you'll be better equipped to select the ideal sofa size and shape that perfectly fits the available space. 

As you ponder the sofa's shape, pay close attention to the room's layout. A narrow, low-profile sofa is more suitable for smaller spaces than a large, bulky sectional. On the other hand, if you're blessed with a more expansive room, consider opting for a sectional or a sofa with a chaise to create a cozy conversation area.   

Equally vital is contemplating the sofa's placement with other furniture pieces and the overall room flow. By thoughtfully considering the room's shape and size, you'll discover a sofa that complements your space flawlessly while allowing ample movement. 

6. Personal Preference 

When selecting a sofa, your tastes and style play a significant role. With many sofa types available, considering your existing decor and overall aesthetic can be beneficial in making the right choice.  

Take a moment to ponder whether you lean towards a traditional, modern, or contemporary look, and envision how the sofa's colors, materials, and patterns will complement your space.  

Additionally, factor in how you plan to use the sofa. Will it be your cozy spot for lounging and watching TV, or is it intended for formal entertainment? Your sofa's usage will also influence your style preferences. 

By keeping your tastes and style in mind, you'll discover the perfect option that looks fabulous and seamlessly fits into your home's unique ambiance. 

How to Make the Best Sofa Purchase Online  

Buying online is tricky since you don't have the luxury of feeling the item first-hand, which can be problematic for buying couch since you'd need to determine if it's perfect for you. In this case, here are factors to make this purchase easier: 

Understand Terminologies  

Paying attention to specific terminology can prove invaluable when buying a sofa online. Understanding how a quality sofa is made becomes crucial in this scenario. If you can't physically test the couch, focus on the descriptions of the frame, suspension, and cushioning.   

Look for terms like kiln-dried hardwood, eight-way hand-tied springs or sinuous springs, and various cushion materials. This way, you can at least know what to expect, even without seeing it in person. If you can't find all the details, don't hesitate to contact customer service via email for clarification. 

Check Brand Policies  

It's also necessary to check the brand's policies and delivery options before deciding. This option provided information about any warranties, the return policy, and how the sofa will be delivered to your doorstep.  

Reading between the lines is crucial to ensure a smooth delivery experience. Consider factors like whether it can be delivered into your space and if any assembly is required. Avoid unpleasant surprises by understanding what you're getting. 

Check Customer Reviews  

Delve into customer reviews and treat them like Yelp recommendations. These comments can provide valuable insights into the product's quality and user experiences. Look for sites allowing reviewers to share photos of their purchased sofas, enabling you to envision how they will appear in a real-life setting. 

Research the Manufacturer 

Lastly, research the manufacturer to understand the sofa's origin and quality better. If you're purchasing from a brand that manufactures its furniture, you have more confidence in the product's source.  

However, if you're exploring options from a big-box retailer, take the time to dig deeper. Find the manufacturer by looking for the vendor's name on the website. This research can provide additional information on how the sofa is made and help you determine if it aligns with your preferences. 

Finding The Best Sofa  

Ultimately, discovering the ideal sofa requires considering personal style, room size, and usage. With numerous options available, understanding sofa elements like frame material, suspension system, cushion type, and fabric helps gauge durability and comfort, even when buying online.  

Checking brand policies and delivery details ensures a smooth purchase. Customer reviews and manufacturer research provide valuable insights into quality and origin. Don't forget to match the sofa with your decor and lifestyle preferences. By considering these factors, you can confidently select the perfect sofa for your space, bringing comfort and style into your home. 

However, if all these factors are too cumbersome to handle during your shopping journey, consider browsing our inventory. Luxo Living provides the best furniture for indoor and outdoor usage, alongside all you need to incorporate this into your home. 

Visit our inventory today as the specifications and other necessary information are fully displayed, allowing you to pick the best sofa.