What most people don’t understand is like cars and clothes, sofa designs also have seasons and new trends. Sofa retailers are always pressured to carry the newest and hottest trends, so they are forced to sell last year’s inventory at rock bottom prices which can only benefit you, as long as you know where to look.
Many people probably don’t look too much into what kind of sofa they get. They just pick whatever they think looks good. However, a sofa purchase is meant to last for quite a while. That being said, there are several important things you should think of before you purchase one. That way, you’ll be able to make a selection that will last a long time while also preventing buyer’s remorse.
Sofa Types
Before even looking at sofas, you should figure out what kind of sofa you require. After all, different models are better and worse at certain things.
• Traditional sofas are what most people think of when they imagine a sofa. They usually seat three people, and that’s pretty much it.
• Sectional sofas are the kind that can be separated into different pieces. This gives you more flexibility of different arrangements or setups.
• Sleeper sofas or sofa beds can be turned into a place to sleep. This is perfect for rooms that might need a bed, but don’t normally require one.
• Loveseats are named for their size, and they fit only two people. If you are tight on space or want something a little more intimate, this is the one.
• Recliners can expand into a more horizontal shape to let people stretch out, or lie down. There is a lot of variety here, since you can have manual or power models, and they can come in all shapes and sizes. A personal one-seater recliner also falls into this category.
What’s the use case?
The best way to choose between the different type of sofas is to figure out how they will be used. The main three questions to ask are:
1. Who will be using the sofa the most?
2. Will that person need it to be softer or firmer?
3. What will people be doing while they sit in it?
For example, a sofa that’s in a study that will be mostly used while reading would likely have to be firmer and have more support than one in the living room in front of the TV.
What’s your budget?
It would be a very good idea to figure out how much you can spend first before browsing online or in a store. That will help you narrow down different choices. Also, remember that you don’t have to settle for MSRP. Often times, holiday sales or promos will put a more expensive choice right into your budget. Another way to save some money is to buy vintage furniture. Not only are they much cheaper, but it will also be a stylish conversation piece when guests are over.
What fabric is best?
One reason to figure out the use case ahead of time is the fabric. There is a myriad of different fabrics that all have different advantages and disadvantages. Here is a list of them and what situations they are best for:
• Linen is a very soft material while also being very durable. Many people enjoy how comfortable linen can be. Unfortunately, that comfort comes at the cost of being difficult to clean. That’s something to keep in mind, especially since it stains easily.
• Wool blends are also soft and durable, and also easier to clean compared to linen. However, it has to be maintained regularly or you risk damage or permanent staining.
• Performance fabrics will be the choice for big families. Where the previous two choices have potential staining issues, performance fabrics are designed to be ultra-durable. Some brands are also specifically designed for pets to prevent claws from puncturing your furniture.
• Other natural fibers include things like silk and cotton. Cotton is the more durable of the two, especially when blended with other materials. Silk is definitely luxurious, but requires maintenance and is susceptible to sun damage. You’ll definitely want to keep it away from areas that have a lot of natural light.
• Leather has a reputation for being rugged and easy to clean. From car seats to sofas, there’s a reason why manufacturers keep going back to it. Just be aware of the quality of leather you are buying.
• Velvet is definitely the trendy option, and offers fantastic colors in addition to being comfortable. Sofas made of velvet can also last a long time provided that you take care of it properly. Sunlight can damage it, and it also tends to attract pet hair.
• Synthetics are a budget option that emulate more expensive choices. Want something that feels like leather but don’t want to shell out for it? Faux leather could be for you. There are also synthetic versions of cotton and silk.
Be Patient
Like with other industries, furniture makers and stores usually follow a certain schedule. In this case, new models and styles will come out in the spring and fall. Because of this, you could take advantage of the sales that normally happen before those time periods. Vendors that need to get rid of old stock will do clearances during the winter or towards the end of the summer.
A good sofa will be with you for a while, so waiting for the perfect one is worth it. Just be patient and keep your eye out for sales. Another good idea is to visit multiple stores to compare prices. This way, you are sure to end up with a fantastic deal on a great sofa
