1. When we reference width or length of our sofas, we are measuring from the outside of each arm, not the seating dimensions themselves. Be sure to measure your available space before you order.
2. It's also important to measure all doorways leading to where you want to place your sofa. If space is tight, don't rule out windows as viable entry points.
3. Take a look at the variety of sofa styles and upholstery materials. With some careful shopping, you should find something that matches your decor and provides the feel and durability you desire.
4. For leather sofas, regular dusting prevents dirt from grinding into the surface, extending the life of the leather. However, you may want to consider standard grade leather for high-traffic areas.
5. Leather match is an attractive, cost-effective option for leather sofas. These sofas feature leather on the parts that have contact with your body, while the sides and back use leather matching which is a vinyl material.
6. Armless sofas are a popular trend. These are ideal for creating an open, inviting feel in rooms where space is limited.
7. Pay attention to cushion styles. Loose-back cushions are not attached to the sofa. Tight-back sofas have seamless cushions that double as the sofa back. Attached-back cushions look like loose cushions, but are actually attached.
8. The best sofa frames are made from kiln-dried hardwoods such as oak or maple. Sofas with pine frames typically carry a lower price tag.
9. Sofa spring systems come in three basic types. Standard springs are of good quality and more affordable. Sinuous springs are heavier duty. Eight-way hand-tied springs are of the highest quality.
10. You may encounter information on firmness and seat density. The most common figures are 1.8, which is relatively soft, and 2.25, which is firm.
