How to buy quality furniture:sofa buying advice

In this day and age there are too many choices when shopping for any item, let alone for an item of such significance as your sofa. Before even stepping out the door, make sure to prepare a quality checklist. Here are a few suggestions to consider when creating your list.

Qualities to look for when choosing a sofa for the family den.

A sofa that is going to be placed in the family den will have much more traffic then in the formal living room. When sofa shopping for the family den, make sure to sit on the sofa in the store for at least thirty minutes with your family members. Walk around the sofa and look for snags and runs in the fabric. Even the display should show great quality since it is a direct reflection of the store's quality. Choose a fabric that is stain resistant and has a soft pattern. Solid colors tend to show stains more prominently than patterns. Ask to see a swath of cloth in the chosen color; it is always good to see exactly what you are buying. The family den tends to host overnight guests, so take this into consideration when deciding whether or not to buy a sofa with a hide-a-bed.

Qualities to look for when choosing a sofa for the formal living room.

The main purpose for a sofa that is going in the formal living room is to match the decor and provide a sitting place for guests. When shopping for this type of sofa, make sure there is some level of comfort provided (such as lower back support). The sofa should be at a height that you can comfortably sit and rise without trouble. Be sure to bring a picture of where you are going to place the sofa, as this will help keep a fresh idea of what it will look like in your home. When choosing the color or pattern, hold the swath of cloth and picture together to check the color scheme. Choose a sofa with solid batting so seat impressions are not left in the cushions from sitting on the sofa, as the formal living room is the first impression a guest will have of your home.

General considerations.

Before deciding on a sofa, make sure to lift it up in the same motion you would move it to clean under it. Sofas with hide-a-beds tend to be very heavy. Ask about the frame of the sofa to make sure it is constructed well and check for warranties. A sofa without removable pillows is highly suggested for families with small children and dogs. The pillows require constant cleaning and tend to end up missing or torn. There are several stores that offer living room sets. Most include a matching love seat and chair with the sofa. This is definitely something to consider if you are on a budget or don't have time to shop for each piece individually. And last but not least don't forget to have fun!