While the winter sales can prove very tempting to those looking to buy a new sofa, they won’t always result in the best-quality purchases.
Graham Bell, of independent retailer Bells of Skipton, argues that the untrained eye will often miss tell-tale signs of cheap, poor-quality items that an expert could spot instantly. Here, he shares his tips on what to look out for when buying a sofa.
Ask about a sofa’s frame
The fabric may well be beautiful and the cushions comfier than a cloud, but if the frame is of poor quality – ideally it should be hardwood – then it is unlikely to stand the tests of time and wear. “Check that it sits firmly and evenly on the floor without creaking or wobbling. Ensure that the whole frame, but particularly the corners, are well padded and that you can’t actually feel it through the fabric,” says Bell.
Check any moving parts
Examine all hinges and mechanisms, like those on recliners and sofa beds. Do they feel robust and well-made? Are they moving smoothly? Flimsy parts should definitely be avoided and any metallic parts should be checked over for sharp edges which could damage the upholstery over time.
Test the sofa for firmness and comfort
Cushions should fit tightly into the sofa’s frame and ought to be resilient to pressure. Most important of all, it needs to be comfortable – so take a seat and make yourself at home. “Make sure the height of the back and arms, and the distance from the back to the edge of the seat, is suited to you,” Bell advises.
Inspect the sofa for quality
Look closely at the fabric and any embellishments. Are patterns centred, straight and matched-up properly at the seams? This is particularly important with striped designs. Any buttons need to be securely attached with no loose threads dangling down.
Bell also urges sofa shoppers to ask about any protective stain-guard treatments available and, especially with leather suites, long-term care.
By Anthony Hill
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