1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Furniture

How to Choose the Best Sofa for You
Test Drive a Sofa Before You Buy

By Abe Abbas, About.com

If you want to choose the best sofa for you, why not test drive one before you buy, just the way you would test drive a car? It would be frustrating to buy a sofa that didn’t feel comfortable even if it were the best looking sofa in the whole world. Here's how to choose the best sofa for you.

Give yourself plenty of time when you are trying out a sofa. A mere 5 seconds of plopping down on one is not going to tell you much. A good salesperson will understand and not bother you while you are trying on different sofas for size.

Test Different Styles

Test all different styles in a way you would use a sofa at home. Do you like to sit with your legs curled up? Do you like to lie down on it? Do you feel happiest sitting in the center? Remember the salesperson might appreciate it if you took your shoes off before you place your feet on the sofa.

Consider the height and depth of the seat. Take into account the height of the back as well. Try out all different cushion configurations to see which one feels right.

Test Different Fills

Every person differs in what they consider to be comfortable. Some would like to sink into a sofa, others prefer a firmer seat. Which one do you like? Try out different fills to select the level of firmness or softness that you like.

Consider if you want the same level of softness or firmness in the seat and back.

Test Different Fabrics

Each fabric is going to feel different, but it will add tremendously to the over all feel of a sofa. You may like the look of heavily textured fabrics, but do you like the feel of them? Does a surface feel too slick? Does leather make too many sounds when you shift your weight on it? Sit on different fabrics long enough till you find one that is right for you.

Explore Furniture
About.com Special Features

Banish mess, reduce allergens, and maintain a clean, healthy home. More >

Inspirational ideas and expert tips to help you pull off your next DIY project. More >

  1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Furniture
  4. Buying Furniture
  5. Choose the Best Sofa - How to Choose the Best Sofa for You>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.