Shopping Guides 10 Sofa Buying Questions

Date Published:

15/08/2008

8) How about sofa beds?

Invaluable for putting up guests, sofa beds are also super heavy thanks to the bed frame concealed within the base, which also makes the sofa firmer to sit on.

You really don’t want to make this purchase online, as it’s far better to open and close the sofa in store to see how easily the bed pulls out. Try out the bed, too, by lying down on it and checking whether it rocks as you turn from one side to another. Make sure that the mattress does not ‘give’ too much under your weight. They’re thinner than a bed mattress and most are not designed for everyday use. You really do get what you pay for here, so splash out if you can.

Neat and chic, this sofa is big on style. It comes in a medium size or a small version measuring just 136cm wide. Portia small sofa in red, £395, John Lewis.

9) Will it fit in my house?

You’re all ready to place your order, but stop. Size really matters when you’re choosing a sofa. Not only is it the bulkiest piece of furniture in the room, but taking it through a narrow hallway, turning it through a doorway or getting it up an awkward staircase can be a nightmare.

Take the relevant measurements along to your retailer (if necessary, draw a small plan with measurements marked on). Some companies will send someone to measure up for you, for a small fee.

Don’t despair though, as sofas made in two parts or with bolt-on arms can solve the problem.