Buying a sofa is a big purchase that you will live with for years. These guides take you through the decisions in a logical order: first the size and shape that fit your room, then the materials, and finally the construction details that decide how long a sofa lasts. They are written to help you compare sofas yourself; we do not sell furniture.
1. Size and shape
- How to measure for a new sofa: room, doorways, stairs and the diagonal-depth test.
- Sectional vs sofa: floor space, seating, layout, moving and cost compared.
- Sofas for small spaces: sizes, arm and leg styles, depth and multifunctional options.
2. Materials
- Leather vs fabric: durability, comfort, pets, allergies and the leather grades to look for.
- Upholstery fabrics compared: performance fabric, microfiber, velvet, linen, wool, ratings and cleaning codes.
3. Quality and features
- What makes a good sofa: frame, springs, cushion foam and showroom tests.
- Reclining sofa buying guide: power vs manual, wall clearance and mechanisms.
More reading by topic
Sectionals
- How to maximize your space with a sectional sofa
- How to separate a sectional sofa
- Putting a slipcover on a sectional
- Where to buy a sectional sofa
Leather sofas
- How to spot a top-quality leather sofa
- Bonded leather: what to know before buying
- How to keep a leather sofa clean
- Leather sofa peeling: how to repair it
Fabric and care
- How to clean and maintain your sofa
- Fabric sofa cleaning tips
- Washing sofa cushions
- Sofa cushion support tips
Buying
- Where to buy a sofa
- Choosing the right sofa size
- Returning a sofa that does not fit
- Sofa vs couch: is there a difference?
About these guides
Sofa Express is an independent information site. We do not sell furniture, we are not affiliated with any furniture retailer or manufacturer, and we do not accept payment to recommend products. The site is supported by advertising. Measurements in these guides are typical ranges; always check the exact specifications of the sofa you are considering.