Sofa Buying Guide

A sofa is one of the most used pieces of furniture in your home. It is where you relax after work, spend time with family, and entertain guests. Getting it right matters — not just aesthetically, but practically. The wrong size, fabric, or style can make a room feel wrong and a sofa that looks perfect in a showroom can disappoint in your living space.

This guide covers everything you need to consider before buying.

In this guide:
Choosing the Right Size | Seating Capacity | Fabric and Upholstery | Style and Shape | Comfort and Construction | Room Layout | How to Measure | Common Questions

Choosing the Right Size

Size is the most common mistake people make when buying a sofa. A sofa that is too large dominates the room and restricts movement; one that is too small looks lost and provides insufficient seating. Before you look at styles or fabrics, establish the maximum dimensions your room can accommodate.

As a general guide:

• Allow at least 45cm between the sofa and the coffee table for comfortable legroom
• Allow at least 90cm of clear walkway around the sofa for easy movement through the room
• The sofa should not block natural light sources or doorways
• In smaller rooms, a two-seater or compact three-seater often works better than a large three-seater

Standard sofa widths as a reference point:

• Two-seater: Typically 140–170cm wide
• Three-seater: Typically 180–230cm wide
• Corner sofa: Typically 220–300cm on the longest side
• Sofa bed: Similar to standard sofas but check the open bed dimensions separately

Seating Capacity

Sofa seating capacity is often described as two-seater, three-seater, and so on, but the actual comfort of seating varies significantly between models. A generous three-seater may seat three adults comfortably; a compact three-seater may feel better suited to two adults and a child.

When assessing seating capacity, consider:

• Seat width per person: A comfortable seat width is approximately 55–65cm per person. Anything narrower feels cramped for regular use.
• Seat depth: Standard seat depth is 55–65cm. Deeper seats (65–80cm) feel more relaxed and lounging but can be uncomfortable for shorter people who cannot sit back and still have their feet on the floor.
• Arm width: Wide arms reduce the usable seating width. A sofa with slim arms will seat more people comfortably than one with thick, padded arms of the same overall width.

Fabric and Upholstery

The fabric you choose affects how the sofa looks, how it feels, how easy it is to clean, and how long it lasts. Here are the main options:

Fabric and Woven Upholstery

Fabric sofas are the most popular choice in the UK. They are available in a huge range of colours and textures, feel warm and comfortable, and suit most interior styles. Quality varies significantly — look for a high rub count (at least 25,000 Martindale rubs for everyday use) as an indicator of durability.

Best for: Most households, those who want colour and texture options, cooler climates.
Consider: Some fabrics stain more easily than others. Look for stain-resistant treatments if you have children or pets.

Velvet

Velvet sofas have a rich, luxurious appearance and a soft, tactile feel. They add a premium look to any room and are available in a wide range of colours. Modern velvet upholstery is more durable than its reputation suggests.

Best for: Those who prioritise aesthetics, living rooms used primarily by adults.
Consider: Velvet shows marks and indentations more easily than other fabrics. Regular brushing with a soft brush maintains the pile. Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Faux Leather

Faux leather (also called PU leather) offers the look of leather at a lower price point. It is easy to wipe clean, making it practical for households with children or pets. Quality varies — higher quality faux leather is more durable and feels more like genuine leather.

Best for: Households with children or pets, those who want easy cleaning, contemporary interiors.
Consider: Faux leather can feel cold in winter and warm in summer. Lower quality options may crack or peel over time.

Linen and Linen Effect

Linen and linen-effect fabrics have a natural, textured appearance that suits relaxed, Scandinavian, and contemporary interiors. They are breathable and comfortable but can crease and may require more care than synthetic fabrics.

Best for: Neutral, natural interior schemes, those who prefer a relaxed aesthetic.
Consider: Linen can be prone to wrinkling and may require professional cleaning for stains.

Style and Shape

Two-Seater Sofa

Compact and versatile. Works well in smaller living rooms, as a secondary sofa in a larger room, or in a home office or bedroom. Pairs well with armchairs to create a flexible seating arrangement.

Three-Seater Sofa

The most common choice for a main living room sofa. Provides comfortable seating for a family or group without dominating the room. Available in a wide range of styles from contemporary to traditional.

Corner Sofa

A corner sofa (also called an L-shaped sofa) maximises seating in a room by using corner space that would otherwise be wasted. It creates a defined seating area and works particularly well in open-plan living spaces. See our Corner Sofa Buying Guide for detailed advice.

Sofa Bed

A sofa that converts into a bed — ideal for guest rooms or smaller homes where a dedicated guest bedroom is not practical. The quality of the sleeping surface varies significantly between models. Check the mattress thickness and mechanism before buying if regular overnight use is expected.

Chaise Sofa

A sofa with an extended section on one end — essentially a sofa with a built-in chaise longue. Provides a comfortable lounging position and works well in larger living rooms. Check which end the chaise is on (left or right facing) before ordering.

Comfort and Construction

The internal construction of a sofa determines its comfort and longevity. Key things to look for:

• Frame: A hardwood or engineered wood frame is more durable than softwood. The frame should feel solid with no flex or creaking.
• Seat cushion filling: Foam cushions are firm and hold their shape well. Fibre-filled cushions are softer but require regular plumping. Foam and fibre combinations offer a balance of support and softness.
• Back cushion filling: Fibre-filled back cushions give a relaxed, casual look but require regular plumping. Foam backs hold their shape with less maintenance.
• Seat depth: Sit in the sofa (or check the seat depth measurement) to ensure it suits your height. A seat that is too deep means you cannot sit back comfortably with your feet on the floor.
• Leg height: Higher legs make a sofa easier to get in and out of and give a lighter, more contemporary look. Lower legs or no legs give a more grounded, substantial appearance.

Room Layout Considerations

• Focal point: Position the sofa to face the room's focal point — typically a fireplace, television, or window with a view.
• Traffic flow: Ensure there is clear walkway space around the sofa. A minimum of 90cm is recommended for comfortable movement.
• Rug placement: If you plan to use a rug, decide whether the sofa legs will sit on or off the rug before choosing your sofa size.
• Natural light: Avoid positioning the sofa so that it blocks natural light from windows. Consider how the sofa will look in both natural and artificial light.
• Open plan spaces: In open-plan rooms, a corner sofa or a sofa with a high back can help define the living area within the larger space.

How to Measure Before You Buy

1. Measure the wall space where the sofa will sit, including any alcoves or obstructions
2. Measure the distance from the sofa position to the opposite wall or furniture — ensure there is adequate clearance
3. Use masking tape on the floor to mark out the sofa footprint before ordering
4. Measure your front door, hallway, staircase, and living room door to ensure the sofa can be delivered and positioned
5. Check the product dimensions carefully — note both the overall width and the depth including any chaise or extended sections

If you have any concerns about whether a sofa will fit your space or can be delivered, please contact us before ordering.

Common Questions

How long should a sofa last?

A good quality sofa should last 7–10 years with normal use. Signs it needs replacing include sagging seat cushions that cannot be refluffed, visible frame damage, or fabric that is worn beyond repair.

How do I know if a sofa will fit through my door?

Check the product dimensions carefully — particularly the height, width, and depth. Most sofas are delivered in sections or can be manoeuvred through standard UK doorways (approximately 76cm wide). If you have a particularly narrow hallway or tight staircase, contact us before ordering and we will advise based on the specific product.

Can I return a sofa if it does not fit?

Yes, subject to our returns policy. You have 14 days from delivery to return an eligible item in its original, unused condition. Please see our Returns & Guarantee page for full details. We strongly recommend measuring carefully before ordering.

What is the best fabric for a sofa if I have pets?

Tightly woven fabrics, faux leather, and microfibre are generally the most practical choices for households with pets. They are easier to clean and less likely to snag on claws. Avoid loosely woven fabrics and velvet if your pets regularly sit on the sofa.

Ready to find your sofa? Browse our sofa collection or contact us for personalised advice.

You may also find these guides useful: Corner Sofa Buying Guide | Bed Size Guide | All Buying Guides