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How to choose the perfect sofa

A sofa is like a magnet for life’s little moments and plays a large part in how a room feels. These good-to-know details will help guide you on how to choose the right sofa so you can be sure you’re bringing home a new family member you’ll love.

First impressions

The first thing you need to consider when buying a sofa is the first impression that it will leave guests and visitors. Solid colors give off a stylish, uniform calm. Neutrals like black, grey, beige, and white work well as bases to blend in expressive cushions, rugs, and curtains. A patterned sofa adds pop, and smaller motifs make a sofa look bigger. And remember that removable covers can refresh a room like new wall paint.

A KLIPPAN sofa with a black-and-white, circle-motif cover is by a bent wood chair and a round table, near a wall of windows.

Sized to fit

Dimensions don’t have to limit your approach to choosing a sofa for your home. Chaise longues may be best for those who like to unwind independently. Encourage conversation with seating that faces each other like two sofas or a sofa/armchair mix. Modular sofas can make corner solutions and U-shapes for togetherness with personal space, too.

A beige-brown, one-seat section of SÖDERHAMN sofa faces a window, with a floor lamp and laptop stand in use beside it.

Helpful functions

Functionality is also something you should consider when buying a sofa. Chaise longues, footstools, and sofa beds often have hidden storage with space for things like toys, knitting projects, linens, and throws. A sofa-bed is a convenient, space-saving multi-tasker used occasionally by guests or nightly by you. Plus, it can be a big, cozy cloud where the family reads together.

A beige FRIHETEN corner sofa-bed with storage is covered in pillows and white bedding in a light-filled, white room.

Materials matter

Like fuzzy textures? The material should be one of the top things to consider when buying a sofa. Think chenille, velvet, and corduroy. Love smooth surfaces? Find plain weaves, often 100% cotton. Want distinct and soft? Choose structured weaves with linen or viscose. For easy cleaning, go for removable, machine-washable covers. Leather can be wiped and vacuumed with care but shows stains.

A close-up of a beige-grey KIVIK sofa cover focuses on the piped edging and v-shaped weave that creates a two-tone effect.