Sofa Do's and Don'ts

One of the biggest furniture investments you'll make is a sofa. Sofas cost a lot of money, they take up a lot of space, and they're where you and your family will likely spend a lot of time. So make sure you know what you're doing before you go out and buy one. Check out these sofa do's and don'ts to make sure you get the best sofa for your investment.

DO consider how you'll use the sofa – and be honest! Is it for TV watching, curling up with a good book or formal entertaining? There's no point in getting a stiff and formal sofa if you plan to put your feet up and watch TV, nor do you want your guests to sink into the cushions and not be able to get up when you're entertaining.

DO buy the best quality you can afford. A sofa is a big investment and you want it to last. Remember, a sofa of average quality should last at least 10 years while a high-end sofa should last up to 25.

DON'T forget to run your hand over the back of the sofa before buying. A hollow back is indicative of poor construction. You want it to be padded.

DO test it out before buying. While you're in the store sit down, lie down, put your feet up – if you're going to be doing it at home you should try it first in the store (within reason).

DON'T forget to measure. Make sure to take note of the width, depthe, height, seat height and arm height. You need to make sure it will fit through doorways, around corners, and up the stairs if necessary.

DO have it covered in an appropriate fabric. If you have kids and pets you'll want something that is either easy to clean or can hide spills and dirt.

DO become familiar with sofa styles before choosing. Do you want high arms (tuxedo sofa), medium arms (lawson) low arms (bridgewater) or no arms (slipper)? D o you want curvy and round or straight and streamlined? Do you want one long cushion on the seat or several? Think about all these things before you buy.