Hem: Ultimate Brand Review And Rating

Let’s be honest, finding the perfect sofa feels like that ultimate quest: equal parts exciting and utterly exhausting. Hem promises stylish, modern pieces with a Scandinavian twist. But do their designs hold up in real life, or are they just another case of “looked amazing on Instagram”? Time to put Hem to the test in this no-holds-barred Hem review.

Overall Potatometer Rating:

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Hem nails the balance between playful design and grown-up craftsmanship. Their sofas won't fall apart after a month, and the fabrics feel surprisingly luxurious for the price point. While I have a few nitpicks (which we'll get into shortly!), I was pleasantly surprised by how well the brand walks the line between trendy and timeless. If you're looking for furniture with personality but don't want to compromise on quality, Hem is absolutely worth checking out.

95%

Online Shopping Experience

95%

Shipping & Lead Time

92%

Customer Focus

94%

Durability & Quality

97%

Vibe Check

Our Own Rating System

The PotatoMeter is Couch.com’s very own rating system that grades furniture retailers on a variety of – what we consider to be – essential criteria. While we aim to be fair and objective in our assessment, subjectivity based on our expertise and personal biases is unavoidable.

95%

Online Shopping Experience

Hem: Online Shopping Experience

Hem isn’t messing around. They have a fabulous website! They know we want to see gorgeous couches, get the specs quickly, and maybe learn a bit about their company along the way. Mission accomplished on all fronts, with minimal clutter to distract you from finding your dream sofa.

Hem’s Ease of Navigation

Hem’s homepage is refreshingly bright and airy. The top banner instantly highlights special offers and seasonal collections, creating a sense of excitement. Plus, the main navigation menu is easy to scan for quick browsing.
Their “Shop by category” section is a major win! It’s a great way to narrow your search if you have a specific item in mind (like a new Hem couch, for example). This shows they understand how real people shop for furniture.
The “Trending Now” section gives you immediate social proof, featuring customer favorites and popular designs. If you’re indecisive, this offers a helpful nudge in the right direction.
Since Hem promotes a few specific brick-and-mortar locations, adding a quick “Find a Showroom would be a thoughtful touch for anyone interested in seeing the furniture in person.
A “heart” icon or “save for later” option is still a must in my book! Especially when those pops of color and playful designs start to blur together.
Hem’s sofa page is nicely organized, with a ton of eye-catching photos to help you quickly browse. Their filtering options on the sidebar are solid, letting you narrow your search by size, style, color, and even features like modularity.
On the Hem sofas page, you can access a practical filter that can help you sort according to categories, designer, materials, color, and shipping estimates. That’s a nice touch! Big thumbs up, especially for the “Ships Within” filter!

Hem’s Information Available “At-A-Glance”

Right off the bat, I appreciate that Hem lists sofa dimensions prominently on their product pages. You won’t be caught out realizing after it arrives that the sofa you loved is way too small for your living room.
Fabric and color options are presented clearly, with decent-sized swatches to help you visualize the final look. A true zoom-in function on the fabric swatches would be appreciated. The colors look great, but texture is also crucial when choosing a new sofa.
Hem’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their detailed material info. They break down the composition of their fabrics and finishes, which is awesome for eco-conscious shoppers.
Pricing is straightforward – no hidden fees or confusing discount structures to decipher. Plus, you can easily check on the availability of stock finishes if you’re in a hurry.
The “Pairs with” section cleverly guides your eye towards other Hem products, encouraging you to envision a complete room design.
Hem gets major points for transparency! Certifications, country of origin, and a detailed material breakdown is a sign they care about quality and sustainability.

Hem’s Product Images

Hem definitely gets the importance of high-quality photography. Their main hero shots are crisp, bright, and show off those sofas in all their glory. Plus, they have a nice mix of styled spaces and those clean, white background images for focusing on the design itself.
I love their “Featured Images” section! It gives you a sense of the sofa’s versatility in different environments, which is especially helpful with their bolder color options.
Hem’s modular sofas are a big selling point, so it’d be great to see more images showcasing those different configurations. It’s one thing to read about the possibilities, but visualizing them helps you start planning your dream setup.
A minor nitpick, but a few more lifestyle photos with people lounging on the sofas would help me judge the scale. They seem to prioritize a more artistic approach which is cool, but sometimes you just want to see a normal person sprawled out on a sofa, you know?
It would be amazing if they offered user-generated photos alongside their professional shots. Seeing the sofas in real homes with different lighting adds an extra layer of honesty to the product page.
While they have some lovely product shots, it would be helpful to include a few ‘behind the scenes’ images showing the sofas during the manufacturing process. This plays into Hem’s focus on quality craftsmanship and transparency.

Hem’s Quality of Product Information

Hem goes above and beyond with their material descriptions. They don’t just mention upholstery type, they explain the weave structure and even where the fabrics are produced. That level of detail shows they care about craftsmanship.
Their couch specifications sheets are a lifesaver! It’s all laid out clearly – dimensions, weight, certifications, you name it. This is especially helpful if you have a tight space and need to be super precise with measurements.
I love that they highlight their commitment to sustainability in the descriptions. It’s not just about the look; they explain why certain materials were chosen, which speaks to both quality and responsible manufacturing.
While the overall descriptions are solid, it’d be nice to see them get even more playful with the lifestyle descriptions of each sofa. Tell me if this sofa is perfect for catnaps, or if the deep cushions are ideal for all-night movie marathons!
Do you agree that more info on the care and maintenance of each fabric type would be the cherry on top, right? Some of those textiles look amazing, but I’m also a bit clumsy with red wine… knowing the cleaning requirements upfront would be reassuring, correct? So what did they do? They have available detailed PDF files you can download. Amazing!

Hem’s Extra Bells & Whistles

Their Hem X platform is honestly one of the coolest things I’ve seen in online furniture. It’s where they collaborate with cutting-edge designers on limited-edition pieces. Think playful sofas, quirky mirrors, and the sort of statement objects that make your home feel curated, not cookie-cutter.

95%

Shipping & Lead Time

Shipping & Lead Times

When it comes to shipping, Hem strikes a decent balance between speed and customization. According to Hem, they try to keep their full collection in stock.

Lead times for Hem sofas are what you’d expect for couches in this price and design range. Their transparency on product pages is a huge win, and the choice of shipping methods gives customers control over the process. Hem does a great job with their “Ships within…” labeling, which varies from 1 to 7 days to as long as 12 weeks. This takes much of the guesswork out of the process, especially if you need a new sofa quickly.

92%

Customer Focus

Hem: Customer Focus

Let’s face it: buying a sofa online can feel like a leap of faith. Does Hem actually care about making the process less stressful, or are you just another order number? Time to put their customer service under the microscope.

Hem’s Warranty:

Type and Length: Hem offers a 5-year limited warranty on all products purchased after April 1st, 2021. This warranty specifically covers defects in materials and workmanship.
A 5-year warranty is pretty standard for furniture in this price range. It shows that Hem is willing to stand behind the quality of their products, which is reassuring when making a significant investment.
The warranty wording focuses on manufacturing flaws. This means you’re protected against things like broken frames, faulty stitching, or defective mechanisms (like those in a reclining sofa).
The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, accidental damage, or stains. It would be helpful if Hem provided more specific examples of exclusions to set realistic expectations for customers.
Hem has a dedicated online claim form, making it easy to initiate the process. I also like that they clearly outline the information you’ll need to provide, which can speed up the resolution process.

Hem’s Return Options:

You have a 14-day return window if you think your Hem couch is not for you. Let’s be honest, 14 days isn’t super generous for deciding if you love a sofa long-term. It’s enough time to unbox and make sure there’s no damage, but it might not be enough to fully assess how the sofa fits your lifestyle.
They specify that items must be “undamaged and unused” and in the original packaging for a full refund. This is standard, but makes returns tricky if you’ve already gotten rid of the giant sofa box.
Here’s where Hem could do better. You’re on the hook for return shipping costs, which can be substantial for sofas. Plus, they have a repackaging fee if you don’t have the original box.
Hem’s return policy is in line with many online furniture retailers, but it doesn’t stand out as particularly customer-friendly. Some competitors offer longer return windows or even cover return shipping for a short period.
The Bottom Line: Hem’s return options get the job done, but they don’t go the extra mile to make things super easy for customers. It would be reassuring to see a slightly longer return window and can return your sofa if it doesn’t fit.

Hem’s Delivery Options & Costs:

Curbside Delivery: Your Hem sofa will be delivered by Mainfreight and will set you back: $149. It is pretty standard for curbside delivery of bulky furniture. It’s the most affordable option, but it does require some legwork on your end. This service does not include inside delivery, getting rid of the packaging, assembly, or setup. In case you miss the delivery sched, you’ve to pay a $150 re-delivery fee. That’s no joke! Hem does a good job of emphasizing that they need you to be available during the agreed-upon window to avoid extra charges.
Threshold Delivery:: Bummer that this is only for Los Angeles and New York metro areas. It seems like a good middle-ground between curbside and full white glove, especially for apartment dwellers. What’s Included for this Hem couch delivery option? It’s good that they clearly define what “inside the doorway” means, so there’s no confusion about where the delivery person’s responsibility ends.
White Glove Delivery: Is it worth the Cost? At $299, this is where you really need to weigh convenience against budget. If you live alone or aren’t particularly handy, this can be a lifesaver. It includes inside delivery, debris removal, and assembly of the items.

Hem’s Financing Options:

Hem + Affirm: They’ve partnered with Affirm to offer monthly payment plans. This is a major plus, especially for folks who don’t want to drop a huge chunk of change on a sofa all at once.

Is Assembly Required?

Some Hem sofas may arrive fully assembled, while others require some level of assembly. It’s best to check the “Technical Details” section of the specific product page for instructions. Hem provides assembly guides on their website. These can be found on the product page before purchase, allowing you to gauge the difficulty level.

Hem’s Customization Options:

Hem offers a decent selection of fabrics and colors. You won’t find anything too wild, but they’ve got the basics covered for most tastes. I wish they had more info on fabric composition and durability on their website.
Their modular sofa systems are where things get interesting. You can design your own configuration with corner pieces, chaise sections, etc. Sadly, they don’t have one of those cool online visualizers… yet.
Don’t expect to customize every little detail. You won’t find options to change leg styles or add fancy trims here. Hem’s approach to customization is more streamlined than some other brands.

Does Hem Offer Free Fabric Swatches?

You can order fabric swatches, which is a must if you’re like me and need to see things in person before committing to a new sofa. However, it’s not free. A sample costs $1 and ships out within 2 to 5 business days.
They have a dedicated “Buy Sample” button on each fabric option within a product page. It seems simple enough!
I couldn’t find specific info on how many swatches you can order at a time. Honestly, 5-6 would be ideal for comparing colors and textures side-by-side.
They don’t seem to have any fancy augmented reality tools to see the sofa in your space. However, their product photos have good-sized fabric swatches and they occasionally feature “lifestyle” shots of the sofa in different room settings.

94%

Durability & Quality

Hem: Durability & Quality

Listen, I’m not gonna lie – a new sofa is an investment. You want it to look good, but more importantly, you need that thing to last. They seem to get that, but let’s dig deeper in this Hem review and see if their sofas are built for the long haul or just destined for the curb after a few years.

“I’m a designer myself and I’ve spent my professional life with furniture design. A lot of what we stand for stems from our passion for design and interiors. We want Hem to be a platform where we can partner with amazing creatives and enable them to get a wider audience. Our idea is to be a driving force in the design community rather than trying to push a product,” says Petrus Palmer, founder and CEO of Hem.

Hem’s Quality of Materials:

Hem offers a decent range of upholstery options, including cotton, linen, wool blends, velvet, and leather. For contract grade settings, it’s crucial to look for fabrics with high durability ratings (Martindale score) and stain-resistance treatments to withstand heavy use.
While they have some, a wider selection of performance fabrics would be ideal for contract grade sofas. These sofa fabrics are designed to resist fading, pilling, and stains, essential qualities for commercial spaces.
Hem’s emphasis on quality leathers is a plus. For contract grade, look for top-grain or corrected-grain leathers that can handle wear and tear while developing a beautiful patina over time.
Hem consistently mentions “solid wood” construction, which is a good start. For contract grade furniture, it’s essential to know the exact hardwood species used. Kiln-dried oak or maple are ideal for their strength and durability.
Depending on the sofa style, Hem offers a mix of foam, down, and polyester fills. High-density foam is a must for contract grade use to ensure cushions hold their shape under heavy use. It would be helpful if they provided foam density specs.

Hem’s Cleanability:

Hem provides detailed care instructions for their various fabrics, which is a major plus. While they offer some performance fabrics, natural fibers like linen seem to be the main focus. These can require a bit more careful spot-cleaning.
Slipcovers Still MIA: Hem still doesn’t offer slip-covered sofas. This would be a huge advantage in terms of easy cleaning for those with kids, pets, or messy partners (like me!).
Color and Care: Hem’s care instructions reinforce the idea that darker colors will generally hide stains better than lighter options. It’s good that they emphasize the importance of cleaning up spills quickly, regardless of the fabric color.

Hem’s Quality of Construction & Manufacturing Origin:

Hem partners with manufacturers around the world, with production primarily in Europe. They’re pretty transparent about the specific countries involved as you will see on their product pages and sofa fact sheets.
While Hem shares details about the materials for the frames of their sofas, they don’t always get specific about the construction techniques, which affects the overall comfort of the couch.
I also couldn’t find much info about their cushion construction techniques or the type of suspension systems they use. These details are important indicators of overall sofa quality. So, that’s one thing I want to point out in this Hem sofa review.

97%

Vibe Check

Hem: Brand Vibe Check

A sofa is an investment, and you want to support brands that you actually like. Do Hem’s values match yours? Are they eco-conscious or just greenwashing? Time to put their whole brand personality under the microscope.

Hem’s Key Differentiators & Unique Facts:

One of Hem’s biggest differentiators is their impressive roster of design partners. They work with both established names and rising stars in the design world, bringing a fresh, contemporary perspective to their pieces.

Hem’s Sustainability:

Okay, I care about more than just stylish sofas. Does Hem put their money where their mouth is when it comes to being eco-conscious? Let’s take a closer look at their sustainability efforts.

Durable Design: Hem’s focus on “obsessive quality” translates into furniture built to last for generations. They prioritize high-quality materials, rigorous construction standards, and timeless designs that won’t go out of style quickly, minimizing the need for replacements.
Responsible Materials: Hem carefully considers the origin and environmental impact of their materials. They prioritize natural, ethically sourced options like FSC-certified wood, recycled fabrics, and low-emitting materials whenever possible.
Circular Economy: Hem designs with the end of a product’s life in mind. They prioritize recyclable materials and single-material construction for easier disassembly, making their products more likely to re-enter the circular economy.
Minimizing Waste: Hem takes steps to reduce waste throughout their production and packaging. Their boxes are made from 100% recycled cardboard.

Hem’s Overall Brand Presentation:

Hem seems to occupy a promising position for both residential and light commercial use. Their emphasis on designer collaborations and quality materials gives them design credibility. While not all their pieces are specifically built for contract-grade durability, their focus on natural materials and clean lines has appeal for hotels, offices, or waiting rooms seeking a modern look. Their modular sectional options are also a plus for commercial spaces. Their marketing heavily emphasizes their stylish aesthetic, which aligns well with the desire of many businesses to cultivate a curated image.

Top 10 Hem Sofas

1. Palo Corner Sofa Review ($5,349)

Think of the Palo as your build-your-own-adventure for ultimate relaxation.
The Palo’s cushions are generously filled with a mix of foam and down for a sink-in-and-relax feel.
The solid wood frame construction and selection of durable upholstery fabrics should ensure this sofa holds up well over time.

2. Koti 3-Seater Sofa Review ($5,049)

The Koti’s clean lines and smaller footprint make it a solid choice for urban apartments or anyone who loves a modern minimalist vibe.
Those rounded, chunky cushions add a playful touch that sets the Koti apart from some of Hem’s more streamlined designs. It’s comfy without sacrificing style.
Hem offers a wide range of upholstery options for the Koti, from classic neutrals to bold colors and textures. This lets you personalize it to really make a statement in your space.

3. Kumo 3- Seater Sofa With Armrests Review ($5,349)

The Kumo is all about that sink-in, luxurious lounging experience. The generously padded cushions are filled with a blend of feathers and down for maximum softness.
Like the Palo, the Kumo’s modular system lets you build the perfect configuration. Its curved pieces add a unique element, making it ideal for creating cozy conversation areas.
The Kumo’s rounded shape and deep seats give it a bold, sculptural presence in any room. This isn’t your standard minimalist sofa – it’s a piece that demands attention.

4. Palo 2-Seater Sofa Review ($2,899)

Think of the Palo 2-seater as the streamlined version of its big modular brother. It retains the same clean lines and modern aesthetic, but in a more compact package perfect for apartments or smaller living spaces.
The Palo 2-seater offers the same generously padded cushions as the modular versions, making it ideal for long lounging sessions. It’s proof that you don’t need a massive sofa to have a seriously comfortable one.
While not inexpensive, the Palo 2-seater’s solid wood construction and durable fabrics suggest it’s a sofa built to last. If you value quality and timeless design, it could be a worthwhile investment.

5. Koti 2-Seater Sofa Review ($3,899)

Sink-in Comfort: Hem emphasizes the super-soft, down-filled cushions of the Koti line. This sofa promises to be a cozy haven for lounging and movie nights.
The Koti’s chunky bouclé or virgin wool upholstery options add both visual and tactile interest. This is a sofa that invites you to touch it, enhancing its overall cozy factor.
The name “Koti” (Finnish for “home”) reinforces the idea of this sofa being a central gathering spot within your space. It’s designed with relaxation and comfort at its core.

6. Kumo Corner Sofa Left With Armrest Review ($6,699)

The Kumo’s standout feature is its innovative metal frame system. These easily reconfigurable, interchangeable cushion components make it a breeze to adapt the sofa to your space or changing needs.
Hem emphasizes the Kumo’s responsible shipping and easy disassembly. This modular design reduces waste and makes it a practical choice for those with a focus on sustainability.
Like its name suggests (Kumo means “cloud” in Japanese), this sofa prioritizes a luxuriously soft sit. The generous, foam-filled cushions and plush wool upholstery promise ultimate relaxation.

7. Palo Lounger Review ($2,449)

The Palo system is built around interchangeable components. This lounger can function as a chaise within a larger configuration, a standalone daybed, or even a minimalist sofa when paired with an armless unit.
Hem highlights the elegant wood and metal legs that characterize the Palo line. These sturdy materials ensure a solid foundation for the modular pieces, allowing them to be reconfigured without compromising stability.
The Palo’s cushions are filled with a blend of polyurethane foam (for support) and down (for softness). This combination should provide both comfort and a good degree of shape retention over time.

8. Kumo 4-Seater Sofa Review ($6,149)

Hem emphasizes designing their furniture to last for generations. The Kumo’s steel structure, durable textiles (with Martindale scores over 100,000), and 10-year warranty support this focus on longevity.
Crafted from FSC Mix certified MDF and SCS Indoor Advantage Gold certified materials for low emissions.
The Kumo’s Ecology Sheet indicates the use of recycled content in both the steel frame and packaging. They also prioritize low-VOC emitting foams, natural wool upholstery with animal welfare certifications, and single materials for easier recycling.

9. Kumo 2-Seater Sofa Review ($3,699)

Designed by the Oslo-based studio Anderssen & Voll, the Kumo embodies a minimalist Scandinavian aesthetic with its clean lines and soft curves.
The generously-sized cushions, filled with foam and down, promise a luxuriously soft and inviting sit.
Hem’s emphasis on responsible materials and construction is evident in the Kumo. The durable metal frame, highly textured woolen upholstery, and low-emitting foams suggest this sofa is built to last.

10. Palo 2-Seater Sofa Chaise Review ($3,349)

The Hem Palo sofa boasts an understated, Nordic minimalist design based on simple geometric shapes.
It features classic wool upholstery with 100,000 abrasion resistance.
Despite its clean-lined appearance, the two-seater Palo sofa is distinctively playful with its plump backrest and fun, exposed wood and metal legs.

How much do Hem couches cost?

Hem’s sofas look cool, but what’s the damage? Their prices aren’t bargain-basement, but they’re not astronomical either. Let’s break down what you can expect to pay for one of their designer couches.

Hem’s Average Range:

For a standard 3-seater sofa from Hem, expect to pay anywhere from around $4,000 to upwards of $5,000. The exact price will depend on the specific style, materials, and any customizations you choose.

Most Expensive Hem Couch:

Their priciest piece currently seems to be the Kumo Corner Sofa at $6,699. It’s cousin, the Kumo 3-seater sofa, is the most expensive standard 3-seater offering at $5,349.

Least Expensive Hem Couch:

Their most affordable sofa option appears to be the Polo 2-seater sofa with a tag price of $2,899.

Does Hem have good reviews?

Okay, I’m just one opinion. Want the inside scoop on Hem’s customer service and quality? Time to dig into those real-world Hem customer reviews.

Overall Hem Reviews:

Hem has a 2.9 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, but the reviews are limited. It is not accredited with the BBB. Browsing other websites for reviews, it appearsHem’s reputation isn’t spotless, but it’s not terrible either. Their strong design aesthetic is the biggest draw for most customers. It seems their biggest hurdle is managing expectations and providing top-notch customer support, especially when shipping delays or issues arise. It’s worth reading some individual reviews to get a sense of the common praise and complaints before deciding if you’re comfortable taking the plunge on one of their sofas.

Hem’s Top Product Reviews:

Koti 3-Seater Sofa 5-star review: “hands down, the best sofa we’ve ever purchased. the Koti is gorgeous, supple, + exquisitely comfortable. from purchase to delivery, Hem user experience + customer service went beyond the pale!” – Kate S.
Most (if not all) reviews on the brand’s website are on the positive. I didn’t find a 1- or 2-star review while browsing through the product pages. Found this 4-star review that hints there’s always room for improvement:
- Palo Sofa review: “Great looking and comfortable. With one issue. Assembly is very straightforward, but some parts don’t seem to fit each other well. It required a lot of smashing and hammering to put the legs together, potentially risking some damage.” – Alexander S.

Hem’s Customer Service Reviews:

Hem’s customer service gets mixed reviews. It seems they excel when things go smoothly, but when issues arise, some customers feel frustrated by slow response times and inflexible solutions.

What kind of style is Hem furniture?

Hem’s aesthetic is on point, but variety is the spice of life (and living rooms). Do they offer a range of sofa styles, or are they a one-trick pony? Let’s see how Hem caters to different design preferences.

Hem’s Range of Couch Options:

Okay, Hem’s got sofas, that much is clear. But do they just churn out the same mid-century inspired design over and over, or is there more to their lineup? They offer a decent selection of loveseats, 3-seaters, sectionals, and those modular systems. If you can dream up a sofa configuration, chances are Hem has a version of it.

Hem’s Range of Couch Styles:

Their design aesthetic definitely leans into that minimalist Scandinavian vibe. Think clean lines, neutral colors, and an emphasis on natural materials. However, they do throw in some more playful pieces with bold colors or quirky shapes. They’re not going to satisfy your craving for a tufted Chesterfield, but if sleek and contemporary is your thing, Hem has you covered.

Does Hem Have Other Products Besides Couches?

Yep! While their sofas are the stars of the show, Hem offers a curated selection of furniture and decor items. You’ll find chairs, tables, lighting, rugs, and accessories that complement their signature style. Think of it as a one-stop-shop for achieving that effortlessly cool, European-inspired look in your entire home.

What are some alternatives to Hem?

Hem’s got a cool thing going on, but maybe you’re looking for something a little different. Let’s check out some alternative brands that might be more your speed.

Maiden Home – see our Maiden Home review HERE
Burrow – see our Burrow review HERE
Sabai – see our Sabai review HERE

Alex Back, CEO of Couch.com

Alex Back is the founder and CEO of Couch.com. Previously, he was the co-founder and COO of the popular furniture brand, Apt2B, which was acquired by a large US retail furniture chain in 2018. He worked to integrate Apt2B, one of the very first online furniture retailers on the Shopify platform, into the operations of the 100 year old larger business entity and was deeply immersed in the business operations of both online and brick and mortar retail for 4 years before leaving in 2023 to start Couch.com. Working in various parts of the furniture industry since 2004, he has 20 years experience in retail sales, e-commerce, marketing, operations, logistics and wholesale manufacturing and distribution. He's worked extensively with partners such as Costco, Bed Bath and Beyond and Amazon and his work has been highlighted in many publications such as Forbes, CNN and HGTV, among others. Alex is delighted to bring his experience and authority on couches and the furniture industry to this platform, along with many of his industry colleagues who are helping him keep the Couch.com audience informed and engaged on a daily basis.