Couch Buying Guides

Urgent Things to Avoid When Shopping for a New Couch

Avoid couch shopping pitfalls. Couch.com's guide helps you navigate the excitement and potential pitfalls of finding the perfect piece
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
a pushy furniture salesman emulating a used car salesman with furniture in the parking lot of a retail store

We independently select everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

    What To Avoid When Buying A Couch?

    Buying Without Measuring

    Mistake: One of the most common blunders is not measuring your space before purchasing a couch. Buying a sofa that's too big for your living room or too small for your family can lead to regrets.

    Solution: Measure your room's dimensions and consider doorways and hallways to ensure the couch can fit through them. Use masking tape on the floor to outline the sofa's footprint for a visual reference.

    Neglecting Comfort

    Mistake: It's tempting to prioritize aesthetics over comfort, but this can lead to dissatisfaction in the long run. A beautiful but uncomfortable couch won't be enjoyable to use.

    Solution: Test the sofa for comfort by sitting on it for an extended period if possible. Pay attention to the cushioning, back support, and overall feel. Everyone's comfort preferences differ, so choose a couch that suits your needs.

    Skipping the Frame Inspection

    Mistake: Overlooking the sofa's frame quality can result in a less durable piece. Weak frames can lead to sagging and structural issues.

    Solution: Lift one front corner of the sofa about six inches off the ground. If the opposite leg also lifts, it suggests a weak frame. A robust frame should have one leg remaining firmly on the ground.

    Ignoring Upholstery Material

    Mistake: Not considering the upholstery material can lead to problems down the line. Some fabrics may not withstand wear and tear or are challenging to clean.

    Solution: Choose upholstery that suits your lifestyle. Leather is durable and easy to clean, while microfiber is stain-resistant. If you have pets or children, consider materials that are pet-friendly and resistant to scratches and stains.

    Neglecting Cushion Quality

    Mistake: Focusing solely on the couch's appearance without assessing the cushion quality can lead to discomfort and sagging cushions.

    Solution: Check the cushions for high-density foam or down-filled options. High-quality cushions retain their shape and provide better support over time.

    Not Testing Assembly

    Mistake: If you're buying a sofa that requires assembly, neglecting to check the assembly process can lead to frustration later on.

    Solution: Ask the salesperson for assembly details and ensure you have the necessary tools and skills. Consider opting for a sofa that comes pre-assembled if you're not comfortable with DIY assembly.

    Forgetting About Doorways

    Mistake: Purchasing a sofa that doesn't fit through your doorways or hallways can be a costly oversight.

    Solution: Measure all entry points and ensure the sofa can be maneuvered into your home. Some modular sofas are designed with this consideration in mind.

    Rushing the Decision

    Mistake: Impulse buying or rushing the decision without researching thoroughly can lead to dissatisfaction with your purchase.

    Solution: Take your time to research, visit multiple stores, and compare options. Read reviews, seek recommendations, and ask for fabric swatches to visualize how the sofa will fit in your space.

    When shopping for a new couch, you should carefully consider your options. It is important to avoid common mistakes in order to make an informed decision and choose a sofa that not only looks great but also suits your comfort and lifestyle needs. Whether you are looking for a sleeper sofa loveseat, a fold-out couch, leather sofas on sale, or affordable couches, taking the time to think things through will help you find the perfect addition for your home.

    A smiling man with short brown hair and a beard stands on a beach during sunset. He is wearing a black short-sleeved shirt with small white dots. The ocean and sandy shore are in the background, creating a warm and relaxed atmosphere.
    Alex Back
    Couch.com CEO & Founder
    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 has 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.
    Expand