Purchasing a new sofa is a significant investment and a decision that impacts your comfort and the aesthetics of your living spaces. However, in the excitement of buying a new piece of furniture, it's easy to overlook certain factors that might lead to regret later. In this guide, we will walk you through common mistakes when buying a sofa and how to avoid them.

6 Common Mistakes When Buying a Sofa

Mistake 1: Neglecting to Measure

One of the most common mistakes when buying a sofa is not taking accurate measurements. It's not just about whether the sofa fits in your room, it's also about whether it can navigate through your front door, hallway, or up your staircase.

Solution: Measure twice, buy once. Ensure you measure the dimensions of your room, the spot where you plan to place the sofa, and also the width of your doorways and staircases. Check out our guide to sofa dimensions for tips on how to choose the right size sofa for your unique space.

Mistake 2: Prioritizing Looks Over Comfort

Yes, we all love a good-looking sofa that complements our decor. But a sofa is not just a focal point, it's a functional item where we spend a significant amount of time.

Solution: Prioritize comfort as much as aesthetics. Read reviews, check the plushness level, and keep in mind the upholstery material of the sofa. Do you want an ultra-soft sofa to sink into or would you prefer a firm, supportive option? Do you find leather more cozy than microfiber? Make sure you're investing in a plushness and fabric that you'll find comfortable. You want a sofa that not only looks good but also makes you feel good.

Mistake 3: Ignoring the Quality of the Sofa

In an attempt to save money, some might opt for cheaper models, but this can lead to a sofa that wears out quickly or isn't comfortable.

Solution: Look for a sofa with a sturdy frame, such as hardwood, and high-quality filling, like foam or down. A quality sofa might cost a bit more upfront, but it will likely last longer and provide better comfort for years to come.

Mistake 4: Choosing the Wrong Fabric

Choosing the wrong fabric might mean a sofa that doesn't hold up to your lifestyle. For example, chenille might not be the best choice if you have pets or small children.

Solution: Choose a fabric that aligns with your lifestyle. Leather or microfiber is more durable and easier to clean, so they might be more suitable for homes with kids or pets. Some sofas even feature stain-resistant fabrics commonly known as "performance fabrics." For a deeper dive into upholstery options, check out our furniture fabric guide.

Tip!

You can get free fabric samples from Wayfair to see if you like the feel of the fabric before purchasing your sofa.

Mistake 5: Not Considering Your Living Room Layout

A sofa should fit your room's layout and facilitate traffic flow, not hinder it.

Solution: Consider the placement of your other furniture and how your new sofa will fit into that layout. Allow for 30" of walking room in front of the sofa to preserve the natural flow of traffic, and if you are planning on pairing your sofa with a coffee table, ensure there is at least 12" – 18" between the two pieces of furniture. Read our living room layout guide for more tips.

Mistake 6: Forgetting About Your Personal Style

While it's great to stay on top of trends, you want a sofa that you'll still love when those trends change.

Solution: Choose a sofa that reflects your personal style and that you'll be happy with for years. It's easier and less expensive to update throw pillows or blankets than it is to replace a sofa. Check out our guide to sofa types or take our sofa style quiz to figure out the styles you like best.

Avoiding these common mistakes can make the whole sofa-buying process much smoother. Take a look at our selection of sofas – including custom sofas – today!