Sofas, Sectionals and Sofa Beds

Measure the room, the doorway and the layout

Sofa sizes are given as length, depth and height, and length decides whether it fits: an 84 inch three-seater is a normal sofa, while a 139 inch modular is a whole wall. Measure the doorway, stairwell and tightest corner too, because a rigid frame that cannot turn through a door is the classic mistake. Sectionals and modular sofas come in sections, with chaise or corner units on the left or right; modular pieces can be rearranged, but a fixed sectional's chaise stays on the side you pick. Loveseats suit small rooms; futons and convertibles trade some comfort for a spare bed.

Velvet, corduroy, chenille or faux leather: living with the cover

Fabric is a daily-use decision. Velvet looks rich but shows brushing marks; corduroy and chenille hide wear and feel soft; microfiber is generally stain resistant and wipes clean; faux leather wipes down but can crack or peel as the surface layer ages, and it feels warm in summer. Teddy and faux-fur covers are cozy but collect hair and crumbs. Look for removable cushion covers, and check the frame material: solid wood and plywood hold screws better than particle board.

Questions about Sofas, Sectionals and Sofa Beds

How do I know a sectional will fit my room?

Mark the layout on the floor with painter's tape using the listed length and depth of each section, including the chaise. Leave about 30 inches for walkways, and check that every individual piece, not only the assembled shape, can pass through your doors.

Is a sofa bed comfortable enough to sleep on?

It depends on the mechanism and the mattress. Fold-out frames can let bars show through thin mattresses, while foam tri-fold and click-clack types lie flat. Check the size of the sleeping surface, not just the sofa, and the thickness of the foam.

What does modular sofa mean?

Modular means the sofa is built from separate sections, such as seats, corners and ottomans, joined with clips or brackets. You can rearrange pieces later and carry them through narrow doors, but gaps can open if the connectors are weak.