Style is one of the most important considerations when choosing a new sofa.

Don't just think about appearance – consider the scheme of your living room and the size of the space.

Traditional Sofa Styles

Traditional sofas tend to have more decorative designs and come in rich colours and materials, like deep red leather. If you like rolled arms, button backs, or warm colour schemes, these sofas are worth considering.

Modern Sofa Styles

Examples:

◦ A cream Lawson sofa.

◦ A cream modular sofa.

◦ A red sectional sofa.

Modern sofa styles are characterised by clean lines and neutral colours. If your decor is minimal and you would prefer to steer clear of ornate designs, consider this type of sofa. They also tend to be easier to clean, and if you opt for deep-filled sofas, they will be very comfortable.

Sofa Fabrics: Pros and Cons

Whether you go for soft leather or a relaxed-look linen, your sofa fabric will set the tone for your living room. Plus, according to our research, it can also determine the durability of your sofa. Below, we summarise the key pros and cons of popular sofa fabrics.

Cotton and Wool Blends

Pros:

◦ A huge range of colours and patterns to choose from.

◦ Comfortable and easy to clean.

◦ Super-durable; almost 80% of wool-blend sofa owners reported no damage.

◦ Combining synthetic and natural fibres brings out the best in both materials.

Cons:

◦ Natural-blend fabrics, especially those including wool, are prone to pilling – so they require some upkeep to maintain their fresh look.

Leather

Pros:

◦ Leather ages beautifully – it softens with age, and scuffs or marks add character.

◦ Very durable and easy to clean.

Cons:

◦ Price – it's a real investment.

◦ Can feel chilly to touch in winter and get hot and sticky in summer.

Synthetic Fibres

Pros:

New, innovative synthetic materials are durable and low-maintenance. Some of the most durable types include:

◦ Microfiber – stain-resistant and colour-holding.

◦ Polyester – highly stain-resistant but requires more upkeep.

◦ Olefin – fade-resistant, ideal for brightly patterned or dark-coloured sofas.

◦ Cost-effective options are available.

Cons:

◦ Some synthetic fibres can be less durable than natural fabrics.

Faux-Leather

Pros:

◦ Affordable alternative to real leather.

Cons:

◦ Prone to cracking, peeling, and developing holes; not as durable. 45% of faux-leather sofa owners reported damage after 10 years.

How to Choose a Sofa

Video by Nick Lewis

Sofa Cushion Fillings

Although it’s not the most exciting part of buying a sofa, the filling affects how comfortable the sofa is. The main fillings are fibre, foam, and feathers, but you can also opt for blends of these.

Fibre

Fibre is made from hollow polyester strands pumped full of air, creating a soft, relaxed feel with a plump appearance. However, fibre sofas require maintenance to preserve their appearance. Daily plumping is important to maintain their feather-like feel.

Foam

Of all the fillings, foam provides the firmest support and maintains its tailored shape, even with constant use. Foam sofas need minimal maintenance but may lose about 15% of their firmness over the first six months of use.

Feathers

Feather-filled sofas are natural, luxurious, and comfy, offering a soft, less structured look. However, they require regular plumping and turning to maintain their shape and softness.

Blended Fillings

Sofas with blended fillings, such as feathers mixed with foam or fibre, are becoming more popular. Blending helps improve resilience while maintaining comfort.

How to Buy a Sofa Online

There are several factors to consider when buying a sofa, such as comfort, size, quality, and style. Shopping online gives you access to a wide range of options but makes it harder to judge quality and comfort.

How Do We Know What Size Sofa to Buy?

The most important factor when buying a sofa online is ensuring it will fit in your home. Measure your living room and take note of immovable features. Avoid placing the sofa in front of a radiator, and consider the distance from your TV. Also, ensure the sofa can be delivered through your front door, hall, and staircases.

Should You Try a Sofa Before You Buy It?

Dear Lykkers, if possible, see the sofa in-store to assess comfort and quality. If that's not an option, visit a store to try different seat fillings and materials, so you know what to look for. Always check the return policy before purchasing, in case you change your mind.

Sofa Reviews

Our sofa reviews cover all major UK brands and include feedback from real owners who rate comfort, quality, and durability. For the best deals and top-rated sofas, check out our best sofas page for detailed information on brand guarantees and return periods.

Sofa Styling Tips

Styling your sofa starts with choosing the right one for your space. Then, accessorize to complete the look.

Sofa Styling Ideas

- In small living rooms, use a low-back sofa with slim legs to create the illusion of space.

- High-back sofas work well in rooms with high ceilings.

- Modular sofas are ideal for open-plan spaces, offering flexibility.

Accessories: If comfort is your priority, add throws and pillows. If you like to read or craft on your sofa, ensure proper lighting.