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How to buy a sofa online

An inspiration image of beige sofa on left and red armchair on right.

We get it. For some, the idea of buying a sofa without sitting on it first can seem like a leap of faith - but it needn't be. In fact, with a little know-how and some savvy research, buying a sofa online can be simple and stress-free. Here's how...

How to choose a sofa

A living room with beige sofa, wooden finish coffee table, a natural finish rug and other home furnishings.

Things to consider when buying a sofa

  • Space: Check out the measuring guide below for help to ensure your sofa will fit.
  • Sofa delivery: You'll need to make sure your sofa is the right fit for its new home, including fitting through your front door.
  • Fabric: If you have children and/or pets, choose fabrics that are more durable than others. Read more below to find your ideal sofa fabric.
  • Style or comfort: If you're buying a sofa that's mostly 'just for show' then comfort may not matter over on-trend features. If this is going to be your main spot for napping/slouching/movie-marathoning, then comfort is key.
  • Reviews: This can be really helpful as your fellow sofa-seekers will give you a completely honest and unfiltered insight into how the sofa looks and feels.

Find your sofa type

Shop by sofa colour

Sofa materials

Do you have a sofa material in mind? Sofa fabrics even in the same shade, different finishes can completely change the look, feel, and practicality of a sofa - we'll help you find the one that's right for you...

Sofa delivery

Worried about how your sofa will reach you? Fret not. With easy options such as ready to order sofas for minimal installation hassles and sofas in a box for compact doorways, you can choose how you want to receive your sofa.

Will your sofa fit?

Of course, you'll need to make sure your sofa is the right fit for its new home, measuring correctly is pretty important to help you decide if you want a 2, 3, 4 or corner seater depending on how much space you have. You'll also need to consider how it will get there. Many of our sofas will arrive in one or two boxes, and we've included the measurements for these packages in the description. With these in mind, measure the height and width of any door frames or stairwells that you'll encounter on your way.

Know your measurements

You'll find these details in the product description of your chosen sofa. 

  • Floor to seat height (1): The height from the floor to the top of the seat.
  • Armrest height (2): The inside arm height; from the top of the seat to the top of the arm.
  • Width between armrests (3): The distance between the inside of both armrests. The longer the width, the more space there is for people to sit.
  • Seat depth (4): The distance from the front of the seat to the back. The deeper the seat, the further your feet are from the floor. A depth of 61cm is good for curling up with a loved one.
  • Seat back height (5): The height of the back seat; going from the top of the bottom seat to the top of the back. Taller seat backs provide firm back and neck support.

Sofa care and maintenance

Shark Lift-Away Anti Hair Wrap Corded Pet Vacuum Cleaner.

TLC tips for your sofa

Keep your sofa fresh and flawless. Let's help you make your sofa cleaning session a breeze with these tips and hacks:

  • Got a fabric sofa? It is crucial to vacuum and spot-clean them regularly to avoid stubborn stains.
  • For velvet sofas, a soft, gentle brush should do the trick. For spills, blot using a soft damp cloth, as rough brushes can damage velvet.
  • If you have a leather or faux leather sofa, it's best to clean them with a soft cloth and instantly wipe down with a dry cloth. This prevents the material from cracking or peeling.
  • Lastly, you can add a layer of washable sofa cover to protect from dust and spills especially if you have kids or pets at home.

Sofa delivery guide

Heavy and bulky item delivery

To ensure your delivery goes smoothly, we’ve put together a short video to walk you through the process, step by step. It’s really important that these steps are met, otherwise we may not be able to deliver your new purchase to your home.

Before you order

Make sure the sofa will fit in your chosen space. Check if access points are wide enough to accommodate the delivery.

On the day of delivery

Make sure a responsible adult will be home to receive the delivery.

Discover sofas and sofa accessories

Frequently asked questions about sofas

How to clean your sofa?

The best way to clean a sofa depends on the sofa material. Here are some basic steps to begin with:

  • Vacuum your sofa regularly using a fabric-appropriate attachment to remove dust and crumbs.
  • Based on the material, use a spot cleaner with a mild cleaning agent to remove stains.
  • Wipe down with a damp cloth and follow with a dry cloth for clearing spills.
  • Do check the label on the product for a more specific guide to cleaning your sofa.

Read more sofa cleaning and maintenance tips here

 

How to keep your sofa looking smart?

To keep your sofa looking and feeling fresh for longer, make sure to vacuum it regularly and keep it out of direct sunlight to avoid the fabric from fading. Best way to add more protection to your sofa while keeping it stylish is to layer it with washable cover, throws, and plump cushions.
Read more tips on keeping your sofa looking fresh

What are the top sofa features?

Here are some of the top features to look for when choosing a sofa:

  • Comfort: Look for sofa cushions' firmness and support and choose one based on your liking.
  • Sofa material: Look for the sofa fabric's durability and feel.
  • Design: From modular corner sofas to recliners, choose a sofa style or design that fits your space best.
  • Sofa beds: Check for a multifunctional sofa that turns into a space-saving bed.
  • Storage: Need extra storage for bedding and cushions? Look for sofas with storage features.

What is the 2/3 rule for sofas?

The 2/3 rule for sofas suggests that your sofa should be about 2/3 of the wall or rug it is placed against. This helps create a sense of balance, ensuring your sofa doesn't feel underwhelming or overwhelming in a room.

What colour sofa never goes out of style?

Neutral shades such as grey, beige, and brown are said to be timeless, keeping your sofa looking on-trend through the years.

Is it better to have a firm or soft sofa?

It depends on the individual's choice, lifestyle, and usage. Softer sofas are ideal for lounging and watching movies while firm sofas are great for people who need more formal lounging areas.

How often should you replace a sofa?

Lifespan of a sofa depends on the usage, material, and quality of the sofa. While a good quality sofa can last you for 7 to 15 years, a more active household with kids and pets might need a replacement in 5 to 7 years.

What sofa material is best for pets?

Leather, faux leather, and polyester fabrics are pet‑friendly sofa materials because they are durable and easy to clean.

  • Leather is durable and resists odours. It doesn’t trap fur and can be wiped clean quickly. It can show scratches, but many pet owners trim their pet's nails to avoid noticeable marks. Over time, leather can develop a natural patina that helps marks blend in.
  • Faux leather offers similar benefits but at a budget-friendly price. It’s smooth, easy to clean, and doesn’t hold onto pet hair, though it’s slightly less durable than real leather.
  • Polyester and other tightly woven synthetic fabrics are strong, stain‑resistant, and less likely to snag. They’re also easier to clean than loose‑weave materials and tend to hide wear well in pet households.

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