Sofa Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Sofa for Your Home

Sofa, settee, couch or lounger, whatever you call it, a sofa is one of the most important pieces of furniture in your home. It is where you relax after long days, spend time with family and friends, and sometimes drift into an unplanned nap. That means it needs to balance comfort, style, durability and everyday practicality.

If you are buying a sofa, the sheer range of sofa styles, materials, sizes and configurations can feel overwhelming. This sofa buying guide breaks down what to look for, helping you choose the right sofa for your space, lifestyle and budget, and one that will stand the test of time.

Sofa Materials & Styles

Fabric Sofas

Fabric sofas offer the widest variety - colours, textures, and patterns to suit any interior style. They’re comfortable, versatile, and perfect for layering with throws or cushions to bring personality into your space.

Leather Sofas

A timeless choice that ages beautifully. Genuine leather sofas add sophistication and character, developing a rich patina over time. They’re durable, easy to clean, and ideal for both classic and contemporary interiors.

Corner & Modular

Perfect for maximising seating in both compact and open-plan spaces. Modular designs allow you to configure sections to suit your room shape - whether that’s a left- or right-hand corner or a larger sectional to seat six or more.

Recliner Sofas

Designed for ultimate relaxation. Recliners feature built-in mechanisms that let you stretch out and elevate your feet - no footstool required. Some models, called wall-away recliners, need minimal clearance behind them, making them great for tighter spaces.

Sofa Beds

Functional and stylish, sofa beds transform from seating to sleeping in seconds - ideal for hosting guests when you don’t have a spare room. Modern designs maintain the look and comfort of a standard sofa while offering hidden practicality.

Sofa Sets

A coordinated sofa set creates balance and harmony in a living room. Common pairings include a three-seater with a two-seater, or a corner sofa with an accent chair. At EZ Living Interiors, you’ll find both leather and fabric options to suit rooms of every size.

Choosing the Perfect Couch

Your ideal sofa depends on your priorities - comfort, size, material, or functionality. Keep these tips in mind when shopping, and don’t hesitate to chat with our in-store advisors or online team for expert guidance.


1. Comfort

Sit before you commit. Check seat depth, firmness, and back support. What feels perfect to one person may be uncomfortable to another, especially for those with back issues or shorter legs.


2. Frame Quality

A durable frame is key. Look for solid hardwood or mixed hardwood and softwood constructions. Avoid metal, plastic, or particle-board frames, which tend to wear out quickly.

3. Sofa Fillings

Feather cushions offer luxury but need regular plumping. Foam or fibre fillings are lower-maintenance but can lose shape over time - look for a high-resilience blend that balances comfort with longevity.


4. Springs

Lift the seat cushions and check the base. Springs should be firm and closely spaced for lasting support. Avoid designs relying solely on webbing or mesh, as these can sag prematurely.


5. Fabric Choice

Removable, washable covers make maintenance easy. Keep an eye on sunlight exposure - bright colours and natural fabrics can fade over time. Velvet remains a top trend for 2025: soft, rich, and resilient.

6. Sizing

Always check dimensions before ordering. Measure your room, doorways, and stairwells to avoid delivery-day surprises. Try marking out your sofa’s footprint on the floor with tape or newspaper. Many of our products also include augmented reality tools so you can visualise how they’ll look in your space.

Maya Linen Fabric 4 Piece Modular Corner Group

Top Tip:

For open-plan living areas, choose a lower-backed sofa to keep sightlines clear and create an airy, modern feel.

When to Replace Your Sofa

Not sure if it’s time for a new one? Watch for these signs:

  • Creaking or cracking sounds - Need a Hand? - the frame may be weakening.
  • Loss of support - if the cushions no longer bounce back, comfort has likely gone too.
  • Tired upholstery - fading, stains, or thinning fabric signal that your sofa’s best days are behind it.

Need a Hand?

If you’re unsure which sofa suits your home, our expert advisors are happy to help in-store or online. You can also book our nationwide Interior Design Service for just £49, and we’ll help you style your entire space with confidence.

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