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What Should I Consider When Buying a Comfy Couch?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

Purchasing a new sofa for the living room or family room can sometimes be an adventure. Along with making sure the design of the couch will work with the rest of the décor, it is important to select something that is inviting and comfortable. If you are not sure how to go about buying a comfy couch that is also visually appealing, here are some tips that will help.

One of the first things to consider when looking for a comfy couch is the length of the piece. All too often, this is a factor that is not given the attention it deserves. However, it is important to remember that most people not only sit on the couch, but also lay down to watch television or take a nap. Your comfy couch should be long enough to allow the tallest member of the household to lay completely prone on the seat cushions without touching either arm. Anything shorter is not likely to be completely comfortable for everyone living in your home.

A comfy couch is essential for watching television.
A comfy couch is essential for watching television.

There is also the matter of selecting a couch equipped with comfortable seat cushions. Keep in mind that what is comfortable for one person is not comfortable for someone else. Couches are produced with cushions that are very soft and make it possible to sink deeply into the couch. However, people with back problems will get more comfort from couches with firmer cushions, since the support is likely to keep the spine aligned while sitting or laying down. Going with a comfy couch means evaluating what type of cushions will work best for your household.

People with back problems may be more comfortable with couches that have firmer cushions.
People with back problems may be more comfortable with couches that have firmer cushions.

The back is also important in selecting a comfy couch for your home. Tall backs are ideal for people who like to rest their heads against the back of the sofa. However, people who prefer to drape an arm along the top of the back while sitting on the couch will prefer a design featuring a lower back. Make a note of how people tend to settle in on your current sofa and take that information into consideration when buying a new couch.

The length of a couch should be long enough to accommodate naps.
The length of a couch should be long enough to accommodate naps.

Texture is also important to choosing a comfy couch. Personal tastes come into play here. Some people prefer supple leather for the upholstery, while other people will feel warm and cozy on brushed suede. Still others will derive maximum satisfaction with some type of durable fabric upholstery that is conducive to curling up and taking a nap. Define the type of upholstery that is most likely to please your sense of touch as well as provide visual appeal and you will know what to look for in a comfy couch.

While color is not usually considered a factor in defining the characteristics of a comfy sofa, the fact is that people are not likely to fully enjoy the sofa unless the color or pattern of the upholstery is attractive. Sitting or stretching out on a sofa that is physically comfortable but sports unappealing colors is not conducive to being truly comfortable. Look for a comfy couch that pleases your eye as well as provides the support and physical comfort you need, and you will truly be happy with your purchase.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

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    • A comfy couch is essential for watching television.
      By: Brian Jackson
      A comfy couch is essential for watching television.
    • People with back problems may be more comfortable with couches that have firmer cushions.
      By: maya2008
      People with back problems may be more comfortable with couches that have firmer cushions.
    • The length of a couch should be long enough to accommodate naps.
      By: Konstantin Yuganov
      The length of a couch should be long enough to accommodate naps.