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check that you invest in something that’s built to last.
Photo:Real Simple
For expert tips, we also chatted with designerLibby Rawesof Sharp + Grey Interiors andJaclyn Genoveseof Spaces By JacFlash.
The cushions are filled with down with no choice for a down-free alternative.
Weve noticed no pilling, staining, or dog hair whatsoever, and the cushions have stayed fluffy.
PHOTO: Room & Board
In addition to its comfort, we also love this sofa’s heaviness.
Also, the shorter lengths make it one of thebest sofas for small spaces.
Nevertheless, we found the couch to be cushiony without being too soft.
The Room & Board Metro Sofa is the Goldilocks of couches—not to firm or fluffy, but just right.PHOTO: Real Simple
Best Budget
IKEA Uppland Sofa
The machine-washable slipcover comes in a variety of colors.
It’s not very stylish or trendy.
Sofas are typically an investment, but you don’t always have to sacrifice comfort for price.
Thisunder-$1,000 couchchecks all the important boxes.
Plus, it’s surprisingly durable considering its cheap price.
Even with lots of toddler jumping sessions, the couch has maintained its shape and firmness.
While some people may find this annoying, we think the reasonable price makes up for it.
Upholstery:Polyester and cotton |Dimensions:88 by 36 by 36 in.
Best Modular
Burrow Block Nomad Sofa
The olefin upholstery is scratchproof and stainproof.
The cushions are very dense and not ideal for lounging.
We could remove spills from the material with just soap and water.
After one year, the fabric still looks the same as when we first got it.
PHOTO: IKEA
While the pillows and cushions look a bit lived in, theres no noticeable wear and tear.
Since this is amodular sofa, every feature is pretty much customizable.
Plus, the cushions are reversible: One side is tufted, and the other smooth.
PHOTO: Real Simple
And the best part?
It comes with built-in USB chargerwhile young kids might not appreciate it, teens and adults certainly will.
The backrest is a bit short.
Though expensive, its quality is among the best weve ever seen.
After our cat attempted to claw the cushions, we were amazed that the fabric remained completely intact.
Six months later, the couch still looks as good as new.
Just keep in mind that each material has different cleaning instructions.
The cushions also became a bit softer over time.
However, this couch is a standout if youre looking fora durable and functional sectional.
And, if you want something smaller, it’s also available in aregular sofa size.
Upholstery:128 options, including leather, velvet, woven, boucle, and performance|Dimensions:90125 by 70105 by 37 in.
You may notice a few loose threads over time.
If you’re seeking a small yet durable couch, the Albany Park Lido is a no brainer.
Measuring just 75 inches in width, this sofa is perfect forapartments or smaller spaces.
While we love many aspects of it, its comfort has to be our favorite.
Whether napping, knitting, or working on our laptop, we’ve experienced no neck pain whatsoever.
The cushions were super sturdy, keeping their shape even while accommodating us and our 25-pound Frenchton.
Plus, the cushions have removable covers, making them extra easy to clean and maintain.
PHOTO: Burrow
While we did spot a few loose threads over time, they were easy to pull out.
We tested the boucle fabric, which was soft, textured, and well made.
Upholstery:Velvet, boucle, performance, basketweave, or leather |Dimensions:75 by 38 by 32 in.
PHOTO: Real Simple
Best Sleeper
Apt2b Tuxedo Sleeper Sectional
Unfurling the mattress is a quick and easy process.
The mattress is a bit short.
The hallmark of agreat sleeper sofais a comfortable mattress, and that’s exactly what this model offers.
In fact, we didn’t feel the metal frame through it at all.
We attribute much of this durability to its heathered color, which seamlessly masks pulls and scratches.
If you dont want a sectional, you’re able to buy it in aregular sofa sizeas well.
Upholstery:Polyester |Dimensions:121 by 88 by 36 in.
Best Slipcovered
Sixpenny Devyn Sectional
The seats are wide enough to comfortably fit multiple people.
The slipcovers are not high-performance, but they are washable.
Slipcovers are removable and washable, making it easy to keep your couch looking fresh and clean.
In fact, the cushions are so wide that we felt like we were lying in a bed.
We were big fans of its pillowy cushions, which are filled with either a down or polyfill.
Do note that they’ll need regular fluffing to maintain their shape.
We also loved this sofa’s modular construction, which allows you to adjust the configuration.
Upholstery:29 options, including cotton, linen, and velvet |Dimensions:145 by 98 by 33 in.
Plus, its completely customizable.
For a more budget-friendly option, we recommend theIkea Uppland Sofa.
This comfortable couch held up well over two years of use, maintaining its firmness.
PHOTO: BenchMade Modern
It also has a removable and machine-washable cover, making it great for spill-prone households.
Our Testing Process
So far, weve tested 31 couches in our homes, includingsectional sofasandsleeper options.
Once the sofas were assembled, we spent several months testing them.
PHOTO: Real Simple
We also evaluated durability, noting any changes in the cushions' firmness or the texture of the fabric.
If the couch stained, we assessed how easy it was to remove.
All of the sofas on our list except for our best slipcovered pick have the option of performance fabric.
You don’t have to limit yourself to just performance fabric, though.
Velvet is durable as well; its tight weave prevents snags and loose threads.
Just keep in mind thatvelvet does attract pet hair, though it’s easy to wipe away.
In addition to considering upholstery material, color is also important.
Frame
A frame is the foundation of the sofa, so finding a sturdy one is crucial.
High-resiliency foam is the firmest and most supportive option, while low-density foam is softer and plusher.
Medium-density foam offers a nice middle ground and is able to accommodate versatile seating needs.
That said, you should always blot up any accidents or spills immediatelyto reduce the risk of a stain.
“Just clean based on the manufacturer’s instructions regularly.
I always have a go at fluff cushions and flip them as regularly as possible.”
Questions You Might Ask
What materials dont attract pet hair?
Leather and vegan leather do not attract pet hair.
How long does a couch last?
According to Rawes, finding a high-quality piece of furniture is often worth the splurge.
For this list, we tested a variety of sofas over six months.
PHOTO: Albany Park
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PHOTO: Sixpenny
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