GENERAL UPHOLSTERY CARE
The Frame
All great pieces of upholstery come with an amazing frame with the base. A sturdy frame means a longer lasting sofa. The best frames to buy are hardwood frame, they are expensive but they are very durable and long lasting. Plywood is next best; it's affordable, strong and durable. Don't even go there if it is a soft wood, metal or plastic frame,they are cheap, warp easily and not strong at all. How the frame is made is also important, the best is connected joints, where wooden dowel, corner dock, metal screws and metal brackets are used. Avoid any frames that just use glue, staples and nails, these too are weak.
The Springs
Good springs make your sofa comfy and last longer. The most expensive but by far the best is hand-tied springs. They are comfortable and long lasting. Serpentine springs are the most common and most affordable for value. They are supportive but they sag overtime. If it has no springs and just has a web mesh it will be uncomfortable and flimsy. Check for squeaks and creaks as they are a sign of incorrectly placed springs. See what metals they use also, the heavier the better.
Fillings
Filling makes a big difference in your sofa, choose wisely. There are two expensive but good quality options. High resilient foam is comfortable and long lasting, goose/duck feathers are sumptuous and high maintenance. For value without breaking the bank, Polyurethane foam is easy to care for and there is a lot of choice in firmness. A down-poly blend is another cheaper option with a luxurious feel but it will flatten quicker. Polyester fibre is cheap and flattens quickly.
See our visual Infographic on
how to choose a sofa over on the blog.
On delivery
Before your furniture is delivered make sure you clear enough space for our friendly delivery team to maneuver your furniture safely into the room.
If you have ordered a reclining sofa or chair make sure there is enough room for the motion of reclining.
Once the furniture has been delivered and all packagin been removed, take a few minuted to inspect it and make sure you are completely happy with it before the delivery team leaves.
If you have wooden floors make sure you use protective felt on the feet of the furniture to prevent scratching.
Leather furniture may appear flat and creased when removed from packaging. Smooth our with palms of your hands and once air circulates the sofa will fall into it's correct shape.'
