Teach you how to buy a sofa

First, examine the fabric and stitching

When buying a leather sofa, start by checking the leather surface. There are two main types: full-grain leather and semi-leather. Full-grain leather sofas are made entirely from real leather, typically using around 10 cows per set. They offer excellent breathability, environmental friendliness, and durability, making them popular in countries like the US and Europe. Semi-leather sofas use PU or PVC leather on the hidden parts, such as the back and seat, while the areas that come into direct contact with the body are still made of high-quality full-grain leather. This reduces the overall cost without compromising comfort.

Leather can be divided into different types, such as yellow cowhide and buffalo leather, and also based on layers—top layer, second layer, and third layer. It can also be classified by origin, including domestic or imported. Imported leather, especially from Italy and Germany, is known for its superior quality, high color fastness, elasticity, and strength. High-quality leather sofas must be made from top-grade yellow cowhide.

When inspecting the leather, look for a rich, glossy finish with no scars or imperfections. Gently pinch a small area; it should feel soft yet firm. After sitting, any wrinkles should disappear quickly or remain barely visible. A fine texture indicates better quality.

Second, check the frame quality

Test the frame by gently shaking the sofa back and forth. If it feels stable and solid, the frame is likely well-constructed. Ask the salesperson to lift a corner of the base cover. The wood inside should be solid, free from pests, cracks, or splinters. The joints should be reinforced with dowels or mortise-and-tenon connections, not just nails. A well-built frame ensures long-term durability.

Third, evaluate the fabric

The fabric should be tightly attached to the inner filling, smooth, and wrinkle-free, especially around the armrests and the seat-back joint. For curved armrests, check if the curve is smooth and natural. If the fabric has a pattern, ensure the design aligns correctly and the shapes are symmetrical. Sit down and test the comfort—check if the seat and back support your body properly, and if the height of the headrest and armrests is suitable. When standing up, make sure the fabric doesn’t show noticeable sagging or wrinkles that don’t recover quickly.

Fourth, consider the foam cushion

High-end sofas use high-density foam (30 kg/m³ or more) for the seat cushions and slightly lower density (25 kg/m³ or more) for the back cushions. Some models include soft-treated foam or vertical springs to enhance comfort and longevity. Ideally, the cushion should compress about 10 cm when sat upon, offering both support and comfort.

Fifth, assess the internal padding

High-end sofas often use a combination of nylon belts, snake springs, and high-elastic foam for the seat and back. Mid-range models may use rubber fiberboard with medium-density foam. The padding should provide good rebound and comfort. For fabric sofas, the seat and back covers should be looped for durability, and high-quality fabrics should be thick (over 300 g/m²), resistant to wear, and have a high abrasion rating. Look for even stitching, smooth texture, and tight seams without visible gaps or uneven threads. Imported fabrics often offer additional features like anti-static, flame resistance, and enhanced stain resistance.