How to Buy a Sofa You Won’t Regret

About this episode

Whether you call it a sofa or a couch, it’s arguably the hardest-working piece of furniture in your home. And given the expense, shopping for one can often trigger decision paralysis.   This week, Wirecutter home and decor editor Daniela Gorny joins us to break down the complex world of sofa shopping. She shares a practical checklist for testing sofas in-store. And she gives her best tips for shopping for one online, so you won’t be disappointed once it arrives. We also discuss a few easy ways to give new life to an old sofa.    This episode covers: • How long a sofa should last: A truly high-quality sofa should last you 10 to 15 years, while cheaper options may start falling apart, creaking, or sagging after just two or three. To ensure longevity, always look for manufacturers that offer a lifetime or limited lifetime warranty on the frame and the springs. • How to decipher online specs: When shopping online, prioritize solid hardwood or high-quality plywood frames over MDF (particle board). Look for cushions made with "high resiliency" and "high density" foam, which bounce back much better than cheaper alternatives. • How to choose a fabric: Daniela explains how t