How to choose the right sofa: expert advice The best sofas for sleeping every day - rating and reviews of models Which sofa is better to choose for a small living room

- Alexander Nikolayevich, tell me, what should you pay attention to when choosing a sofa?

Of course, all buyers first of all pay attention to appearance- whether the model will suit the style and interior of your future premises.

Advice! Be sure to measure your space before going to the store and decide what size sofa will suit you. You also need to write down the approximate dimensions for the unfolded sofa.

The second point that you should pay attention to right away is the comfort and functionality of the sofa. Here you need to answer the key question: why do you need a sofa? To sit and relax, to sleep every day or just as a beautiful piece of furniture? A clear knowledge of the goal will significantly speed up your choice.

Feel free to touch the sofa with your hands, sit and even lie on it right in the store. Only in this way you can understand whether the sofa in front of you is comfortable.

Finally, the third point is technical specifications: transformation mechanism, upholstery, filling and frame.

- Let's start with the mechanisms of transformation. Which option is the most reliable and durable?

The “eurobook” is considered the most durable mechanism - a folding option in which the removable cushions are removed, the seat is pushed forward, and the back is lowered. The sofa itself does not need to be moved away from the wall. This model becomes a complete sleeping area. It can be equipped with lamellae and with proper filling, here you can achieve the orthopedic effect that our body needs.

A sofa with a Eurobook mechanism is a simple, good and reliable option for daily sleep and daily unfolding.

Alexander Nikolaevich, reveal the secret of furniture: which sofa upholstery is more practical? And is it true that the most expensive thing in a sofa is fabric?

Yes, fabric can account for 30% to 90% of the cost of a sofa. This is its most expensive component. By changing the fabric option, you can significantly change the cost of the sofa.

There are three upholstery options - leather, faux leather and fabric. A leather sofa is a sound investment. Its main disadvantage for most buyers is the price. Therefore, there is a misconception that a budget option faux leather sofas will be just as practical. In fact, after a few years of operation, eco-leather begins to crack, and this process is irreversible. The golden mean in the matter of sofa upholstery - the balance of price and quality - combines fabric.

If you want to choose an expensive fabric, but at the same time the sofa will stand against the wall and you do not plan to move it to the center of the room, then the cost of the sofa can be significantly reduced by making the back upholstery from a different material.

- What fabrics would you recommend for families with small children or pets?

Of course, the fabrics that are best cleaned are, for example, velor or flock. These fabrics differ from each other by the principle of fixing the pile to the base. On the flock, the pile is glued, and on the velor, the piles are woven and held by weaving. Chenille is also practical. The threads of chenille are strong, thick and twisted.

An indicator of the quality of a fabric is the price. Pile length, number of units per 1 sq. see fabric - all this affects both the cost and the practicality of the fabric itself. The denser the pile, the less dirt will get there. Even drops of water can stick to the surface of the pile.

Therefore, fabric with a high pile is difficult to tear through for cats. And traces of children's drawings are also easy to remove. In furniture stores, they even show such a “trick” to customers - they draw with a pen, for example, on a flock, and then easily remove all patterns with a napkin.

Chenille and velor can be washed, but at a temperature not exceeding 30 degrees, otherwise these fabrics may shrink.

Flock is not recommended to be washed, because the adhesive base may be damaged. There is a flock with rubber-based glue. It is very elastic - it stretches well and quickly takes its original shape. Rubber-based flock is more expensive, but more practical than conventional flock.

With the appearance and options for practical upholstery, I think we figured it out. But after all, the sofa also has an internal filling, few of the buyers think about it. What does the sofa have inside besides the storage box?

Inside the sofa - frame and filling. The quality of the filler affects both comfort and its lifespan. The most common sofa fillers are polyurethane foam (PPU) and springs.

Do you know the difference between polyurethane foam and foam rubber?
Correct answer: nothing. Polyurethane foam (PPU) is more of a professional name, and "foam rubber" is colloquial, it comes from the name of the Norwegian company "Porolon", which supplied polyurethane foam to the USSR. Actually, the story is the same as Pampers and "disposable diapers", "Scotch" and "duct tape".

Polyurethane foam is different. From inexpensive to HR type, it is a particularly elastic, latex-like material. Of all types of sofa fillers, polyurethane foam deteriorates the fastest, and with daily use of the sofa wears out very quickly. The warranty period for PPU is usually 1.5 years. In practice, after 4-5 years, the foam rubber needs to be changed.

The springs in the sofas are also different. There is a spring snake and there is a spring block - dependent and independent.

The dependent spring block differs from the independent springs in the behavior of the springs under load. If you are sitting on a sofa with dependent springs, and a person with more weight sits next to you, you will certainly feel how the sofa “bends”. Dependent springs are connected to each other by metal spirals along the lower coils, which creates the “hammock effect”. If there are independent springs in the sofa, then you will not feel the deformation of the seat, because in this case each spring is in a special case, and the cases are fastened together in the center of the spring.

- Alexander Nikolayevich, what is better - a dependent or independent spring block?

There is no single answer here, depending on what you want from the sofa. For example, if you prefer to lie down, then the orthopedic effect is important and then you need an independent spring block. If you prefer to sit on the couch, then the dependent spring block may be better because it is softer and you can sway on it smoothly.

More durable - a dependent spring block - its component is only metal, and in independent springs there are also covers. For spring covers, materials such as fibertec or spunbond are used. Both that, and another - the thermally bonded synthetic winterizer high density. Initially, spunbond was used as a covering material for gardens and orchards. And then its density was increased and began to be widely used in furniture production.

And the last element of the internal content of the sofa is the frame. Why does the quality of the frame affect the health of everyone who sits, let alone sleeps, on the couch?

On average, we “communicate” with the sofa for about 8 hours a day. If the sofa frame is made, for example, of fir, a cheap and fragile material, and the material was not dried well during manufacture, then at home the tree will begin to “cry” and become moldy. All this happens inside the sofa, and a person is in contact with it daily. Of course, this can adversely affect his health, cause allergic reactions. Therefore, it is so important to know not only the external, but also the internal contents of your future sofa.

For reference: what is the sofa frame most often made of?
The most common materials are wood and chipboard. Rarely metal.
Of course, the most environmentally friendly material is wood. Wood can be very expensive if it is oak, beech or ash. More budget options are birch and coniferous trees.
The main thing for a wood frame is to keep it dry. If chipboard is used, then this material must be covered with a special protective layer that prevents the release of substances harmful to health.

If you have any furniture questions, write to us: . We will send your request to the experts and be sure to provide all the details.

Text: Tatyana Reshetilova for THE FURNITURE EXPERT

When it comes to choosing a sofa in the living room or any other room, you should not succumb to momentary emotions. Many people think they know exactly what kind of sofa they want in their living room. But, the range of furniture today is so large that when you come to the store, your eyes run up from the abundance of the model range, varieties of styles, colors, upholstery material, design solutions and sizes. Therefore, before going for a sofa for the living room, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the main selection criteria, this will help you clearly understand which sofa you need and, in turn, save time and money. You don’t want to buy a sofa that doesn’t fit into the interior of your room, or is the purchase not practical?

What questions should be answered when choosing a sofa in the living room?

According to statistics, people change furniture only a couple of times in their lives. Therefore, it is extremely important to maintain the maximum balance of aesthetics and functionality. It is necessary to identify what requirements the sofa must meet and in what conditions it will be used. To do this, answer the following questions:

• What are the dimensions of your living room and how do you plan to arrange it?
• How many people will sit on it?
• How often will it be used?
• Will it be used as a sleeping place, how often?
• Are there children or animals in the house?

Identification of needs will allow you to determine the size, shape, availability of folding mechanisms and their types, as well as upholstery material. Now let's talk on the basis of what criteria you need to choose a sofa in the living room.

The main criteria for choosing sofas for the living room

Decide on size and shape

First of all, arm yourself with a tape measure, a sheet of paper and a pencil, take measurements and draw a detailed plan of the room. Thus, you can decide on the size, shape and place where the sofa will be located. standard sizes there are no sofas, there are solid and modular models, consisting of several constituent elements that can be added or removed, as well as interchanged. So, for example, if the sofa is angular, then if necessary, you can change the side of the ottoman (corner part). Modules can be used as armchairs. The most difficult thing is to choose a sofa in a small living room, if you plan to purchase a folding model, then you also need to take this into account, since more space will be required when unfolded.

It is recommended to measure the width doorways. Otherwise, it may happen that a brand new sofa never reaches the living room, stuck in doorway like Winnie the Pooh. When choosing furniture, do not forget to think about the method of its delivery to the place of operation.

IN one-room apartments or studios, if the living space has an oblong shape, then the sofa can play the role of a partition, dividing the room into working area and a recreation area. Take this into account when planning the arrangement of furniture.

If you plan to sleep on the sofa, then the size of the bed should be about 50 cm larger than your height.

Mechanisms of transformation, their types. What to give preference when choosing a sofa in the living room?

Transformation mechanisms are divided into two types: for daily use and guest options. Of course, you can sleep on both, the point here is that the latter are less reliable and not suitable for daily use, the mechanism will quickly become unusable. Also, they are not designed for large weight and regular loads, the structure is deformed. Therefore, if the sofa in the living room will serve as the master's bed, the choice should definitely be made in favor of structures designed for daily sleep.

The main types of transformation mechanisms suitable for daily sleep:

• Dolphin. Quite a reliable mechanism, suitable for daily use, quickly and easily unfolds. The second bed is located in a retractable platform. It can often be found in corner models.
• Eurobook. simple and convenient mechanism. The seat is pulled forward, and the back is lowered in its place. Suitable for every day.
• Tick-tock (Pantograph). It's sort of like a Eurobook, except the seat has to be lifted up to push it forward.
• Click-clack. To unfold the sofa, you need to raise the seat to the second click, then you can lower the back, and then the seat.
• Pull-out mechanism. It consists of several parts. To unfold, you need to pull the loops, the last part emerges from under the middle one, similar to the Dolphin mechanism.
• Book. This is the most popular type of folding mechanisms. The principle of operation is that the seat rises up until it clicks, and the back takes a horizontal position. Then the seat is lowered and a berth is obtained.
• Accordion. When unfolded, a flat and comfortable bed with an orthopedic base is obtained. The accordion often has a removable cover. To decompose such a structure, you need to slightly raise the seat and pull it towards you and the mechanism will straighten itself.

If you do not plan to sleep on the sofa every day, then you can choose a sofa model for the living room with mechanisms such as:

• French foldout. The design is very much like a regular folding bed. The mechanism is hidden under the seat cushions. To unfold the French cot, you must first remove the pillows.
• Sedaflex. It is also called the American clamshell. The principle is the same as the previous version, only a little more reliable.

At the same time, it should be noted that the name of the mechanism alone does not indicate the quality of the sofa. When choosing a sofa in the living room with a folding mechanism, pay attention to the design. It must be free from defects. Carefully inspect the connecting parts.

What should be the upholstery of the sofa in the living room?

The next step in choosing a good living room sofa is choosing the upholstery. It performs not only decorative functions, but also practical ones. This is an important stage and you cannot make a mistake here, otherwise a beautiful sofa will quickly lose its original appearance.

Conventionally, the upholstery of the sofa can be divided into 3 groups:

• Textile. If you have children or pets, then it is better to opt for fabric upholstery. She has a huge decorative choice. All types of fabrics are wear-resistant, and some have anti-vandal qualities - your kitty's claws will not cause mortal harm to the decor. The main types of fabrics that are used in the manufacture of sofas are: folk, chenille, velor, jacquard.
  
• Artificial leather. quality material it is difficult to distinguish from genuine leather, has excellent abrasion resistance, which cannot be said about cheap material. Poor-quality artificial leather dries out over time, loses its elasticity and bursts. As a result, in a couple of years, the once beautiful sofa in the living room will look like a mangy cat.
  
• Genuine Leather. Durable and resistant to wear, at the same time, in order for a sofa made of genuine leather to retain its original appearance, it must be looked after. Also, this material is expensive.
  

Sofa upholstery for the living room is something you should not save on. Padding will cost much more than several thousand overpaid rubles for better upholstery material. Also keep in mind that although leather models look expensive and presentable, they are not very practical. So, for example, sitting on such a sofa, your body will sweat. And if you need a model not only for gatherings in front of the TV, but also for daily sleep, then a not too pleasant surprise awaits here - the sheet will slide off it. So, before making the final choice in favor of one or another upholstery material for a sofa in the living room, decide once again in what conditions the product will be used.

Choosing a filler for a sofa in the living room - what criteria should it meet

The level of comfort and durability of the sofa largely depends on the filler. The most reliable is the spring block, it copes well with high loads and provides a flat surface for the seats. The most popular is polyurethane foam, it is comfortable to sit on, easy to get up, it is soft and adapts well to the shape of the body. The types of fillers do not end there, there are a number of others: Latex, Hollofiber, Struttofiber, Sintepukh, Sintepon. To avoid sitting on the sofa, you need to try to choose a high-quality filler, which is quite difficult. Here you should be guided by the following rule - sit on the sofa, and then get up and see how quickly it takes its previous shape. The faster the better. If the filler is in no hurry to recover, then during operation gray hair will soon appear on the seat, in other words, this is not the best option.

A dynamic, compact, reliable and effective sofa should become part of your interior. This is a universal furniture product that performs several functions at the same time. Depending on the wishes of the user, the spatial possibilities of the room for which it is intended, and in the presence of a wide assortment range, it will not be easy to decide! Unsure how to choose the right sofa?

We will break it all down for you, and you will definitely make the right decision!

How to choose the right sofa?

How to choose the right sofa so that this purchase will please you and your loved ones. Before making such an acquisition of a long-term nature, determine the list of optimal conditions:

1. Measure the parameters of the room and draw up a layout plan;
2. Consider all the possible layouts and arrangements, thanks to which you designate the place and dimensions of the sofa;
3. Form an idea about the design and purpose of such an element.

These initial data will help you quickly solve the problem of how to choose the right quality sofa. And now we go to the store and select the model that suits your needs.

First of all, the base!

The latest technologies used in the processing and production of furnishings include the manufacture of frames:

• on natural wood: maple, oak, walnut, ash, birch, beech;
• with the involvement of environmentally friendly species for plywood, chipboard or MDF;
• from metal alloys of galvanized and stainless steel;
• with combined modification: wood-plywood; Chipboard-wood, metal-wood;
• from fabric bags with composite substances inside.

Remember that the quality and service life of a particular model depends on the nature of the material.

Undoubtedly popular due to its reliability, high quality and environmental friendliness is the wooden base, which can last for several decades.

Manufacturers use high-quality varieties, elite breeds and comply with processing standards and technology. Of course, it will cost an order of magnitude more expensive, but you definitely will not regret buying it.

Pay attention to the presence of bolted connections. Adhesive joints and screws indicate dishonesty of sellers.

The absence of deformation effects is achieved due to the presence of glue with decent adhesive adhesion, special coating paints, multi-layer plywood or thickened timber.

The strongest - frames made of wooden beam and dense plywood 12–25 mm thick.

A metal base with elements of chrome, anodizing or nickel plating is a great option for those who love practicality, reliability and durability.

You can be offered simple all-welded or lato-holder frames with complex mechanisms.

Folding structures wear out the fastest, but their integrity can be easily restored by replacing and welding individual elements.

Such furniture, in comparison with wood, will have a relatively low cost, does not ignite, does not deform as a result of exposure to various kinds of loads.

It is second to none in terms of quality and design decoration no MDF, no real wood.

To prevent harmful emissions from human body, the surface of such products is treated with specialized compounds.

They freely take the shape of the curves of the human body, are not afraid of temperature and moisture, are lightweight and easy to care for.

What's for the filling?

Despite the use of rigid and durable bases, the design of soft sofas involves the use of special fillers that improve the ergonomic performance of the product:

• for most, highly elastic spring blocks are used with additional fixation in vertical cells, which are wrapped in gaskets and softened by other types of fillers. They support the back in a comfortable position;
• highly rigid and elastic molded polyurethane foam of increased comfort with a density of at least 30-55 kg / m3, represented by a mixture of synthetic polymers and foam material, which instantly returns to its original shape;
• light and relatively cheap synthetic winterizer with excellent hypoallergenicity and thermal insulation. However, it quickly clumps;
• moisture resistant, highly hygienic and relatively inexpensive holofiber in its advantages is a significant competitor to everyone else;
• sintepuh - a competitor of holofiber with no flaws, the only hallmark which is the extreme softness of the seats.

In addition to the above types of fillers, modern wear-resistant polymers such as Skyron, Durafil and Britbond with excellent performance characteristics are also used.

To appreciate their comfort, just sit on them.

What is the best upholstery?

To make a decision when choosing a sofa upholstery, it is necessary to be guided not only colors but also the quality of the material.

The pricing policy for such materials is set depending on the indicators of practicality and durability:

• ideal, but the most expensive is chenille with a structure of 20%, 40% acrylic and polystyrene each;
• velor and flock are considered high-budget and durable;
• a good alternative is a Belgian tapestry made of delicate velor threads or a dense and elegant jacquard;
• special attention deserves a durable flock with a coating and a water-repellent effect.

Classic upholstery in matt, mint, lacquered, embossed or patterned leather will become ideal option for living room furniture.

It is important that it be high-quality leather, since cheap substitutes tend to crack or wear out.

For furniture in the children's room, models made of natural non-toxic and hygienic cotton or chenille are suitable, which absorb moisture well and allow air to pass through.

Despite the fact that these canvases wear out under conditions of regular use, the waist can be considered as a restoration.

A rather dense and elegant jacquard belongs to the category of practical products, which retains its original appearance and is resistant to fading over a long service life.

An attractive and durable fabric is considered a flock, consisting of 65% synthetics and 35% organic cotton.

This sofa upholstery in the living room will be able to withstand any dirt and withstand the sharp claws of pets.

But in the kitchen you should not have it, because the flock absorbs all sorts of odors.

For furniture products in the bedroom, pay attention to upholstery fabrics, half consisting of synthetic fibers, which will provide resistance to wear and make it possible to facilitate the process of caring for them.

Where and what to put?

Varieties of folding mechanisms allow you to equip a universal bed or a practical relaxation area.

To choose strong and durable furniture for your purposes, pay attention not only to the frame, but also to the folding mechanism, the strength of the fasteners, which will bear the main load.

Depending on their design, the following transformations are distinguished:

1. click-clack when the seat compartment is raised up, the backrest falls on an all-metal base. Efforts to lift are not required, however, the intermediate lock-fastener quickly becomes unusable with frequent unfolding;
2. the eurobook sofa is comfortable for sleeping, which fits perfectly into small apartments;
3. a spacious tick-tock is placed against the wall or in the middle of the room and, if necessary, can be easily reconstructed into a double suite;
4. the assembled accordion does not take up much space, but it makes it possible to organize a spacious sleeping place;
5. a folding sofa requires accuracy when unfolding and does not always provide a flat surface;
6. if you are thinking about how to choose the right corner sofa for daily use, then you need a dolphin.

Carefully inspect your target, try laying out a couple of times. Such manipulation will allow you to determine the reliability of its fasteners and the practicality of use in any situation.

How to choose the right orthopedic sofa?

Orthopedic modifications are designed for sound and healthy sleep.

The independent spring blocks that are used in such models allow you to keep your spine in a natural position.

TOTAL

Sleep plays an important role in human health. Reliable and practical upholstered furniture can provide a good rest for a person.

The advantages of an ideal sofa are a solid base, high-quality filler, beautiful and durable upholstery. Its design features require special attention.

Don't forget about external design, which will allow you to use such a piece of furniture in any interior.

Lifehacker collected as much information as possible about the forms, mechanisms, fillers and upholstery of sofas and made special tables that will help you make a decision and not regret it as soon as the furniture is brought.

Sofa shapes

Sofas are:

• straight;
• corner;
• with ottoman;
• modular;
• island.

Straight sofas are a classic. Plenty of variations. There are any sizes and colors.

Collectmoments/Flickr.com

Straight sofas, like corner sofas, are usually placed along the walls and are often equipped with built-in tables, a mini-bar and folding shelves. It is comfortable to sleep on such sofas.

jiva/Flickr.com

Corner sofas should not be identified with ottoman sofas. In the East, this is the name of a kind of wide soft ottoman. In our furniture industry, the ottoman is understood as the protruding part of the sofa. Often without armrests, but with a niche for storage.

Modern sofas with an ottoman in the interior successfully serve as corner sofas, saving space small rooms, and often serve as the main sleeping place for the owners.

Maxim Kachurovskiy/Flickr.com

Island sofas can be round or semicircular, oval and rectangular. These are expensive and status sofas. They usually don't sleep on them. They are placed in the center of spacious rooms to create a relaxation area. It is desirable that the approach to the "island" be from all sides.

Modular sofas consist of several parts and can be combined in different ways. Modules can be used as individual elements furniture. The composition may include a module with a berth, but most often such sofas are designed for beauty and relaxation.

Due to the versatility and variety of shapes, modular sofas are great for studio apartments.

Scott Allen/Flickr.com

The transformation mechanism is a way to lay out a sofa. There are many options.

When you first come to the store, the variety of transformation mechanisms and their bizarre names makes your head spin. In fact, everything is simple.

Mechanisms can be divided into folding, rolling out and unfolding. The former include "book" and "eurobook", as well as "click-clack". To the second - "telescope", "tic-tac" and "dolphin". Unfolding mechanisms are "accordion" and various "clamshells".

Rotary mechanisms stand apart. They are used in large corner sofas: one half turns to the other, forming a wide bed.

Book and Eurobook

Sofa-books are familiar to everyone since Soviet times. Raise the seat a little and get a rectangular bed. To expand such a sofa, it must be moved away from the wall. The space under the seat is usually used to store bedding and other things.

"Eurobook" is an improved "book". Everything is the same, only the seat is pushed forward on the skids. Simple reliable mechanism, suitable for daily layouts. Such a sofa does not need to be moved away from the wall.

This is also a modernized “book”, which, in addition to the “lying” and “sitting” positions, has intermediate options: “reclining” and “half-sitting”. The click-clack sofa is made on a metal frame with wooden battens, which often break under heavy load. It is better to use it in or for rare overnight guests.

Sofas with the "lit" mechanism are very similar in appearance and principle of operation. The difference is that they do not unfold the back - only the armrests.

Telescope

Sleeper sofa-telescope consists of three parts. Two of them form the seat, and one - the back. To unfold it, you need to pull the bottom of the seat, fold the backrest forward, and fill the space between them with a mattress. Among the shortcomings: a low bed and scratches on the floor with frequent use.

This transformation mechanism is based on the accordion principle: the bed also consists of three parts, one of them is the seat, and the other two form the back. To expand the "accordion", you need to push the seat forward and lay the back in the same plane with it.

Sofas with such a mechanism are produced on wooden frames with ordinary metal hinges and on a solid metal frames with wooden armor. The former are better not to lay out often, the latter are suitable for daily use.

This transformation mechanism is very similar to the Eurobook. Only in the tick-tock, the seat steps forward with the help of a spring mechanism. This is a more expensive, but also more convenient option: there are no wheels, nothing scratches the floor. "Tick-tock" is perfect for those who plan to use the sofa as a bed.

This is a very popular transformation mechanism. Especially in corner sofas and sofas with ottomans used for sleeping every day.

The principle of operation is simple: when laid out, a platform rolls out from under the seat, which then rises with the help of a special elevator mechanism, forming a single bed. The more reliable the lifting mechanism, the longer the sofa will last.

French, American, Belgian and Italian cots

The "French cot" is a triple fold cot. During the transformation, the bed turns forward and is installed on arcs. But sleeping on such a sofa is quite hard. It is not suitable for daily use. This is a guest option.

"American folding bed" is a little more comfortable. There are only two additions, and therefore the mattresses are thicker, sometimes even with spring blocks. But for daily sleep is still not the most convenient option.

"Belgian clamshell" is not so much a type of transformation mechanism as a sign of the manufacturer. Franco-Belgian furniture company Sedac-Meral produces two- and three-fold folding beds with foam and spring mattresses of different heights. This is the "Belgian folding bed".

"Italian folding bed" has two additions and unfolds together with the soft elements of the sofa. Unlike other "clamshells", some "Italian" models have small storage containers bedding.

Decide why you need a sofa: for sleeping or for relaxing? In the first case, it is better to take a “book”, “eurobook”, “tic-tac” or a good “dolphin”. Everything else is guest options.

Here is a table that clearly demonstrates the pros and cons of various types of sofas.

frame

In the production of sofas, metal and wooden frames are used, as well as frames made of wooden blocks with chipboard.

Metal frames are reliable and durable, provided that the connections are worked out by welding, and not by bolts. Any upholstery is suitable for a sofa with a metal frame. If necessary, it can be replaced.

The service life of a wooden frame depends on the type and quality of the wood. This also affects the price. The most expensive sofas are made of oak, beech, walnut and ash. More budget options are frames made of birch and coniferous wood.

IN wooden frame the main thing is that the wood is smooth and dry. The fewer potholes and knots, the better.

A combination of wooden bars and chipboard is the cheapest option for a sofa frame. But if the technology is observed in the production, and the elements from the chipboard are treated with special paint, such a sofa will also last for many years.

Filler

A back, a seat, armrests - each element of a sofa has a filler. As a rule, it is foam rubber and polyurethane foam. There are also latex and springs.

Sofas with only foam inside are the cheapest, but the least durable. The sofa will retain its shape for as long as possible when stuffed from a single piece of foam rubber. But in three or four years, he too will sag.

Most manufacturers prefer polyurethane foam padding. It almost does not differ in price from foam rubber, but it lasts much longer.

Polyurethane foam is block (sandwich) and cast. From the first seat, back and other elements of the sofa are simply glued together. When talking about molded polyurethane foam, they mean that at the factory it was poured into a mold in liquid form and at the output they got a molded back or armrest of the sofa.

The most durable, environmentally friendly and expensive filler is latex. Due to its high elasticity, it follows the contours of the body and instantly restores its shape. At the same time, it is not electrified, resistant to and does not cause allergies. Latex is commonly used in expensive orthopedic furniture.

Separately, it is worth mentioning the spring blocks. Their presence in the sofa not only adds points to convenience, but also makes the sofa more durable and wear-resistant. Of course, provided that very high quality individual spring blocks are used.

The best option is sofas with multi-layer filler and different density coefficients in different areas. The bottom layer is the most dense, on top - a thin soft material for maximum comfort.

There are even more sofa upholstery than transformation mechanisms. To describe everything, a separate article is needed. Therefore, consider the most popular options.

Life hacks for those who choose a sofa

1. Decide where it will stand. Draw a plan on paper. This will make it easier to navigate the store. Calculate whether there will be enough space for walking with the sofa unfolded.
2. Decide on the function of the sofa: guest or for daily sleep. Also think about who will sleep on it: a child weighing 40 kg or an adult man for a centner. Based on this, choose a mechanism.
3. In the store, carefully inspect the transformation mechanism. Its metal parts must be thicker than 3 mm, neatly painted and securely connected to each other.
4. Sit or even lie down on the couch. Estimate the density of the filler. Pay attention to the sounds that the sofa makes when you move. A creak is a sure sign of a poorly glued frame.
5. Pay attention to the evenness of the seams and rows of staples. These are the nuances that distinguish a conscientious manufacturer from an amateur. Look at the back of the sofa. If you plan to put it not against the wall, but in the center of the room, it should also be neatly upholstered.
6. If the manufacturer's warranty is less than 18 months, choose another.

From this article you will learn:

What are the characteristics of a good sofa

What criteria to choose a sofa

Which is better to buy a sofa for different rooms

Which sofa is better not to buy and what mistakes to avoid

A sofa is not only a large and noticeable part of the interior, but also a highly loaded piece of furniture that performs many functions and is actively used every day. Buying a sofa is a serious matter, and in the process of choosing, the consumer will definitely have a question: “Which sofa is better?”. It is not so easy to answer it: you need to take into account not only the design and materials, but also the shape of the sofa, its dimensions, functionality, strength and stylistic features.

Which sofa is better: characteristics of a good sofa

1. Durability.

If you set out to purchase a sofa for many years, it is better to give preference to models with high-quality assembly and a durable frame made of carefully dried wood. Such sofas for many years do not undergo deformation, do not start to creak disgustingly, do not lose their appearance and functionality.

1. Convenience.

Some sofas are designed for sleeping, others for relaxing in the daytime (in front of the TV or with a book), for accommodating guests in the kitchen or living room. Depending on the purpose, you should choose a sofa, paying attention to one or another of its characteristics.

The general requirement for all sofa models is comfort and the desired degree of softness. Too hard or, conversely, soft as a feather bed sofa can cause pain in the spine and muscles, insomnia.

1. Easy to operate.

Many sofas contain movable elements: boxes for linen, a folding mechanism. Which sofa design is better, only you can decide, based on your needs and wishes, but when buying, in any case, you should check the performance of all mechanisms. Is everything moving as it should? Nothing sticks anywhere, doesn't fall off? Then this model can be considered suitable!

1. Functionality.

Some sofa models are equipped with additional elements: built-in bars, removable armrests, a set of pillows. They make the furniture even more functional and comfortable, but are reflected in its cost.

After evaluating the appearance of the sofa, proceed to practical tests. Sit down, or better yet, lie down on it. Sellers who are confident in the quality of the goods should not interfere with this.

If the sofa has an elastic surface in which lumps and seals are not felt, this indicates its high quality. Also pay attention to the angle between the horizontal surface and the backrest, the location of the head restraint (if any). Whatever model we are talking about, they should provide comfort when sitting.

Unfold and assemble the sofa back, preferably several times, push and slide all the drawers. Ask what alloy the sliding mechanism is made of. Silumin is cheaper and lighter than steel, but extremely fragile, so it is better not to purchase sofas with any silumin details.

The back surface of the sofa should be covered with fabric. This makes it possible to place the sofa anywhere in the room, not just against the walls. Cheap fabric indicates the poor taste of manufacturers and the poor quality of the product as a whole. However, if you plan to order a detachable sofa cover separately, please rear surface you can not think of a sofa. The covers are easy to clean, protect the sofa from dust and any damage, may have pockets for newspapers and other small items.

Upholstery is almost the main part of the sofa. The most expensive sofa will cost, upholstered in a Teflon-coated fabric that does not absorb water and dirt.

If a stain still forms on the sofa, then to remove it, it is better to contact a dry cleaner or use a stain remover to remove it. upholstered furniture. Apply the product gently and little by little, without rubbing deeply into the fabric, and then rub the stained area from the edges to the middle.

Which sofa is better to buy: 5 selection criteria

Form

Sofas are available in several forms:

• Direct.

This is a classic form of a sofa, presented in a wide variety of variations and sizes. Linear sofas are best placed against the walls. Sometimes they come with mini-bars, folding shelves, built-in tables and some other additional options. The straight sofa is very comfortable for sleeping.

• Corner.

A corner sofa is often called an ottoman sofa, but this is not entirely true. In the countries of the East, an ottoman was a wide flat ottoman without a back, and more often without armrests. In Russia, this name is applied to sofas with a protruding part, often also without armrests.

In many corner sofas, the space under the seat is used as a storage niche.

• Island.

Island sofas are distinguished by a variety and originality of shapes: they can be not only rectangular, but also round or oval, semicircular. This is an expensive and stylish piece of furniture designed to demonstrate the high status of its owner and decorate the interior. Therefore, island sofas are not used for sleeping. It is best to place them in the center of a spacious room or recreation area, surrounding free space from all sides to ensure access to the sofa from anywhere in the room.

• With an ottoman.

IN modern interior sofas of this type are used in the same way as corner sofas. A sofa with an ottoman is one of the best solutions for small rooms where every meter of space is precious. Their main function is to be a place to sleep.

• Modular.

This practical and modern sofa design is perfect for small spaces, in particular studio apartments. Such sofas consist of several independent elements that can be arranged in a different order depending on current needs. Sometimes modular sofas include a sleeping place, but are usually used for sitting and decorating the interior.

Transformation mechanism

According to the method of transformation, sofas are also divided into several categories. When visiting a large furniture store, it seems that there are a great many such methods, and it will be difficult to choose the most convenient among them. But this is not the case: there are only three methods for unfolding a sofa, and no matter how diverse the models on the market are, they all belong to one of three types: unfolding, unfolding and rolling out sofas.

Folding sofas are the well-known “book”, its modernized version is the “Eurobook” and the so-called “click-clack”. Rolling out mechanisms are called "telescope", "dolphin" and "tick-tock". The unfolding ones include "clamshells" in all variations and "accordions".

In addition to these three popular mechanisms, there is another more specific one: rotary. Large corner sofas have this design, in which a berth is created by turning the two parts of the sofa towards each other.

• Books and Eurobooks.

IN Soviet time sofas of the "book" design were available in almost every apartment. And now they are also popular.

Such sofas must be moved away from the wall each time before being laid out, and then rotated back to a horizontal position. There is a large empty space under the seat where bedding etc. is stored.

Eurobook sofa - the same "book", but equipped with skids that facilitate the process of folding and unfolding. Does not require moving away from the wall.

• Click-clack.

In fact, this is also a kind of sofa-book, which differs from the traditional design by the presence of intermediate layout options - for half-sitting and reclining positions. Click-clack sofas are assembled on metal frames and wooden battens, not designed for heavy loads and active daily use. Therefore, it is better to put such a sofa in the nursery or use it as a guest.

The “lit” mechanism is another modification of the “book”, but less functional: for such sofas, only the armrests move apart, and the back remains motionless.

• Roll-out (telescopic).

The sofa-telescope consists of three elements: a backrest and two halves of the seat. When unfolding, the lower part of the seat is pulled towards you, and the backrest is lowered forward. If there are any gaps and gaps between them, it is better to fill them with mattresses.

Roll-out sofas are not the best option for daily sleep. They are quite low (when unfolded), not always comfortable and scratch the floor when unfolded.

• Accordions, or harmonicas.

Like telescopes, accordion sofas include three parts, only they have two backs and one seat. The seat is pushed forward, and then the parts of the back are laid.

Sofas of this design can be made on the basis of all-metal frames to which wooden armor is attached, or on wooden frames on metal hinges. The former are suitable for active and frequent use, while the latter are much less durable, and it is better to lay them out as little as possible.

• Tick-tack, or pantographs.

In fact, these are eurobook sofas on a spring mechanism, which makes it easier to push the heavy seat forward. Their cost is higher than standard Eurobooks, but they also have more advantages: it is easier to transform tick-taki into a bed, and at the same time nothing scratches the floor (there are no wheels).

• Dolphins (kangaroos, microlifts).

This mechanism for transforming sofas is used quite often, especially in models with ottomans and corner sofas. For unfolding, you need to roll out a special platform from under the seat and then raise it with a microlift. It looks like a bed. The service life of the "dolphins" depends on the lifting mechanism: the stronger it is, the more durable the sofa and the better its quality.

• French, American and Italian folding beds.

These clamshell designs differ in the number of additions:

French has three additions. The bed needs to be turned forward and put on the arcs. The result is a rather hard sofa, which is better used as a guest, but not as a permanent bed.

The American folding bed has two additions and thick soft mattresses (in some cases even springs). This sofa is more comfortable than the previous version, but also not suitable for daily sleep.

The Italian folding bed also has two additions, and it moves apart along with the stuffed parts of the sofa. Some sofas of this type have small drawers for linen.

frame

Frames for upholstered furniture are made of metal, wood or individual wooden bars in combination with chipboard.

The most reliable are metal frames, but only welded, and not fastened with bolts. Sofas on metal frames can be upholstered with any materials, and the upholstery must be replaced.

Wooden sofa frames differ in durability. Everything here, including the price of the product, is determined by the quality and type of wood. The cheapest will cost a sofa with a frame made of birch or softwood. Upholstered furniture on oak, walnut, beech, ash frames is noticeably more expensive, but also better in quality.

The most budget option is a sofa on a frame made of chipboard and bars. By the way, it can turn out to be quite reliable and last for many years if the chipboard parts were painted with a special paint and other technological requirements were carefully observed.

Filler

The seats and backs of the sofas, and in some models also the armrests, contain filler. It can be either a foam rubber or polyurethane foam piece or a spring block.

Sofas with soft filling, especially foam rubber, are the cheapest. However, they are not designed for long service. Sofas with a single piece of foam rubber under the seat keep their shape for up to four years, the rest - even less.

Armchairs and sofas with polyurethane foam stuffing are also affordable, but they last longer, therefore, if you have a choice, it is better to give preference to some kind of polyurethane foam sofa. Polyurethane foam filler can be sandwich (from separate layers glued together) or cast. Cast packing is obtained by pouring liquid polyurethane foam into a container of the desired shape.

Among soft stuffings, latex is the most durable. It is elastic, adapts to the curves of the body and instantly returns to its original shape, is hypoallergenic, does not become moldy or electrified, and is environmentally friendly in production and operation. It is used for the manufacture of orthopedic or luxury upholstered furniture.

As for sofas on spring blocks, their reliability directly depends on the quality of these blocks. In general, spring sofas retain their shape longer than others. But it is best to purchase sofas with some kind of combined filler, consisting of materials of different densities (soft layers are placed outside for maximum comfort, dense layers are at the bottom).

Upholstery

Sofa upholstery affects not only its appearance and aesthetic qualities, but also its service life and comfort when lying and sitting. Whatever sofa you choose, always pay attention to the upholstery.

The traditional upholstery material, which has become the most expensive (and therefore elite) in our time, is genuine leather. Thanks to the success of the chemical industry, we can go beyond leather: there is a huge number of leather substitutes and fabrics made from artificial fibers that are not inferior to leather in terms of aesthetic and operational properties, and in some ways even turn out to be better than it.

In addition to leather and leather substitutes, sofas and armchairs are upholstered with fabrics. So, an expensive and practical upholstery fabric called chenille valued no less than leather. Chenille furniture is the best solution for children's rooms: this material repels dirt, it is not so easy to get dirty, and at the same time it is very comfortable and soft.

Sofas and armchairs, upholstered tapestry, have a solid and classic look. Modern tapestries contain polyester fibers that make the upholstery durable. The tapestry is in demand among consumers due to the huge palette of shades and variety of patterns that allow you to choose a sofa for any interior.

Almost as popular as upholstery flock also containing polyester. Unlike tapestry, flock has villi on the front side. Pile gives sophistication and charm to upholstered furniture, and it is more pleasant to touch it than to a hard tapestry. However, the flock is rapidly, in just 2–5 years, wiped off. Cleaning and caring for a sofa upholstered in flock also has its own characteristics.

If you want to add some sophistication and sophistication to the interior, take a closer look at the sofas upholstered jacquard. Gorgeous patterns woven on the upholstery will create an impression of luxury. True, a sofa with jacquard upholstery will cost more than other options, and will require special care, allowing only dry cleaning.

Another new upholstery material, characterized by practicality and high quality - microfiber - is rapidly gaining popularity. Microfiber has a Teflon coating that gives the fabric strength (it is difficult to tear, pierce or cut) and repels water, dust and dirt. Sofa upholstered in microfiber the best choice for a room where direct lines fall Sun rays: This material will not fade or shed.

When deciding which sofa upholstery is best, ask the seller for a fabric passport. High-quality upholstered furniture must be accompanied by such passports, which describe in detail the properties of the fabric and give tips on caring for it.

Sofas, upholstered skin are not always the best solution. Leather, especially badly finished leather, has a lot of drawbacks, and in many cases it is better to give preference to some kind of fabric as upholstery material. So, the skin can crack (especially for budget leather sofas, the price of which does not imply the use of high-quality materials), peel off (if the painting was carried out in violation of the technology).

The side cushions wear out first, so it's best if they come off and are easily replaced with new ones (although this uses more leather upholstery, which increases the price of the product).

Leather sofas traditionally belong to the elite expensive furniture, luxury items. It is assumed that when buying such a thing, people will not save. Some unscrupulous manufacturers of leather furniture are trying to play on this, deliberately increasing the consumption of leather at the expense of the back wall. When choosing a leather sofa, carefully inspect its back surface.

Usually passports are also attached to leather sofas. They indicate the characteristics and features of the product, for example, its breathability. Passport Comparison different models will help you find the most profitable option and decide which sofa is better to buy.

Which sofa is better to buy for different rooms

When choosing a sofa for the living room, answer yourself the question of whether this sofa will be used for sleeping and how often. For small rooms, where they not only spend time during the day, but also sleep every night, it is better to purchase unfolding sofas, for example, “accordions”. They are easily transformed and in the unfolded state are very comfortable, because they do not form irregularities or voids. Durable and resilient wooden battens, which serve as an orthopedic base, will make the sofa even more comfortable.

If the sofa will be laid out from time to time (for receiving guests), then it is better to opt for some model with a retractable mechanism - a “microlift”, “eurobook” or a roll-out sofa. They are easy to disassemble and assemble, but the joints between the blocks can be quite noticeable.

Need a sofa for an evening of relaxing in front of the TV? Then it's better to buy folding sofa click-clack or book designs. They are comfortable to sit and recline, but they are not so well suited for sleeping (due to inaccurate docking of the blocks).

And, finally, for small living rooms, where the sofa will be used mainly for sitting, it is better to take linear models designed for 2-3 people. Make sure that when unfolded, the sofa does not take up too much space, does not block the door and, for example, does not block the passage to the balcony. It is most convenient to communicate with family members or guests while sitting on corner sofa(left, right or universal), designed for 5-6 people and corresponding to the configuration of the room.

Whatever sofa you purchase for your living room, make sure that the upholstery is of high quality and resistant to wear. Leather, leatherette, flock or jacquard will do. The load on such a sofa is very high, and the stronger the upholstery, the better.

For kitchen

Nowadays, sofas have ceased to belong to living rooms and have begun to gradually conquer the space of kitchens and dining rooms. A sofa suitable for the kitchen must meet three requirements: functionality, ergonomics and practicality. A significant advantage would be the presence of a drawer.

The size and configuration of the kitchen sofa will depend on the characteristics of the room, and the frame must be strong enough to support 4-8 people. Kitchen furniture, including soft ones, is operated in more severe conditions than room and office ones: these are temperature changes and humidity. Therefore, a stainless steel frame is desirable.

For children's rooms, a huge amount of various upholstered furniture is now being produced. It comes in the most unusual shape and color, and there can be several fillers in it. Which sofa is better to choose when it comes to a nursery?

First of all, functional and easy to fold - the area of ​​\u200b\u200bchildren's rooms is usually small. Sofas of the “Eurobook”, “Dolphin” and “Accordion” design are best suited for a child - he will be able to deploy and collapse them without outside help.

Beautiful and suitable for the decor of the room. It is best to buy a sofa for the nursery together with the child, so that he chooses the color that he likes and will delight him every day.

Practical. A box for storing bedding, toys and linen will save space in the room.

Safe - upholstered with a fabric made from natural fibers and not having sharp corners, traumatic decorative elements and cracks.

For office

For modern office furniture, not only appearance is important, but also comfort. People spend a significant part of the day in offices - they work, receive clients and visitors, negotiate. As a rule, for office interiors, durable sofas of simple, concise forms with plain upholstery are chosen, giving the impression of respectability.

When deciding which sofa is better to choose for an office space, first decide where you will put it. How spacious is the room and what size sofa is best for you? Will it be comfortable to approach him?

For offices, both rectangular models (for 2–4 seats) and corner models are produced. It is better to furnish a narrow room with two small sofas than to clutter up with one large one. For spacious offices with low attendance (less than 10 people daily), a large sofa is also not needed, an average one is enough.

The color range of upholstered office furniture is determined by the interior design and your personal taste. Win-Win Options- sofas in light neutral shades or muted dark ones, upholstered in genuine leather or leatherette: they look solid and modern. However, caring for such upholstery will require effort. Sofas upholstered in fabric will cost less, but they will quickly lose their appearance, wear out and greasy, which is unacceptable for the office of a serious company.

Which sofa is better: spring or PPU

It is impossible to figure out which sofa is better for daily sleep without knowing about the features of the fillers. By filling, all sofas are divided into two types:

Sofas on spring blocks

Spring mechanisms give upholstered furniture elasticity and useful orthopedic qualities. However, as they wear, they can break, lose shape, pierce upholstery, or make an unpleasant squeak. The better (and more expensive) the spring blocks, the less the risk of encountering such consequences of operation.

Spring sofa blocks can be dependent and independent. Blocks of dependent springs (for example, "Bonnel") are a structure that is set in motion as a whole by pressing on some individual spring. With active use, the blocks can stretch and sag where the main load falls, and create the effect of a hammock, which weakens the orthopedic properties of the mattress. However, they are relatively inexpensive.

Blocks consisting of independent springs are more durable and comfortable as a bed. In orthopedic terms, these sofas are better than the previous ones and they last much longer without losing shape or creaking. This is achieved by the fact that each spring is inserted into its own woven case, which are then assembled into tapes and whole blocks.

Sofas with soft fillers

Sofas with soft fillers - silicone, foam rubber, synthetic winterizer - are best used as seating furniture. Such fillers create a feeling of softness and are very comfortable, do not cause allergies, but very quickly sag and become unusable. They are not very suitable for sleep: under a layer of foam rubber or other soft filler, you will feel a firm wooden surface. Therefore, if you need a bed or a multifunctional piece of furniture, it is better to give preference to some spring sofas.

Which sofa is better not to buy: common mistakes when choosing

Now there is a high demand for upholstered furniture. There are several reasons for this: moving to new apartment or repair with the replacement of all furniture, the ability to buy on credit, the deterioration of old furniture sets. The offer meets the demand - there are a huge number of different models on the market. But there are sofas that are better not to buy at all in order to avoid problems.

1. Cheap.

Inexpensive furniture, as a rule, is made of cheap low-quality materials and fittings. Therefore, the cost of the sofa is much lower than the market should alert you. Either these are defective products sold for next to nothing, or their manufacturers saved on materials. In any case, such a sofa will either turn out to be unusable immediately, or it will quickly break down and require replacement.

Often, cheap models have a weak, unreliable transformation mechanism. It is better to refuse to purchase them - they will not withstand daily unfolding. In extreme cases, they can be used as an ottoman or guest sofa.

Replacing individual parts of the structure in this case is not an option, since cheap sofas are initially made “disposable” and are not subject to partial repair(having disassembled the structure into parts, you will not be able to assemble it back). It is assumed that such a product will simply be thrown away when it wears out.

1. Non-functional.

Most Russians suffer from a lack of living space, so the demand for convertible multifunctional furniture is growing every year. Sofas are no exception. There are many models on sale with built-in drawers for storing bed linen and other things (shoes, clothes, etc.), and the space is used not only under the seat, but also under the side elements and even inside the armrests.

Therefore, when choosing upholstered furniture for an apartment or a private house, it is better to give preference to sofas with transformation systems. No matter how cheap models are without such mechanisms, they lose a lot to transforming sofas in terms of functionality. A fold-out sofa provides additional sleeping space, which is especially true for those who often receive guests at home.

1. Filled with poor quality material.

The life of upholstered furniture also depends on the quality of the filler. Sofas contain various fillers that differ both in terms of service life and degree of elasticity. Least good option- a sofa stuffed with foam rubber. This material has long been outdated, and it is better not to buy foam rubber furniture. In any case, first decide on your needs and the purpose of the sofa: will it be designed for sleeping or only for sitting, what are the expected loads. According to these criteria, whatever they may be in your case, you can already choose a specific model.

1. Purchase without fitting.

Buying a sofa without testing, detailed inspection and fitting is a very risky decision. From the photographs in the catalogs of online stores, it is impossible to understand how this or that sofa model will behave in practice: is it comfortable to sit on it, is it suitable for sleeping, does the transformation mechanism work well. Having decided which sofa you want to buy, try everything yourself and only after that pay for the purchase!

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