Buying a sofa is hard work. Ultimately, you want to avoid the mistakes everyone makes when buying a sofa to get your money's worth and ensure your new furniture is comfortable. Brandy Rinehart of Habitar Designer agrees, saying in an exclusive interview with House Digest, “From fostering family togetherness to providing the ultimate relaxation zone for binge-watching your favorite shows, the right sofa makes all the difference.” But she understands that It's difficult to stand out from the noise of mass market brands and choose a piece that is comfortable, looks good in your living room and fits your budget. Therefore, she recommends looking beyond a couch's marketing and paying attention to its structural integrity, material quality, and craftsmanship.
To explain, consider the couch's warranty conditions, manufacturing and delivery time, customer service and design support, return policy, and fabric and leather quality. Rinehart explains: “A solid warranty reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Be wary of brands that do not clearly state their warranty terms. A shorter warranty is often a sign of inferior materials or construction.” Likewise, custom-made products that take longer than five to twelve weeks may experience manufacturing problems. Find out if the couch brand you want to invest in has “a dedicated team to help you with everything from fabric selection to post-purchase concerns.” Don't forget to check out the brand's return policy and see if it offers design support for your custom sofa. Obtaining fabric or leather samples will help you make an informed decision. The most important thing is to “remember that investing in quality over quantity will pay off in the long run – both for your home and for your peace of mind.” So avoid the cheap sofa at an estate sale.
Read more: 25 Easy Decorating Ideas to Transform an Entire Room in a Day
Reasons Why You Should Avoid Big Brands When Buying a Couch
Tan, gray and blue sofas in an Ikea store – Capturing Images/Shutterstock
The main reason Rinehart cites for avoiding big brands is that they spend more on marketing instead of ensuring their product offers a high ROI (return on investment). The expert, who has a BFA in furniture design, speaks exclusively to House Digest and says: “Well-known retailers such as IKEA, West Elm and Crate & Barrel/CB2 dominate the market with their wide accessibility and marketing budgets. While they have their place, their products often lack the durability and quality that lesser-known, U.S.-based manufacturers offer.” When asked what specific features these brands exclude, she explains: “Components like wood type, frame construction and pillow filling are often compromised in favor of cost savings. These big brands tend to prioritize advertising over the longevity of their furniture.”
The good news is that you can choose from several local brands and benefit from premium craftsmanship, unique products and personalized service. Reinhart adds, “In contrast, smaller U.S.-based companies excel in craftsmanship, using high-quality materials and manufacturing practices that result in more durable and comfortable furniture. Additionally, choosing local manufacturers reduces shipping costs and supports American workers while delivering a higher standard of quality.” Additionally, it makes it easier for small businesses to get in touch and relay your concerns. Another benefit is that your furniture will most likely have its own backstory, making your purchase all the more special and justifying the cost of purchasing a new sofa.
Alternatives to consider when buying a couch
Couple tests a gray sofa, a saleswoman helps them – Andresr/Getty Images
Instead of relying on the marketing language of big brands, choose a sofa brand that prioritizes design and durability and offers excellent customer service. In her exclusive interview with House Digest, Reinhart names the local brands you should consider: “Whether you prefer modern minimalism, organic aesthetics or timeless tradition, U.S.-based manufacturers like Norwalk Furniture, Urban Natural and Blu Dot offer exceptional Opportunities.” to meet your needs.”
Ohio-based Norwalk Furniture is a good choice because it “offers a wide selection of modern and traditional sofa styles, paired with an extensive selection of fabric and leather options. The use of furniture-grade wood ensures a sturdy frame, while their commitment to high-quality padding ensures long-lasting comfort. To make the best choice, opt for high-performance fabrics that are stain-resistant and easy to clean (even for spilled wine or muddy pet paws). Norwalk's excellent warranties and attentive customer service team make the buying process stress-free. “
Urban Natural from New Jersey is another good alternative. She lists the reasons why you should try it: “Urban Natural specializes in organic designs and sustainable materials and appeals to environmentally conscious buyers. Their designs often embody a European feel, making them perfect for those who value uniqueness and conversation pieces.” Better yet, “They provide free fabric samples so you can confidently choose the perfect color and texture for your space . Their knowledgeable in-house design team provides personalized support throughout the purchase process and even after delivery.”
After all, Minneapolis, Minnesota-based Blu Dot is “known for its mid-century modern aesthetic and clean, minimalist design. Their sofas offer the perfect balance of style and functionality, making them ideal for both small apartments and larger spaces.” Additionally, they offer quality furniture at affordable prices and promote a “seamless online ordering process.”
Read the original article on House Digest.