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Sofas for your household should be chosen with care and consideration

Purchasing new sofas are a major investment for most of us so it is essential that the chosen sofa is safe and meets the current British and European standards. Over the last year there have been many reports in newspapers of second rate and actually dangerous furniture being imported into the United Kingdom, Trading Standards Officers have made a number of seizures of dangerous goods.

How can we be sure that the sofa we have bought is safe and not made from toxic or noxious materials? The straightforward answer is to be aware of what we are buying and from whom it is being bought. Most British manufacturers and retail suppliers of sofas and other furniture will be able to provide manufacturing information for their stock; in fact most retailers will readily supply the relevant standards which apply to the furniture. British retailers are obliged to sell sofas that meet specific standards and must comply with The Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations. The cover and internal mechanisms in sofas must comply with the relevant standards, and British companies display very clearly the standards that apply.

When looking to buy sofas it is essential to put some effort into the purchase, do some research, it is possible to buy high quality furniture on the high street and online at competitive prices and similar guidelines should be followed. Check out the retailer and look at the goods they supply, who makes the product, where are the raw materials sourced from, where is the factory based, what standards apply to the particular piece of furniture? Look to see if there are any reviews of the retailer and/or the products, check for a returns policy and ascertain the customer service information such as contact details, both telephone number and postal address, and head office details. A returns policy is very important, it is essential to know how a complaint will be dealt with and what rights you have with regard to faulty goods, wear and tear and damaged or unsatisfactory goods.

Customer satisfaction is the key to generating business and British companies with good reputations for quality stock and good customer relations will attract buyers. It is a good idea to establish clear communication with the retailer, talk to the seller, ask questions, look for material samples and if possible visit the store and examine the furniture, a trustworthy retailer will be happy and keen to assist with a purchase.