View all news stories

The aspects to be considered when purchasing a new sofa.

So many sofas, so little time! There are many aspects to be considered when purchasing a new sofa such as style, colour, size fabric or leather. Even when the decision is made to opt for a fabric covered sofa rather than a leather sofa there are still more choices to be considered. The primary consideration is whether to opt for a fixed cover or loose cover sofa, both have advantages and disadvantages and would suit particular requirements.

Fixed cover or loose cover both are stylish, functional and comfortable but would perhaps better suit different home set-ups. Loose covers differ from fixed covered sofas in that the fabric covering of the sofa can be removed and washed or dry-cleaned. Loose covers are generally easy to remove, they are perhaps attached to the sofa by discreet zips or buttons and most can be machine washed at 40 degrees in a family washing machine. There is a wide variety of fabrics to choose from including cottons, chenille, damasks, linens, contemporary weaves, and flat weaves all available in different colours and finishes.

Loose covers are hard wearing but easy to maintain and would perhaps be most suitable for families with small children and/or pets. Small hands or paws can often leave dirty marks or make furniture sticky so having a loose cover on the sofa is a great advantage, just take the cover off wash in the washing machine and then put it back on the sofa after it has dried. Loose covers tend to look less formal than fixed and would suit a family room or lounge with lots of people coming and going.

Just because there are small children or pets in the family does not mean that fixed cover sofas have to be completely ruled out. Most sofas with fixed covers can be easily cared for especially if stain guard has been applied to the fabric. Sofas that have been treated can be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions and most everyday marks can be removed fairly easily. There tends to be a bigger selection of materials and finishes in fixed cover ranges and very often the sofas last longer because the fabric is a tighter weave.


Fixed or loose cover sofas are available in contemporary and traditional designs with various finishes and in many different colours. Sofas are a major investment for most families so it is essential to make the correct choice for the individual or family.