Check the overall shape, look at the fabric and if pattern matching is important to you, confirm if this is possible if not obvious on the display model.
Feel the padding on the arms and back, and below the front rail. If you can feel the frame easily with little pressure, this may cause premature wear of the upholstery fabric.
Upholstered furniture should be tried for a reasonable time, in a way that you would normally sit, in order to assess whether it suits you. Remember foam softens naturally after the first few months of use until it finds its own balance.
Ask how long the product has been on display – this will give you some idea of how the suite will appear and feel after a period of use.
Move around on the furniture and avoid anything that squeaks or creaks.
Sit on the furniture with your partner or a friend and check that the cushions do not push you towards the centre or tip you forwards. The cushions should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between adjacent cushions or arms.
The back should provide firm support to the lower part of your back. Check you do not have to lean back too much. You should be able to sit with your back firmly supported with your feet on the floor.
Remember cushions filled with feather or fibre will compress and crease and will need regular plumping-up to retain their shape.
Consider how much you will use the item and ask about the fabric – is it suitable for general or sever domestic use?
If the furniture has a recliner action, check that the mechanism does not rub against the cover fabric as this could lead to premature cover wear.
Look for information labels or pamphlets providing care and maintenance instructions and/or details on the furniture’s suitability for domestic use. Ask if you cannot find any. Upholstered furniture comes in many shapes and sizes – ensure that you can fit it through your front door and that it will fit your room.
When the selected furniture arrives at your home, check that it is what you ordered and that it is fault free. Any problems or damage should be reported immediately so that they can be dealt with promptly and satisfactorily.
