What to Consider When Buying a Couch: A Complete Guide
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Buying a Couch? Here’s What You Should Know
Buying a couch isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s a big-ticket decision that affects your comfort, lifestyle, and home design for years to come. Whether you’re furnishing a new place or upgrading an old favorite, choosing the right couch involves more than picking a pretty fabric. From dimensions and materials to pet-friendliness and modular options, here's what to consider before you buy.
Modular Machine Washable Sectionals & Sofas
At Two Seventy Nine, we specialize in fluffy couches and modular, pet-friendly, machine-washable sectionals designed for real life. Here's how to find the perfect fit — whether you’re styling a studio apartment or outfitting a family room.
1. Think About Function First
Ask yourself: How do you use your couch day to day?
• Is it for lounging during movie nights?
• Hosting guests?
• Doubling as a workspace?
Modular sectionals offer flexibility — you can add ottomans, reconfigure layouts, and adapt over time. If you’re in a smaller space, a 2-seat couch with an ottoman may be ideal. For families or larger rooms, a 4-seat L-shaped couch can anchor your entire living area.2. Size & Layout: Measure Everything (Twice)
The #1 couch-buying mistake? Not measuring.
Measure your room, doorways, stairwells, and elevators. Take note of:
• Overall dimensions
• Seat depth and height
• Clearance from walls or walkways
💡 Pro tip: Use painter's tape on your floor to visualize where the couch will sit. For modular couches, be sure to factor in how many ottomans or armless seats you plan to add.
3. Choose the Right Fabric for Your Lifestyle
The best couch fabric depends on your household.
• Pet owners: Choose durable, tightly woven fabrics like corduroy or performance polyester. Look for couch covers for dogs that resist scratching and shedding.
• Busy households: Prioritize machine washable slipcovers to handle spills, sweat, and daily wear.
• Style lovers: Chenille is ultra-soft and luxe-looking, with a cozy texture — perfect for a “big fluffy couch” aesthetic.
Every Two Seventy Nine couch comes with removable, machine-washable covers. Toss them in the wash and your couch is good as new.
4. Comfort: Don’t Settle for Looks Alone
Looks matter — but comfort is king. Here’s what to check:
• Seat depth: 22"–25" is ideal for lounging. Our L-shaped couch offers generous space without swallowing you.
• Cushion firmness: Medium-firm or soft foam with bounce-back support is best for long-term comfort.
• Backrest height and angle: Low-back couches look modern but may not offer neck support.
Our “Big Fluffy Couch” series is engineered for all-day comfort — deep seating, plush foam, and modular support.
5. Color & Style: Timeless Over Trendy
Trendy colors fade. Go for shades that play well with changing décor: cream, gray, taupe, or black.
If you love bold looks, express your style with throw pillows, blankets, and wall art — easier to change later than your entire couch.
Popular couch styles include:
• Mid-century modern (clean lines, wood legs)
• Scandi minimalism (light tones, simple shapes)
• Cozy modular (soft edges, low profile, deep seats)
6. Delivery, Assembly & Returns
Some couches come in giant pieces that won’t fit through doorways or walk-ups. Others, like our modular couches, ship in compact boxes that are easy to move and assemble — no tools required.
Before buying:
• Check shipping timeframes
• Look for return policies (especially for online furniture purchases)
• Confirm assembly requirements
Bonus: Our modular couches can be disassembled and reassembled easily, making them perfect for renters or frequent movers.
Couch Buying Checklist
Here’s a quick checklist to keep you on track:
• Measure your space & doorways
• Choose a layout (2-seat, L-shape, with ottoman, etc.)
• Decide on fabric (chenille, corduroy, polyester, etc.)
• Check for machine-washable slipcovers
• Pick a neutral or timeless color
• Confirm shipping & return policy
• Read customer reviews or testimonials
FAQs: Couch Buying Questions, Answered
Q: What’s the best couch for small spaces?
Look for 2-seat couches with ottomans or modular sectionals that can be rearranged. Avoid bulky arms and opt for low-profile silhouettes.
Q: Is chenille a good fabric for pets?
Chenille is soft and stylish, but for high-shed or scratch-prone pets, corduroy or performance fabric may hold up better. That said, chenille with washable slipcovers (like ours) is a happy medium.
Q: Should I buy a couch online?
Yes — if the site offers clear measurements, modular shipping, and a good return policy. Many modern couch brands (like us!) design for online-first customers with fast shipping and easy setup.
Final Thoughts
Buying a couch is a major purchase — one that should support your lifestyle, elevate your space, and last for years. Prioritize comfort, maintenance, and fit over trends. And if you're looking for a modular, pet-friendly, machine-washable couch that doesn’t skimp on looks, we've got just the thing.