The sofa buying guide: frames, fabrics and the comfort test

A sofa is part furniture, part long-term relationship. Spend your attention on the parts you can't see — the frame and the fill — because that's what determines how it feels in year five.

Start with the frame

Kiln-dried solid hardwood frames resist warping and last longest. Engineered hardwood is a solid mid-range choice. Avoid frames that creak or flex when you press on an armrest.

Cushions and support

• High-density foam holds shape and resists sagging
• Pocket springs add bounce and even support
• Feather-wrapped cushions feel plush but need regular plumping

Choose a fabric for your life

Top-grain leather is durable and wipes clean. Tight-weave performance fabrics resist stains and pet claws. Removable, washable covers are the most forgiving choice for busy homes.