How to Buy the Perfect Sectional Sofa

Your Guide to buying the best Sectional

Overview

A sectional is an important piece of furniture for any living space, as it can provide extra seating, extra storage, and can be easily reconfigured when needed. When shopping for a sectional, it is important to consider size, material, and functionality. This guide will provide an in-depth look into the factors to consider when buying a sectional, so you will be sure to find one that fits your needs and style.

Key features

  1. Measurement/Size: Before purchasing a sectional, be sure to measure the space you have available and determine how much space the sectional will take up. Consider the sectional length, depth, height, and size of the sectional components.
  2. Style/Design: There are a variety of styles and designs to choose from when selecting a sectional. Consider the desired aesthetic of the room and determine the best shape, color, and pattern for the sectional.
  3. Material/Fabric: Different materials and fabrics will give the sectional a different look and feel. Consider the desired material and fabric for comfort and durability.
  4. Functionality: An important factor to consider when selecting a sectional is what purpose it will serve. Think about whether you would like the sectional to be modular or one piece, with recliners or not, and if you’d like additional storage.
  5. Seating Capacity/Comfort: Another important factor when selecting a sectional is the seating capacity and comfort. Consider how many people you would like to comfortably seat.
  6. Budget: It is important to consider how much you are willing to spend on a sectional. Determine what your budget is and look for sectionals within that range.

See the most popular Sectional on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Size Options: Sections offer a variety of sizes, shapes, and styles, allowing the buyer to choose the perfect sectional for their space.
  • Flexibility: Sectional pieces can be arranged in multiple configurations, meaning buyers can find the perfect seating arrangement for their home.
  • Comfort: Many sectionals feature comfortable cushions and deep recline, allowing buyers to relax in total comfort.
  • Ease of Cleaning: Most sectionals are fairly easy to clean, making it easy for buyers to keep their sectional looking like new.
  • Durability: Many sectionals are designed to be durable, meaning buyers can enjoy their sectional for years to come.

Cons

  • Size: Sectionals typically take up more space than other types of furniture, such as couches or loveseats, so they may not be ideal for smaller rooms or limited space.
  • Cost: Sectionals can be expensive, depending on the size, fabric, and other features.
  • Difficulty of Moving: Sectionals are large and heavy, making them difficult to move from one place to another.
  • Flexibility: Sectionals are not as flexible as traditional furniture, since they are usually composed of a few large pieces and cannot be easily rearranged.

Best alternatives

  1. Reclining Sofa - A reclining sofa typically has one or two reclining seats, as well as a reclining footrest, to allow for comfortable seating and relaxation.
  2. Convertible Sofa - A convertible sofa can be converted into a bed and is ideal for small spaces, such as apartments or dormitories, since it can double as both a sofa and a bed.
  3. Loveseat - A loveseat is a small two-person sofa, perfect for tight spaces and smaller seating areas.
  4. Sleeper Sofa - A sleeper sofa is a sofa with a pull-out bed, perfect for when you need to accommodate extra overnight guests.
  5. Armless Sofa - An armless sofa, also known as a chaise lounge, is a sofa without arms, which can give a room a more modern look.
  6. Futon - A futon is a Japanese-style sofa bed with a mattress that can be folded up to create a comfortable couch-style seating.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Sectional furniture - A large piece of furniture made up of several individual pieces that fit together.
  • Area rugs - A floor covering made from a variety of materials including wool, cotton, jute, and synthetic fibers.
  • Throw pillows - Decorative cushions in various shapes, sizes, and colors used to add comfort and style to a sofa or bed.
  • Armless chairs - A chair with no arms, usually used as an accent piece or for additional seating.
  • Ottomans - A type of footstool that can be used as extra seating, storage, or a place to rest your feet.
  • Coffee tables - A low table that is used to display or store items, usually placed in front of a sofa.
  • Slipcovers - A cloth covering that fits over existing furniture to protect it from wear and tear.

Common questions

  1. What size sectional should I get for my living room?
    The size of the sectional depends on the size of the room and the amount of seating needed. Generally, a larger sectional is more suitable for a larger space, and a smaller sectional would be better for a smaller room. Measure the area you plan to place your sectional in, and compare it to the size of the sectional you plan to purchase.
  2. What type of fabrics can be used for a sectional?
    There are a variety of fabrics that can be used for a sectional, including leather, microfiber, chenille, and velvet. Each fabric has its own advantages and drawbacks, so consider the look and feel of the room when selecting the fabric for your sectional.
  3. What is the best way to clean a sectional?
    The best way to clean a sectional depends on the type of fabric. For leather sectionals, use a damp cloth with a mild soap and water solution to clean off dirt and debris. For microfiber, chenille, and velvet sectionals, use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove dirt and debris.
  4. What colors are available for sectionals?
    Sectionals come in a variety of colors, from neutral shades to vibrant hues. Consider the overall color palette of the room when selecting the color for your sectional, so it complements the other decor.

Trivia

Sectional is a furniture company founded in 2018 by four friends from New York, including two brothers. The company was launched with a mission to provide customers with stylish furniture at a fraction of the cost of other high-end furniture stores. Interestingly, the name of the company is inspired by the 1960's TV show, "The Partridge Family." The idea behind the name was that the company's four founders were like a modern-day version of the Partridge family, who formed their own business. The founders wanted to create a company that was just as unique and fun as the show, hence the name Sectional. Sources: https://sectional.com/our-story/

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.