How to Spot a High-Quality Sofa: A Buyer’s Guide

A sofa is often the centerpiece of your living room — it’s where you relax, entertain, and spend time with family. But not all sofas are created equal. In fact, many mass-produced sofas are built to last only a few years before sagging, squeaking, or falling apart. So how can you tell the difference between a sofa that looks good in the showroom and one that will actually last?

At Candace & Basil, we build custom sofas in-house from scratch, which gives us complete control over quality. Here’s our guide to help you spot the signs of a truly high-quality sofa.

1. Check the Frame

The frame is the foundation of your sofa. A strong frame equals long-lasting durability.

• Look for: Kiln-dried, FSC-certified hardwoods (like maple).

• Avoid: Softwoods, particle board, or frames held together with staples.

• Pro Tip: Lift one corner of the sofa — the opposite corner should lift too. If it doesn’t, the frame may be weak or poorly joined.

2. Test the Suspension

The suspension system supports your seat and plays a big role in comfort.

• Look for: Heavy-gauge sinuous springs or luxury coil springs with webbing or 8-way hand-tie.

• Avoid: Cheap elastic webbing or loosely spaced springs that squeak.

• Pro Tip: Push down on different spots in the seat — the resistance should feel even across the surface.

3. Ask About the Cushions

Cushions make or break the sitting experience.

• Look for: High-density foam (2 lb per cubic foot or higher), wrapped in down, feather, or premium down-alternatives.

• Avoid: Low-density foam or cushions that feel overly light — they’ll lose shape quickly.

• Pro Tip: Firmer cushions last longer, while softer cushions give a plush look but may need more upkeep.

4. Inspect the Upholstery

Fabric and finish aren’t just about style — they’re about performance and longevity.

• Look for: Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 textiles, performance fabrics rated over 40,000 double rubs, and pilling class 4–5.

• Avoid: Thin fabrics or unknown blends with no performance standards.

• Pro Tip: Pay attention to hidden areas — outside backs should be padded, and seams should follow the frame’s contour.

5. Pay Attention to the Details

Luxury is in the details. A high-quality sofa shows craftsmanship in every stitch.

• Look for: Clean stitching, precise tailoring, and optional upgrades like piping, baseball stitching, or decorative trims.

• Avoid: Crooked seams, visible staples, or sagging fabric.

6. Think About Sustainability & Safety

Your sofa should be safe for your home and kind to the environment.

• Look for: FSC-certified hardwood, CertiPUR-US® foam, non-toxic adhesives, and Oeko-Tex® fabrics.

• Avoid: Toxic glues, composite woods, or uncertified foams.

Why Custom is the Smarter Choice

When you buy a mass-produced sofa, you’re limited to what’s available. With Candace & Basil, you get a sofa built specifically for you — from the frame to the fabric. You choose the size, shape, spring type, foam density, upholstery, and finishing details. Because we build everything in-house, your sofa is made to last a lifetime, not just a few years.

Experience the Candace & Basil Difference

Knowing what to look for is the first step — but seeing it in person makes all the difference. Visit a Candace & Basil showroom to experience the craftsmanship, sit in our sofas, and explore customization options firsthand.

Contact us today for a custom quote and let us build the sofa you’ve been searching for.