Is there a formula for determining that a sofa is comfortable? Even though the comfort of a sofa is a unique perception to each person, there are still certain characteristics that make it possible to ensure the comfort of a sofa. It should be understood that the comfort of a sofa is relative to a multitude of characteristics. We are going to introduce you to the characteristics that contribute to the comfort of a sofa. Ergonomics, density of components, choice of materials, discover everything you need to know to distinguish a comfortable sofa in this article. This will make it easier for you to choose your sofa!
To guide you…
The density of the components for a comfortable sofa
The comfort of a sofa is “measured” by two distinct criteria: the density of the foam in the sofa and the load-bearing capacity of the foam in the sofa.
Definition of the density of a sofa: resistance of the material used for the seat and back of a sofa, which will make you sink more or less deeply into it. It is therefore the density of foam that will offer a sofa a more or less flexible reception. It is therefore necessary to take into consideration and understand the foam density. The higher the foam concentration, the firmer the comfort. The lower the foam concentration, the softer the sofa. The foam density of a sofa like mattresses is calculated in cubic meters (m3).
Definition of the lift of a sofa: thickness of the bubbles that give elasticity to a sofa foam. When sitting on the sofa, the support is different depending on the lift of the foam.
Another important criterion that influences the comfort of a sofa: its suspension. You should know that the majority of sofas are composed of a structure enriched with foam today. Most sofa structures are made of wood. Also, the majority of sofas today are made with elastic straps, either about 6 cm wide, spaced and criss-crossed, or 15 cm wide, arranged side by side others like a trampoline. Note that some more traditional sofas still have spring suspensions. For example, a leather sofa, whose upholstery is heavy and thick, will be maintained by springs for better hold over time.
Even if there is no ideal foam density for a sofa, it is possible to define a recommended minimum and maximum density range.
Knowing that the seat supports the entire weight of the body, its density must be greater than that of the backrest. It is advisable not to go below 35 kg/m3 density and to opt for HR (High Resilience) foam which will provide neutral support. This allows you to enjoy a good hold at the reception and which lasts over time.
The weight exerted on the foam of the backrest is more relative: only the back is supported and its weight is not substantial. It is therefore possible to use foams with a density between 20 and 28 kg/m3 to obtain a comfortable product.
The seat cushions, on the other hand, receive only a small part of the load. The cushions can be made up of one or more blocks of foam of different densities. As an indication, there may be a foam with a density of 35 to 40 kg/m3 on the lower part of the cushion and, above, a second layer over 3-4 cm with a density between 20 and 28 kg/m3, which will bring flexibility both in terms of comfort and visual appearance (flat or rounded seat).
You should also know that the foam density of a sofa contributes to its maintenance. A foam density that is too low for a sofa can lead to its deformation over the long term since the foam can move.
Although there are foam densities more conducive to comfort and basic principles to follow, nothing beats testing the sofa yourself to see its comfort in a concrete way. Some people will prefer a soft and cozy sofa and others will prefer a firmer and more flexible sofa. Density can help you determine the type of comfort you want.
For a convertible sofa, it is more complex to talk about comfort: in fact, you have to reduce the thickness of the seat cushion to be able to integrate a mattress into the sofa. The seat cushion is therefore very simple, with a maximum thickness of 8 to 12 cm, and under this there are straps and the mattress. The suspension is then given by the foam, the webbing and the mattress.
The comfort of the sofa, a question of materials!
The covering of the sofa is one of the main materials that makes a sofa a good sofa. The covering of the sofa undeniably contributes to its comfort since the feeling of the touch influences the perception of comfort, whether it is the comfort of use but also of the maintenance of the sofa. Indeed, some materials are more or less difficult to maintain.
Leather sofa, fabric sofa or synthetic sofa, which is the right choice? Each coating has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice is as much driven by aesthetics as practicality. For aesthetics, everyone will have their preferences of course.
On the practical side, you should know that a leather sofa, which has the advantage of aging well (therefore being kept for a long time) and easy to maintain, will be more expensive than a sofa covered with a synthetic material, which is very resistant to stains. Leather is a material that can also be uncomfortable in summer since it is not breathable unlike synthetic material.
Leather, well treated, is certainly what ages best and what is the strongest. The finest quality: full flower. Different finishes are applied to the leather, to be chosen according to the degree of resistance and the desired style: aniline, pigmented, printed... Its disadvantages: its price, and its fragility to certain types of aggression such as the claws of our four-legged friends . In short, the quality/price ratio of a leather sofa is not optimal. Alternative: imitation leather which, thanks to technological progress, escapes the “cheap” spirit. It is also easier to maintain and less expensive.
Synthetic fabrics have been the kings of the market in recent years. Less easily stained and more resistant, they are sometimes softer, with a “peach skin” touch like alcantara. Make sure the microfiber that caught your attention is machine washable.
As for the price, sofas made of synthetic materials are the most affordable and are resistant. Count 500€ for basic models of sofas in synthetic material. If you choose a fabric sofa, the prices vary according to the covering, velvet, linen, cotton… For example, a fabric sofa varies between 600 and 1,000 euros. For a leather sofa, it takes at least 2,000 euros.
Other possibilities, but not the most interesting in terms of quality/price ratio. Cotton has the advantage of not being expensive. Also, it does not attract dust. Velvet, very soft and with its wide range of colors, wins the hearts of the public thanks to its noble and cozy spirit. Nubuck and suede, of good resistance since a stain can be sanded with sandpaper, are a little less expensive than velvet and very appreciated for their vintage-chic aspect.
No matter what type of covering you choose for your sofa, the ideal is of course the removable version, which allows you to remove the cover to clean it separately, or even to change it entirely if it is too much. worn or simply if you want to vary the decor. An interesting option to rejuvenate your sofa over time and combine seating comfort as well as use and maintenance.
A comfortable sofa, ergonomics story
Undeniably, the ergonomics of the sofa influences its comfort. The ergonomics of a sofa starts with its size. You have to equip yourself with a sofa according to its use and the number of people who will use it.
Logically, a comfortable sofa can also benefit from specific ergonomics, such as a corner sofa, for example. A corner sofa offers the possibility of lying down in particular.
You now know the characteristics that make a sofa a comfortable product. By respecting this information, you will be sure to acquire a sofa on which you will be comfortable. But remember that a sofa can be comfortable for one person and uncomfortable for another. The comfort of one is a perception specific to each one!
For you, what is a comfortable sofa?
What are the characteristics that make a sofa comfortable?
