Top 13 Tips for Buying a Great Sofa Top 13 Tips for Buying a Great Sofa 1. The frame should not wobble or creak, it should be sturdy and sit squarely on the floor. 2. The frame and all the corners should be well padded. Run your hand over them firmly to see. 3. If you are buying a reclining sofa or a sofa bed, all mechanisms should work smoothly. 4. If the sofa has any metal parts, they should be smooth and free of sharp edges and all moving parts on a sofa bed or reclining sofa should clear the fabric completely to avoid tearing. 5. There should be no bumps or hard spots on the back. Run the palm of your hand over it. 6. If there are any buttons, check to see they are sewn on securely. 7. Cushions should be firm and resilient and fit snugly. They should regain their shape after you press down and let go. 8. Seats should be comfortable, and for reclining furniture, be comfortable in all positions. 9. The arms should not jiggle or move, and if upholstered, be well padded. 10. Check the sofa from the back, and pat the center to make sure it isn't hollow. 11. Just as in well tailored clothing, patterns and stripes should match at the seams. 12. Patterns should be centered, and all seams and welts should run straight. 13. For fire safety reasons, look for the gold UFAC tag, indicating that the sofa manufacturer certifies it is made in accordance with UFAC