Couch Guide: Pick, Place & Keep Your Sofa Fresh

Stuck wondering which couch will actually fit your living room? You’re not alone. Most people buy a sofa first and then scramble to make the rest of the room work around it. Below you’ll get straight‑forward steps to choose the right couch, pair it with a rug, and keep it looking new.

Choosing the Right Couch for Your Space

Start by measuring the floor area where the sofa will sit. Walk around the spot with a tape measure and note the length, width, and height you have available. As a rule of thumb, leave at least 30 cm (12 in) of walking space in front of the couch so traffic flows smoothly.

Next, think about how you’ll use the couch. If you love movie nights, a deep seat with a low back is comfy. For a formal setting, a tighter back and slimmer arms keep the room looking sleek. Pick a fabric that matches your lifestyle: cotton blends are easy to clean, while velvet feels luxurious but may need more care.

Don’t forget the pull‑out or sectional options if you need extra sleeping space. Those pieces save a guest room but add to the footprint, so double‑check the dimensions before you click ‘add to cart.’

Rug Size and Layout Tips

The right rug can anchor your couch and pull the whole room together. A common mistake is using a rug that’s too small, which makes the space feel disjointed. Aim for a rug that extends at least 45 cm (18 in) beyond the front legs of the couch. This creates a balanced look and gives you a defined area for coffee tables and side chairs.

If you have a sectional, place the rug under the entire seating area. The front legs of all pieces should sit on the rug, while the back legs can stay off. For a standard three‑seat sofa, a 200 × 300 cm (8 × 12 ft) rug works well in most living rooms.

When choosing the rug material, consider traffic. Low‑pile polypropylene holds up to heavy foot traffic and is easy to vacuum. Wool feels soft underfoot but may need professional cleaning if spills happen.

Now that you have the couch and rug sorted, think about placement. Position the sofa opposite a focal point—usually a TV, fireplace, or large window. Keep the distance between the couch and the focal point around 2‑3 times the couch’s length for comfortable viewing.

Add side tables within arm’s reach for lamps, drinks, or remote controls. If space is tight, use slim console tables that slide under the couch when you need more leg room.

Finally, maintain your couch so it stays inviting. Vacuum upholstery weekly with a soft brush attachment. Spot‑clean spills right away using a gentle detergent and a clean cloth—don’t scrub hard, it can damage the fabric. For leather sofas, wipe with a damp cloth and apply a leather conditioner every few months.

By measuring carefully, matching the rug size, and keeping the sofa clean, you’ll create a living room that feels put together without a lot of hassle. Whether you’re buying a new couch or just rearranging what you already have, these simple tips keep the space functional and stylish.