Best Sofas for Families, Children and Pets: What to Look For

A family sofa has a harder life than any other piece of furniture in the house. It is a bed, a trampoline, a dining table and a play den. Choose well and it will cope. This guide covers the decisions that matter.

Fabric first

• Faux leather and leather have no pile, so spills sit on the surface and wipe off. They do not trap hair or crumbs. Keep sharp claws and zips away.
• Corduroy is textured, warm and hides everyday marks. It collects pet hair, so a weekly vacuum with a soft brush is the routine.
• Chenille is soft and cosy, but loops can snag on claws.
• Velvet looks lovely but marks and crushes easily, so it is less forgiving with young children.
• Linen-look is airy but shows water rings.

Our fabric comparison goes into more detail.

Colour matters

Mid-tones such as grey, taupe, brown and dark green hide marks better than white, cream or black. A patterned or textured fabric hides more than a plain one. If you love a pale sofa, accept a throw on the favourite seat and a routine.

Construction

Look for a solid frame, spring support and foam filling, and a listed maximum load. A sofa that children bounce on needs a sturdy frame. Check that the legs are firm and that the sofa does not flex.

Shape and size

Corner sofas give everyone a spot and the chaise end is perfect for a pile of children. A deep seat suits sprawling, a shallower seat suits adults who need to get up easily. A 3 seater suits most families.

Sofa and pet habits

• Give pets their own blanket on the sofa so hair and dirt stay on something washable.
• Trim claws regularly and keep a lint roller or rubber glove handy.
• Vacuum along the seams, where hair collects.
• Keep a damp cloth and clean towel to hand for muddy paws.

Protect it day to day

1. Put a washable throw over the most used seat.
2. Plump and rotate cushions weekly.
3. Blot spills straight away and check the care label (see how to clean a sofa).
4. Keep the sofa away from radiators and sunlight.

What not to worry about

A sofa is meant to be used. A little wear is not failure. Choose a fabric and colour that suit how you live and the sofa will earn its place.

Browse all sofas or start with a 3 seater.