Want to refresh the vibe of your family room without buying a new sofa? Simply changing the sofa cover can give your sofa a whole new look.
However, you need to be extra careful because incorrect measurements can make the new cover look odd or even hard to fit.
To help you avoid mistakes, this article will guide you through the correct way to measure your sofa. Plus, we'll also recommend IKEA products as a brand that offers modern and affordable sofa cover collections.
The importance of measuring a sofa cover before purchasing
The sofa is a piece of furniture that serves as a daily gathering spot in the living room. Its appearance can easily catch the attention of anyone entering your home.
To avoid a monotonous look, many people use sofa covers as a quick and easy way to transform their sofas.
Sofa covers also serve as a protective layer against damage and unwanted stains.
Before you decide to buy a new sofa cover, there is one crucial step you should not skip: measuring your sofa accurately.
From sleek, minimalist sofas to large, classic ones full of details, each model has different dimensions and shapes.
Choosing a sofa cover that doesn't fit can lead to disappointing results. The cover may end up too loose, too tight, or difficult to install.
Sizing errors not only affect sitting comfort but also diminish the overall aesthetic of your family room.
Instead of becoming the focal point of the room, your sofa might look untidy and disrupt the harmony of the space.
By carefully measuring your sofa and its cover, you can ensure the new cover will be both comfortable to use and enhance your room’s overall look.
Tools you need to measure your sofa cover
You're ready to measure your sofa to find the perfect cover size. There are a few essential tools you'll need to prepare. All are easy to find!
What measuring tools should you prepare?
The basic supplies you’ll need include a fabric tape measure, a notebook, and a pencil.
A fabric tape measure is particularly helpful when measuring the length, width, and height of your sofa accurately.
Meanwhile, a notebook and pencil are useful for recording each measurement so no detail is missed.
These simple tools will greatly assist you in obtaining precise measurements, minimizing the risk of purchasing the wrong sofa cover.
Tips for choosing the right measuring tool
When selecting a measuring tool, it's best to choose a flexible tape measure made from fabric or soft plastic instead of a rigid one.
Why? Because sofas typically have curved shapes, such as at the armrests or cushions.
A flexible tape measure allows you to easily measure around these curves, providing more accurate results.
How to measure your sofa for a cover
To ensure the sofa cover you buy fits neatly and looks great, careful measurement is key. Here’s a practical guide you can follow:
1. Measuring the sofa’s length
Start by measuring the length of the seating area, the part where you sit, from one end to the other.
This length is the primary basis for determining the size of the sofa cover. If you skip or mismeasure this step, the cover may end up too tight or puffed out in the main seating area.
2. Measuring the sofa’s width
Next, measure the width of the sofa from the outer edge of one armrest to the outer edge of the other.
This data helps determine whether you need a fitted or slightly loose cover.
Accurate width measurements ensure the cover doesn’t appear too small or overly baggy when installed.
3. Measuring the sofa’s height
Then, measure the height from the floor to the top of the sofa’s backrest.
This measurement will help you decide whether you need a full-length cover (down to the floor) or a half-cover (only covering the upper section).
Proper height measurement will make the sofa look neater and more balanced within your room’s design.
4. Measuring other important parts
Don’t forget to measure other parts, such as the armrests, seat cushions, and back cushions.
Taking these measurements into account will ensure a snug fit that looks great and feels comfortable.
The more complete your measurements, the more ergonomic and precise the final result will be.
Read also: Ideal living room sofa sizes and tips for choosing a minimalist sofa for small spaces
How to understand your sofa model before measuring
Before you start measuring, it’s important to understand the model of your sofa. Each type of sofa has a different shape and structure, which can affect the measuring technique.
Identifying the type of sofa
First, identify the model of your sofa. Is it a minimalist sofa, a three-seater sofa, or an L-shaped sofa?
Let’s briefly look at the characteristics of each.
Minimalist sofas typically have a slim and straightforward design, making them relatively easy to measure.
Three-seater sofas are usually larger, requiring special attention to seat width and armrests.
L-shaped sofas have an additional corner that requires measuring both sides carefully, including the corner section.
Knowing your sofa model beforehand helps you adapt the measuring technique accordingly.
This approach improves measuring accuracy, reduces mistakes, and ensures the cover fits your sofa perfectly.
Common mistakes when measuring for a sofa cover
Measuring your sofa might sound simple, but several common mistakes can significantly affect the outcome.
Avoid these measuring mistakes by paying attention to the following:
Failing to consider cushion thickness
Many people measure only the sofa’s length and width without factoring in the thickness of the seat and back cushions. However, cushion thickness greatly impacts the overall size.
For best results, always measure not only the frame but also the cushions.
Ignoring the sofa’s design
Each sofa has a unique design that needs to be considered. For example, a sofa with high armrests will require extra measurements for the arms, whereas an armless sofa might only need seating measurements.
Using the same measuring method for all sofas without considering the design will likely lead to a poor fit.
So, always recognize your sofa’s shape before you start measuring.
Measuring only once
One measurement is not enough. Always measure each section more than once to ensure accuracy.
Double-checking your measurements helps eliminate calculation errors or measuring tool shifts.
This practice increases your confidence that the chosen sofa cover will truly fit and feel comfortable.
Tips for choosing a sofa cover based on your measurements
