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We Had Our Editors Test The 7 Most Comfortable Sofas Money Can Buy

From city dwellers to Moms of two

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most comfortable sofas
Image by Paula Boudes

Shopping for a sofa online is like doing a blind taste test as Goldilocks—you never know what you’re going to get—all while you’re looking for something that’s just right. That said, whether it's a comfortable accent chair or a cozy leather reading chair, there’s one thing that everyone wants from their seating: high-quality materials. That means looking for plush cushions that won't sag over time—and making sure the fabric can withstand three kids and a dog. Not to mention that you'll want to account for size, especially if you're on the hunt for an apartment-friendly sectional or ultra-comfortable loveseat.

It's also worth mentioning that this year's design trends are all pointing toward comfortable, classic seating. We're seeing everything from cozy, slipcovered sofas in the New England eclectic trend (basically 2024's rustic answer to coastal grandmother) to cognac leather loveseats that scream quiet luxury. Think: TikTok-viral couches (you've no doubt seen), including the Article Sven sofa and Valyōu feathers sofa.

So below, I had seven PureWow editors test the absolute most comfortable sofas on the market—from modular sectionals for apartment dwellers to stain-resistant sofas for anyone with kids to cloud couches and modern loveseats (under $1,500) .

The Most Comfortable Accent Chairs of 2024


The Most Comfortable Sofas of 2024 at a Glance

1

Editor’s Pick Sofa

Valyōu Feathers Sofa 

read more

2

Best Leather Sofa

Article Sven Sofa

read more

3

Most Splurge-Worthy Sofa

Lovesac Stealth Tech Sofa

read more

4

Best Sofa Under $1,500

Article Kayra Bouclé Sofa

read more

5

Best Sectional Sofa

Burrow Union Sectional

read more

Show More

How We Tested the Most Comfortable Sofas

To determine the most comfortable sofas on the market, I enlisted seven PureWow editors to test a range of highly-rated options in their own homes, taking into account their individual lifestyles—whether they had kids, pets, large houses, or small apartments. Each sofa was put to the test for a minimum of two months, with some editors having used their sofas for years.

Throughout the testing period, we focused on three key criteria: ensuring the sofas could comfortably seat at least two people with a minimum length of 60 inches, assessing the cushion fill—whether it was down, polyfoam, or a blend—and verifying that the upholstery fabric was soft to the touch, avoiding anything that might feel uncomfortable or rough.

We then evaluated how well each sofa fit into their living space, from unboxing and assembly to how they held up over time. Testers carefully noted how the sofas performed under daily use, considering whether the cushions maintained their shape, if the fabric felt soft or scratchy and how the sofas stood up to the rigors of pets and children.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

Editor’s Pick Sofa

1. Valyōu Feathers Sofa 

Pros

  • voluminous duck-blend cushions
  • 3- and 4-seater options
  • stain and scratch-resistant fabric

Cons

  • cushions need to be fluffed frequently
  • feathers poke out occasionally

valyou furniture

If you’re on the hunt for a more affordable alternative to the Cloud Couch from Restoration Hardware, this one’s got a similar fluffy, sink-into-it feeling while still keeping a bit of support for your body. “I could sleep—OK, have slept—on it, without waking to stiff hips or a creaky neck. The deep seats are ideal for tall people (I’m 5-foot-11 and my husband is 6-foot-3), and the combination of duck feathers and polyurethane foam padding make it plush without eating you alive,” says PureWow VP of editorial Candace Davison in a PureWow100 review. The upholstery is also stain- and scratch-resistant and the cushions are fit with washable covers for easy cleaning. Add to that the fact that there’s an ‘ultra stain-resistant repellant’ option, which provides an extra layer of security for messier moments. Over the past year, it’s survived spills and spit-up alike, Davison says, and all “have quickly been dabbed up, leaving no traces behind.” 

Plus, unlike other cloud couch alternatives, this one has a mixture of duck and fiber filling in the cushions—and the feathers only comprise 43 percent of the filling, so there’s less to move around and get lumpy. Still, according to Davison, there’s “the double-edged sword of enjoying duck feather filling: Occasionally, a feather pokes out, and the sofa’s cushions require more routine (say, once a week) fluffing so they don’t slouch… I [was] worried that over time—and because I spend most of my time perched in the same seat—the seat [would] start to slump, but so far, patting the seat has restored it back to its glory.” Bonus: It comes in two- or three-seater options, both of which come with an ottoman. It is worth noting, however, that this style of sofa features lower-slung seats, which can be challenging for some people—particularly those with knee issues—to get in and out of, since it requires more bending.

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 84" W x 39" D x 32” H (larger sizes available)
  • Delivery and assembly: free curbside shipping on every order, no assembly options available 
  • Weight: 77 lbs (per piece)
  • Fabric options: 1 microfiber and cotton blend 
  • Color options: tan and grey

Best Leather Sofa

2. Article Sven Sofa

Pros

  • semi-aniline leather is smooth to the touch 
  • tufted bench seat 
  • cushions have removable covers
  • two bolster pillows included

Cons

  • wrinkles and creases will develop a relaxed vintage look (aka not for anyone whose style skews modern)

Article

When I was researching the best leather sofas, there was one that seemed to pop up everywhere I looked: Article’s Sven Sofa. People can’t seem to get enough of A) the stunning midcentury modern silhouette and B) how comfortable it is. Presumably, this has to do with its foam-padded and fiber- and feather-filled cushions, which allow you to sink in with support, and the silky smooth feel of full-aniline leather (available in Charme Chocolat, Charme Tan, Oxford Black and Oxford Blue). The sofa includes two cushy bolster pillows, and the loose fabric-backed back cushions feature removable covers that make it easy to clean professionally (which is advised for more persistent stains).

PureWow director of affiliate strategy Pam Masin says: “The Article Sven leather sofa has held up incredibly well over the last five years that I've owned it (and has survived three different moves!). I use it as the main seating in my living room and love the streamlined look of it while still being plenty comfy to lounge on while watching TV. The big selling point for me was the compact length paired with deep seats. It's hard to find a couch that's under 90 inches long that's not a loveseat. This one's 88 inches long, so it fits in my small apartment living room, but could still comfortably seat three people. When I moved into a house this year, I purchased the Sven ottoman to give my husband and me more space to sprawl out. The leather has been extremely durable and while it definitely scratches and stains, I find that they blend in with the ‘Charme Tan’ color leather. Plus, imperfections give the leather some character!”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 34" H x 88" W x 38" D
  • Delivery and assembly: white glove and front-door delivery available
  • Weight: 126 pounds
  • Fabric options: 3 (fabric, velvet or leather)
  • Color options: 4 colors 
most comfortable sofa 9
Lovesac

Most Splurge-Worthy Sofa

3. Lovesac Stealth Tech Sofa

Pros

  • Stealthtech technology
  • 100% customizable from size to pillow filling to color 
  • washable cushion covers 
  • can add extra seats over time

Cons

  • expensive 
  • one reviewer regrets not getting the deep sides, so you can sit lower in the couch instead of higher up

Lovesac

PureWow Commerce Editor Olivia Dubyak awarded this sofa a whopping 97 out of 100 points in a PureWow100 review for its completely custom-tailored design: “The size of the couch, material, pillow filling, arm shape and color are all customizable. You can choose a black, two-seater, chenille couch or a white, 12-seater, corded velvet couch with a rolled arm. And you can opt for storage seats and deep sides, and all cushion covers are washable.” It’s also extremely comfortable, per her review: “The cushions are nice and supportive and if you find you have a favorite spot on the couch and notice some denting, it’s super easy to fluff out the filling to reshape them…One of my fave configurations is when I put the seats in the center to shape it like a big mattress. My hubby and I have had high school-esque sleepovers out there plenty of times.” However, she also warns: “My one regret is not getting the deep sides, so you sit lower in the couch instead of higher up.”

It’s also worth mentioning that this sofa includes Lovesac’s newest innovation, Stealthtech, which features sound and charging equipment built into the couch that can hook up to your TV. “The Harman Kardon tech pairs with a soundbar that connects to your TV via Bluetooth and projects the sound from not only the soundbar, but also the arms of the couch, for an experience that’s more like being in a theater than sitting in your living room. You can also set your cell phone on designated areas on the arms to wirelessly charge, you know, should getting up to find an outlet prove too daunting,” Dubyak explains.

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: customizable
  • Delivery and assembly: some assembly required
  • Weight: varies by size
  • Fabric options: 30 quick-ship, 131 custom fabrics 
  • Color options: 15 colors and patterns

Best Sofa Under $1,500

4. Article Kayra Bouclé Sofa

Pros

  • bouclé fabric prevents snags and pulls from claws
  • stain- and spill-resistant
  • supportive padded cushions
  • statement-making 'kidney' shape

Cons

  • only one color option (ivory)
  • doesn't offer a plush feel
  • cushion covers are not removable

Article

Why did this sofa score 97 points out of 100 in a PureWow100 review? "It's the answer to your cat-scratch woes," according to former PureWow editor, Nicole Briese. "Like a moth to a flame, my 17-year-old feline Stink hopped right up onto the back of the couch—and unleashed her claws to claim it. 'NO!' I cried, diving to stop her. I was too late—she had already sunk them into the creamy fabric. Prepared for heartbreak, I frantically scanned its surface, looking for the shredded material that would inevitably crush me…but none came. Try as I might, I could not discern the spot where her sharp little hooks had pulled up fabric and where the natural tufts were lifted. I could have wept with joy." This is thanks to the performance bouclé fabric—which is far more durable than another bouclé sofa our editor tested. "In the days that followed, she tried a few more times, and each time, the results were the same—the tiny bit she managed to snag before I caught her was not discernible to the naked eye, even upon very, very close inspection," she adds.

As for comfort, the cushions are filled with ultra-tight foam that offers a firm yet supportive bounce. "It’s plenty comfy enough for daily use, however, with more than sufficient padding at both the back and seat, and I find myself gravitating to it even when I’m not watching television just to work... I also like that unlike a traditional couch, which has separated cushions, I’m less prone to stick to one specific seat," says Briese. Still, what she loved most about this sofa was its swoon-worthy design: "This thing was luxe. With a unique Scandinavian kidney bean shape and high pine wood legs, this little beauty [makes for a fabulous] statement piece.

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 31" H x 87" W x 45.5" D
  • Delivery and assembly: white glove and front-door delivery available
  • Weight: 97 pounds 
  • Fabric options: bouclé
    Color options: ivory

Best Sectional Sofa

5. Burrow Union Sectional

Pros

  • customizable as a sectional or loveseat 
  • multiple configurations with option to add an ottoman 
  • oak/walnut leg options 
  • soft and stain-resistant fabric

Cons

  • assembly takes way longer than ten minutes (as advertised on the website)
  • each piece arrives in a separate box; not very eco-friendly

Burrow

Live in a walk-up? Have a narrow doorway? This modern sofa arrives in eco-friendly packaging and can be assembled sans power tools (and took me around two hours to assemble all by myself). More importantly, as someone who is sitting atop the  4-Seat Union sectional right now, I have to attest: It’s beyond comfortable. The cushions are formulated with a proprietary, three-layer foam and fiber to offer a plush crown and ultra-soft initial sit. The brand claims it’s also “the biggest, deepest, plushest, widest modular seating design to date, created with movie nights, video games, and weekend cartoons in mind,” and I have to agree. Everyone who sits on this couch remarks on its deep-seated comfort—followed by a compliment of its organic modern design. 

To that end, it offers a slew of rare design customizations that go beyond its four fabric options and customizable legs. It’s available in 21 (!) configurations—from a three-seater with an ottoman to an eight-seat U sectional that’s perfect for hosting game days. The best part? The fabric is as soft and stain-resistant as the brand promises. Not only have I spilled red wine that was dabbed away with some Laundress stain solution, but the polyester chenille weave makes it luxuriously silky to the touch.

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 102.75" L x 72.75" D x 31.5" H​ (multiple sizes available)
  • Delivery and assembly: free shipping with some assembly required
  • Weight: varies by size
  • Fabric options: polyester chenille
  • Color options: 4 colors 

Best Modular Sofa

6. 7th Avenue Modular Sectional

Pros

  • memory foam cushions with customizable density 
  • can add/remove pieces over time
  • performance fabrics are stain-resistant

Cons

  • delivery takes 4-6 weeks
  • modular pieces are larger than they appear on website

7th Avenue

If you’re a city dweller, there’s only one type of apartment sofa you should invest in: Modular. This is because the pieces are buildable, so you can configure each arrangement to your new floorplan—and add/remove pieces over time. And this one in particular is just as comfortable as it is practical:  "This was the finishing piece I needed for a brand new apartment I moved into with my best friend. There are multiple stain-resistant fabrics to choose from—I selected the performance textured weave—and the comfort is top-tier,” says PureWow Associate Commerce Strategist, Jael Rucker. This is thanks to the down alternative and memory foam cushions, which are designed with a customizable feel: “The brand gives you the option of adjusting the firmness of the back cushion (either medium-soft or medium-firm), and you can even customize your own firmness level with the complimentary fill packets.” 

She also adds: “I found the setup to be easy (approximately 15 to 20 minutes per seat), and the instructions are clear to follow. While I wouldn't say there is a ‘breaking in’ period per se, the cushions definitely feel more ‘sinkable’ and comfy after two months.” That said, it’s worth mentioning her warning: “My only qualm is that because of the size of [each] chair, I received my delivery in different parts on different days, which was a little hectic. Also, [the chair pieces] run bigger in real life as opposed to the pictures, so I would definitely take measurements!"

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 132" L X 69" D X 24" H (custom sizes available)
  • Delivery and assembly: delivered to your door (assembly options available)
  • Weight: N/A
  • Fabric options: 3 (all performance fabrics)
  • Color options: 11 colors

Most Family-Friendly Sofa

7. Raymour & Flanigan Artemis II Sectional Sofa

Pros

  • microfiber material wipes clean (despite the level of spill)
  • compact L-shaped design 
  • ideal for smaller spaces

Cons

  • one reviewer says the cushions were more ‘bouncy’ than ‘sinkable’ (you can feel when another person sits)

Raymour & Flanigan

Parents can breathe easy for once. The Artemis II sectional sofa from Raymour & Flanigan is a game-changer for parents due to one simple reason: Microfiber. This durable material looks luxe, but makes it so parents can eliminate the most common kid-related stains—yogurt, cheerio debris, a melted popsicle—with a single swipe of a mild water-based solvent. (Our tester used just a paper towel and water in most cases.) Another material-related plus: Microfiber holds up to wear and tear. Per PureWow senior director of special projects Rachel Bowie, “This is our second microfiber couch from Raymour & Flanigan—the first one lasted 10 years.”

Other features worth calling out: The L-shaped loveseat, which can be customized to be left- or right-facing depending on your space. The frame joinery also keeps the separate pieces of the sectional locked together so—again, kid-related problem—the couch doesn’t separate or shift, no matter who jumps on it. But the comfort is also key, according to Bowie: “It’s the seat depth—nearly 24”—that really makes this sofa sing. You’ll sink into the seat whether you’re stretching out on the loveseat or sitting up straight. There’s a springy-ness to the cushions, too, which help them hold their shape, but also supply loads of back support. All in all, it’s a workhorse of a couch that’s perfect for families.”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 96”W x 67”D x 35”H (larger sizes available)
  • Delivery and assembly: white glove and in-store options available
  • Weight: 300 pounds 
  • Fabric options: 1 (microfiber)
  • Color options: 9 colors

What to Consider When Shopping for a Comfortable Sofa

  • Material: While you want your sofa to look as good as it feels, it’s more important that you pay attention to the latter when you’re shopping for comfort. That means it should be covered in soft yet durable fabrics that can hold up over time. Think: washed linen, velvet, twill, cotton, or leather (which gets softer as it ages). Plus, thanks to the emergence of performance fabric, there are now tons of supple, stain-resistant fabrics that were built with high-traffic areas in mind (especially if you have kids or pets). 
  • Seat Fill: The softness of your seat cushion is likely what you mean when you’re thinking about comfort. Do you like that sink-down feeling when you sit on a piece of furniture? If so, foam, fiber and down-blended cushions are the right choice. Will it bother you to have an unkempt-looking sofa or to have to fluff pillows regularly? Down cushions can be more high maintenance than others because they need to be fluffed regularly. In this case, a down alternative cushion is a great for anyone who wants a soft seat without the fluffing commitment. 
  • Size: Naturally, the size of your sofa is going to depend on where you can fit in. Yet, it’s worth mentioning that the trick to making a small space look bigger is by filling it with the largest furniture you can find. A good rule of thumb is to go with the most maximum-sized sofa you can fit while still incorporating small-space design rules (read more about that here).

The Bottom Line: Which Is the Most Comfortable Sofa?

After rigorous testing, several sofas rose to the top, each catering to different needs. The Valyōu Feathers Sofa earned the title of best overall, thanks to its plush duck-blend cushions that offer a perfect balance of comfort and support. Despite needing regular fluffing and the occasional feather poking out, its stain-resistant fabric and deep seats made it a cozy and durable option—especially as an affordable alternative to luxury sofas like the Cloud Couch. For those who favor leather, however, the Article Sven sofa impressed with its smooth semi-aniline leather that ages beautifully, giving it a relaxed, vintage appeal. Its compact size also fit well in a smaller space while still providing ample comfort, making it ideal for anyone who wants a trendy yet practical seating option.

Otherwise, if you’re looking for something more customizable, the Lovesac Stealth Tech sofa is worth the splurge. It offers a completely tailored experience, from size to fabric, and even includes built-in sound and charging technology for a high-tech living room setup. And on the more affordable end, the Article Kayra bouclé sofa shined as a pet-friendly choice, with its durable bouclé fabric that resists snags and pulls while offering firm, supportive comfort. 

Where to Find Comfortable Sofas

First and foremost: We’ve dedicated an entire article to where to buy a couch online. But when it comes to comfort, there are four retailers that perpetually knock it out of the park: West Elm, Crate & Barrel/CB2 and Horchow. First, you have West Elm. Aside from its signature, mid-century modern aesthetic, it’s known for having an array of wide, overstuffed seating—along with an ultra-durable fabric library—at a relatively affordable price point (starting at $899). We’re also guessing you’re familiar with Crate & Barrel and CB2, which take a more high-end approach to everyday comfort. For those who don’t know, CB2 is a sub-brand of Crate (albeit at a lower price point), where it elevates Crate’s clean lines and classic modern vibe with a more minimalist feel (think: curvy sofas instead of rectangular ones and velvet/bouclé upholstery instead of polyester/linen). In both cases, however, the brands’ seating options are ultra-plushy with a relaxed, organic modern feel—and it’s worth mentioning that both offer collaborations with buzzy celebs and designers, from Gwyneth Paltrow and Lenny Kravitz to Athena Calderone and Jake Arnold.

BUT, if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line, “looks like it’s on the cover of Arch Digest” sofa, Horchow is basically nirvana for interior enthusiasts (who don’t have a tax ID). Neiman Marcus’s sister site is a fan-favorite for its exclusivity, where each option is hand-selected from private vendors that, typically, are only available for purchase through retail stores and interior designers (Bernhardt, Caracole, Century and Four Hands, to name a few). The materials are thoughtfully manufactured to have a ‘luxe cush-factor’ you won’t find anywhere else—but consider yourself warned: Pricing reflects that.

Long story short? These brands are the creme de la creme of coziness (and all offer in-home and white glove delivery services). But of course, there are still a slew of other ultra-comfy seating options available—that won’t cost you an arm and a leg—spanning from retailers like AllModern, Burrow and Castlery to unbeatable, budget-friendly options at Target and Wayfair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Material for a Couch Will Last the Longest?

This really comes down to where and how you’re planning on using the couch. If you have a large family with kids and pets, you really only have one option: Performance fabrics. These are specially designed to wipe away stains like black magic—and you’ll never have to worry about wine spills or muddy paws setting in. Otherwise, if you’re looking for something delicate that’ll look good in 20 years from now, you’ll probably want to go with leather. It’s a material that’s as timeless as it looks—and it won’t go out of style if you go with a medium-leather finish that can mold with the trends.

What is The Most Comfortable Material for a Couch?

Naturally, the most comfortable material for a couch depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle, but top contenders include leather, bouclé, and microfiber. Leather offers a luxurious, smooth feel that softens over time, making it a classic choice for comfort and durability, though it requires more maintenance. Bouclé provides a cozy, textured surface that's both comfortable and stylish, while microfiber is known for its plush softness and durability, ideal for families with kids or pets due to its stain-resistant properties.

Then, you also have linen and velvet, which are also popular for comfort. Linen is a breathable, natural fabric that softens with use—and it’s perfect for creating a relaxed, casual vibe (though it can wrinkle easily). And velvet, with its plush and smooth texture, offers a luxurious, warm feel that’s hard to beat—just note that it can be high-maintenance. Ultimately, the best material for you will depend on your texture preferences and how you plan to use your couch.

What is The Best Couch For Back Pain?

According to Dr. Leon Mao, clinical physiotherapist at 360 Med Care, the best sofas for back pain have the following characteristics:

  • Dense cushioning: High-density foam cushions offer a little give, prevent sinking and add a layer of firm support to your couch. You could also look for a couch with medium-firm cushions with down, which encourage good posture and mold to your body shape to support your back.
  • A strong frame: Choose a couch with a strong frame that’s built to last. Hardwood or solid steel frames are best, and you want to keep an eye out for ‘kiln-dried’ in the description, which are less prone to snapping and cracking.

Is a Firm or Soft Sofa Better?

The most important thing to keep in mind is that a firm sofa provides better support for those with back pain. This is because it retains its shape over time, so it’s easier to get up from. That said, it may not be as comfortable for lounging. A soft sofa, on the other hand, offers a plush, cozy feel that is comfortable for lounging. The caveat is that it may not provide enough support, especially for those with back issues. Basically, the choice between firm and soft depends on your comfort preferences and any specific back or posture needs.


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Associate Editor

  • Writes across all lifestyle verticals, including relationships and sex, home, finance, fashion and beauty
  • More than five years of experience in editorial, including podcast production and on-camera coverage
  • Holds a dual degree in communications and media law and policy from Indiana University, Bloomington

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.