Searching for a sofa

Happy Hunting! We have the PB Comfort couch and love seat in the brushed canvas in Stone color. We love it, and they wash so well!

We have the Ikea slipcovered Ektorp sofa...in white..with 5 kids (2,4,5,7, and 13), a dog, and a cat. I LOVE it. It was only $399 so I don't freak out when the kids climb on it (as kids do) and the slipcover has been AMAZINGLY washable..chocolate, blood, juice, spaghetti sauce - it has all come out with a simple spray & wash and spin through the washer. The covers didn't shrink or change shape and I was them at least 2 times a month. I like that I can change the look of the sofa with a simple slipcover change and if something happens, I can just pop a new one on without coming up with a couple hundred dollars to replace the couch. It is a little stiffer than the PB couches - which are excellent also - but for us it has been a great sofa! HTH

I LOVE the chaise! I need one myself. We have an Ikea sofa, and I love that it has a removable slip cover. With two little ones, I NEED to be able to clean it. And, when I get tired of the color, I can save up my moolah and get another slip cover without having to buy a new sofa. It's not one of the "top of the line" sofas you may find in some showrooms, but it fits our budget, has held up fantastically, and is great for kiddoes. Good luck in your search! Feel like a little road trip? I think you should go to Ikea for the day, for research purposes of course, to see if it works for you. ;)

We have the Ikea Ektorp sofa bed/couch in the beige color. We have had it 6.5 years and it has moved from Long Island, NY to New Brunswick, Canada (East Coast) to the middle of the country to just west of Toronto ... it has had two busy boys climb on it, spill on it and we all use it everyday. It is still in excellent shape and I am so glad that I bought it. I wash the slipcovers regularly and I have not had any problem with any shrinking or changes in color. I do not wash all the slipcovers everytime, just the ones that are marked and I have not had any trouble with fabric changes, etc. I know it is not an expensive couch, but it has stood up well. They even have one that looks very similar to the second Pottery Barn one you showed ... http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/S99877826. Best of luck with your couch shopping :)

I know you said no leather, and that's how I felt, but gave in to my husbands wishes and I have to say I LOVE LOVE LOVE the leather. It's not only a really great style (no bachelor pad black here) but I have cleaned up poop, puke, milk, mud-you name it, everything just wipes right off. I am also able to wash it once a week with leather wipes, it's shocking how dirty a sofa can get, (we have a two year old, two cats and a dog) We bought ours from a local Canadian company, but if you look there are very attractive and modern leather pieces out there. I highly recommend it.

Just bought the Karlstad Ikea sofa! It's comfy and I've heard really great things about it holding up well! Definitely can beat the price!

I currently HATE our couch and am ready for something new as well. It's not in our budget at the moment. A cousin of mine has the ikea slip covered couch and LOVES it. Funny she just posted about it the other day...

http://samanthaleelee.blogspot.com/2011/02/slipcovers-are-your-friend.html

Good luck with your decision.

Hey girl! Yay on a new sofa! I love the PB one you've picked out. I'm a bit of a furniture snob because I sold high-end furniture for three years.

I'm a huge believer in 8-way hand tied springs (which I don't think the Buchanan has), kiln dried hard wood frames (which it does) and corner blocks for extra stability (which it has).

I think the sofa base is sinuous springs which aren't necessarily bad, but they can sag and stretch out. 8 way hand tied springs are much more resilient and can be retied if necessary. But...you might be ready for a new sofa then anyway. Ha!

I love brands like Vanguard, Sherrill, Hickory Chair etc.

Sorry for the ridiculously long comment! :) xoxo

Ahh well I know you said NO to the leather, but I don't know what we'd do without ours. :) It's so easy to keep clean with my little one and I have no worries whenever she eats or spills something. Ours is considered "transitional" and it's just perfect! Not too large or bulky and matches everything--it's great. So sorry, I'm absolutely no help to you. :) But yay for sofa shopping!

Oh yea, and leather doesn't sag which I CAN"T STAND! We've had our set a little over a year now and it still looks brand new. Not even broken in. Ok, I'll get off trying to sell you leather. :)

So funny because I have (or had) the same couches you have and guess what?
I just said adios to them as well!
After 8 years and 4 kids, it was time for them to go.
I just ordered a new set from Costco (leather set that was on sale last month). Anxiously awaiting them.
Id just go with a color that will hide dirt.
The end. :)

It took us forever to pick out our couch. Forever, I tell you. We couldn't do tweed, or canvas, and definitely not chenille (we have two shedding dogs). Essentially any fabric that could manage to weave a piece of dog hair into it was out of the question. I've also heard from friends who have a duck-cloth-type of couch that it's impossible to keep clean with their little ones.

So we have the microsuede. Yeah. I'm not a huge fan of it either. But I'll tell you, it always looks nice, and cleans like a dream. And we got red, which helps on making it not LOOK microsuedy. Not that I'm trying to persuade you (I'm not), just relaying the experience. The slipcovered look isn't for us, so we weren't left with many options.

Have you tried Ashley?

I have a micro suede-ish type of fabric on my couch and loveseat. It's not expensive furniture at all. I bought both pieces for under $1,000. It's about 3 years old and already the seats are becoming sunken. Anyway, I do love the fabric though. Maybe it's not the fabric I love as much as I love the stain resistance. I paid the extra $100 or so for the stain resistance when I bought it and it works like a charm. So whatever you decide to buy, make sure to buy the stain resistance. I've had vomit, poop, juice, you name it on my couches and they've cleaned right up. Did I mention that 4 kids live here? haha!

And I love the chaise design. That would be perfect at my house.

I personally have not had great luck with PB furniture. I think you pay for the name and not the product. I had a coffee table that fell apart and a buffet that has been so-so. Just sayin'.
Also, I have a straight, tufted back sofa that i bought from storehouse a few years ago. I will never have a sofa with back pillows again! No fluffing, restuffing, switching around. It's awesome and still comfy. Good luck in your search!

My husband and I got the IKEA Ektorp when we first got married and it was perfect for that time in our life (apt living, no kids, no pets, etc). But now, we're in the market for new furniture too. The back cushions have lost their form and are starting to look sloppy. Also, we're both tall and the seats are just not deep enough for us. After a while, we both get really uncomfortable. If you're looking for something to last a while, I don't think I'd go that route. But that's just my opinion :)

I might not be any help, but I have a couch and loveseat recliner set from Macy's. We LOVE it. We've had it 6 years, it still looks very new. Granted, it is leather, which you said you didn't want. I've never owned leather before this set - I love that it cleans up super, super easy with a damp paper towel. I'm still not a fan of leather in cars and such, but I do love our couches.

Yay for new couches!!!! We have a microfiber set that I'm really anxious to get rid of. Not because its bad (microfiber rocks) but because its the "pillow back" style and looks lumpy and bumpy and GROSS! I can't believe I bought these when I could've bought a set of Ektorp sofa's at Ikea for cheaper! I would honestly go with the Ektorp over the pottery barn one. They are so comfortable, a very similar look, and you could get two or three slipcovers to change out the look and always have a fresh one while one's in the wash. That's just my two sense. I have owned the ektorp in the past and it is so comfy and very practical for kids and pets. Good luck!

We purchased our couch a couple of years ago and went with the Flexsteel Digby collection. We wanted a sectional but needed a smaller one than most that I had looked at. This one has worked out great for us. I love it! I chose the microsuede fabric and have been very pleased with it. It has held up wonderfully and cleans up easily. You can check it out on the flexsteel website. Good luck cant wait to see what you end up purchasing.

This comment has been removed by the author.

We have the Ikea Ektorp sofa, loveseat, and chair and LOVE LOVE LOVE them!! We have 5 kids ages 3-13 and they look as good today as when I bought them almost a year ago. I have 3 sets of slipcovers & love that I can change the whole look of my living room without spending tons of cash....

http://eoberrys.blogspot.com/2010/03/new-couches.html

Good luck with your decision.. It's a tough one!

Rachel Berry :)

We bought a La-Z-Boy sofa some years ago to replace our (gag) Rooms To Go stuff. It has held up really, REALLY well. Still comfy, still looks good, after 8-9 years. I'm so over it, though, because we couldn't afford custom upholstery, so it's dark brown...I need something lighter! In our new house, it's going in the man cave, and we're buying something new for the living room. This time around, since we're still on a budget, I think we're going with a Karlstad sectional from Ikea, a la John & Sherry at YoungHouseLove.

DO NOT GET A SOFA FROM IKEA!!!! My husband and I got the "ektorp" sectional about 4 years ago, for our first condo and the cheap fix... and it is AWFUL. It's just me and him and our two cats... and from the look of the sofa you would think we had at least 16 messy toddlers living with us.... and I'm competely anal about keeping things clean. We're already on our 2nd slipcover (@ $299 a pop) and the frame is being held up by a stack of phonebooks.

Ikea furniture is great for an apartment... something you'll have for a year or two that you don't want to get dinged up in a move and plan on trashing soon after. Beyond that... save your money. Seriously. I've learned the hard way with the sofa we paid about $1000 for.

I am here to help! We bought new sofas in May. I looked at the Ikea slipcovered sofa and talked to people who had them. I quickly decided against it. In my opinion, very thin cushions and not very comfy. I didn't think it would last long in our house with 2 kids and a dog. Most people I talked to agreed. The ones that liked it were either single and it was a first time piece or it was in a room whereof didnt get used daily.

We ended up buying 2 Pottery Barn Comfort Sofas. They're slipcovered and I got them in slubby canvas in warm white. LOVE! Yep, white (not stark white) with 2 kids and a dog. These sofas rock! I am sold on PB sofas. We've owned several sofas in the last 15 years, mostly because of wear and tear (or boredom!) but these will last. So well constructed and the most comfortable ones we have ever owned. Worth every penny.

Here's a link so you can see them in my living room. Pretty please, stop by!
http://camachohouse.blogspot.com/2010/09/theres-no-place-like-home.html

Hello! I think it's super marvelous, fantastically wonderful that you're buying a sofa with cash!! On the Pottery Barn, when we were shopping around for a sofa (we wound up getting an aunts castoff) I was reading product reviews on Pottery barn furniture and they were *awful*. Also, Apartment Therapy (I heart that blog) mentions the lower quality. Just as a friendly heads up. I'm loving your blog!

Hello! I think it's super marvelous, fantastically wonderful that you're buying a sofa with cash!! On the Pottery Barn, when we were shopping around for a sofa (we wound up getting an aunts castoff) I was reading product reviews on Pottery barn furniture and they were *awful*. Also, Apartment Therapy (I heart that blog) mentions the lower quality. Just as a friendly heads up. I'm loving your blog!

We have the Buchanan sofa, and I LOVE it. We got it in chocolate brown, for our formal sitting room. I love how comfy it is, and I love the look. The cushions are really unique...just the right blend of soft and firm.

Have fun shopping!

CONGRATULATIONS on being debt-free!!! What a huge deal! My only advice on the couch is to measure, measure, measure! We bought a couch that has other sectional-type pieces that match it. It didn't seem that big in the store, but when we got it home, it turned out to be OVER 9ft long. Oops! Happy shopping!

Carol
antiquetexan.blogspot.com

This is a timely post. I am in search of a sofa and chair as well. We have an 8 year old Broyhill set that really has held up well. It's plaid and 100% cotton and hides stains awesomely! The only problem is, the sofa we picked isn't that comfy. The chair (they don't sell them anymore) has lost it's cushion-y feel in the seat and the cotton is wearing off the recliner and arms.

My problem is, I have to work around my carpet color. I love my carpet, but it's a pain to work around. I'm looking for something that is easily cleaned, since I have a 6 year old and 2 cats.

Right now, I'm thinking of ordering a Justice Furniture sofa with custom fabric from a local fabric store. We'll see.

Good luck with your search!

It's odd to read such negative comments over the Ektorp. I'll just toss in my experience and you do what you got to do. ;)

Anyway, we have an Ektorp couch, love seat, and a chair. We bought them on Craigslist . . . not sure how long they had been owned before they were sold, but they were in mint shape when we bought them. We have 2 kids under the age of 4 and they've been given the business by em both. Not to mention I spill stuff on them sometimes too. :P Anyway, I still feel really good about them . . . love the fact I can throw the cushions covers in the wash . . . love the fact that I can get new colors sometime if I want to without having to get new sofas. For us, they work and look great. We've owned them for a few years. Oh . . . and we always get compliments on them when friends and family come over. :)

Congratulations on your debt freedom from a fellow DR follower!

My sister has a Pottery Barn Sofa that is about eight years old and it hasn't held up so well. She has six and four year old boys.

In our living room, I have two Ethan Allen sofas that are fourteen years old that I had recovered last year just because I was tired of the color. (originally bought at consignment.) We also have an Ethan Allen Slip Cover sofa in our family room that's about two years old with the extra stain guard. (Craigslist purchase.) We have a large dog and a 20 month old. ***I couldn't be happier with Ethan Allen Sofas***

Enjoy your shopping - it's an awesome experience paying for these large ticket items with cash. Don't forget to negotiate. There is ridiculous mark up on this stuff!

i *wish* i had great couch advise for you, but alas, i am in a very similar boat... bought a seemingly reasonably priced couch 2 years ago, and feel like it's aged 15 years since then. i've already slip-covered it because i hate it so much.

all i can say is more power to you. and please, please, please, for the love of all that is good and holy, blog about every detail of this decision making process... there are some of us who are still chipping away at debt and would *love* to have all their questions answered by the time they get to your position :)

A couple things to share, so I'll make a list :)

1. I do NOT recommend the Crate and Barrel sofas, at least not in the fabrics that they come with. I know, because I have 2 cats and 2 dogs, as well as the Petrie sofa - it doesn't clean well. At all. Ugh. I need to get it recovered in something better, stat.

2. I've actually had great success with two Ikea sofas in my life. One was an Ektorp white slipcovered one that I got second-hand, and had for 4 years. The covers washed like a dream and the construction ofthe sofa held up perfectly the whole time. I'd still have them if I hadn't had to make room for the boyfriend's stuff.

3. I'd avoid all nubby fabrics because of cat claws. Learned that the hard way...

Good luck, and congrats again on the debt-free-ness!

Hi there! I have been following your blog for quite a while, but rarely(if ever) comment :) Anyway, I thought I'd give my 2cents on this topic!

I have worked in the interior design industry for several years now, and from what I have experienced/heard, the pottery barn sofas don't hold up too well. I know many people love the look and feel of them, but (again, purely going off of what I have personally seen and heard) they eventually start to sag, cushions smush, and fabrics stretch. Especially those duck cotton fabrics. They tend to get really loose after being sat on constantly. Geeze, I sound like a Debbie Downer! Lol! Just wanted to give you the heads up from what I know about them because I know it's an investment whenever you commit to a new sofa.

I have had wonderful experiences with sofas from companies such as LEE Industries, Pearson, and Stanford Furniture. They will be a little pricier, but you can customize the fabrics, and seat cushions, etc. They truly will last for the amount of money put into them! I'm personally a thrifty one all the way, but I have learned through experience a good sofa is worth the investment. Hope that helps, just my 2 cents anyway :)
Best of luck!
Rachel
www.silverliningdecor.blogspot.com

I really do not want to rain on your PB sofa parade... but I did the research, sat in a bunch of sofas, looked for the 8-way-hand-tied springs & kiln dried frame - which led me to the PB Charleston Sofa & Chair and a half. Well, size wise it's great, deep seating, perfect for our long LVR and all that jazz. But it has held up horribly. 3 months in I was already wondering, 'oh my, what did we do?' They always need a 1-2 punch to look presentable, not so much the back cushions, as the seating cushinos - because otherwise they look saggy, shabby and blah. The slipcover is great, but does not stay in place, and rides up along the front. These are easily the most high maintenence furniture I have ever owned, and will not be going back. We've now had them for 6 years and have stretched out their life far past an acceptable prime. Completely disappointing... but we're now saving up for an Ikea Karlstad... :) Which, btw, is a much easier save than for the the PB Charleston. I wish you the best, but wish someone would've told me before I purchased a sofa from PB.

Stacy

Being the oh so cool and proud owner of a futon right now in my family room, I could not give you any first hand advice about what type of couch to go with... but I will say - I sooooooooo love those chaise sectional type couches! And I will also give just a tiny squeal of joy for you that you can pay for it with cash and no more debt!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

That is all...

I have the Baldwin Sofa from Ballard Designs. We love it! So comfy, VERY well made, and has a million and four slip cover choices. Highly recommended.

I love that sofa! Due to my student budget, we purchased the inexpensive Ikea sofa with a slipcover. LOVE the whole slipcover idea...BUT...if you have the funds, go for Pottery Barn. The Ikea one isn't as comfy, but it does hold very well. But for casual family room, tv viewing...you really want the comfort added in. Good luck!

I love reading about the process that goes into picking a big ticket item like a sofa! Thanks for sharing! I have been wanting a new one for a year or so, and have been looking around. But we are probably moving next year, so I'm waiting until that's done. This is my current love affair, and I hope after we move it makes a new home in my house! http://www.mgbwhome.com/alex2_sc.asp

i was so hoping you were going to mention PB as a contender in your sofa search. we bought a PB basic down-filled about 2 years ago and.i.love.it.we.all.love.it. it is SO comfortable,it's like getting a hug every time you sit down.
the only thing i regret is not realizing that the walnut herringbone is a dry-clean only fabric. we also have the PB basic chair in the walnut twill...so we are safe there.
don't get the down-filled if you want a perfect looking sofa..it does require fluffing up, but i use it for stress relief! and being a slipcover sofa will require some adjusting now and then.
hope this helps! and happy shopping with cash! woo hoo!
judi

First sofa we bought was actually 2 loveseats in a suedeed fabric. I think they were from Henredon. They lasted at least 10 years, then hubby gave them to our daughter for her first "grown-up" apartment.

Hubby acquired a Scandinavian leather recliner in navy. We bought a new sofa from Ethan Allen. Loved the fabric (navy and white plaid to complement the recliner ) but can't remember what type of material it is. Got down filled cushions and backs, scotch-guarded, crisp lines, leaning toward traditional with a nod to contemporary. We've had the sofa for 12 years now. It looks as good as the day it was delivered, I swear. In fact it is less worn looking than the leather swivel recliner.

I learned a long time ago that you get what you pay for. Funiture that is built to last costs a lot, but it is worth it on soooo many levels. Ikea is transitional furniture, Pottery Barn is an accessory store more than a furniture store. I suggest you go look at some of the better lines and as long as you are out of debt it won't take too long to save enough to get the perfect sofa.

I know that doesn't sound like it's a thrifty thing to do, but in the case of furniture for an active family, going cheap will never last. So it's worth the extra!

Congratulations on being debt free! I am so happy for you! I'm working on it! You didn't mention Sofa U Lov, maybe they're not available where you live. BUT the point is do not buy them. I purchased a couch and an over sized chair in the summer of 2008. The back support cushion on the chair has completely collapsed. The seat cushions on the couch have lost all support. And the worst part of it is both the couch and the chair have ripped out in the back by the zipper, the fabric has completely torn. A very disappointing purchase for us to say the least.

don't know if anyone has suggested this already, but JCPenney online has a lot of knock-off PB furniture for WAY less! i have gotten a couple pieces of furniture from there and have been very happy!

also, we recently purchased a sectional from macy's and we LOVE it!

Be very careful with couches that have visible legs (like your first pic). We have couches just like those and with 2 kids and frequent family gatherings, the legs are starting to buckle. We had to reinforce one side by putting a brick under our couch (which you can see)! I noticed that with your second option, there are flaps that cover the legs. I would go with those, just in case you may need a brick of your own in the future.

We have an IKEA Ektrop white slipcovered sofa and 2 of the white slipcovered chaises placed side by side and we love them! We've had them for about 3 years now and they're still as nice as new (actually this is the second white sofa I've had in 11 years - we had to sell the first one when we moved because it was so huge). The slipcovers from IKEA are very rugged cotton and live up so well to washing. They've taken a beating from our dog's muddy feet, spaghetti, and Chinese sweet & sour sauce and always come out like new. I honestly can't imagine living with any sofa that doesn't have a white slipcover!! And you can just wash one seat cover if need be. I bought an extra slipcover at the time but haven't even unwrapped it from its packaging!
For the chaises, we also picked up extra covers in a nautical navy/white stripe which is nice to switch things up once in a while. And giving your room a new look once in a while is so easy with a white sofa - everything goes with it!
Our friends have vacationed at our place with 3 toddlers and afterwards bought the same chaises with the white covers because they fell in love with them!
We don't have kids jumping up and down on them or anything so our frame has lasted well but if you do decide to go with higher-end brand of sofa, I would definitely recommend getting one with a rugged white slipcover - you'll wonder why you haven't had one all along! So many people gasp when you mention a white sofa, but the slipcover is the key to happiness when you've got kids, dogs and messy eaters! happy shopping! :)

My only couch advise is "Scotchguard". With small children (and even big men!) it saves a lot of hair pulling and temper flaring. Milk, soda, juice all just puddle up on top and you just dab up with a paper towel or rag.

We went from a microsuede sofa, which was VERY durable and the stains came out EVERY time, but I didn't love the look and moved onto an Ikea Slipcovered Sectional. Didn't love it. Not as comfortable and the washing was too much for me to keep clean, I was a nervous reck on it. So now we have leather and I.LOVE.IT. It fits our lifestyle so well with toddler and dogs and there is no vacumming, spills wipe right up and it is SO comfortable. Just some thoughts...and good luck!

We have a PB sofa. And, it is covered in the Microfiber suede. I know you don't care for the look, but it is incredible. Everything and anything we have accidently spilled on it has come out (including red wine!). We've had it for over 5 years now and everyone thinks it is brand new!!! We have a PB chair in the brushed canvas, but it is in a lesser used room. Yes, the slipcovers can be washed, but that is such a pain. With the suede, you just use a little bit of soap and water with a cloth and it comes clean right away and dries quickly. I know a lot of people bash PB for their prices, but their products hold up and they stand behind them. We had an issue with the leave in our table (we had never used it in the 2 years we'd owned our table, but needed it this past Christmas) it didn't fit right. They replaced the entire table with a new one!!!

I just replaced my 18 year old sofa. I bought a tightback sofa because with kids I was tired of rearranging back cushions. It's a Bassett sofa that I bought locally. You can see the picture here...

http://ourhouseinpictures.blogspot.com/2011/02/happy-room.html

Isn't it fun when you get to replace a piece of furniture that has lived its life?

My job now is to kick the recliner to the curb.

Dixie

I'm so interested in this topic as we have been throwing around the idea of new sofas for a while now. Ours are 11 years old and quite honestly have seen better days.

IKEA makes sofas with removable covers so that you can wash them. My daughter has two and they are comfortable and were very affordable. Great for a cat and 5 year old.

We love our sofa. It's probably 10 years old and has been re-upholtered three times. The frame solid transitional and talk about comfy.

It's been canvas, microsuede, and now tan chenille. I picked chenille for the color. I plan to get lighter canvas slip covers made one day.

Have you looked into http://designersofasdirect.com/ ? I personally enjoy Lee Industries upholstered pieces. I believe they also manufacturer for C&B? Look for sales and it could be a sweet option. I have two sofas from Ethan Allen and they've held up really well, but were pretty spendy.

When we were stationed in NC, I stumbled upon the best established, family-owned furniture boutique when we bought our dining set. I went back when we were ready for a sofa. They discussed the eight-way hand-tied sofas, fabrics, leathers, cushion construction, etc. I don't remember a lot, but I would try to find a similar store and pick their brains so that you know whether you're really getting a good deal or not. There are really only 3 companies left that actually make their sofas in North Carolina- PB is not one of them.

Your post made me get up and feel my sofa! We currently have two PB sofas, and several chairs (they have a PB warehouse/outlet in Memphis so you used to be able to get them for a STEAL, but not so much anymore). We have a Basic Sectional in the canvas slipcover. It says dry clean only, but I have put it in our washer dozens of times with only one problem. After several (!!) washings, the zipper came loose on one slipcover. Simple fix - dry cleaner sewed it back on. Stains come out great. However, it does sag. Lots. It's not tailored, even though it's supposed to be. And we have three cats who are back seat cushion sitters, and you can see the dents, even after many punches and smooshes. The sectional is in our playroom now, and now much use, but it was our main sofa for about 3 years and held up great. We now have the Basic Sleeper sofa in the dark blue linen (gasp!!!). Again, a steal at the warehouse, or I would never have done linen. It is upholstered, and we use our steam cleaner on it. It does have lots of stains, since it's our daily use couch, including a pet pee stain that slightly discolored the fabric. Ugh! I went and felt the back of it and discovered that it IS JUST A PIECE OF FABRIC. Now I am too worried that some toy or toddler will just poke through the back, since we don't have ours against a wall either. Some of the same sagging issues, but not as much as the slipcovered. I think if you got the down filled it might help. I LOVE PB furniture, it's mostly the only furniture I buy. However, I would recommend the sofas with some hesitation...definitely check out other more high end places to see if the quality is comparable. I mean, if you're going to spend the CASH (!!!), do it right, right?

I second (third?) the Lee Industries suggestion. It is WELL worth it for the quality of sofa you get. And so many choices!

I would love to be able to afford a PB sofa! They are my favorite... all the choices and the classic look of some of them (like the one you chose). Much better than our semi-broken Lay-z-boy. But I can't claim being debt free, so we'll live with it for now. BTW, I'm still jealous of that! Congrats again on being debt free! Did you call in to him and yell it?!?

We have a Bauhuas sectional that we bought about 10 years ago. It was purchased from a department store that has now become Macy's and I think they still carry this brand. It is a similar color and texture to yours but this fabric is AWESOME! I have cleaned all kinds of stuff off of it and never had a discoloration. The cushions are looking a little saggy, but would be no problem to restuff, I tell you the fabric is wonderful. Our sectional had a chaise and I love it too! It is MY seat...everyone must move over! The only thing I don't like about our couch is that it's too big now for this room and 2 kids. I like to rearrange furniture and I can't b/c it only fits one way. Good Luck and congrats on being debt free!

I am with you on the couch issue, I hate our couch and am in love with the pottery barn couch! I love all their couches actually - but the price... is only in my dreams can I buy something like that now. But you have truly inspired me to set a goal - when we are debt free then we can buy my dream couch! That's something we want to work towards!

We have a Michael Thomas sofa and it still looks and feels fabulous after 12 years. We also have a few pieces of Sherrill upholstered furniture and it holds up fabulously as well. We paid a pretty penny for these pieces, but as I'm sure you know, you get what you pay for! :) I love the look of PB furniture, but I'm always a little leary of the construction.

We have the Ektorp corner sofa (small sectional). We LOVE it. With 2 kids and 2 dogs it is great to be able to take a cushion cover off and put it in the wash. Great prices too. They have the same combo as the PB sofa you like. It is a chaise and love seat...Looks almost identical.

Whhoooo!!! That is so exciting!!! I have sat on the ikea ektorp and it is comfy...but not very deep---so you really would need a couple ottomans to relax and put your feet up. Have you considered Arhaus? They are really well made and do all custom fabrics in a huge assortment. And if you are paying cash...they should negotiate with you. Maybe buying a sofa off the floor for an even bigger discount. We have a store here in Louisville and I have a friend who is a designer there...she can help you need it. Good luck! And so fun!! Enjoy!

It is a daunting task to find a good quality made sofa. My sofa is over 10 years and still in great shape. But I'm tired of the floral print. It is a Broyhill. If you go to their website they have videos showing you what to look for in construction of frame, and cushions. Even details such as the welting on the cushions. It was very educational and will help you on your decisons. PB is way over priced and I agree with the other commenter that you pay for the name. If you love it, just be sure it's made well which is why I recommend listening to the tutorial on Broyhill's site. If you are spending that kind of money, you want quality. A rocking side arm like you have now, is a dead giveaway of corners being cut.
Have fun!!

OMIGOSH . . . I think we had the exact same chenille couch. Mine stuck around for 7 1/2 years (got rid of it 2 months ago). When I pulled it out on the driveway for Goodwill to pick it up and saw it in the true light of day I was absolutely floored by how truly ugly and worn it was.

Yet Goodwill took it anyway.

I love the sectional with mini-chase. So cute. We have not had great luck with our two Pottery barn chairs, though. The slipcover factor ROCKS (I have little ones and a dog!), but the quality of the chair over time was lacking. Felt great the first year or two, but now the cushion are broken down and the whole things just seems saggy. We paid a lot for it (natch, PB) and the shipping of course was crazy high. Next time, I will go to a regular furniture store --no question.

Just let me tell you what sofa NOT to get - when you have nothing to do, go to this blog post from December and scroll down to the, oh, 23rd or 24th photo. THAT'S the sofa I've lived with for the past 20 years or so - it came with my husband! He was definitely a keeper, but the sofa? Not so much! One exactly like it actually won The Ugliest Sofa Contest online...
http://krysworld.blogspot.com/2010/12/photos-from-2010.html

First congrats on being debt free!! we are working hard to get there ourselves. You should be very proud! I am looking for a new couch too the Ikea Ektorp, is on my list and I had the one from PB too. Budget is always an issue. Keep us posted what you end up with.

We purchased a La-Z-Boy sofa in 2003 and it started to look crummy by 2005. DON'T every buy La-Z-Boy. Seriously... junk. Hope yours holds up well from PB.

DI

Well, let me say I'm jealous. We have a man eater couch. Great for sleeping and curling up on, but guests avoid sitting on it like the plaque. What was I thinking?
Think Edith Ann on Laugh In. I am sure you are to young to remember but google it.
ANYWAY.....My daughter has a PB couch she bought at the outlet here. It is stone and twill. It has worn great...no kids but two dogs that think it is there own bed!

I'm not sure if you're against leather and it originally wasn't my first choice but now I cannot imagine having anything else! It cleans up so well and looks great all the time. Between a very hairy dog (who thinks it's OK to go wherever he wants), a typically-messy 2.5yr old boy, and us who eat/snack on the furniture daily, it's been fabulous!

SAVE YOURSELF! It's not too late! NO TWILL!! You will not be happy with the clean-up situation!! I just got rid of mine and it made yours look brand new and pristine. Every stain shows, water shows, etc. Not a fabric for kids and pets. After living with my twill sofa for ten years, I just caved and got a microsuede (even though I had the same feelings about it as you do), and I have to tell you...I can already tell the durability is a million times better. 100% polyester baby!! I can tell you that when it was first delivered I was a little bummed, but I have since spruced it up with cute pillows, side chairs, etc. I also have the Ektorp in another room, it is totally functional but not smooshy and delicious!
p.s. you're adorable and have really made me think about our debt situation!

So happy for you!! We have an awful sofa we got seven years ago with a huge rip in the seam from our old doggie but is not in the budget right now.

I have a friend who works part time at Pottery Barn just so she oould get a discount to buy a sofa there! She told me back in November that it is the BEST sofa she has ever bought and completely worth the moola. And it is soooooo soft and cozy too!

Happy shopping!

We have an Ektorp sofa and chair that are now over ten years old and still going strong. I have four sets of covers and change them out for a totally different look. For those who feel the back cushions loose their shape - I wrapped ours with batting before putting on the covers and they hold their shape beautifully. I just bought a chair for another room at Macys and after only four months the bottom is falling out.

First let me say that I love you, I read you daily but I am not necessarily a commenter. That said, I wanted you to know that I have a Ballard Designs Baldwin sofa that is slipcovered. I.LOVE.IT!!!!!I got it at the Ballard Outlet outside of Cincy 2 years ago and it still looks BEE.U.TEE.FULL!!! even after 3 kids and a coach hubby that likes to sleep on it. I wash the slipcover right in my own washer and it comes out great. Yogurt? Pen? Marker? So far, no problems and no stains! By going outlet, I was able to get it for approximately 50%off the retail price, and if I call ahead to the Ballard outlet, they let me know if they have extra slipcovers to fit my sofa before I make the 40 min. trip down. (They are sooooo nice!) I have also heard wonderful things about PB's sofa's and we have a PB outlet in Jeffersonville OH too.
:)

How exciting for you!! :) I love your choice!!! Great lines, and I agree about the chaise. :)

I'm not a huge fan of the sofa in our family room, but it's really really well-made, so I'm stuck with it. I'm trying to see if maybe I can trade some babysitting with a seamstress friend who might help me make a slipcover. That's my only option at this point.

PB sofas are made by Mitchell & Gold. The PB sofas might be a cheaper line b/c it's retail furniture. I highly recommend La Z Boy furniture. Mine held up really well! I love the look of PB/Mitchell & Gold but it's really expensive. But with Pottery Barn, they are selling a lifestyle/look, not necessarily a good product. You can find knock-offs or "the look" at much more reasonable prices and higher quality. The only thing that is harder to reproduce of theirs is the staining/finishes of their wood furniture. Most of it is simple pine wood....cheap.

: ) I currently have a sofa from Rooms to Go and it has held up pretty good to 3 dogs (non shedding), a cat, a 10 y/o boy and my hubby who is addicted to TV.

We have this sofa from Haverty's: http://www.havertys.com/Product_10582?curIndex=0&resultCount=2#BVQAWidgetID
LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE the chaise. And we've had it almost 2 years now and it looks close to the exact same as when we bought it- we have 2 dogs and 2 cats and it's held up very well to all their fur/hairballs. We purchased it in store, where they have a variety of color/fabric options (we have it in a dark sage green). Our fabric is a microfiber- seriously, you just wipe the fur off with a lint brush. Easy peasy. Happy couch buying- you definitely won't regret the chaise!!! :)

I have to second Annie's recommendation of the Baldwin slipcovered sofa. We actually bought ours 11 years ago through Arhaus. (Same name and the frame even says Ballard.) I just replaced the twill slipcover after ten years and four kids. It washes up beautifully. My only disappointement is that the new slipcover I ordered through Ballard shrank a bit after the first wash. Arhaus's slipcovers are a bit more heavy duty but Ballard's cost a ton less. All in all, I love it!

Your choice is beautiful!!!

I owned a Broyhill sofa for YEARS! I only got rid of it because of the fabric choice we made, dated it eventually (it was floral...should have went neutral).

But my ex still owns pieces of that set...that was 13 years ago and it's still holding up really well!

I bought my last 2 sofas from Craigslist. I had the last one for 5 years. The sectional I currently have is only about 9 months old...but I won't hesitate next time to spend the extra money and buy Broyhill again when this one caputs. :)

I'm no help in choosing, but your old sofa looks a lot like ours--only ours is microsuede. It still looks nasty, and it has lots of water spots. I look forward to reading all the comments because I hope that we'll be able to start looking at new ones in the near future.

Got an Ethan Allen Marilyn sofa (now discontinued) for $495, it was originally $2500, when a store was relocating. It has beautiful, curvy lines and sits in our formal living room, so it doesn't get much use, but it has down-filled cushions and is very comfortable. I would buy from them again at full-price.

You could try a Pottery Barn outlet. Sometimes they have parts of sectionals or naked sofas. You're in Indy, right? There's an outlet in Jefferson, Ohio. A bit of a haul but it might be worth the drive. Maybe call ahead to check the stock then make it an overnight/weekend trip to Columbus? Bring a truck though!

Jen in Ohio

There are so many choices you have. Definitely look online and at local stores for the best possible prices.

My first time commenting, but I just had to! I actually have the second couch you listed and I LOVE LOVE LOVE it. It is extrememly well made, wonderfully comfortable, and has held up superbly so far. We got the fabric in brushed canvas and the slip covers are beautiful - they wash (in a regular machine) perfectly. We have two huge Alaskan Malamutes so I understand your pet hair problems! It's also surprisingly comfortable to sleep on - I lived on it after I had surgery a few years ago. Having said that, though, it is very big. Also, I spend all of my time adjusting the slip covers, which does drive me a little batty. However, you can get clips for slip covers and I think they're the best thing ever, especially if you expect messes now and again. Oh! And no discoloration on my end, though I don't usually spot-treat them - any spills and they go right into the washer & dryer. Good luck in your search for the perfect couch and congrats on being debt free :)

We got a PB Basic sofa and chair 5 years ago (right before thing 1 was born). It's been bounced on, the pillows used for fort building, spilled everything known to man on it and without a doubt comes out clean as can be after a quick load into the washer. We have the walnut twill I think (a darker khaki shade).

They are not cheap, but they last a long time (much longer than the current sagging leather sofa in our living room which will be moving into the basement as soon as we have the funds to replace it).

I too dream of being debt free AND buying new furniture.
I have a Broyhill chair and loveseat set with nailhead trim and large rolled arms that I loved and looked good in teh house I rented at the time, but in the next house and now in this house- TOO BIG! The arems take up so much room.
And these couches have the attached back cushions- never again. Suffice to say that a Beagle and lab having a game of chase across the back of the loveseat WILL rip the cushion. That then turns into a pull out the stuffing contest. :(
They are just fabric over the frame- like you described yours, and they really creak- though my husband is a flopper.. he flops instead of lowering himself into a seat, so he has killed these.
As for the down cushion thing- we had a couch we inherited from the Outlaw and had reupholstered and could not afford down, but it really needed down. So after hating it for a few months w/ the stiff foam back cushions I bought King size down pillows on sale, stuffed them in there, and it looks Fabulous! The plus was the foam was perfect for the seat of my banquette!
Please update when you go shopping and what you find... I'll be hunting soon, and would appreciate your experience!
Solongfarm@blogspot.com

Looks like you already have waaaay more than enough comments, but I must profess my love for my sofa (and matching chair). We bought them 8-yes EIGHT- years ago and they still look fantastic, which I guess is strange because they actually are that chenille you were talking about. The only difference is that ours are a dark burgundy red, which means that virtually nothing shows up on them. We have 1 cat (used to have 2), a dog (german shepherd mix) and 3 kids ages 1-6, and the couch has withstood it all. The only obvious signs of wear are a few spots on the corners where the cat has scratched a few threads loose. But I just periodically go along with scissors and they're gone in a jiff. Everyone that comes to our house proclaims our couch (and matching gigantic chair with ottoman) to be incredibly comfortable, and I even have had guests who ask to sleep on the couch (or chair) rather than in a bed, it's that comfortable.

We bought the set at Room Store and it's just big and comfy. You definitely need to feel like you can curl up and take a nap on it. I remember that when we first looked at it, I wasn't a big fan of the more modern shape- I wanted something more classic like the ones you've posted, but when we did it in the burgundy color and accessorized with pillows, the shape just kind of faded away and it was just pretty and comfortable! I say comfort! Go for comfort and cleanability!! Oh, and we had them pre-treat ours with that stain resistant teflon stuff. :-)

I know you said no to microsuede, but it is the best when it comes to cleaning. We had our sealed with Scotch Guard protection when we bought them and I am so in love with them. With 3 kids, a cat, and a dog, I have no stains or discolorations at all after 6 years. They have been hit with spills, markers, pen, you name it. I unzip those covers and throw them in the wash. A little scrubbing with water and vinegar on the other parts has taken everything off! Couldn't recommend them more.

Good luck with your search!

I am wondering if you wouldn't consider buying a sectional from Pottery Barn and then doubling your seating section? We have our sectional against part of the windows and then its other part is where your sofa is at right now. It is floating though ... not directly against the windows! :)

I like a chaise but feel it is trendy. What are your thoughts on that?

We own several Pottery Barn slipcovered pieces and always go the twill route. They clean exceptionally well, are backed an entire year with the PB Warranty and are extremely WELL BUILT pieces of furniture. I would HIGHLY recommend them. You won't be disappointed!

Best of luck!

Have to agree with all the Ektorp lovers out there! We just bought the Ektorp sofa, and have had the 2 side chairs for a few years already. They are VERY comfortable and have held up well to lots of parties, a teenager and a dog! I honestly believe they are just as good as the PB version. And if the cover ever gets ruined....a new one (for my size sofa) is only $50!

Glad you already ruled out microfiber. I have two microfiber couches and in the winter they shock me constantly! Not cool! And my cats' hair sticks to it!

I love our leather sofa! You can get it in a bomber jacket finish that already looks loved. It is so comfy and will last forever. You should at least check it out as an option. :)

Hey girl... How fun!

I have a few suggestions I have learned from experience both with my home and clients homes:
- Canvas doesn't hold up as well as you would think.
- Microfiber is awesome because you can literally wipe a spot clean and there is never a stain after. {I wipe my chairs with soap and water}
- Leather can be cold/hot depending but always holds up!

Hope these help on your sofa shopping journey!

Lindsay@A Design Story

No advice on actual sofas, but when we bought our current one, we paid the extra to have it scotchguarded. It was somewhat spendy, but so worth it. As promised, stains come off with a wipe of a damp towel. As a fellow mom and pet owner, I know you'll appreciate that!

Oh, my. I'm reading all the comments...is your head spinning yet? Personally, we've had a La-z-boy sofa/loveseat set for over 11 years, and we bought it secondhand from an elderly couple who were downsizing. It still feels great after all these years. The loveseat still feels like new, probably because hubby doesn't nap on it.

I could have written this post almost word-for-word! Our couch is very similar and we too bought it before we knew jack about quality furniture. The frame is currently sagging toward the middle, which I first started noticing last year when I was pregnant and was rolling toward the middle, even in the outer cushions. Gah. I've been researching too, and we are considering the Ikea Ektorp sofa, the Rowe Carmel sofa, or possibly having one custom-made from a North Carolina furniture company. The Rowe and NC ones are pretty comparable in price while the Ikea is quite a bit cheaper. Rowe has mixed reviews on the internet but the people over at young house love had one in their old house and loved it, and I tend to trust their judgment on such things. Plus it still has the slipcover option for considerably less than PB. I'd like to consider the Ikea but I measured the depth of it last night and it's significantly less than our current one, and since we're both tall I'm thinking that could cause some issues for us. So that's where we're at right now...we'll probably pull the trigger some time within the year, so I'm excited to see where you end up!

We have a denim couch from Rooms to Go, purchased when I was pregnant and too tired to argue with my husband. I hated it at first. BUT, it has grown on me. And it is the comfiest couch I've ever sat on. And it has held up amazingly. I spent the last three months of my pregnancy with twins laying on it all day every day, then the next 14 months nursing twins on it every day. My mom slept on it 4 nights a week for almost a year. The kids jump on it all the time. The guy at the store said the slipcovers were not washable, but they totally are if we don't put them in the dryer. At this point (4 years later), I am in love with this couch.

I'd definitely read the reviews on Apartment Therapy before investing in a PB couch. Years ago I was almost ready to pull the trigger on a Crate & Barrel sofa and once I did some reading I found out that many of their models are made by Rowe. I found the SAME sofa at a local store (Jordan's) for half the cost. Seriously. My mother did the same and bought from a North Carolina company who shipped it up to her. PB did not make the sofa you love, find out who did and if you must buy it, get it from a place with less mark up. But, really do consider reading up on sofa construction. It matters, and PB sometimes is not the best.

Sarah, We bought a couch from Macys online almost 2 years ago and we LOVE it! I have 4 energetic boys (ages 8-15) and 3 cats so I completely understand your concerns. I searched all over for the right couch and after finding it online, we ordered it WITHOUT EVEN SITTING IN IT! It is wonderful and the most comfy couch ever...we call it the "magic couch" because it is so comfy my hubby and I fall asleep on it all the time when we are watching tv. Macy's is a reliable store and been around for years so I trusted them. I think it was a great choice.

Amy W in Colorado

My mom picked up an Ethan Allen sofa at an estate sale for my husband and I when we were in college 7 years ago for $25 - 4 moves later and the thing has still held up amazingly! It's the best $25 sofa ever! The cushions hold their shape very well (they still look like new) and the frame is really sturdy. My only complain is the fabric is proffesional clean only so we've got the same issue with every single spot clean showing. Our other sectional is microsuede which I scotch-guarded and it cleans up great! A guest spilled red wine all over it at a recent party and it just clenaed up with water. She was horrified when it happened but very releaved when it came right out in front of her eyes. Our dog on the other had was spotted with wine for a week afterwards!

First off HUGE CONGRATS on being debt free. I read all you had to say on the subject and I was very moved. Now about that sofa issue..I can so relate. I just purchased a new sofa that looks almost exactly like the one you are looking at with the chase. I bought it at a local furniture store that is very reputable. It is a Flexsteel. I really wanted something that could hold up to the very "firm" way my darling hubby likes to sit down. Nothing subtle about this guy but I love him SOOO much. He just sits down too hard. So anyway, Flexsteel. We have a living room that doesn't have much for walls either so the sofa was going to be sitting out into the room. Funny when the room is empty it looks so BIG! But the sofa does tend to fill in the area. I believe I sat, laid, lounged, flopped and put my feet up on virtually every sofa in the store and believe me when I say this showroom is about the size of a football field. That's a lot of sofa's. I, like you, was also concerned about the fabric. We were replacing leather and while one would think that would hold up great it certainly had it's faults. So I let it be known that quality fabric was key for me. Stylish yet durable. I also wanted to be able to seat guests when they came over. It's just me and the firm sitting hubby these days but we do have guests so I wanted them to be able to have a seat yet be cozy on my sofa when it was just the two of us. I, again like you, thought with the chase guests would be able to move around the end. Maybe prop a beautiful pillow behind them and be quite comfy. ummmm...NOT! What I'm finding is that everyone is tending to just sit all scrunched up together close to the edges. Because of the arm on the chase end if you have that near the wall the section where your feet would be does not go against the wall. So you are lift with a gap between the wall and the chaise. Thus, no beautiful pillow behind the back and leaning. Make sense? And while I LOVE the chase I find that when I sit there I get all cozied up and then, more times than not, fall asleep. This is not good night after night. LOL So if I sit up then hubby and I are sitting on the end where there are two cushions and we kind of feel like we are crowding each other. Not that we aren't all for holding hands and drinking wine and watching TV while chirping birds and hearts flutter over head. But let's face it, sometimes we just need a little space between us. Soooo...in the end I still love my new chaise sofa but sometimes I feel like I'm not as fulfilled with it like I had hoped. So sorry for the long post just thought I'd give you my perspective. Good Luck.

We bought our sofa from Macy's bit looks just like the one you picked out. I've had it for 6 years. There are two things I hate about it. 1-the fabric I chose. I went with a cream color. It was the same one on the showroom
Floor. It looked fab and I thought it must hold up well with hundreds of people sitting on it and trying it out. Nope. After a month my fabric looked ten years old and gross. So would definitle choose a darker fabric next time. 2-the chaise. I can't flip the cushion because of the way it is cut. I can flip every other cushion in the couch and it instantly makes my couch look new again(minus the gross fabric). So I won't buy another chaise unless it can be flipped.

My most favorite thing about our couch is the slip covers. Just toss them in my washing machine. They still look yucky but at least I know they are clean and the spills from my 4 yr old and toddler do come out. I actually bought fabric to have them recovered but haven't found an upholsterer yet. Good luck!

We had the Ektorp sectional. We sold it on Craigslist after five years. It is not a long term use- a million times a day sofa. I loved that we could wash the slipcovers, but my slipcovers were not well made. The sofa is very low to the ground.

I bought a two year old Greenwich PB sofa in twill from Craigslist. It seems well made and is comfortable. However, I don't think the fabric is the best at keeping clean. It is in our Library/living room so it doesn't get tons of use. But I am happy with it for the $200 I paid.

Now the sofas that I love and recommend to everyone is our sofa and loveseat from Ethan Allen. They were expensive, but I think that they are actually less than Pottery Barn. Our family room sofas are four years old and look brand new. We have three young kids and two large dogs. They get a lot of use. Ethan Allen has sofas that are smaller (not so oversize) which is what we went with. We were able to pick from hundreds of fabrics and they are all stain resistant/ treated. We have a olive/ tan chenille fabric that doesn't show wear or any dirt. Just my experience.Good luck. I hope you find a sofa you do not regret buying a couple of years later.

We did a lot of research when we bought our sofa and loveseat several years ago. We ended up buying Flexsteel because they have a lifetime warranty on the frame AND on the cushions. Unfortunately, we (I) chose chenille as well, and I hate that it can't be cleaned without leaving spots. I even chose a dark navy color because of my fear of stains, but stains do show up on chenille, no matter the color. So, we have a sofa in great shape, but I don't love the fabric- I guess with that lifetime warranty I'm stuck, huh?! :)

I heard something on one of the TV decor shows this weekend about slip covered sofas - that if you can find one without piping, they wash much better. I guess it seems that the cording inside the piping shrinks much more than the fabric, so it puckers and makes it hard to get the covers back on nicely.

Seriously the last thing you need is another comment but I can't help myself as I'm also in the market for a new sofa for our family room. Sofas are like shoes, they fit everyone different. For me, I really really want to love the Ektrop sofa: great look, great price and cheap slipcovers. But when I went to give it a try, it didn't sit well and felt cheap. I have a Mitchell Gold Thomas sofa in our living room and love it. I don't know if they still make PB sofas but I've been really happy with ours. It's not 8 way hand tied but it is made really well (kiln dried, reinforced corners, down, great linen). We've had it for 9 years with 2 kids, a dog and a big husband and it's still going strong and the style is still current. The only downside is that to get a new slipcover it's a zillion dollars...ok like $600. If the PB sofas are still made by MG and they're made the same as their other sofas, I think you'll be very happy. (MG and PB have outlets near me so I'm lucky...I got mine for $700 and it came with 2 slipcovers!)

I too have three cats (and a Collie dog) and was told microsuede was the way to go - but I learned the hard way that that wasn't so true. I wouldn't do it again. The best furniture I ever had with pets was a Mission style set I got at Slumberland, with no fabric skirt hanging around the bottom...nothing for cats to scratch or to catch fur as the creatures brush by. Next new living room furniture I buy will be a higher quality Mission set. It matches my old house better anyway.

We have an upholstered sofa from Macy's. The fabric is some sort of microsuede (I think?) in a dark brown. It's easy to clean when we feel like it, but sometimes we just let it go because the color hides dirt so well. Plus, we got it on sale for $699.

We bought the Remo sofa from Macy's in June.
http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=252662&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results
We got it in a fabric that looks like really thick coduroy. We LOVE it. It wipes up really well. It's soft and warm. However, with the cats I'm thinking fur would get caught in the velvety stuff.

Can't wait to see what you pick! In the 13 years we've been married, my husband and I have been through 5 couches. Wow. I don't think I've actually counted them all before. And, we are ready for something new again. I haven't found one that I like for more than a couple of years or it looks like crap after a little wear.

Hi there,
I worked for Pottery Barn corporate and I have a lot of PB furniture (that discount really helps). I loved my time there and I love so many of the items that I have.
But sadly, my main couch is *not* one of them. I just wanted to echo what Silver Lining Decor said in that you have to really check out the product. Do not assume that because it is PB that the quality is there. Sometimes they have a great product and sometimes they do not. Really check out your product in detail - the salesperson should have a detailed spec sheet on the couch that can tell you about how it is made/designed/features.
I think it is pretty commonly known that PB outsources their leather line to Mitchell Gold and I LOVE my leather furniture from PB (AKA Mitchell Gold).
But I have a twill covered sectional that was also made by Mitchell Gold and it has not held up well at all. The twill material has stretched terribly. The pillows are saggy and smushy. The cushions are downright uncomfortable because they have worn so badly and sag. We spent a lot of money on this couch, so it makes me sad that it is in such bad shape after only a few years.
I hope that helps somewhat - even though it is not quite the answer you were hoping for. I am not familiar with the couch you are looking at, so it may be great. Just check it out carefully.
Good luck in your search!

I hate to squish the warm happy feelings about the PB couch but we have one and I have been pretty dissapointed. We have the Basic Chaise Sofa in red (so not the exact one you are looking at) and ours is a sofa bed. It was expensive and has not held up well. We have 2 dogs so loved the idea of the removable and washable slip covers but they shrink / fade / and never go on right again. Ours have also torn at the seams and the zipper on the chaise cushion has broken three times. We bought our about 3 years ago and now the cushions and frame are really starting to sag. It is lumpy when you sit on it and I can feel the frame coming through the cushions. For the money I thought it would have been much better quality. I love PB but wont buy a couch there again. So sorry!

Another leather fan here! We have a brown leather sofa, a club chair, recliner and we bought 2 leather storage ottmans at Target that we use as a coffee table. We purchased the sofa and chair from Slumberland and the recliner from Sams..it's funny how it all goes great together. I have never had so many compliments on anything we've owned and we bought the floor model, so our cost was significantly less. I love the leather furniture wipes to clean it as well..leather does get dirty, but it never looks dirty and pet hair won't stick to it either. Anyway, I know anything you choose will probably look great!! Happy hunting!

I have been married for 30 years- we went through 5 couches (several used) before we finally broke down and made ourselves purchase a good one- we went to Ethan Allen and we have NEVER looked back- that couch is now 16 years old and has gone through 4 children and their friends, great nephews and a granddaughter so far, not to mention 3 terriers that we currently have, and it still looks great! It is by far the most comfortable couch we've ever owned and the first place anyone who is sick goes to sleep- my teenagers regularly grabbed a comforter and spent the night on it when they were growing up- I have washed the cushion covers countless times- I just cannot say enough good about the enduance and quality of Ethan Allen furniture- we are also still loving a gorgeous leather chair and ottamon that we purchased at the same time as the couch- unbelievable quality- and please know, we use our furniture very hard - that was one of the first questions the salesperson asked us-

One of my fav blogs just got a slipcovered sectional from Ikea and documented it here http://www.younghouselove.com/2011/01/surprise/

Leather, leather, leather...it is so easy to clean and holds up great. We have 2 kids and a dog and they're all on it all the time and any spots or places wipe right off. Of course, you can't let anything puncture it, but you don't want anything puncturing any kind of material. We have leather in the living room upstairs and in the man cave downstairs (you know how man caves can be with burly men and all) and both still look brand new after about 4 years. :o)

Julie

I have to agree with the comments about leather. Never thought I'd like it in a million years either but I found a really nice leather sofa that looks more "library" rather than "bachelor pad." Two cats, two kids, and a hubby and NOTHING cleans up like it. It wears like iron. I have it in my minivan and love it there, too.

We have a craigslist Pottery barn Charleston sofa in Sand Everyday Chenille, and an Ikea Ektorp sofa bed with a white slipcover. The PB sofa is very comfy, but the Ikea couch is not, (maybe b/c it is a sofa bed). The Ikea slipcovers are easy to clean. Beware of the PB slipcovered couches though, the dry cleaner shrank ours and I have to tug on it daily to cover the back of the couch. :( As for PB everyday chenille, the fabric has held up well through cat claws and toddlers. The sand color hides EVERYTHING, and cat hair has not been an issue. Let us know what you pick!

Congrats on your debt free status. That's an amazing accomplishment. I'm a daily reader & a bit older than your core group. Furniture choices are a huge decision & "thrifty" depends on you. My opinion, for what it's worth, is to save and buy good QUALITY that lasts vs trendy & cute. My 1st couch was purchased in 1977 at Ethan Allen & went to college with my daughter 21 yrs later only because I was tired of it - it looked new. Our next couch was also good quality but twill fabric. After dog & grandsons messes, I purchased leather for ease of cleaning. Never owned leather furniture but with 4 grandsons, it is a gift from God!!! Everything can be wiped off - use your imagination as to what those 4 boys have done.
You just have to decide - do you like to replace your couch every few years or do you intend on keeping it long term? I've owned 3 "living" room couches in 35 yrs.(Have a "man cave" area also with high quality couches - 2 sets in same time) If I had done leather for the 2nd purchase, it would only be two. That's my definition of thrifty. I change the look by changing out throw pillows, accessories, etc.
Lastly, do you know a furniture broker in your area? That is the ultimate way to go. Look at retail & online. Then go to a furniture broker. Ours is able to get anything but Thomasville at a substantial savings. Have fun shopping!

We have the PB pearce sectional and love it. I know you don't like the microsuede but that is what we have. Absolutely everything wipes off of it. We have it in a light color too. If you want an upholstered sofa I would recommend the microsuede for sure. I would rank microsuede and leather as top toughness fabrics.
Hope this helps!

I LOVE how twill and canvas look. But I will never buy a brushed twill sofa again unless it's a slipcover. It is impossible it get it clean. I got a Rowe brand sofa in brushed twill (cotton) and got the warranty where if there is a stain the company will send someone to clean the couch, or replace the couch if the stain is bad enough. My son drew all over the couch with a ball point pen, and I had to have the warranty people come out and clean it--and their cleaning bleached the twill. I had to fight hard but I eventually got the company to replace the couch--and this time I went with microsuede. I don't love the feel but I can scrub almost anything out of it (including ballpoint pen!). Twill looks beautiful until ANYTHING touches it and then EVERY little stain shows. Every last one. :(

I love the new one!
Last year we bought a new sofa, loveseat and sectional for our family rooms and I already don't like what we got :( I'm secretly hoping that since they were inexpensive, they won't hold up very well and need to be replaced sooner rather than later...

Thanks so much for all of your great ideas! I really enjoy reading your posts. That's why I have awarded you the Versatile Blogger Award. Please check out my post tomorrow Feb.11th for details.

whatitsallabout4u.blogspot.com

I totally understand the afraid of someone sitting on the back of the couch thing. My fiance's brother is 550 lbs...no really...and he sits on my couch. Okay, I get REALLY worried about my couch, because it does a whole LOT of popping and cracking. UGH! Anyways, have you checked out IKEA's couches? They are fantabulous! Sherry and John from www.younghouselove.com got one and it's wonderful. And if you check them out fully, they don't cost that much. If you can put up with putting it together when it arrives, you can get a great deal on a beautiful and STURDY couch.

Big Congrats on being Debt Free!!!! We did Dave Ramsey and loved it. Enjoy shopping for a new sofa!

JCPenny! The Linden Street Friday Sofa Group is a great cost-effective alternative to the 'Pottery Barn' look. We bought their large sofa, and love it!

When we shopped for a family room sofa, it was a NIGHTMARE. My husband is 6'4" and we needed something he could lay down on without hanging over the end. Add to that, we have 4 greyhounds who like to stretch out next to us. Oh, and we pretty much stick to "Made in the USA" so that really limited our choices. We must've visited every furniture store east of the Mississippi searching for something that we liked and would work for us. Finally, we found exactly what we wanted in a local family owned store. We bought a ginormouse, comfy sofa made by Lane. It's so deep that when you remove the back pillows it's almost as wide as a twin bed. Now when we were shopping, every single person told us the chenille-like fabric holds up the best. Our sofa isn't the real nubby fuzzy chenille, but kind of tight and short if that makes any sense. It's now held up incredibly well to my giant husband and 4 dogs. In fact, it's so comfy that I often fall asleep on it and don't want to go to bed!

I am soooo jealous! I have dreamed of owning a couch from PB for ya-ears. But, being the fabulous wife that I am, I gave into the hubster for a leather couch and loveseat. Boo. Yuck. Hiss. It is cold and not comfortable at all. I guess I will live vicariously through you lucky lady! Congrats on paying for it with cash! That is amazing! I look forward to seeing it on your blog!

We LOVE your IKEA couch. It has held up so well with our 3 kids. Just slip off the slipcovers and wash them up. Super easy and durable!

We bought a Bernhardt sofa 6 years ago and although it was pricey, it has held up tremendously well. We always get compliments on it when we entertain. It's made of some kind of tweed fabric that is very thick. Good luck finding your sofa....so much fun!!!

Love that you filled us in with this post! I swear I heard somewhere that chenile was the way to go...been planning on that but, ha! :) I know you said no to leather, but that was my 2nd choice (I just imagine cleanup to be a breeze!).

We have a brown microfiber sofa and loveseat...I can't wait to get rid of them (at least the sofa...the loveseat has less use it seems)! Unlike some of the others who have commented, we did not do the stain resistance (cause we're cheap!) and ah! Dumb, dumb, dumb! (We have 3 kids!) OUR couch is grody! I literally tuck a throw over the seat cushions when guests come over! :)

(P.S. I'm green with the idea you're thinking about a P.B. sofa! Swoon!)

Just received a catalog from Ethan Allen and they have some great deals on their couches right now. You can order your choice of fabrics, cushion types and sizes. I recently spent waaaaaay too much on a couch and now I hate it. I'm tempted to bring our old leather one out of the family room!!! Can't wait to see what you choose.

Good for you, Sarah!! I love your sofa pick, but it the fabric going to hold up to your family and stains? I've gotten to the point where I just wnat slipcovers or leather. I can either throw it in the wash or wipe it with a wet rag.

I'm sure they scotchguard it and keep a family in mind when designing it...hopefully!

We have the Ektorp sofa with a white cotton twill slipcover. It's an inexpensive sofa, comfy and has held up for six years with toddlers and teenagers. I am on my third slipcover, but they're only $60/each.

Happy sofa shopping!!

You are getting some seriously awesome advice. I read a whole bunch of the comments because I think I'll be doing some shopping soon for our lower level family room. I have a Bernhardt Martha Stewart couch which I've had for 7 years and looks really slouchy - even more slouchy than a down filled couch should be. We have an off-brand couch in our family room upstairs which is reasonably comfortable, but I bought it at a place that carries knock-offs of pretty much every Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware sofa for less. I would be worried about twill/linen/cotton - just not durable. You want something with a good amount of poly or rayon to really hold up and to be able to clean. We have lots of chenille type furniture and all of it has held up well. Also, check out Rowe, but ordered from NC because you will save a bundle. http://houseography.blogspot.com/2011/02/living-room-re-do-reveal-sort-of.html

That's a great sofa from PB!

We have a custom made leather couch. Love it! We have 4 kids and if it wears in spots just put some shoe polish on and it's like new.

Our only problem we had it made for the layout of our old house. Now it's too big in our current home. We make it work.

I look forward to seeing what you get.

I have the Raymour & Flanigan Briarwood loveseat (wish I'd gone with full length sofa) in a taupe microfiber. I got it in July 2006 and the only thing that wearing down is the end pillows that I keep squishing under my arm! I love the depth (almost as deep as a twin mattress width when I take the back cushions off - plenty of shoulder room) and the material has been a God-send what with growing a teen into manhood and now surviving an 11 month old grandson! Has shown itself to be very sturdy!

We have a sleeper natuzzi couch in microfiber from Raymour and Flanagan. I thought Natuzzi is supposed to be a pretty decent brand but it's about 5 yrs later and the couch sucks. The microfiber cleans up really well though. But I would never buy a sleeper again because the couch is so heavy and now the cushion won't stay in the couch and it slips out over the front and is so uncomfortable. I was looking around for possible replacement options.

I absolutely love the look of Macy's Chloe and sat in the store and it is comfortable too. I'd just be concerned about how it would hold up with everyday wear and tear.

The Macy's Bacall looks like the one in your picture and has really good reviews. You can custom order it in other fabric too.

I prefer the look of upholstered sofas but liked the idea that with the PB Comfort Sofa you can take the cover off and wash it. But I read through the reviews and a lot of people say the slipcover shrinks after washing and you can't get it back on. And a lot of people say the cushions flatten out and then there is no support.

I was looking at Crate and Barrel and a lot of their sofas have bad reviews too. Maybe people are more prone to come online and write a bad review over a good one. But short of having someone custom make you a sofa (which I'm sure is pricey) where are you supposed to go to buy a resonably priced couch that is comfortable and will hold up well?

We have the Pottery Barn Basic Sectional in Stone brushed canvas. We've had it for about 4 years, and while I would not get a sectional again because I dislike the way it looks apart, I would buy a Pottery Barn couch again. It is very comfy and has held up well with my 3 kids, nieces and nephew and 2 dogs.

This woman is a pretty famous decorator and blogger, and i just received this article in my inbox from her where she talks about sofas. The site loads pretty slow, and you'll have to scroll down past the bed photos to see the sofas. She has some pretty nice things to say about Ikea sofas... Take a look!

Cindy



http://cotedetexas.blogspot.com/2011/02/few-of-my-favorite-bargainsupdated.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+CoteDeTexas+%28COTE+DE+TEXAS%29&utm_content=Yahoo!+Mail

If you want the PB sofa you should check out a post at YHL which tells you which company they get their sofas from!! I think you have to order it online but if you know the style it isn't so bad. They had good luck with theirs. Someone else in blog land has also posted the source of PB sofas so you possibly could find it by doing a search. Just a tip.
Laura

we have a chocolate sofa with a chaise like you had a pic of. love it except it's hard to find a coffee table that works. rectangle doesn't work. square looks weird sometimes. round is hard to find. in magazines it looks easier until you get it home in a smaller space. i've tried several options and currently we just don't have one!

I too love those PB sofas but NOT their prices! In Southern CA I shop at a store called Cost Plus World Market (I know they have stores heading in an Easternly direction-just not sure where) that I love getting good quality furniture from. I do not own a couch from there, but there's one I've had my eye on. It seems a smaller than the PB one but the chaise can be switched back and forth to either side. UH-MAZE-ING! The reviews I've read talk about how great it is for kids and for cats. AND....drum roll....it's half the price as PB's! (I believe if you sign up for their email list you can get a coupon as well) http://www.worldmarket.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3696392
Good luck on your couch quest!
Karissa

Try a sectional with a round coffee table,put a side by the window. This way you have more seating space.

We just bought a new sofa from Rooms To Go. It is called blended leather. It has a thin layer of real leather on top of faux leather. We didn't get the loveseat because we just don't have the room. We bought the matching chair instead. I love it! And reasonably priced paid in full from savings. We have dust mite allergies plus a 6 yr old boy so leather was the better way to go than fabric for us.

You aren't going to like my answer. I have the Pottery Barn Charleston sofa with twill slipcover. I've had it for only 4 years and am replacing it (currently hunting for the perfect replacement). Here's what I hate about it:

1. It majorly sags in the middle. I have had to put foam egg crates underneath the slipcover in the center of the sofa to level it out.

2. I washed the slipcovers according to PB instructions and let them air dry. The main slipcover that goes over the body of the sofa no longer fits. It's literally too small, so I cannot zip it up. It just hangs there, flapping open.

3. The unseen velcro underneath that holds the slipcover to the arms of the couch fell off immediately. Now the arm part sags. I tried attaching new velcro, safety pins, everything I could think of short of sewing the slipcover to the couch.

4. On one of the cushions, the zipper broke when I was removing the slipcover to launder. I have had to replace it and sewing zippers is no fun!

I live PB furniture but would NEVER again buy a slipcovered piece from them. Not worth the money at ALL.

Congratulations on being debt free. It's an awesome feeling!!

We love our leather couch and chair. It gets an enormous amount of use, and after 16 - (sixteen) years it looks as great as the day we purchased it from Macy's. I love the fact that everything wipes right off, and it always looks "brand new." We wouldn't consider anything else, should be ever need to replace this one.

Just saying!!

I love all the PB furniture. One word of caution: my sister has the twill fabric and it attracts all sorts of lint and pet hair. I would definitely go with the canvas or another fabric. Congrats on being debt free! That's great!

I always wanted a PB sofa in twill but we ended up getting an dark expresso brown leather sectional from a local furniture store in town. I LOVE IT! Leather is definitely pricier but soooo worth it with kids and we got an amazing deal. We've already had tons of spills on our couch in the past year since we bought it and it still looks new. We just wipe it down with a damp cloth and/or leather cleaning wipes. I honestly don't think I'll ever purchase a cloth couch again!

You might want to check out havertys.com, they care a lot of similar couches to PB at a much better price, just make sure they deliver in your area. Good luck!

Just wanted to add that we only paid $2600 (1/2 the listed price) CASH for our genuine leather 3 piece sectional with 4 recliners (yes, I said 4!). We shopped around, bargained, left when they didn't take our offer, and came back 3 days later with a lower (yes, lower) offer which they then decided to take. Going out of business sales can be the best place to get quality furniture for way less.

I skimmed some of the comments and whole heartedly agree with the 8 way hand tied springs and I'm sure you don't want to hear it, but the leather also. I was soooooo against it because first of all I've never been a fan of leather couches (chairs, yes..couch, no) and the kids and pet's nails had me concerned, but I caved and I can't tell you how happy I am that I did. Dare I say, I LURVE it!! That said, I do think the Pottery Barn stuff is pretty and looks good, and even though you may pay an arm and a leg for some of it, it isn't near the quality it should be for what you pay. If you're looking for something pretty, practical and will last I'd look elsewhere. Ditto that for Ikea - my sister has one of their couches and it isn't holding up as well as it should.
Good luck with the search!

I also have the Ikea slipcovered Ektorp sofa and I love it.. it was also hundreds of dollars less than the Pottery Barn Sofa... and is just as nice and sturdy. Good luck with your choice!
Sandy

Can't wait to see what you end up getting and hearing your review. I have the same couches that I bought about 8 years ago, but they are microsuede. I love them and they clean up awesome even with pen from my 1 year old. Bought them at a furniture row. Really only thing I don't like is that the cushion against your back, has started to slump and not keeping it's form. But going on 8 years now. I can't complain, but it'll be a long time before they are replaced unless someone takes us on as a charity case, cause we have my husband's student loan from Veterinarian school. One day I'll be able to say we're debt free too!! Can't wait for that, Congrats on your success!!
Jessica at Daisydotdesign.blogspot.com

I thoroughly enjoy reading your blog! I am so excited for you and your family and that y'all are now debt free. That is awesome!

Regarding the sofas...my husband, 3kids, 3 big dogs and I have had great luck with Ethan Allen sofas. Our first one we bought thirteen years ago and we chose a really durable taupe, houndstooth patterened fabric. It still looks fabulous to this day. Honest! We bought two more sofas from Ethan Allen about 8 years ago and they've held up just as well!

I don't know how they compare to Pottery Barn. The sofa photos you posted do look very pretty!

Thank you so much for your awesome blog!

Congratulations on paying off the debt! I recommend you check out a company called clubfurniture.com

I have had them bookmarked for some time now. It looks like they make good quality furniture.

I bought a high quality sofa, 12 years ago: lifetime warranty on the frame, 10 years on the upholstery, chenille with scotchguard. Our house burned this past summer and the sofa still looked fabulous up until it burned. This was with three kids, lots of nieces and nephews a cat and a dog.

At the risk of sounding snotty, there are chenilles and then there are chenilles. If you get a high quality chenille you can't beat it for style and endurance.

All the comments were overwhelming, but helpful. I wish you the best in your decision and I'll be checking back as I'm going to be making the same decisions in the next few weeks.

When I was sofa shopping 4 years ago a friend who is an interior designer showed me an article about how poorly made PB furniture was and said that supposedly they had to significantly improve the quality of their furniture after designers discovered how bad it was. Still, she didn't recommend PB. I decided to purchase the PB Greenwich sofa in microsuede because I just couldn't beat the style. It's not our main sofa but after 4 years with 4 kids it still looks new and it's held up much better than any of the cheap sofas we've had. At the time I hoped it was worth the money (we also paid cash) and I definitely have not regretted it!

We own a PB couch, the seabury one in twill. Its lovely and deep and the cushions are great. Its held up its shape and I do not regret it. I did purchase it at the outlet and only cost us $500. Do you have an outlet. The ikea couch/sectional is nice but my friends cushions have lost the thickness from a lot of seating and they are ok. Believe it or not we bought a great small sectional from JcPenney outlet. Again the outlet for us! But its been a great sectional and its slipcovered. Its held up well for the last year and the cushions are great. Good luck with your findings-you cannot go wrong with PB!!!

Rooms to go has a version of this couch at a much more reasonable price. I bought it and it has held up quite well. I have three dogs !
Good luck in your search.

There's a website called Homereserve.com that sells couches that they mail you. We bought one for our playroom with the "pet care" fabric. It's waterproof! We love it, but I'm not sure that the types of couches they sell would be what you want. They do sell their fabric by the yard though, if that's something you'd like to look at. Good luck finding the perfect couch! I'll be doing that myself in a couple of years. :)

I highly recommend Lane furniture. Ours is leather and has held up to a 2 and 4 year old jumping, spilling, vommitting,and climbing on it, on a daily basis, with no sagging or rips or tears. They do have other fabrics and are guarenteed for life.

I do love the look of the pottery barn ones, but with my crazy boys, dog, cat, and family parties I do not think it would hold up.

Good luck on your search.

My best friend has the Ikea slipcovered sofa in white- 2 toddlers, a 12 yr. old boy, and 2 cats. The adore it and she says it's super easy to clean. I personally love to visit there because it is extremely comfy! By the way, upon your description of your own couch's faults, we own the same one. Ours is only 3 years old, so I wonder how long we can last...

I love, love, love my sofa. It's nearly 20 years old and we're finally getting ready to have it resprung and reupholstered. That alone should tell you how much I love it. It's a semi-custom jobby. The frame is manufactured then you get it custom upholstered if that makes sense.

Anyway, it's as deep as a twin bed (seriously, there have been a few times that folks have slept on it made with a twin sheet over the cushions) with two layers of overstuffed down cushions on the back. It's all done in a cotton twill that's been very durable. Mine's very cottage-y with a huge cabbage rose floral, khaki, and a fine green stripe with a skirt and all.

As a bonus, the frame is super-duper sturdy (I swear I think it's mostly pine 2X4s, but I could be wrong). It's stood up to two kids (that are entering their teens now), two cats, and a dog, various guests sleeping on it, and more. The worst damage it's suffered is that the upholstery is now worn thin in high traffic spots and one of the plastic "legs" has finally died.

ETHAN ALLEN. I recently purchased a smaller-scale sectional chaise and a traditional sofa there, and love them both. Ethan Allen was the only company who made a sectional chaise whose width fit my family room requirements.

I am very fussy about my upholstered seating, and require an extremely firm seat and back--I don't want to feel like I'm sitting on marshmallows. PB didn't make that cut. I never considered Ikea because I wanted something for the long haul.

The fabrics I chose were both polyester heavy-use grades, chosen for their soft, smooth hand and color. Ethan Allen has plenty of fabrics to choose from, which was necessary because I was trying to coordinate with existing rugs/drapes. It took my designer SEVERAL trips out to my house with samples, but I was able to pick the perfect fabrics.

I am thrilled with my Ethan Allen sofas, and my family loves them, too.
Sue

Long time lurker, first time poster. :)

Vail Flexsteel $1800 in leather (worth it!), starting at $900 in fabric. Going on four years and am still very pleased.

http://www.flexsteel.com/home/products/SpecPage.do?prodSkuId=3305-31

LEATHER!!! WINS!
So much more sanitary. Just wipe up whatever. I would however recommend that you not go with a dark leather, shows scratches pretty easily. But scrathes and all I wouldn't trade my leather sofas for any fabric ones.

We have the PB Pearce in that Grade B brushed canvas sage color that is really comfy and has held up well EXCEPT that our 2 Jack Russells used to jump up and nestle themselves into the top of the back cushions. After a year they were all out of whack and now the sofa is in the playroom. The fabric was pretty good except when one of our dogs peed on the cushion and it dried and left a big light colored stain. We just had to flip the cushion!

how exciting! getting new furniture is always so fun.

we bought our sofa from rowe about 10 years ago. it's gray twill and has held up amazingly! our sofa was around $800 and rowe is an ecofriendly company. i don't believe they make our sofa anymore but this one is pretty close.

http://www.rowefurniture.com/product/K520.html?start=1

if you are going to buy fabric and not leather, i would spring for the extra "fabric protections" or "fabric warrenty". also make sure the cushion covers can be easily removed and laundered by you and not "professionally clean only".

http://www.la-z-boy.com/Product/5473/

Best money I've every spent. I'll never go back to an upholstered sofa. Ever. Nothing beats a custom covered sofa in a distressed leather that will only get better with time.

Congratulations on being debt free!!! That is huge. My husband and I are on our way. We are starting a Dave Ramsey class at our our church. I have been following your blog and think it is great! As for the sofa, I would highly suggest checking out Mitchell Gold if you have one in your area. They make Pottery Barn's, Restoration Hardware's furniture. I worked at Pottery Barn kids and they truly markup their furniture. Mitchell Gold is the same thing without the markup. Just some advice. Pottery Barn is great but I feel like it is too overpriced.

http://www.nantuckit.com/retreatslipcovered/maitland.html

This company has REASONABLE prices and a LIFETIME GUARANTEE! No kidding. FREE SHIPPING right now and no tax. I have been looking for a slipcovered sectional for years, and finally found this company after reading many an online review. Check it out! You can order your sofa any way you want, so scroll down and don't just look at the pic of the one in the link. :)

I'll add my comments about an Ikea Ektorp sofa. We LOVED ours a lot, so comfy, easy to clean and care for, looked awesome. At the 7 year mark it started to sag, then it broke. It's true that you get what you pay for.

Hi, I am a new follower and love your blog. I have a sofa in my living room from Arhaus that I love. We have had it for 15 years, and it is still in excellent shape. This is in a room we actually use.

So, when I was looking for a sectional for our basement, I tried other stores, but Arhaus was my ultimate choice. Their prices are high, but I really feel they are worth it.

I'm VERY happy with both sofas. Take a look at their website www.arhaus.com They often run sales where you can choose any of their hundreds of fabric choices for the same price.

I have to add my own experience. Pottery Barn has some nice things, but I agree with an earlier comment that said your paying for the name. I just looked up the cost of the sectionals you were mentioning, and they are comparable to what we paid for ours, ours being leather. We had a great couch/loveseat combo we purchased 13 years ago, but parted ways because of the fabric wearing thin. I resisted the idea of leather to begin with because I thought it too masculine. After looking and looking, I finally came around! We bought a full leather sectional for the same price range the PB versions you are looking at, and am extremely pleased. We have 3 kids, 2 dogs, 1 cat. No problems!!!! One thing I can advise, whatever purchase you make is to look at the warranties, and what they cover and for how long. A friend of mine made a very expensive purchase about 8 years ago of Ethan Allen. Initially, she was pleased, but the springs wore out, the fabric was horrible, and now they are in very bad condition. Had she paid more attention to her warranty, however, she could have had some of the problems fixed. Good luck in your hunting!

we have had our couch and loveseat for 11 years, cushions are still firm, i think someone else mentioned flexsteel and thats also what our brand is, frame is lifetime waranty and seems ours is still in very good condition,even with 3 kiddos and lots of visitors throughout the years!

I definately think you should check out Arhaus furniture also. They are not the best priced, but I LOVE their slipcovered furniture. My Father-in-law's furniture is from there and it is SO COMFORTABLE! Good luck on your hunt for a new sofa!

Sarah,
I adore your pluckiness and candor in your blog. I have to weigh in on the sofa situation too. I second everyone who says PB doesn't have the greatest quality products. They look great and wear not so great. I have heard the same from Restoration Hardware. My Ethan Allen chairs have worn super well. They still are plump and look new after 8 years. The only problem I have with them is wanting to change the fabric because I'm tired of it. All our fabric is tight chenille and it is easy to clean and doesnt pick up our terriers' hair. I had good luck ordering my couch through a North Carolina outfit and with the shipping the entire thing came out to 1400. It is a Lexington sofa which would have cost $4000 at Louis Shanks here in Houston. Good luck. Also, I can't wait to try the new home decor help site. It looks amazing!Thanks!

Living in Ontario, I'm lucky enough to have a Pottery Barn, but we don't have the selection.:( Perhaps we will one day - meanwhileI I drool over their catalogue. We do have a Restoration Hardware chair, huge and comfy for kids, a dog and a cat, and it's stood up well over the years [with the original slip covers - intact and looking fine]. Good luck with your sofa hunt!

I can't wait to see what you find. I went to IKEA this week up in Bolingbrook IL and had my eye on the same piece you are looking at. Question is, which is better PB or IKEA? Thanks for your post

We bought our sectional at Haverty's. We are so pleased with how easy it is to clean and it was on sale, so two thumbs up.

Our friends have two Ikea sofas and are not pleased with them. Their cushions have deflated significantly and look worn. Maybe they have changed their manufacturing process and the quality is better but other than the option to wash the slipcovers, I would steer clear of them.

We love our Ikea Ektorp sofas (slipcovered in tan). We have had ours for 3 years, and they are still in excellent shape with 5 little girls in the house.

We *just* purchased the Linden Street Friday slipcovered sofas from JCPenney. They look a lot like the PB ones, but are half the price - and still have the 8 way hand tied springs and kiln dried yada yada. ;) We bought ours in Khaki twill, but my husband has already "authorized" the purchase of a velvet set of slipcovers. We paid about $1700 for the sofa and loveseat, delivered. Certainly more than Ikea, but not quite as bad as PB. :)

Congrats - debt free is cool! Good job getting it all under control.

It's like being bound with chains when you have credit and debt looming.

We got rid of our credit cards over 10 years ago and still don't have a single one. Suze Orman said if you have to use a credit card, then you can't afford it. I don't even think about using credit anymore.

I'm in the market for a new couch as well. I bought one 3 years ago but I can't stand that the back cushions get schlumpy so I am looking for a tight back this time.

I've narrowed it down to about 5, haha!

We purchased a slip cover sofa, love seat and large storage ottoman five years ago and ABSOLUTELY love it. Every time I throw the slip covers from the washer into the DRYER I kiss them (ok, maybe I just want to)
We have two cats, a child and enertain a lot. The sofas still look brand new.
We purchased from a local furniture store and I don't even recall the brand.

I'm not sure all fabric covers can be dryed, but our fabric is denim and has held up amazingly.
good luck, happy hunting!

I know you don't like micro suede. But I do. We spent 1,800 on our sofa. It is the best investment we have ever made!! With 2 little ones and sippy cups that they say don't leak I have never had a stain. It wipes right up. It is a very high quality material. We bought it at Wicks. It is deep and comfy.
I hope you find the sofa you are looking for. I shopped forever until I found the one I loved.
Good luck!

I have slipcovered sofas and used a natural (creamy white) denim. It cost a bit more but lasts forever and ever through multiple washings, just like your favorite jeans (but doesn't bleach out or fray). Would do it again. My daughter has the PB slipcovered sofa and loves it, btw.

I have a sofa-hunting tip, having just finished buying a new sofa. Be sure that the back cushions have at least some foam in them. Ours are not, just loose fill, and from the day it was delivered, that sofa has had lumpy, bumpy back cushions.

We immediately called to complain, and they sent someone out to fix it. It made an improvement, but it is still pretty saggy and lumpy -- it looks like we've owned it for five years instead of six months.

So get foam cushions, at least a foam wrapped core to add some structure. Don't go by what you see in the store, the one on the showroom floor looked great. Ours does not.

I usually never take the time to make comments but thought I would today because I recently just finished my long search for my new couch. I just got a new custom leather couch from Arhaus after an extensive search. It is beautiful and really easy to clean. I looked at Restoration and although I liked the style, the quality just was not there. I think if it is a couch that you will sit on every day, you need to make an investment. Your last couch only lasted three years - I really don't think a $300 Ikea couch will stand the test of time.

We learned, the hard way, that fabric with rayon it it does not hold up and reacts just like yours did when even just plain water gets on it. Fortunately, Lazboy let us return the sectional! We carefully scrutinized the fabric content before purchasing the Flexsteel couch we now have. Be sure to read as much as possible about the fabric and how to clean it. If it can't be cleaned with water then you can be sure that it will stain (bleach out) if water gets on it.

Had to add, and you may already know: if you find a sofa from a reputable brand and have the name, style, fabric name, etc., you may be able to price it out of some of the places in North Carolina. They ship it to you on a truck. I ordered a computer armoire that way and saved around $900. Same with our sons bedroom furniture. Just thought I'd pass it along.

We have owned Pottery Barn couch for about 7 years. It is stone in color. I was just thinking the other day how great it is! I love that I can throw the slipcovers in the wash when something is spilled by the kids- 5 and 3 yrs. The cushions have held up well, no sagging anywhere on the couch frame. The best part is I bought it at the PB OUTLET!!! Yes, they do exist! Awesome price at under $200! See if you have one close by because it's worth the drive.

I owned the Extorp sectional when I lived with roommates, and loved it, but then it broke at the frame from my 100 lb roomate throwing herself onto the couch. Not very impressive...

I have the JC Penneys PB knock off and its really nice and loved the price. Size wise it was a perfect fit for us.

We order sofas direct from the factory (there is probably one near where you live as well) and obtain fabulous quality for a fraction of the price for our clients. For my family room, I love the microfiber - it is not the cheap version, and when our cat was ill and did unmentionable on the cushions while we were on vacation I thought it was ruined. Zipped off red cushion covers threw them in the washer convinced that I would have pink covers that wouldn't fit correctly ever again. It came out perfectly. You can find quality without breaking the bank!

We have a craft master couch that we LOVE. Had a leather ashley that was crap! Our craft master was a higher price for us but we couldn't have made a better choice.
Here's to finding the perfect one for you!
-a. Vaughn

We have never had a PB sofa, but we did have a canvas sectional. Within a month, a bottle leaked a little on it. It made a giant spot that would not go away. So I learned to be a little more careful and just flipped that one over. A little while after, we had another spill...ON THE SAME CUSHION! So I had no choice at this point. We had paid to have it scotchguarded, so I used the product they told me to and it didn't work. I called the CS line and that didn't work either. Their policy was that they would replace it. So they sent someone out and found out that they dye lot had changed a smidge and they couldn't replace it correctly. We could choose between having it replaced or getting store credit for something else. We chose something else because I didn't want to have to live that way! I need something that can camoflouge a little!

My biggest advice, no matter what you choose, is make eating in the kitchen a rule. I know it sounds awful, but it really makes a huge difference in my house. We are lenient on it at times, but I still don't let the kids eat on the sofa. I'll make them a "picnic" on the floor and they love it.

Wanted to add:
We had a chenille-ish sofa once, and it was great! I guess it all depends. It did have a pattern as well, so maybe that helped.

Oh my goodness! Our couch fabric looks JUST LIKE THAT! I HATE IT WITH A PASSION!! (sorry to scream, but I think you know how I feel. ha!) We are also hoping to get a couch. very soon. I'm thinking maybe tax return. :)

Thank you for all the commenters mentioning IKEA, that is MUCH more in our price range (we only do cash too) and I'm SO excited about the possibility!!

A question, if anyone is still reading - is it a royal pain to wash slip covers??

thanks!!

I own 2 of the PB Basic sofas pictured -- only without the chaise. They are slipcovered. I also own a PB leather couch and a PB couch of some other sort with a different fabric. I also own a sofa, loveseat and reclining chair from another company in microsuede. I've only had the PB Basic for about 2 1/2 years, so I can't attest to their "hold up over the long haul" quality. However, I can tell you all about the slipcovers and that they NEVER look like they do in the PB photos. And I mean NEVER!! They look messy every. single. day. I'm very disappointed with that aspect. However, throwing them into the wash machine -- which I have done with a pillow cover -- is really great and does work well. I'm in the Indy area as well, so if you want to come over and experience all those types of sofas in a real --lived in every day by 6 people-- house, please feel free to come on over! SERIOUSLY! Just shoot me an email. Ang (fouroaksacademy@sbcglobal.net)

congrats!
YOU'RE DEEEEBBBBBTTTT FREEEEEEE!!
we have a loong ways to go but are enjoying the journey and offering it all to Our Lord.

Congratulations on being debt free! That must be an amazing feeling! As far as the sofa suggestion goes, I can atest that the Ikea slipcovered sofas are AWESOME! We have a slobbery big boxer who leaves dirt/slobber streaks on any surfaces, but with the durable fabric, it always washes off easily from the surface and when the edges, arms, back get a little dingy, a quick wash is all they need! We even trusted buying the white, and it looks great after a year already. My best friend has a slipcovered PB sofa and feels the same way - only I paid much less for mine and feel that they accomplish the same common goal: super comfy, durable, washable, and stylish! Good luck!

Look into Bassett Furniture (http://www.bassettfurniture.com/)

The had physical stores in most big city areas.

Their website lets you customize a couch from the legs, arms, fabric, etc.

My mom has had one for 25 years and held up amazingly well.

Is there a specific reason you don't want microsuede? I bought a whole set in microsuede (I have 4 kids, hubs and two dogs) and I LOVE IT! It is so easy to clean and it doesn't stain or show dirt. I had a birthday party that included cake with black frosting...we were all walking around with black teeth. Well, some little nephew got the black frosting on my new couch...it literally wiped right off! I even found some a week later, crusted and dried...I scraped it off with my finger and wiped the spot where it had been and it left nothing.

So, you may want to reconsider. Microsuede is woven 3,000+ times tighter than any other fabric, which means stuff doesn't penetrate it (except clear nail polish). We've had ours for 6 years now and it looks brand new. I just take a damp rag, and wipe it down every now and again.

Happy shopping!

~alicia
proof-of-love.blogspot.com