Whether for entertaining or lounging, sofas are key staples in every household. That’s why sofa shopping is no small task! Typically considered a larger price tag furniture item, most households rely on keeping their sofas for years to come. On average, families replace their living room couches every 7 to 15 years. As a result, we need furniture that is made to last and keep up with life’s daily activities.
For families with children and/or pets, the type of sofa you choose will certainly be put to the test, so it’s important to hone in on your must-haves. Is the piece moisture-repellant or scratch-resistant? Is it durable for high-traffic areas?
We’ve put together a guide, so you can buy a family couch that you, the kiddos and your furry friends can all enjoy.
Things to Consider When Purchasing a Family Couch
No two families are the same. Each family’s ideal sofa will be unique and different. From the aesthetic to the comfort, here are several factors to consider when searching for the best couch.
- Color
- Lighter fabrics will naturally show dirt and stains more easily. Consider looking for darker fabrics or darker neutral shades for family sofas.
- Size
- How many people will be utilizing your living room seating at one time? Consider your pets as well. Perhaps you have cats or dogs who like to sit with you on the sofa, so you may need larger seating.
- Shape
- The shape and size of your living space will be a large factor in determining what shape of couch you would like. L-shapes work well for corners, while sectionals can serve as dividers within larger multipurpose rooms.
- Overall Style
- Choose a couch that complements the design and theme of your living room. But try to avoid seating with accent features that can be easily torn or ripped off (buttons, nailhead trim etc).
- Comfort
- Your living room seating should be comfortable for every member of your family. Consider selecting a sofa that is deep enough and wide enough for everyone.
- Special Features
- Sofas today have many additional features meant to make your life easier. Consider a couch with cup holders, USB chargers and reclining features.
What Makes a Sofa Family & Pet-Friendly?
The answer is simple: durability. Your pets’ nails can easily tear cloth or leave marks on the couch, while younger children’s toys (made of metal or hard plastics) can also create accelerated wear and tear on a sofa. Children are also more likely to spill food and drinks, so consider finding pieces that are made out of long-lasting materials. Some of the most durable kid and pet-safe fabrics include: ultrasuede, microfiber, specific leathers and performance fabric. These fabrics and materials are also easy to clean, stain resistant and repel moisture.
Plus, El Dorado Furniture features family living room seating that is built with LiveSmart performance fabric. LiveSmart performance fabric is heavy-duty, fluorine-free, moisture and stain repellent making it a superior choice for high-traffic furniture.
Our Top 5 Family & Pet-Friendly Sofas
Shop: Nube White Corner Sofa with 5PCS/3 Armless Chairs
Perfect fit for: Individuals or couples with pets who value comfort but refuse to compromise on style.
Features:
- LiveSmart performance fabric
- Includes 2 throw pillows as shown
- Reversible cushions seat and back
- Stationary
- Zippered cushions and toss pillows
- Transitional style
- Deep, wide seating
- Combine single pieces for various combinations
- Feather blend-filled cushion (s)
Materials:
- Performance Fabric
Shop: Claribel II Gray Home Theater
Perfect fit for: Individuals or families with pets who spend a good amount of time watching shows or movies together.
Features:
- Power headrest(s)
- Power in left, right & armless recliner
- Power Motion
- 300 lb. weight capacity per seat
- Built-in USB port(s)
- Battery pack compatible
- Push button to reset to the original position
- Storage console with beverage holder
- Angled legs
- Modern style
- Double-top needle stitching
- Wall-hugger mechanism
- Combine single pieces for various combinations
- Polished stainless steel legs
Materials:
- Performance Fabric
Shop: Hank Light Gray Futon Sofa
Perfect fit for: Individuals or couples with pets who need additional sleeping space for overnight guests.
Features:
- Sofa in a box
- Spill and stain resistant
- Includes 2 throw pillows as shown
- Integrated sofa bed
- Center support leg(s)
- Modern style
- Deep, wide seating
- 225 lb. weight capacity
- Bottom space for extra storage
- Sliding mechanism
- Tapered legs
- Tubular metal frame
Materials:
- Performance Fabric
Shop: Pearl Corner Sofa with 5PCS/3 Armless Chairs
Perfect fit for: Families with kids and pets who need a cozy spot to lounge together.
Features:
- LiveSmart performance fabric
- Stationary
- 300 lb. weight capacity per seat
- Modern style
- Deep, wide seating
- Combine single pieces for various combinations
- Carlo Perazzi collection
- Hidden zipper
- Loose seat cushion(s)
- Removable back cushion(s)
Materials:
- LiveSmart Performance Fabric
Shop: Karly Dark Gray Power Reclining Sectional with 4PCS/2PWR
Perfect fit for: Large families with kids and pets who want the ability to recline.
Features:
- Power headrest(s)
- Power in left and right recliner
- Power Motion
- 300 lb. weight capacity per seat
- Built-in USB port(s)
- Battery pack compatible
- Push button to reset to original position
- Knife-edge padded armrests
- Transitional style
- Wall-hugger mechanism
- Block style chrome legs
- Combine single pieces for various combinations
Materials:
- Performance Fabric
Shop more of El Dorado Furniture’s family and pet-friendly sofas and styles! Each piece is made to hold up to the daily hustle and bustle of your household.