Are you tired of your old sofa cover and want to replace it with a new one? Or maybe you just want to know the measurements of your current sofa cover for future reference.
Ensuring a perfect fit for your sofa cover is crucial for both aesthetic and functional purposes. A well-fitted cover not only enhances the overall look of your sofa but also provides better protection against spills, stains, and wear and tear. Proper measurements are essential to avoid the hassle of returns or adjustments. Whether you are looking to refresh an old sofa or protect a new one, accurately measuring your sofa ensures that your cover will sit snugly and look professionally tailored.
This guide will walk you through the steps required on how to measure sofa cover, making the process simple and straightforward.
What Will You Need?
Before getting started, it’s important to have these tools handy:
- Measuring tape
- Pen and paper
- A helper (optional but recommended)
Having a helper can make the process quicker and more accurate, especially if you have a large or bulky sofa. They can assist in holding the measuring tape steady and taking notes while you measure. However, if you are doing it alone, you can use a small piece of masking tape or clothespins to hold the measuring tape in place.
10 Easy Steps on How to Measure Sofa Cover
Step 1: Measure the Cushion Width
To start, remove any loose cushions and set them aside. Place the end of the measuring tape on one outer edge of the cushion and extend it across to the opposite edge. Make sure the tape is pulled tight and lies flat so you get an accurate width measurement. Write down this measurement. If your sofa has multiple cushions, measure each one and note their widths separately, as they may vary slightly.
Step 2: Measure the Cushion Depth
Next, measure the depth of the cushions. Starting from the front edge of the cushion, extend the measuring tape to the back edge. Again, pull the tape taut to ensure accuracy. Note down this measurement for each cushion. This step is crucial for ensuring that the cover fits snugly over the cushions without excess fabric bunching up or being too tight.
Step 3: Measure the Sofa Width
Now, measure the overall width of the sofa from the outer edge of one armrest to the outer edge of the other. This measurement forms the basis for the length of fabric you’ll need to cover the entire seating area. Be sure to account for any curves or unique shapes your sofa might have.
Step 4: Measure the Sofa Depth
Measure the entire depth of the sofa from the front-most edge to the back-most edge. This typically includes the seat depth and any frame that might extend further. Recording this measurement ensures that the cover will drape properly over the front and back of the sofa.
Step 5: Measure the Sofa Height
The next step is to measure the height of your sofa, which will help with the fitting of the cover over the backrest and the skirt, if applicable. Start from the base of the sofa, where it meets the floor, and extend the measuring tape up to the top of the backrest. Ensure the tape measure is straight and pulled tight for an accurate reading. Note this measurement down. For sofas with detachable legs, it might be helpful to measure with and without the legs to account for any variances in cover fitting.
Step 6: Measure the Armrest Height
To ensure the cover fits perfectly over the armrests, measure the height from the base of the armrest, where it attaches to the sofa, up to the point where it ends. For best results, measure both armrests as there may be slight differences. Write down these measurements.
Step 7: Measure the Armrest Width and Depth
Measure the width and depth of each armrest. Start with the width by measuring from the inner edge of the armrest to its outermost edge. Then, measure the depth from the front of the armrest to the back, where it connects to the sofa’s body. These measurements are crucial for making sure the cover fits well around the armrests, which often have unique shapes and require precise fitting.
Step 8: Measure the Length from the Base to the Floor
This measurement determines the length of the fabric needed for the skirt of the sofa cover if you plan to have one. Measure from the base of the sofa down to the floor on all sides. This measurement helps in ensuring that the cover doesn’t fall short or drag on the floor, maintaining a neat appearance.
Step 9: Measure Any Additional Features
If your sofa has additional features such as built-in recliners, storage compartments, or unusual shapes, measure these areas as well. Depending on the feature, you may need to measure width, depth, and height. Document these measurements separately and clearly to ensure that the cover can accommodate these unique elements of your sofa.
Step 10: Review and Double-Check Your Measurements
Finally, review all your recorded measurements and double-check for accuracy. Cross-checking them will help prevent any errors that could result in an ill-fitting sofa cover. If possible, re-measure critical points such as the overall width, depth, and height to ensure consistency. Double-checking ensures that your new sofa cover will fit beautifully and provide the best aesthetic and functional benefits.
By following these 10 simple steps, you can accurately measure your sofa for a perfect fitting cover. With the right measurements, you can confidently shop for sofa covers, knowing that they will fit like a glove over your beloved piece of furniture.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Use a Flexible Measuring Tape: To get accurate measurements, use a flexible measuring tape that can conform to the contours of your sofa. This helps ensure you cover every curve and angle correctly.
- Take Height and Depth into Account: Remember to measure the height from the floor to the top of the sofa and the depth from the front edge to the back. This will help you purchase a cover that fully envelopes the sofa, providing a snug fit.
- Document Each Measurement: Write down each measurement as you go. It’s easy to forget specific dimensions, and having them documented will make shopping or ordering custom covers much easier.
- Consider the Cushion Size Separately: If your sofa has removable cushions, measure them separately. Some sofa covers come with separate cushion covers, ensuring a better fit and a more tailored look for your furniture.
- Check Customer Reviews and Photos: Before purchasing a sofa cover, check customer reviews and photos for real-life examples of the product. This can give you a better idea of how the cover will look and fit on different types of sofas. It’s also helpful to see any potential issues that other customers may have encountered with the product.
These additional tips can make all the difference when it comes to finding the perfect sofa cover for your living space.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Using a Rigid Measuring Tape: Avoid using a rigid measuring tape or ruler, as these can lead to inaccurate measurements, especially around the curved parts of the sofa. Flexible measuring tools are much better suited for this task.
- Ignoring Irregular Shapes and Features: Don’t disregard unique features such as rolled arms, tufted backs, or built-in recliners. Measure these elements carefully to ensure the cover fits all parts of the sofa properly.
- Rounding Measurements: Be precise with your measurements and avoid rounding to the nearest inch or centimeter. Even small differences can lead to a poorly fitting cover that looks untidy and may not stay in place.
- Overlooking the Base of the Sofa: Many people forget to measure the base of the sofa, including any skirts or feet. This can result in a cover that’s too short, leaving exposed areas at the bottom.
- Skipping Condition Checks: Make sure your sofa is in good condition before measuring. Tears, saggy cushions, or broken frames can alter your measurements and affect how the cover fits. Address these issues to ensure your measurements are as accurate as possible.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can save time and money by finding the right sofa cover on your first try. Remember to always double-check your measurements and consider all aspects of your sofa before making a purchase.
Conclusion
In summary, how to measure sofa cover accurately is crucial for finding a cover that fits well and enhances your living space.
By using flexible measuring tape, carefully documenting all dimensions, and considering your sofa’s unique features, you can ensure a perfect fit. Avoid common pitfalls such as using rigid measuring tools and rounding measurements. Additionally, always check customer reviews for insights about the product, and remember to assess the condition of your sofa beforehand.
With these steps in mind, you can confidently select a sofa cover that will protect and beautify your furniture, making it a cherished centerpiece in your home.
