Seat depth is important because it affects how you sit on a couch. If the seat depth is too short, then your feet will dangle off the edge and you might feel like you’re going to fall off. If the seat depth is too deep, then you might feel like you’re sitting in a hole and it will be hard to get up.
When it comes to furniture, especially couches, seat depth is an important factor to consider. Not everyone will like the same kind of cushions, and each type serves a different functionality. Here's how to choose the perfect seat depth for your couch that won't make you regret your purchase.
Why Is Seat Depth Important?
Imagine you find your dream couch? It's the style you want (a sleek mid-century modern design) and the color is bold, and bright and will be the talking point of your living room. The cushions are comfortable enough, so you see no issue at all, but after a while, your back starts to hurt. The seat depth of your sofa is so far back that you're not properly supported and after a few months, the only way to get comfy is to hunch in the corner.
Not ideal.
When you are shopping for a sofa, pay attention to the inside seat depth. This is different from the overall depth of a sofa, which is the distance from the back of the sofa to the front. Inside seat depth is measured from the front of the seat to the back cushion.
An article published by furniture.com states, "You may have heard it said that the perfect sofa is 40 inches deep, 60 inches long, and 36 inches high with a 19-inch seat height". These are just the average measurements, as there are no "absolutes" when it comes to what size your ideal sofa should be for your needs.
This is Couch Potatoes' own Track sofa, and as you can see, its overall depth is 39". The inside seat depth would be from the front of the couch, until right behind those back cushions.
What's the Right Sofa Depth for Me?
A sofa with a smaller seat depth, look more elegant and formal. Sofas with larger-depth cushions invite you to stretch out and get cozy. So, the seat depth you choose should reflect how you plan to use your couch.
- If you're using your sofa primarily for show and don't plan to sit on it often, then a smaller seat depth would be perfect. Most of Couch Potatoes' sofas are made to be sat upon, so we, unfortunately, don't have many accent sofas.
- If you have a large family or like to entertain guests, then you'll want a sofa with a larger seat depth so more people can fit comfortably.
The Mesa left chaise sectional has a very deep seat, but a moderately firm cushion. Everyone will be able to pile on and find comfort.
- If you're short, then you'll want a sofa with a smaller seat depth so you don't feel like you're sitting in a hole.
The Ladybird sofa has a standard seat, standard height, and relatively firm cushions so it's a balanced couch for most households.
- If you're tall, then you'll want a sofa with a larger seat depth to accommodate your length.
The Fluffy 3-piece Modular Sectional has a very deep seat and plush cushions. So if you're tall, check out the Fluffy Collection to lean back and relax.
- If you plan to use your couch as a bed, then you'll want a seat depth that is at least 19-inches.
Or, you can just buy a sleeper sofa like our Wallace queen sleeper sofa. Its seat depth as a sofa is about 35", and it can unfold a queen-size mattress.
Measure the Size of Your Room
Sofas can come in different depths, so it's important to measure the space you have and go from there. You don't want to purchase a sofa that is too deep for your space and makes your living room feel cramped. Or, on the other hand, you don't want a sofa that is too small and doesn't give you enough space to lounge in.
Remember, there is no one perfect seat depth for all sofas. So before you buy, take into account how you plan to use your couch and find the seat depth that will make you happy for years to come.
Consider the Cushions
You can sit back as far as you want, if the cushions aren't supporting you, you'll have an uncomfortable time. Our back cushions are filled with channeled polyester to prevent sagging, and our seat cushions contain 1.8-density foam for a supportive, but cozy seat.
The Mas Mesa Corner Sectional has some of our firmest cushions, and one of our deepest seat depths. The back cushions cradle your body, and the seat cushions hold you up so you can actually get up if the need arises.
Customize Your Couch
At Couch Potatoes, we offer customization for all of our couches. We will work with you to make sure you are satisfied. This means you can customize a couch in a beautiful pet-friendly fabric or smooth and supple leather. We also can customize your seat depth. If you find a sofa you love but the seat depth isn't perfect, no problem! We can adjust the seat to make it just right for you.
So, now that you know all about seat depth, what kind of couch is right for you? We understand there are limitations for certain guests, and there needs to be an option for these guests to have control over their comfort. At Couch Potatoes, we have a wide selection of sofas with different seat depths to choose from so you can find the perfect one for your needs. We have locations in Central and South Austin.