When you hear "Bassett settee," you might picture a traditional two-seater sofa with a classic silhouette. But today, Bassett offers settees that range from sleek modern to rustic farmhouse. Whether you're furnishing an apartment, a living room, or a home office, picking the right settee involves more than just liking the color. This guide walks you through the key factors: size, comfort, fabric, and common pitfalls. By the end, you'll know exactly what to look for and what to avoid.
1. Measure Your Space Before You Shop
One of the biggest mistakes people make is buying a settee without measuring the room and the doorway. A Bassett settee can be 48 to 72 inches wide. First, measure the area where the settee will go. Leave at least 18 inches of walkway in front and 12 inches on each side. Also measure doorways, hallways, and stairwells. Bassett settees often come in pieces, but some are one solid frame. Write down the narrowest point your settee must pass through. If it's tight, consider a model with removable legs or a modular design.
2. Choose the Right Fabric and Color
Bassett offers hundreds of fabrics, from performance polyester to linen and leather. For families with kids or pets, look for high-performance fabrics that resist stains and wear. Ask for the rub count (Wyzenbeek test); aim for 30,000 or more for daily use. Color matters too. Neutral tones like gray, beige, or navy hide dirt and coordinate easily. Avoid trendy colors unless you plan to reupholster soon. Also, request a swatch and test it under your home's lighting—store lighting can be deceiving.
3. Test the Cushion Comfort and Support
Not all settees are created equal in comfort. Bassett uses different cushion fills: foam core with fiber wrap, down-feather blend, or memory foam. Sit on the settee for at least five minutes in the store. If buying online, read reviews about seat firmness. A down-feather blend feels soft but may need fluffing. High-resilience foam holds shape longer. Also check the back support. Some settees have a low back (good for formal spaces), while others have a higher back for lounging. If you plan to nap, choose a deeper seat (22 inches or more).
4. Verify the Frame and Suspension Quality
Here's where many shoppers get fooled by looks. A durable Bassett settee should have a kiln-dried hardwood frame, not particleboard. Ask the salesperson or check the product specs. The suspension system matters too: sinuous springs (S-springs) are common and good for medium use. For heavy use, look for eight-way hand-tied coils, though they cost more. Lift the settee's corner—if it feels flimsy, skip it. Also, check the warranty: Bassett typically offers a lifetime warranty on frames and springs, but confirm.
5. Avoid These Common Buying Mistakes
Mistake #1: Ignoring scale. A settee that's too large can overwhelm a room; too small looks lost. Use painter's tape on the floor to visualize the footprint.
Mistake #2: Forgetting about legs. Bassett offers different leg styles and finishes. Exposed legs make a room feel airy, but they can scratch floors. Add felt pads.
Mistake #3: Not considering delivery. Bassett settees are made to order and can take 4-8 weeks. Plan ahead. Also, ask about white-glove delivery if you want setup and packaging removal.
Mistake #4: Skipping the swatch. Colors on a screen can be off. Always order free fabric swatches and live with them for a few days.
FAQ
Q: How long does a Bassett settee last?
A: With proper care, 10-15 years. Frame and spring warranties often cover lifetime defects.
Q: Can I customize the fabric on a Bassett settee?
A: Yes, Bassett offers thousands of fabric options. You can also choose leg finish and cushion firmness.
Q: Are Bassett settees easy to assemble?
A: Most come fully assembled. Some modular pieces require attaching legs or connecting sections.
Q: What's the best fabric for pets?
A: Performance polyester or crypton fabrics resist stains and claws. Avoid linen and silk.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a Bassett settee doesn't have to be stressful. Start with measurements, then focus on fabric, comfort, and construction. Don't rush—take advantage of free swatches and in-store testing. Avoid impulse buys based on looks alone. A well-chosen settee will serve you for years, combining style with everyday practicality. Happy shopping!