Ashley Furniture is a household name for stylish and affordable home furnishings. When shopping for a sofa chair—whether for a living room, home office, or reading nook—it's easy to get overwhelmed by the many options. This guide walks you through the key factors to consider, common pitfalls, and actionable steps to find the Ashley Furniture sofa chair that fits your space and lifestyle.
1. Measure Your Space and Doorways
Before you fall in love with a chair, grab a tape measure. Note the length, width, and height of the intended spot. Don't forget to measure doorways, hallways, and stairwells the chair must pass through. Ashley Furniture offers a range of sizes from compact accent chairs to oversized recliners. A common mistake is buying a chair that looks great in the showroom but is too big for your room. Write down your measurements and compare them with the product dimensions on the Ashley website.
2. Choose the Right Fabric and Color
Ashley Furniture sofa chairs come in leather, fabric, and performance fabrics. For households with kids or pets, consider stain-resistant microfiber or leather—they're easy to clean. Darker colors like charcoal or navy hide wear better than light beiges. If you want a cozy feel, look for plush fabrics like chenille. Avoid trendy colors that may clash with future decor; neutral tones offer more longevity. Always order a fabric swatch to see the true color under your lighting.
3. Test Comfort and Support
Comfort is subjective, so if possible, visit an Ashley Furniture store to sit in different models. Pay attention to seat depth, cushion firmness, and back support. For example, the "Larkinhurst" sofa chair has a plush, relaxed feel, while the "Zelen" offers firmer support. If you're buying online, read customer reviews about comfort and whether the seat is too deep or too shallow. Reclining chairs should operate smoothly—test the mechanism before purchasing.
4. Understand Construction and Warranty
Don't overlook the frame and suspension. Ashley Furniture uses hardwood frames and sinuous spring systems in many models, which provide durability. Check the weight capacity if you have heavier users. Also, review the warranty: most Ashley chairs come with a limited warranty covering frame and springs for 1-5 years. Avoid chairs with particleboard frames—they may sag over time. Look for high-density foam cushions that retain shape.
5. Avoid Common Buying Mistakes
New buyers often forget to account for the chair's footprint when reclined. A recliner needs clearance behind it (usually 6-12 inches from the wall). Another error is ignoring assembly requirements—some chairs come fully assembled, others require minor setup. Always check the return policy before purchase. Also, don't be swayed solely by a low price; cheaper models may use lower-quality fabrics that pill or fade quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I clean an Ashley fabric sofa chair?
A: Vacuum weekly and spot clean with mild soap and water. Check the care tag for specific instructions. For leather, use a damp cloth and leather conditioner.
Q: Does Ashley Furniture offer financing?
A: Yes, they often have special financing options through their store credit card or third-party lenders. Ask in-store or check online.
Q: Can I order a custom fabric?
A: Most Ashley chairs come in preset fabric options. Custom orders are not typically available, but many collections offer multiple color choices.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Ashley Furniture sofa chair comes down to careful measurement, fabric selection, comfort testing, and understanding construction. By following these steps, you'll avoid common mistakes and find a chair that looks great and lasts. Take your time, read reviews, and don't hesitate to ask store associates for help. Happy chair hunting!