Write an article based on this "Test the couch in person, even if you plan to order it online. See how comfortable you find the couch. Assess the sturdiness of the frame. Press the springs through the upholstery, if there are any. Experiment with lighting and by staining the couch fabric. Buy your couch or sofa."
A couch is a big investment, and ordering it sight unseen is a big risk. Deciding whether a couch is to your exact taste and can stand the test of time is almost impossible to do with pictures alone. That being said, online reviews are helpful for learning other people's thoughts on the comfort and durability of potential couches. Make sure you are comfortable with the return policy of the couch distributor and the quality of customer support you're likely to get if you experience troubles with your purchase. You may have to pay shipping if you order online, and will probably need to be present when the couch is delivered. Contact the couch company immediately if you find any problems. Sit how you normally would on the couch, then see how you feel. Different couches have different softness, and factors like seat depth and armrest height make a difference, too. Lower arms are good for curling up and getting comfy while watching TV, while multi-cushion sofas might be harder to nap on and firm seat backs are more supportive if you usually sit upright. Swaying, creaking, or squeaking indicate poorly installed springs or a weak frame. Lift one side about 6in (15cm) off the ground. If the leg on the other side is still touching the ground, the frame is weak. The couch legs should be attached to the frame by screws and pegs, not just glue, staples, and nails. They should be tight and close together, but not feel like they are poking through the fabric. If the sofa has only webbing or mesh, it will probably be uncomfortable and flimsy. Feel free to ask the salesperson for a swatch of the upholstery to bring home, where you can see how the fabric looks in artificial and natural light and test how easy it is to clean. Cotton and linen upholstery is reasonably priced and easy to clean, and microfiber blends can act like cotton and are stain resistant. Leather looks nice and lasts a long time, but is extremely expensive. Natural blends with polyester can snag and wear out overtime. Silk gives the couch a sleek look but is very hard to care for. The average couch sells for $1,000 but designer couches can cost $10,000. The couch should compliment the space you are going to put it in, and feel like a piece you'll want in your home for many years to come. Discuss the price for delivery up front, and make sure you can get a full refund if the store doesn't deliver on time.