Choosing a couch with proper density is quite a challenge without wondering how things will change after the break-in period.
So, do firm couches get softer?
Firm Couches Getting Softer
Yes, it’s possible for a firm couch to lose resistance over time. This usually happens as a result of repeated use, poor-quality stuffing, or a non-supportive frame. Sometimes, even adding fluffy throws on top can make the couch feel cushier and less dense.
In this guide, we’ll go over why a couch could lose rigidity, when it becomes a bad sign, and how to tackle the issue like a pro!
Why Do Firm Couches Get Softer?
Let’s start with a closer look at why your couch might be getting squishy.
1. Wear And Tear
There are two types of wear and tear that you can expect with a couch.
One is the short break-in phase, which should last about 1 to 2 months.
After that, you’ll get a sense of how firm the couch actually is.
Losing some resistance in this period isn’t always a negative thing.
The other type is more of a long-term side effect as the cushions sage and dent.
Unlike the breaking-in, this is usually unpleasant, especially when it’s not even all the way through.
Most of us have a favorite spot on the couch that becomes our go-to over the years.
While there’s nothing wrong with that, it could wear the couch unevenly.
This might be the reason why your couch has sinking spots but still feels firm in other places.
If you want to avoid this, make sure you swap places regularly and turn over the cushions every month or so.
2. Poor-Quality Stuffing
Couch stuffing comes in a lot of different degrees of firmness that range from feathery downs to stiff foam.
Depending on tastes and needs, they’re all valid options.
That said, the issue is that some poor-quality stuffings are more prone to losing their resistance over time.
This means that you might buy a couch and get it delivered that you think is nice and firm, only to have it sag in a couple of years.
For instance, low-density foam is notorious for sinking in no time, either in seat cushions or mattresses.
3. Non-Supportive Frame
A high-quality stuffing in your couch will only take you so far without the right frame to back it up. It’ll prop up the seats and hold the cushions in place.
Unfortunately, some manufacturers might cut corners with their foundations.
It doesn’t necessarily need to break for it to be bad; it just has to lose its resistance.
Shakey joints and subpar wood quality will translate to low support that causes the cushions to sink in faster.
That’s why couch frames made from plywood and low-density fiberboards are usually the first to soften.
Meanwhile, kiln-dried hardwood can handle more abuse.
Plus, the construction under the seat also plays a crucial role.
Sinuous springs can work wonders in suspension, while fiber webs tend to sag sooner.
4. Using Throws And Pillows
A lot of people like decorating their couches with fluffy pillows and throw blankets.
It makes the lounging space cozier and more inviting, especially if it’s a convertible model.
However, it could make the couch feel less firm than it actually is, even if it wasn’t the intended purpose.
That’s because it softens the landing by acting as an extra padding layer between you and the frame.
Thankfully, that’s not a permanent issue, and it doesn’t indicate that there’s anything wrong with the couch itself.
Is A Firm Couch Better?
The firm options usually provide more structured back support.
That’s why some people like their cushions with some resistance, while others like sinking into a cushy seat.
It’s still mostly a matter of preference, but it might be a good move to get a balance between support and comfortable cushioning.
If your couch will double as a bed often, it’s generally better to get something with dense foam.
That way, it’ll handle more pressure over time and give you a longer lifespan.
Just keep in mind that the first few nights might not be very enjoyable.
However, if you decide to go with a softer one, double-check the frame sturdiness, from the primary material to the joints.
4 Simple Tips To Firm Up A Soft Couch
So, now that you know the upsides of lounging on a firmer seat, you might be wondering how you can get some structure back into a couch that’s gone soft.
Here are four neat tricks to try.
1. Flip The Cushions Over
It sounds too simple, but turning the cushions to the other side can show a decent difference in firmness.
This method won’t add resistance, though. It just helps redistribute the compressed parts.
If the flip doesn’t help at all, it still won’t hurt to try before going on to more drastic approaches.
2. Replace The Cushion Stuffing With Foam Inserts
Sometimes, simply overloading the cushion with the same stuffing material is enough.
It’ll make it feel firmer to the touch and cover up any sinkholes in the seats.
In other cases, you’ll have to replace the entire stuffing with stiffer material.
A high-density foam insert will get the job done nicely, and you can always cut it into shape if you can’t find the right size.
You can even wrap the foam with fiber to add a plump feeling to the cushions.
On the other hand, using an all-fiber or a down stuffing will boost comfort but reduce the firmness and support significantly.
If you have zipped cushions and seat covers, this process will be a breeze.
You just order some foam, open those bad boys up, and stuff them. If not, you might need to contact an upholster for help.
3. Add Extra Support Under The Seats
While it might be too complicated (and expensive) to change the suspension construction under your seats, you can always use wood to add more support on top of the webbing.
It doesn’t even need to be a durable piece of lumber.
Any plywood is fine, and you might even get away with using some cardboard as long as it’s thick enough.
The main downside here is that you won’t get the same plump feeling of a freshly-stuffed cushion.
Additionally, it could squeak a bit with movement.
Overall, it’s a quick fix that might save you in a pinch, but it’s not a long-term solution.
4. Use A Rigid Slipcover
When all else fails, you can try to use a couch slipcover to add more firmness to the surface level.
Plus, it’ll help protect the fabric from spills, food crumbles, scratches, and pet dander.
However, not everyone will be excited about using a slipcover since it hides the couch’s patterns, and it’s not easy to find a pre-made one that looks good.
Alternatively, you can try your hands at a craftsy project and sew your own couch slipcover.
Not only is it a fun DIY, but it’ll also open the doors to more fabric options to boost the firmness without compromising the aesthetic.
You can use linen, canvas, twine, or even denim!
If you manage to get the sizing right and fit the cover snugly around the cushions, it could help reduce the sagginess.
