IKEA’s EKHOLMA line is built for shoppers who want medium-firm support, a removable washable cover, and a clear size ladder—from a compact loveseat to a lounge-ready corner setup. In our hands-on testing, I focused on long-session comfort, back support, heat buildup, cleaning ease, and whether each version fits real rooms without taking over the floor plan.
Table of Contents
Product Overview
| Sofa | Tested Price | Overall Score | Pros | Cons | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EKHOLMA Corner sofa, 4-seat with open end | $1,049 | 4.1/5.0 | High lounge capacity; steady support; washable cover | Big footprint; warmer on long sits; more assembly effort | Large rooms; frequent loungers; hosting |
| EKHOLMA Sofa | $749 | 4.2/5.0 | Balanced upright comfort; easy-care cover; strong value | Less stretch-out room; seat can feel tall | TV + laptop use; most room sizes |
| EKHOLMA Loveseat | $649 | 4.1/5.0 | Compact but supportive; tidy scale; easy cleaning | Tight for tall loungers; fewer nap positions | Small rooms; reading corners; chair pairings |
Testing Team Takeaways
Our testing kept pointing to the same theme: EKHOLMA works best when you sit upright rather than sink in. The seat height and seat depth made full-movie sessions easy without sliding forward. Marcus (6'1", 230 lbs) liked the steady support but noticed more heat buildup on long gaming nights; Mia (5'4", 125 lbs) thought the seat sat a little tall; Carlos (5'11", 175 lbs) said his mid-back felt better during laptop sessions than it did on softer couches.
IKEA Ekholma Sofa Comparison Chart
| Comparison Item | EKHOLMA Corner sofa, 4-seat with open end | EKHOLMA Sofa | EKHOLMA Loveseat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tested price | $1,049 | $749 | $649 |
| Category | Corner sectional | Three-seat sofa | Loveseat |
| Width | 92 7/8" | 81 1/2" | 65 3/4" |
| Depth | 76 3/4" | 33 1/2" | 33 1/2" |
| Height incl. cushions | 37" | 37" | 37" |
| Seat height | 19 1/4" | 19 1/4" | 19 1/4" |
| Seat depth | 21 5/8" | 21 5/8" | 21 5/8" |
| Back height | 27 1/2" | 27 1/2" | 27 1/2" |
| Under-sofa clearance | 5 7/8" | 5 7/8" | 5 7/8" |
| Arm width | 3 1/2" | - | - |
| Firmness label | Medium firm | Medium firm | Medium firm |
| Seat support | Pocket spring unit (steel) + foam | Pocket spring unit (steel) + foam | Pocket spring unit (steel) + foam |
| Cover care | Removable; machine wash warm | Removable; machine wash warm | Removable; machine wash warm |
| Durability | Cover abrasion tested to 50,000 cycles; testing based on use up to 242 lbs | Same | Same |
| Best fit in our tests | Lounge and hosting | Best all-around pick | Small-space support |
How We Tested It
We assembled each piece, lived with it during normal routines, and scored the same repeatable categories on a 5-point scale: Assembly, Cooling/Breathability, Seat Comfort, Back Support, Seat Depth Fit, Durability, Cleaning, Layout Practicality, Ease of Movement/Repositioning, and Value. Our hands-on testing included long TV sessions, laptop work blocks, quick stand-up moments from the seat edge, and spill-and-crumb cleanup drills so the results stayed grounded in everyday use.
IKEA Ekholma Sofa: Our Testing Experience
EKHOLMA Corner sofa, 4-seat with open end
Our Testing Experience

In our testing, the open end changed how this sofa worked from hour to hour. I could sit upright with a laptop, then slide over and stretch out without needing an ottoman. The seat stayed springy and supportive through longer sessions, and the arm made a comfortable lean point when I wanted to shift position without fully lying down. Marcus used it for late-night gaming and liked how stable it felt, though he also noticed the fabric held more warmth than breezier upholstery.
What we liked
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Steady medium-firm support that stayed consistent
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Open-end layout makes lounging and stretching easy
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Washable cover makes routine upkeep much less stressful
Who it is best for
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Larger rooms with enough depth for a sectional
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People who switch between upright sitting and lounging
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Homes that benefit from easy-clean upholstery
Where it falls short
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Too bulky for narrow rooms or tight traffic paths
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Can feel warm on very long sits
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Takes more effort to assemble and move than the smaller pieces

Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lounge-ready open end; stable support; removable washable cover | Large footprint; warmer feel on long sits; more work to assemble and move |

Details
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Price (tested cover): $1,049
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Dimensions: 92 7/8" W × 76 3/4" D × 37" H (incl. back cushions)
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Seat height: 19 1/4"
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Seat depth: 21 5/8"
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Backrest height: 27 1/2"
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Armrest width: 3 1/2"
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Under-sofa clearance: 5 7/8"
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Firmness: Medium firm
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Seat support: pocket spring unit (steel) + polyurethane foam seat cushion
-
Frame: solid wood, particleboard, plywood, fiberboard; legs solid wood with stain and clear acrylic lacquer
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Cover: 100% polyester (100% recycled); removable; machine wash warm, normal cycle
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Warranty: 10-year limited warranty
-
Return window shown: 365 days
-
Packaging: product comes as 3 packages
-
Durability notes: cover abrasion tested to 50,000 cycles; testing based on use up to 242 lbs

Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 4.1 | Strong comfort and easy upkeep; size is the trade-off |
| Assembly | 3.6 | Large sections and multiple packages take patience |
| Cooling / Breathability | 3.7 | Fine for normal evenings; warmer during marathon sits |
| Seat Comfort | 4.3 | Springy and supportive without flattening out |
| Back Support | 4.1 | Good support for upright sitting |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.0 | Works for most people; petite sitters may feel a bit perched |
| Durability | 4.4 | Feels stable and keeps its shape in regular use |
| Cleaning | 4.6 | Removable cover lowers everyday maintenance stress |
| Layout Practicality | 4.1 | Great if the room can handle the depth |
| Ease of Movement / Repositioning | 4.1 | Easy to change position once seated; less flexible at room scale |
| Value | 4.0 | Fair given the lounge space and washable cover |
EKHOLMA Sofa
Our Testing Experience

In our testing, the standard sofa was the easiest version to recommend. I could work upright for a few hours, then shift into a relaxed movie position without feeling my hips drop out of alignment. Carlos, who pays close attention to mid-back and neck comfort, said the transition between the back and seat kept him from hunching forward. Mia liked the support but said the 19 1/4" seat height felt slightly perched until she used a small footrest.
What we liked
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Medium-firm support that works well for upright sitting
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Washable fitted cover makes spills easier to manage
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Fits more rooms than the corner version while still feeling substantial
Who it is best for
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Mixed-use rooms for TV, laptop time, and guests
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People who dislike deep, sink-in seating
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Layouts that need clearer walkways
Where it falls short
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Not ideal for full-body lounging without an ottoman
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Some shorter users may want a lower-feeling seat
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Can warm up during very long sessions

Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Balanced comfort; washable cover; strong everyday value | Less lounge space than the open-end; seat can feel tall; moderate heat buildup |

Details
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Price (tested cover): $749
-
Dimensions: 81 1/2" W × 33 1/2" D × 37" H (incl. back cushions)
-
Seat height: 19 1/4"
-
Seat depth: 21 5/8"
-
Backrest height: 27 1/2"
-
Under-sofa clearance: 5 7/8"
-
Firmness: Medium firm
-
Seat support: pocket spring unit (steel) + polyurethane foam seat cushion
-
Frame: solid wood, particleboard, plywood, fiberboard; legs solid wood with stain and clear acrylic lacquer
-
Back cushion/back fabric: 100% polyester (100% recycled)
-
Cover: 100% polyester (100% recycled); removable; machine wash warm, normal cycle
-
Warranty: 10-year limited warranty
-
Return window shown: 365 days
-
Packaging: product comes as 3 packages
-
Durability notes: cover abrasion tested to 50,000 cycles; testing based on use up to 242 lbs

Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 4.2 | Best balance of comfort, fit, and price |
| Assembly | 3.9 | Still multi-package, but easier to stage than the corner unit |
| Cooling / Breathability | 3.7 | Comfortable in normal use; warmer on longer sits |
| Seat Comfort | 4.2 | Supportive feel with enough give to relax |
| Back Support | 4.1 | Works well for upright posture and laptop time |
| Seat Depth Fit | 4.0 | Good for average builds; petite sitters may prefer foot support |
| Durability | 4.4 | Stable and consistent across repeated sessions |
| Cleaning | 4.6 | Washable cover is a real advantage |
| Layout Practicality | 4.3 | The easiest EKHOLMA piece to fit into everyday rooms |
| Ease of Movement / Repositioning | 4.2 | Easy to reposition without feeling stuck |
| Value | 4.4 | The strongest value pick if you want one main sofa |
EKHOLMA Loveseat
Our Testing Experience

In our testing, the loveseat felt like a condensed version of the same sofa rather than a stripped-down one. It was easy to sit upright for phone calls, reading, or shorter TV sessions, and I could lean into the corner without sliding out of position. Mia liked it as a reading perch because the seat kept her from slumping. Marcus fit fine for sitting, but once he tried to nap, he ran out of room fast.
What we liked
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Keeps the same supportive feel as the larger EKHOLMA pieces
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Compact size makes rooms feel less crowded
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Washable cover keeps maintenance simple
Who it is best for
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Small living rooms, offices, or reading corners
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Two people sitting close, not sprawling
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Pairing with chairs for a flexible layout
Where it falls short
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Too short for taller loungers to nap comfortably
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Less room to stretch and shift around
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The same slightly warm feel can show up on very long sits

Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Supportive feel; easy cleaning; compact scale | Not built for naps; less stretch-out room; warmth shows up on long sits |

Details
-
Price (tested cover): $649
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Dimensions: 65 3/4" W × 33 1/2" D × 37" H (incl. back cushions)
-
Seat height: 19 1/4"
-
Seat depth: 21 5/8"
-
Backrest height: 27 1/2"
-
Under-sofa clearance: 5 7/8"
-
Firmness: Medium firm
-
Seat support: pocket spring unit (steel) + polyurethane foam seat cushion
-
Frame: solid wood, particleboard, plywood, fiberboard; legs solid wood with stain and clear acrylic lacquer
-
Back cushion/back fabric: 100% polyester (100% recycled)
-
Cover: 100% polyester (100% recycled); removable; machine wash warm, normal cycle
-
Warranty: 10-year limited warranty
-
Return window shown: 365 days
-
Packaging: product comes as 3 packages
-
Durability notes: cover abrasion tested to 50,000 cycles; testing based on use up to 242 lbs

Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 4.1 | Excellent small-space option; lounging range is the limit |
| Assembly | 4.0 | Smaller footprint makes setup easier to stage |
| Cooling / Breathability | 3.7 | Similar warmth profile to the sofa |
| Seat Comfort | 4.1 | Supportive and comfortable for upright use |
| Back Support | 4.0 | Good posture support; even better with a small lumbar pillow |
| Seat Depth Fit | 3.9 | Works for average builds; petite users may feel perched |
| Durability | 4.3 | Feels stable and consistent in repeat use |
| Cleaning | 4.6 | Removable washable cover is a major plus |
| Layout Practicality | 4.4 | Easy to place in offices, corners, and smaller rooms |
| Ease of Movement / Repositioning | 4.2 | Easy to adjust position, but not a sprawl piece |
| Value | 4.3 | Strong value if compact seating is what you need |
Compare Performance Scores of These Sofas
| Sofa | Overall Score | Seat Comfort | Back Support | Seat Depth Fit | Cooling / Breathability | Durability | Ease of Movement / Repositioning |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EKHOLMA Corner sofa, 4-seat with open end | 4.1 | 4.3 | 4.1 | 4.0 | 3.7 | 4.4 | 4.1 |
| EKHOLMA Sofa | 4.2 | 4.2 | 4.1 | 4.0 | 3.7 | 4.4 | 4.2 |
| EKHOLMA Loveseat | 4.1 | 4.1 | 4.0 | 3.9 | 3.7 | 4.3 | 4.2 |
On scores alone, the standard sofa is the most balanced option. It gives up little in comfort or durability, but it fits rooms more easily than the corner version. The corner sofa earns its place if lounging is the priority, while the loveseat keeps most of the same support in a footprint that works much better in smaller spaces.
How to Choose the IKEA Ekholma Sofa?
Start with room shape, then think about how you actually sit. If most of your time is upright TV watching or laptop work, the standard sofa is the safest pick. If you regularly stretch out, recover after workouts, or host, the corner sofa’s open end feels like a real upgrade—assuming your room can absorb the depth. If you’re furnishing a smaller living room or office, the loveseat preserves the same general support but clearly favors sitting over sprawling.
Limitations
Across the line, the seat height may feel a little tall for shorter users, and the comfort profile leans supportive rather than sink-in soft. The corner sofa can overpower a small room, and the loveseat is not a realistic nap option for taller people. If you want a plush, cocooned seat, EKHOLMA will likely feel too structured.
IKEA Ekholma Sofa Vs. Alternatives
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Why choose these models
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Pocket-spring support that stays steady for upright sitting
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Removable, machine-washable covers that make maintenance easier
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Clear size ladder from loveseat to sofa to open-end corner layout
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Alternatives to consider
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Burrow Range Sectional if modular reconfiguration matters most
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West Elm Harmony Extra Deep if you want a softer, sprawl-first seat
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Article Sven if you care more about a mid-century look and bench-seat styling
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Pro Tips for IKEA Ekholma Sofa
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Use seat height as a fit check: if your feet don’t feel planted, add a low footrest.
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For long laptop sessions, add a small lumbar cushion so your lower back stays better aligned.
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If you run warm, keep a light throw between you and the upholstery during marathon sits.
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Wash covers on a schedule instead of waiting for a spill emergency.
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Vacuum seams and piping regularly; the tailored fit shows dust sooner than looser covers.
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Use the 5 7/8" clearance for a slim robot vacuum or a quick pass underneath.
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On the corner sofa, place a small side table at the open end so it doesn’t become a clutter spot.
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If you host often, keep two firmer back pillows nearby for shorter guests.
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Rotate favorite seating spots weekly, especially on the corner version, so wear stays more even.
FAQs
Is the EKHOLMA corner sofa good for daily lounging?
Yes. It’s the most lounge-friendly EKHOLMA option because the open end makes it easier to stretch out and change positions without losing support.
Will the seat feel too firm?
If you prefer sink-in softness, probably. EKHOLMA is labeled medium firm and reads more supportive than plush, especially when you sit upright for long stretches.
How practical is it for spills and pet mess?
Very practical. The removable cover is the big advantage here because machine-wash care makes day-to-day messes much less stressful.
Which EKHOLMA size fits a small room best?
The loveseat is the easiest size to place in a small room because it keeps the same seat depth and general support without crowding walkways.