My team and I spent the last two months living with five of the most popular sofas on the market. We wanted to see how these pieces handle real life beyond the glossy showroom photos. I coordinated the logistics while my diverse team of six testers rotated through each model daily. We focused on everything from nap quality and fabric texture to frame stability.
Our process involved much more than just sitting for five minutes. We worked from these couches with laptops and watched full movie marathons to test long-term comfort. I paid close attention to lumbar support, while others focused on legroom or cushion resilience. We wanted to find out which "sofas etc" actually deserve a spot in your living room.
Dr. Adrian Walker joined us as an advisor to explain the ergonomics behind our aches and pains. He did not sit on the furniture but analyzed our feedback on posture and support. We gathered all this data to help you navigate the crowded world of online furniture buying. This review breaks down exactly what we found.
Product Overview
| Sofa Model | Pros | Cons | Ideal For | Price | Overall Score |
| Lovesac Sactional | Truly modular, washable covers, very durable | Expensive upfront, firm initial sit | Families, pet owners, frequent movers | $$$$ | 4.7 |
| West Elm Harmony | Ultra-plush comfort, stylish aesthetic | Cushions flatten, low seat height | Loungers, nap lovers, aesthetic focus | $$$ | 4.4 |
| Burrow Nomad | Easy assembly, built-in USB, modular | Can feel stiff, shallower seat | Apartment dwellers, frequent movers | $$ | 4.1 |
| Pottery Barn PB Comfort | Classic look, supportive roll arm | Long delivery times, difficult to clean | Traditional homes, upright sitters | $$$ | 4.5 |
| Joybird Lewis | Mid-century style, firm support | Fabric can bunch, firm seat | Style-conscious buyers, firm seat lovers | $$ | 4.2 |
Sofas Etc Comparison Chart
| Feature | Lovesac Sactional | West Elm Harmony | Burrow Nomad | PB Comfort (Roll Arm) | Joybird Lewis |
| Configuration | Fully Modular | Sectional / Sofa | Modular | Sofa / Sectional | Sofa / Sectional |
| Seat Depth | 29" (Deep) / 23" (Standard) | 24" - 28" (varies by depth) | 22" | 24" | 24" |
| Seat Height | 18" | 16.5" | 17" | 18.5" | 18" |
| Cushion Fill | Standard or Lovesoft (tested Standard) | Down blend / Poly | Three-layer foam | Memory Foam or Down | High-density foam |
| Fabric Options | 200+ (mostly washable) | Wide variety | Performance fabric / Velvet | Performance / Natural | Wide variety |
| Back Support | Upright / Rectangular | Relaxed / Pillows | Upright / Firm | Angled / Plush | Upright / Tufted |
| Assembly | Complex (Many boxes) | White Glove Delivery | Easy (Latches) | White Glove Delivery | White Glove Delivery |
What We Tested and How We Tested It
We developed a rigorous testing protocol to evaluate these sofas etc fairly. My team and I rotated through each sofa for minimum four-hour blocks. We tested upright sitting postures for working and conversing. We also tested lounging positions for watching TV and full horizontal positions for napping.
I specifically monitored how the cushions supported my lower back during these long sessions. We had Marcus test the structural integrity by dropping his weight onto the seats. Mia evaluated how the corner seats felt for curling up with a book. Jenna and Ethan tested the sofas together to measure space and motion transfer.
We assessed the fabric by rubbing typical clothing materials against it to check for friction and heat retention. We unzipped covers to check construction quality and ease of cleaning. Dr. Walker analyzed our posture reports to flag potential ergonomic issues. We combined these subjective experiences with objective measurements to reach our final scores.
Testing Team Takeaways
I found that my lower back sensitivity dictated which sofas I could tolerate for long periods. The softer couches initially felt amazing but left me aching after two hours. I preferred models that kept my hips from sinking lower than my knees. I also realized that seat depth makes a massive difference in how usable a sofa is for work versus relaxation.
Marcus Reed focused heavily on heat retention and frame solidity during his sessions. I need to feel like the frame isn't going to creak when I lean hard. He pointed out that some softer fabrics trapped too much body heat during his gaming marathons. He consistently favored firmer seats that allowed him to push himself up easily without struggling against the cushions.
Carlos Alvarez spent most of his time trying to work from these sofas with his laptop. If the back cushion is too angled, my neck takes a beating trying to look at the screen. He noticed that fluffy back pillows often lacked the structure to support his thoracic spine. He preferred sofas with a distinct separation between the lumbar and shoulder support zones.
Mia Chen struggled with the scale of the larger deep-seating models we tested. My feet were dangling like a child's on the deeper seats. She loved the sofas that offered plenty of plushness in the corners for curling up. However, she was quick to criticize fabrics that felt rough against her skin when she wore shorts.
Jenna Brooks focused entirely on how the seating worked for two people sharing the space. I get annoyed if I slide into the middle hole between cushions. She valued sofas where she didn't feel Ethan moving every time he adjusted his position. She also noted that wide armrests were crucial for comfortable shared lounging.
Jamal Davis tested the limits of legroom and seat height with his tall frame. I hate it when a low sofa makes me do a squat just to sit down. He found that shallow seats cut into his thighs and cut off circulation. He gave higher marks to sofas that offered deep configurations or extended chaises.
Ethan Cole acted as the variable element in our couple testing scenarios. I need to be able to shift from lying down to sitting up without fighting the foam. He noted that memory foam layers often felt "stuck" when he tried to move quickly. He preferred bouncy, resilient cushions that adapted instantly to his frequent position changes.
Sofas Etc: Our Testing Experience
Lovesac Sactional
Our Testing Experience:
I was initially overwhelmed by the boxes, but the versatility of this system won me over. I set it up in a deep configuration, which felt like a luxury for movie nights. I can actually stretch my legs out without needing an ottoman. The standard fill cushions felt firm at first, but they supported my lower back excellently during a three-hour work session. I didn't feel that sinking sensation that usually hurts my lumbar area.
Marcus tested the durability by flopping onto the seat with his full weight. This thing is built like a tank; nothing moved. He appreciated that the fabric felt cool and breathable even after he sat there for two hours. However, he noted that the back cushions are quite upright. It sits you up straight, which is good for gaming but maybe less cozy for a nap. Dr. Walker noted that this upright back angle promotes neutral spine alignment, which is often better for preventing chronic pain.
Jenna and Ethan used the Sactional for a date night movie marathon. We could rearrange the seats to make a giant bed, which was a game changer. Ethan liked that he couldn't feel Jenna moving on the other side of the sectional. However, Mia found the deep configuration too much for her frame. I have to use the standard setup, or I feel like I'm swimming in fabric. She did love the soft corded velvet cover we tested.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Incredible modularity allows endless layouts | Assembly is labor-intensive and tiring |
| Covers are fully removable and machine washable | High upfront cost compared to competitors |
| Standard fill provides excellent back support | "Standard" seats can feel too hard for some |
| 3-year warranty on covers, lifetime on hard parts | Re-clamping pieces together takes effort |
Details
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Price: High-end (varies by piece count)
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Configuration: Fully modular (Seats + Sides)
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Seat Depth: Adjustable (23" Standard or 29" Deep)
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Seat Height: 18 inches
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Cushion Firmness: Firm (Standard Fill) to Soft (Lovesoft)
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Frame Material: Hardwood and plywood
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Fabric Type: 200+ options (tested Corded Velvet)
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Warranty: Lifetime on hard hardware, 3 years on soft parts
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Return Period: 60 days
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Overall Score | 4.7 | The most versatile and durable option we tested. |
| Seat Comfort | 4.5 | Firm but supportive; breaks in well over time. |
| Back Support | 4.8 | Keeps the spine aligned without sagging. |
| Durability | 5.0 | Feels indestructible; washable covers are huge. |
| Ease of Assembly | 3.5 | Takes hours and physical effort to unbox. |
West Elm Harmony
Our Testing Experience:
I immediately understood why this sofa is so popular on social media when I sat down. It is incredibly soft and practically invites you to nap. I sank right in, and the lumbar pillows helped fill the gap behind my back. However, after an hour of working on my laptop, I struggled to get up. The seat is very low, and the softness offers little resistance.
Carlos had a difficult time working from this sofa. My shoulders rolled forward because the back cushions are so unstructured. He felt that it was strictly for relaxation, not for multitasking. On the other hand, Mia absolutely loved it. This is the coziest corner I have ever curled up in. The deep seats allowed her to sit cross-legged comfortably.
Jamal found the low seat height frustrating for his long legs. I feel like I'm falling into a bean bag rather than sitting on a couch. He noted that getting up required engaging his core significantly. Ethan liked the "cloud-like" feel for the first twenty minutes of a show. But after a while, I found myself constantly fluffing the pillows to get support. Dr. Walker observed that soft, deep seating often leads to posterior pelvic tilt, which can strain the lumbar discs over time.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Extremely plush and comfortable for lounging | Cushions require constant fluffing |
| beautiful, modern aesthetic | Low seat height is hard for tall users |
| Includes lumbar pillows for extra support | Fabric can trap heat due to down fill |
| Wide arms are great for resting devices | Not suitable for upright working postures |
Details
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Price: Mid-to-High range
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Configuration: Sofa and Sectional options
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Seat Depth: Extra Deep (47" overall depth options available)
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Seat Height: 16.5 inches (Low)
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Cushion Firmness: Soft / Plush
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Frame Material: Kiln-dried wood
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Fabric Type: Performance Velvet / Linen blends
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Delivery: White Glove Service
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Return Period: 30 days (restocking fees apply)
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Overall Score | 4.4 | Unbeatable for lounging, but lacks structural support. |
| Seat Comfort | 4.8 | Like sitting on a cloud; instant relaxation. |
| Back Support | 3.8 | Relies heavily on loose pillows; lacks structure. |
| Durability | 4.2 | Fabric holds up, but cushions flatten easily. |
| Ease of Movement | 3.5 | Hard to get out of deep, soft seats. |
Burrow Nomad
Our Testing Experience:
I appreciated how easy this was to assemble compared to the Lovesac. The latches just clicked together. Sitting on it, I noticed it runs on the firmer side. I felt very upright, almost like I was in a waiting room chair. This was actually great for my back during work hours. The built-in USB charger was a feature I used constantly.
Marcus felt the seat depth was lacking for his size. I feel like I'm perched on the edge rather than sitting in it. He did appreciate the sturdy frame, which didn't flex when he leaned heavily on the armrest. The fabric weave felt tight and durable, which he liked. I don't think my cat could easily claw this.
Jenna and Ethan found it a bit cramped for two people to lounge. We were fighting for armrest space because the sofa is compact. Ethan mentioned the cushions felt a bit stiff. There isn't much bounce; it's just foam. Mia, however, fit perfectly. My feet touch the floor, and the back cushion hits my shoulders at the right spot. Dr. Walker noted the shallower depth encourages feet-on-floor posture, reducing pressure on the underside of the thighs.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Modular design grows with your needs | Seat cushions can feel stiff and unyielding |
| Built-in USB charger is convenient | Shallow seat depth limits lounging |
| Stain-resistant fabric works well | Back cushions can look messy/compressed |
| Easy, tool-free assembly | Armrests are thin and hard |
Details
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Price: Entry-to-Mid range
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Configuration: Modular Sofa / Sectional
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Seat Depth: 22 inches
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Seat Height: 17 inches
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Cushion Firmness: Firm
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Frame Material: Baltic Birch
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Fabric Type: Olefin (Performance fabric)
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Assembly: DIY (easy latches)
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Warranty: 1 year
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Return Period: 30 days
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Overall Score | 4.1 | Practical and smart, but lacks cozy comfort. |
| Seat Comfort | 3.8 | Firm and slightly unyielding for long sessions. |
| Back Support | 4.2 | Keeps you upright; good for conversation. |
| Durability | 4.5 | Tight fabric and strong frame feel lasting. |
| Ease of Assembly | 5.0 | Easiest setup of the bunch; genius latches. |
Pottery Barn PB Comfort (Roll Arm)
Our Testing Experience:
I felt a sense of nostalgia sitting on this one; it feels like a "classic" couch. The roll arms were the perfect height for resting my head during a nap. I slept solidly for twenty minutes without a neck crick. The memory foam cushions we tested had a unique feel. They contoured to my body slowly but didn't let me hit the frame.
Jamal appreciated the seat height here. Finally, a couch I can stand up from without groaning. The support was consistent across the entire length of the sofa. However, he noted the fabric trapped a bit of heat. After an hour, my back felt warm against the cushion.
Carlos liked the transition from upright to reclined. The back cushions are substantial enough to hold me up. He used this sofa for reading and felt well-supported. Jenna found the motion transfer to be minimal. The memory foam absorbs Ethan's fidgeting really well. Dr. Walker commented that memory foam can reduce pressure points on the hips, but heat retention is a common complaint.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Classic, timeless design fits many homes | Delivery times can be very long (weeks/months) |
| Memory foam offers great pressure relief | Slipcovers can be difficult to remove/clean |
| High seat height is easier for standing | Memory foam can sleep hot |
| Roll arms are comfortable headrests | Price adds up with premium fabrics |
Details
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Price: Mid-to-High range
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Configuration: Sofa / Sectional / Sleeper
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Seat Depth: 24 inches
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Seat Height: 18.5 inches
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Cushion Firmness: Medium-Firm (Memory Foam option)
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Frame Material: Hardwood
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Fabric Type: Performance Canvas / Sunbrella / Velvet
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Delivery: White Glove Service
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Return Period: 30 days (Made to order is non-returnable)
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Overall Score | 4.5 | The reliable classic that balances comfort and support. |
| Seat Comfort | 4.6 | Memory foam contours well without sinking. |
| Back Support | 4.5 | Substantial cushions keep posture decent. |
| Durability | 4.4 | High-quality joinery and tough fabrics. |
| Cooling | 3.9 | Memory foam retains more heat than standard foam. |
Joybird Lewis
Our Testing Experience:
I was drawn to the mid-century vibe, but I was worried about comfort. Sitting down, I found it surprisingly firm. It definitely prioritizes form, but the sit isn't bad. I liked the button tufting visually, but I could feel the texture against my back. It kept me very upright, which I liked for typing on my laptop.
Mia found the single bench cushion interesting. I don't fall into a crack, which is nice. However, she felt the fabric bunched up a little after she moved around. The seat was a bit deep for her without a throw pillow behind her back. My legs stick out straight if I sit all the way back.
Marcus tested the frame stability. It feels a little lighter than the Pottery Barn one, but still solid. He wasn't a fan of the tufting. The buttons feel like hard lumps when I try to lay down flat. Ethan liked the firmness for getting up and down. I don't feel stuck, which is a huge plus for me. Dr. Walker noted that bench seats can sometimes hammock in the middle over time, altering pelvic alignment.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Stylish mid-century modern aesthetic | Tufting buttons can be uncomfortable |
| Bench seat eliminates "the crack" | Fabric tends to loosen/puddle on the seat |
| Firm support is good for sitting | Bench cushion prone to "hammocking" |
| Customizable with pet-friendly fabrics | Return shipping fees are expensive |
Details
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Price: Mid-range
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Configuration: Sofa / Sectional
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Seat Depth: 24 inches
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Seat Height: 18 inches
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Cushion Firmness: Medium-Firm
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Frame Material: Kiln-dried hardwood
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Fabric Type: Various (Safeguard fabrics available)
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Warranty: Limited Lifetime on frame
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Return Period: 90 days
Review Score
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Overall Score | 4.2 | Great for style, good for sitting, okay for napping. |
| Seat Comfort | 4.0 | Firm and responsive, but buttons annoy some. |
| Back Support | 4.3 | Rigid back frame offers good stability. |
| Durability | 4.0 | Fabric looseness is a concern long-term. |
| Ease of Cleaning | 4.1 | Pet-friendly fabrics wipe down easily. |
Compare Performance Scores of These Sofas
| Sofa Model | Overall Score | Seat Comfort | Back Support | Seat Depth Fit | Cooling | Durability | Ease of Movement |
| Lovesac Sactional | 4.7 | 4.5 | 4.8 | 5.0 (Adj) | 4.6 | 5.0 | 4.4 |
| West Elm Harmony | 4.4 | 4.8 | 3.8 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 4.2 | 3.5 |
| Burrow Nomad | 4.1 | 3.8 | 4.2 | 3.8 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.8 |
| PB Comfort | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 3.9 | 4.4 | 4.2 |
| Joybird Lewis | 4.2 | 4.0 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.5 |
The Lovesac Sactional leads the pack because it adapts to almost any user. It balances support and comfort without failing in durability. The West Elm Harmony scores highest in pure seat comfort but drops significantly in back support and ease of movement due to its sinking nature. The Burrow Nomad is a utility player; it scores well on durability and cooling but lacks the plush comfort of the others. The PB Comfort is the most balanced traditional option, though it sleeps warmer. The Joybird is a middle-ground performer that sacrifices some comfort for style.
Best Picks
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Best Overall Sofas Etc Review Winner: Lovesac Sactional. It wins because it adapts to everyone. I loved the support, Mia could adjust the depth, and Marcus couldn't break it. It solves the most problems for the most people.
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Best Sofas Etc for Lounging: West Elm Harmony. This is the undisputed champion of naps. If your primary goal is to melt into a pile of pillows after work, this is the one we all wanted to be on.
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Best Traditional Sofas Etc Pick: Pottery Barn PB Comfort. For those who want a reliable, upright sit that still feels cozy. It supported Carlosβs back and let Jamal stand up easily.
How to Choose the Sofas Etc?
Choosing from these sofas etc requires honesty about how you actually sit. If you are tall like Jamal (over 6'0"), look for seat depths over 24 inches and seat heights above 17 inches, like the Pottery Barn or Lovesac in deep configuration. If you are petite like Mia, the Burrow or standard Lovesac setup will prevent that awkward leg dangle.
Consider your household chaos level. If you have pets or kids, the washable covers on the Lovesac are non-negotiable. If you live alone in a stylish apartment, the Joybird offers the look you want without the bulk. For couples who nap together, the West Elm Harmony provides the space, but the PB Comfort offers the support. Based on our testing, prioritize "sit" over "style" if you plan to spend more than two hours a day on it.
Limitations
These sofas etc models generally target the mass market, which means they often miss the extremes. None of these are suitable for people who need medical-grade orthopedic support; they are all recreational furniture. The modular options like Burrow and Lovesac sacrifice some aesthetic elegance for function.
Conversely, the stylish options like Joybird and West Elm often sacrifice long-term cushion resilience for that initial showroom look. Budget buyers will find all these options expensive compared to big-box discounters. If you need a sofa for under $500, none of these brands fit that tier.
Is the Sofas Etc worth it?
The sofas etc category we reviewed is absolutely worth the investment for daily users. We found that the price jump from budget furniture to these mid-range brands delivers tangible gains in foam density and frame strength. You get cushions that bounce back and fabrics that don't pill immediately.
Families get the most value from Lovesac due to longevity. Loungers get the most value from West Elm. Value drops off if you buy these for a formal room that is rarely used. In that case, the durability and washability features are wasted money.
FAQs
1. Which of these sofas etc is best for a bad back?
Based on our testing, the Lovesac Sactional (Standard fill) or the Burrow Nomad offer the firmest support. They keep your hips aligned and prevent slouching better than the softer West Elm options.
2. Can I wash the covers on all these sofas?
No, only the Lovesac Sactional has fully machine-washable covers for every piece. Pottery Barn offers slipcovered versions that are washable, but the upholstered versions are spot-clean only.
3. Do these sofas fit through narrow doorways?
The Lovesac and Burrow are the best for this. They ship in boxes and are assembled inside the room. The Pottery Barn and West Elm models are delivered whole, which can be tight in stairwells.
4. Is the West Elm Harmony too low for tall people?
Yes, Jamal found it difficult to use. The 16.5-inch seat height requires deep knee bending to sit and stand. It is better suited for average or shorter users who like to lounge.
5. How long does it take to get these sofas?
Burrow and Lovesac usually ship within weeks. Pottery Barn and West Elm can take months if you choose a custom fabric. Always check the current stock status before ordering.
6. Is the Joybird Lewis good for napping?
It is okay, but the button tufting can dig into your side. Marcus preferred the smooth cushions of the PB Comfort or Lovesac for sleeping.
7. Do these sofas come with a warranty?
Yes, but they vary. Lovesac has a lifetime warranty on hard parts. Joybird offers a limited lifetime warranty. West Elm and Pottery Barn generally cover defects for one year, which is standard but not generous.
