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Try it as you would use it
Sit in the position you use for reading, talking or watching television. Check comfortable foot support, back support and the position of armrests. Stay seated for a while and stand up several times. Deep seats and soft cushions do not suit everyone.
Choose the arrangement before the finish
A large corner sofa provides several seats but limits future room layouts. A smaller sofa and separate chair can be easier to rearrange. For modular furniture, check the connectors, spare covers and delivery access for each section.
Look closely at fabric and moving parts
Take a fabric sample home when possible. Check cleaning instructions, removable covers and replacement parts. A claim such as “easy care” should have practical instructions behind it.
- Powered recliner: try the controls and check the cable route and rear clearance.
- Sofa bed: test it open as well as closed and measure the sleeping area.
- Pets or children: choose a surface and cleaning routine suited to the household.
- Lift chair: try it personally; a product description cannot establish individual suitability.
Compare like for like
Compare the same size and specification rather than the starting price. Room-of-choice delivery, assembly, packaging removal and taking away an old sofa may each cost extra. Confirm those services before payment.
Support and applications
Where to ask for help with home adaptations
Support for disability-related adaptations is different from buying ordinary furniture. England and Wales use the council route for Disabled Facilities Grants. Northern Ireland has its Housing Executive route; Scotland has separate equipment and adaptation arrangements.
Where to apply or ask
Use the relevant national link below. Ask for an assessment of the changes needed, including any kitchen access or working-height problem.
- England and Wales: find the council application route
- Scotland: equipment and adaptations
- Northern Ireland: Disabled Facilities Grants
What to prepare
- Your address and housing status, including landlord details where relevant.
- A description of the daily activities that are difficult and any existing assessment.
- Plans and itemised quotes as requested by the assessor or grants team.
- Income, savings and other information if required for the relevant means test.
When to act
Contact the responsible body before starting work. Starting before approval can prevent grant support.
The responsible body determines the documents required in your case. Send personal evidence through its official channel, not through WOHNALIO.
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Compare armchairs with your checklist
Compare seat height, seat depth, armrests and floor space. Check delivery and returns. Sitting in a chair yourself is the best way to assess comfort.
Use your measurements and requirements to narrow the search before buying.
Three checks before you continue
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Buying furniture in United Kingdom
For second-hand furniture, check the seller, condition, recalls and relevant safety information, especially for upholstered items. Ask a commercial seller about applicable fire-safety requirements. Do not treat proposals for future furniture regulations as rules already in force. Confirm delivery and return terms before paying.
Office for Product Safety and Standards: buying second-hand goods
What would you like to work on next?
Plan your room before you buy the furniture
Measure the room, try the walking routes and check delivery access. Avoid furniture that fits on paper but gets in the way at home.
Explore the guideBedroom furniture: easy access and useful storage
Plan the bed, wardrobe and lighting together. Make a calmer bedroom with useful storage and clear everyday routes.
Explore the guideBefore you buy furniture: a practical checklist
Check the full cost, delivery, assembly, materials and returns. Know what is included before you place the furniture order.
Explore the guideDoes the room need more than new furniture?
If access, doors or the bathroom need changing, plan those works before ordering furniture. Check the local guidance for permissions, support and suitable professional help.
Plan home adaptations