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13 Best Sectional Sofas, Reviewed by Textiles Experts

We surveyed over 5,800 couch owners to find the most comfortable sectionals to fit every space.

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Your sofa is the center of your living space. And if you've got a sectional sofa, it can be roomy enough to bring guests together, serve as a respite after long days at work and even allow the whole family to curl up on movie night. Sectional sofas take up quite a bit of space and can be costly because of their larger size, so it's important to ensure you're making a worthwhile investment: A durable couch that's long-lasting, fits in with your decor and, of course, feels nice and cozy.

In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we evaluate sofas to find the best couches for every preference, from large sectionals to space-saving styles to sleeper sofas and beyond. We've extensively researched sectional sofa brands, materials and special features, and we've surveyed thousands of sectional owners in our proprietary tester panel to get in-depth feedback on the couches they own at home, everything from the delivery experience to how comfortable they feel to how well they hold up over time.

As a result of our most recent survey, we reviewed more than 156,000 answers to sofa-related questions, provided by more than 5,800 panelists. Our 13 picks include sofas GH staffers own and love, models from brands that have performed well in our Textiles Lab tests and recommendations from our panel.

1
Best Overall

Pottery Barn Pearce Upholstered Three-Piece Sectional

Pearce Upholstered Three-Piece Sectional
Credit: Pottery Barn

Pros

  • Real owners said it feels comfortable and looks great
  • Plenty of customization options
  • Soft yet supportive feel

Cons

  • Some users reported that their chosen fabric wasn't as soft as they'd hoped

Dimensions: 38"H x 118"W x 88"D | Seat depth: 20 in. | Fabric options: 131, plus leather | Delivery: Full-service setup (cost varies by order total and location); ships in 1–5+ weeks, depending on material

Pottery Barn's sofas, beds and recliners have repeatedly stood out amongst our tester panel who have said the brand's furniture is comfortable and stays in tip-top condition year after year. As for the Pearce collection in particular, it has a medium feel, described by the brand as "supportive yet sink-in soft," making it the Goldilocks of sectionals — not too plush or too firm. Plus, it's as universally stylish as it is comfortable and coordinates with many different home decor looks.

This sectional also comes in a variety of shapes and sizes and has tons of customization options, so you're able to choose the best seat cushion (bench or multi-cushion), chaise configuration (left or right), arm type (roll or square), fabric type and color (over 130 variations) and more. The sturdy sofa has a hardwood frame with steel springs, and the bottom cushions are wrapped with a comfy down blend, while the back cushions have a polyester fill. The brand offers free design appointments, as well, allowing you to meet with a specialist who can help you determine the best combination of features for your space.

✔️ What users say: Our survey respondents gave it high scores for comfort and support, and also highlighted the ease of the delivery and how nice it looked in their homes. One reviewer that's had it for more than three years told us, "It's stylish and comfortable. It fits perfectly in our living room and allows room to stretch out." Though it's expensive, one user that has owned it for nine years said, "It was definitely worth the price."

One thing to keep in mind: Some users said they loved their fabric, while others found theirs to be somewhat itchy. It's worth visiting a showroom or requesting a free fabric swatch from Pottery Barn if you're unsure how it will feel.

2
Best Value

Ashley Cambri Two-Piece Sectional with Chaise

Cambri Two-Piece Sectional with Chaise

Pros

  • Under $2,000
  • Unique double-chaise shape
  • Includes throw pillows

Cons

  • Only one fabric and color available

Dimensions: 39"H x 123"W x 87"D | Seat depth: 46 in. | Fabric options: 1 (snow chenille) | Delivery: Doorstep delivery for DIY assembly or full-service setup (cost for each option varies by location); typically ships in 2–3 weeks

If you're looking for the best sectional sofa under $2,000 and don't want to wait for a custom piece, Ashley is one of the most popular and top-rated brands from our panel of reviewers and offers ready-to-ship sofas. In fact, more than 800 users provided feedback on Ashley's sofas, giving them high ratings for ease of ordering, setup, comfort and style. Though there's a wide range of sectionals from Ashley to choose from, the Cambri model is one of the best deals you can find on the site.

It has a unique double-chaise configuration, so multiple people can comfortably sprawl out to take a nap. It's only available in this off-white fabric, but it comes with decorative throw pillows for some added dimension. The chenille material is soft, and the cushions are filled with foam and polyester fibers for a plush feel.

✔️ What users say: One user that has had this style for six years said she loved the "look, feel, comfort level and style" of the sofa, though she noted it hasn't held up quite as well in the long run (which can sometimes be expected with more affordable sectionals). Still, most respondents that own sofas from Ashley told us they held up well over time and as one pointed out, "It’s better quality than similarly priced sofas we have purchased from furniture stores."

Several online reviewers, including a few users who have young children and pets, said the sofa, despite its off-white color, is surprisingly easy to clean. Another important note: The price may vary slightly depending on your zipcode, so be sure to enter your zip code for accuracy.

RELATED: The Best Recliner Chairs

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3
Best for Families

Crate & Barrel Lounge Three-Piece U-Shaped Sectional Sofa

Lounge Three-Piece U-Shaped Sectional Sofa
Credit: Crate & Barrel

Pros

  • Soft, deep seats with plenty of space
  • Build-your-own size and shape
  • Durable construction

Cons

  • Made-to-order and can take several months to receive

Dimensions: 37”H x 146“W x 85"D | Seat depth: 41 or 46-in. | Fabric options: 227 | Delivery: Full-service setup (cost varies by location and order value); shipping varies but can be 3+ months

Not only is this sectional spacious enough to fit the entire family without having to squeeze, but it's also a more relaxed style with Crate & Barrel's softest cushions, making it perfect for lounging. On top of that, it's designed with slim arms to maximize the seating space.

This one's made-to-order and allows you to choose your preferred depth and configuration to make up the U-shape. There are more than 200 fabric options that you can browse by color, fabric type or features (e.g., stain resistant). And if this setup isn't ideal for your home, there are many different sizes and sectional shapes within the Lounge collection.

The sofa has a kiln-dried hardwood frame for durability and uses a spring foundation to prevent sagging. The cushions are filled with a down blend and have a tightly-woven cover to prevent feathers from poking through with use.

✔️ What users say: Our survey panelists said it's perfect for hanging out during family time, especially when lying down for movie nights. One pointed out, "My kids and I can all lounge comfortably together and have enough space. I will buy another one in the future." Several panelists also said it has held up well with children and pets.

Others also swore by Crate & Barrel's Axis collection of sectionals and furniture because of their increased durability, especially for families with dogs. It's one of the brand's most popular styles, but we recommend going with the Lounge if you prefer deep, cozy seats.

4
Best Sleeper

Interior Define Sloan Chaise Sleeper Sectional

Sloan Chaise Sleeper Sectional
Now 25% Off
Credit: Interior Define

Pros

  • Includes a pull-out mattress
  • Loved by people who live in apartments
  • Tons of customizable options

Cons

  • Some panelists said their material choice didn't perform as well as expected

Dimensions: 35”H x 111"W x 36”D | Seat depth: 24 in. | Fabric options: 116 | Delivery: Full-service setup ($279 flat rate); typically ships in 8–12 weeks

Combining the benefit of a spacious sectional with a pull-out mattress, this sofa from Interior Define is ideal for hosting overnight guests. It also balances a sleek design with a soft feel, making it suitable for people that prefer a modern look but don't want their sofa to feel too rigid or rough.

The brand has an easy-to-use website that lets you customize the options, including fabric, leg color, chaise length and cushion fill. Fabrics are broken up into three tiers: Standard, Premium (which has stain resistance) and Novel (which includes more unique textures). Free fabric swatches are available to help guide your decision. For some extra storage, the brand also offers the same model with an ottoman that lifts to reveal a an area to stow blankets and bedding for your guests.

And though pull-out beds can get a bad rap for being flimsy, this one has an anti-tilt construction to help keep it on the floor at all times. Interior Define also offers the option to choose between a standard mattress or a memory foam mattress (added charge) for the bed.

✔️ What users say: Our survey respondents loved the aesthetic of their Interior Define Sloan models, with one owner saying, "This sofa is modern and fits in well with my decor." Another told us it came apart easily when moving apartments, and it's a great option for having guests over in small spaces — when you don't have a spare room. Some panelists complained the fabric on theirs didn't hold up, so it may be worth the splurge for one of the more durable upholstery tiers.

RELATED: The Best Sleeper Sofas

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5
Most Comfortable

West Elm Harmony Sectional

Harmony Sectional
Now 20% Off
Credit: West Elm

Pros

  • Super soft feel
  • Fully customizable to fit your space
  • Extra deep seat for relaxing

Cons

  • A few users had concerns about long-term durability

Dimensions: Varies based on configuration | Seat depth: 34 in. | Fabric options: 156 | Delivery: Full-service setup (cost varies based on location and order value); typically ships in 1–5 weeks

West Elm coined this model its "most comfortable sectional ever," and it actually lives up to the hype. In fact, Good Housekeeping home editors named it a best cloud couch dupe for its supremely soft feel. The brand says on a scale of 1 to 5 — 1 being the softest and 5 being the firmest — these couch cushions are a 1.

The bottom cushions are filled with synthetic fibers and foams, while the back cushions combine polyester, down and feathers for a plush look and feel, but you won't have to worry about shedding, thanks to the down-proof cover. Plus, it has an extra deep seat so there's plenty of room to cuddle up or sprawl out. Matching throw pillows are included.

It's also a fully customizable modular sofa. You pick the configuration from a list of pieces, like a two-seater, chaise, corner piece and more. Each component connects with metal clips on the sides. You also choose your upholstery, with dozens of colors and fabrics to choose from like velvet, boucle and linen.

✔️ What users say: One owner of a Harmony sofa told us, "It's extremely comfortable and fits the room perfectly," while another shared, "It was so comfortable that it felt like sitting on a cloud!" A few survey panelists noted that the durability wasn't quite as good as they had hoped, but most West Elm sofa owners on our panel said their furniture held up well over time.

6
Best for Small Spaces

Burrow Nomad Sofa Sectional

Nomad Sofa Sectional
Now 25% Off
Credit: Burrow

Pros

  • Delivered in multiple boxes to fit through tight spaces
  • Easy DIY assembly
  • Movable chaise

Cons

  • Not for those that prefer in-home setup
  • Less seating space

Dimensions: 33"H x 85"W x 61"D | Seat depth: 22 in. | Fabric options: 16, including leather | Delivery: Free shipping in boxes for DIY setup; typically ships in 1–3 weeks

This sectional comes shipped to your door in compact boxes for self-assembly and stands out for its smaller footprint. It's perfect for anyone that lives in an apartment building with tighter hallways or small door frames, helping you to avoid surprises on delivery day. You can also move the chaise to the left, right or middle of the sofa, which creates flexibility in tricky spaces, and it's easier to take it apart and reassemble on moving day.

Because it's modular, it's also more easily customizable than built-to-order sectionals. Choose from 13 fabrics and additional leather options, six finishes for the legs (wood and metal) and three shapes for the armrests. Another perk: It has a built-in USB charger with a power cord, so you can charge your phone and other devices while lounging.

✔️ What users say: Despite the DIY assembly, our Burrow reviewers unanimously said that setup was easy. They also appreciated being able to get a sectional that wasn't too big, though some did note that a smaller size meant less seating space, especially for larger body types. Users also highlighted the modern, minimalistic design, with one describing it as "structured and elegant."

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7
Best on Wayfair

AllModern Geo Two-Piece Upholstered Sectional

On Sale
Geo Two-Piece Upholstered Sectional
Now 42% Off
Credit: AllModern

Pros

  • Stylish appearance with trendy colors available
  • Great for those that prefer firm furniture
  • Doesn't take up too much space

Cons

  • A few online reviewers said it didn't hold up well

Dimensions: 37'' H X 84'' W X 63'' D | Seat depth: 23 in. | Fabric options: 21 (some limited stock) | Delivery: Free shipping in boxes for DIY setup or full-service setup ($99.99); ships in 1 week

With a traditional yet stylish silhouette — including tufted cushions and bolster pillows — this model isn't too pricey but has nearly 1,500 five-star reviews on Wayfair. The sectional has a single cushion across the loveseat portion rather than two separate seats, which is considered a trendy bench style. It comes in neutral and more vibrant colors like gold and light blue if you want your sofa to be the star of your living space.

With a firmer feel, this sectional is ideal for someone who prefers to sit on their sofa rather than sinking deep into it. But that doesn't mean it isn't comfortable — the foam fill is supportive yet cozy for lounging, according to online reviewers. Like some other featured sectionals, it's a smaller model that doesn't take up too much space in your home, though it won't seat as many people as a corner or U-shaped sectional.

✔️ What users say: Our panelists had great experiences ordering sofas from Wayfair and shared that the shopping process was easy. They loved the way the furniture looked in their homes. A few respondents said this sofa in particular wasn't as durable as they expected, and some online reviewers noted that it didn't hold up long-term, but the majority were highly impressed.

8
Best Modular

Lovesac Sactional

Sactional
Now 27% Off
Credit: Lovesac

Pros

  • Machine washable covers
  • Interchangeable layout
  • Great for families and kids

Cons

  • Takes effort to put together

Dimensions: Varies based on configuration | Seat depth: 29 in.| Fabric options: 30 | Delivery: Free shipping in boxes for DIY setup; typically ships in 1–4 weeks

While there are plenty of modular sofas on the market, Lovesac is the most flexible to rearrange at home with endless configurations available. The seats and the sides of the sectional are separate, so you choose how many pieces of each you want in your set.

You also pick your fill material and your cover from a wide range of fabrics. Each cover is removable and machine washable (perfect for kids and pets!). Plus, you can buy add-on pieces like new covers or individual seats if your needs change over time. The cushions can be filled with standard foam and synthetic fiber, or with Lovesoft, which is a loftier foam and synthetic fiber fill that has a more cloud-like feel.

✔️ What users say: Most Lovesac owners told us they bought their Sactionals for the ability to reposition them, with some even saying they use theirs as beds for guests. A few said their sofas were tricky to put together, but most respondents had no complaints at all.

One user that has owned hers for five years summarized her experience by saying, "It's easy to clean. I can rearrange it. I can move different parts to different rooms as needed. There are so many positives about this furniture."

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9
Best Boxed

Albany Park Kova Corner Sectional

Kova Corner Sectional
Now 35% Off
Credit: Albany Park

Pros

  • Soft cushions
  • Delivered in boxes for easy setup
  • Free shipping and any-reason returns

Cons

  • Back cushions are not attached

Dimensions: 122"W x 39"H x 122"D | Seat depth: 29 in. | Fabric options: 33| Delivery: Free shipping in boxes for DIY setup; ships within 1 week

This one's another modular sofa, but it looks more like a typical sectional. The best part — it doesn't require any tools for assembly. It has fast and free shipping, which is unique for large sectional sofas as most take months and cost hundreds of dollars for home delivery and setup. The brand also offers any-reason returns.

On top of that, it has a super soft feel — other boxed models aren't always plush. And it's high-quality, made with a kiln-dried hardwood frame and spring suspension system, as well as a feather and fiber blend cushion fill.

Another noteworthy aspect: It's customizable but not overly so. You just choose the fabrication and the type of cushion (box or pillow), which could be good for people that are overwhelmed by all of the choices. The Kova collection has a variety of sofa layouts to best suit your space, but each is pre-configured, like this one.

✔️ What users say: Albany Park is a relatively new brand, but our survey panelists are loving their sofas so far. Users said delivery was quick and setup was easy with no issues to report. One owner of a Kova sectional said, "The velvet is so warm and soft. The whole family loves it."

A GH analyst who owns a Kova sectional shared, "The cushions are nice and soft, but the arms and back keep their shape, which I like." The one downside noted was that because the back cushions are reversible, they don't stay in place as well as ones that are attached.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Albany Park Kova Sofa

10
Best with Storage

Joybird Holt Sectional with Storage

On Sale
Holt Sectional with Storage
Now 40% Off
Credit: Joybird

Pros

  • Modern aesthetic
  • Extra wide chaise lifts to reveal large storage space
  • Easy online shopping platform

Cons

  • Some users said they wish it were softer

Dimensions: 34.5”H x 121"W x 68”D | Seat depth: 28 in. | Fabric options: 70 | Delivery: Curbside delivery for $49 or full-service setup (cost varies by location); typically ships in 2–5 weeks

Storage can be tough to come by in small apartments or homes, packed to the brink with toys, blankets and who knows what else. This clever sectional has a secret storage compartment in the extra-wide chaise, perfect for stashing away your belongings. Plus, this specific sectional is a best seller with plush cushions for the ultimate lounging.

Joybird is an online-only brand that makes virtual sofa shopping more streamlined. Customize the material and configuration of the chase, or select a pre-determined in-stock option for faster shipping. It also offers a 90-day return period, which is longer than most furniture companies, though you're responsible for shipping the return on your own.

✔️ What users say: Our survey panelists loved their Joybird sofas and appreciated their modern look and convenient features, including the built-in storage. They also highlighted that the customer service from the small company is great, with one user describing it as "stupendous."

There were mixed reviews on how durable the sofas were, and some said it didn't feel as plush as they had hoped, but respondents unanimously said it was comfortable. To ensure the sofa material you end up with is the right fit for your place, opt for the brand's free fabric sample box.

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11
Best Reclining

La-Z-Boy Trouper Sectional

Trouper Sectional

Pros

  • Survey panelists loved the balance of support and comfort
  • More than 400 fabrications
  • Reclining chair or loveseat options

Cons

  • Some users said their upholstery materials weren't as durable as others

Dimensions: 121"W x 118 "D x 42"H | Seat depth: 40 in. | Fabric options: 454, including leather | Delivery: Full-service setup (cost varies); typically ships in 6–11 weeks

La-Z-Boy is a popular sofa brand among our survey panelists, and it's especially well-liked for its relaxing recliner chairs. This La-Z-Boy sectional has a built-in recliner seat on one end that can open with a manual latch or a power release. It's also a super spacious model with room for guests or the whole family, with a casual look and feel (even the arms are cushioned!).

You can customize the sectional by changing the shape or specific pieces within the configuration, like additional seats, reclining loveseats, extra storage consoles and more. And if you want to feel it in person, La-Z-Boy has locations throughout the US where you're able to try it out first. Plus, it comes in 454 different colors and fabrications for seemingly endless options to match your space.

✔️ What users say: Our survey respondents with recliner models from La-Z-Boy gave them high ratings across the board, but they specifically highlighted the comfort and appearance, and several even noted how great the brand's customer service was throughout the process. One user with a recliner told us, "I have a bad back and the support of this sofa is amazing! It is the most comfortable sofa I have ever sat on."

Some did find that their upholstery materials weren't as durable as others, but there are plenty of choices when selecting your sofa.

12
Best Corner Design

Article Timber Corner Sectional

Timber Corner Sectional
Credit: Article

Pros

  • Stylish mid-century modern appearance
  • Spacious enough for five adults
  • Easy online ordering

Cons

  • Fabric blend may pill over time

Dimensions: 32"H x 93"W x 35"D | Seat depth: 24 in. | Fabric options: 6, including leather | Delivery: Front door delivery for DIY setup (free for orders over $999), in-room delivery for DIY setup ($119) or full-service setup ($199); typically ships in 3+ weeks

With a simple wooden frame and angled back rests and arms, this sectional brings a mid-century flair. It features a corner shape to accommodate five, more people than a smaller L-shaped sectional, but it's not too bulky. Able to seat about five people, the sofa is "the ultimate chill zone, but for adults," according to Article.

Because of its sleeker design, the sofa isn't as plush as some of the others we've featured, but some online reviewers appreciated the firmer feel, rather than a sinking-in effect. It's also worth noting there are fewer upholstery options than other sectionals, including three colors of leather and three textured blends combining polyester, rayon and linen.

✔️ What users say: Dozens of our panelists gave Article perfect scores for its easy ordering process. This sofa earned high marks for appearance, with owners of the model sharing, "The legs are beautiful!" and "The construction seems solid." Some users noted that the fabric pills over time, which can be expected for a fiber blend.

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13
Most Luxurious

RH Cloud Sectional

Cloud Sectional

Pros

  • Widely recognized for its unparalleled comfort
  • High quality materials
  • Relatively quick delivery

Cons

  • Very expensive

Dimensions: 31.5"H x 158"W x 80"D (as pictured; size varies by configuration) | Seat depth: 25 in. | Fabric options: 203 | Delivery: Full-service setup (cost varies by location); can ship as quickly as 3–7 days but timing varies based on fabric and location

One of the most popular sofa collections on the market, the Cloud couch from Restoration Hardware is known as "the world's most comfortable sofa," but it'll cost you: Each component needed to build a modular sectional can cost several thousand dollars on its own, making a spacious sectional cost upwards of $10,000. Some smaller models start around $7,500.

It's highly customizable, from the frame styles (laid-back broad arms, tailored thin arms or classic sloping arms) to the seating configuration and the upholstery fabric. And while most popular furniture brands have weeks- or months-long lead times, this one can be delivered quickly if you choose from one of the 23 in-stock fabrics.

The high-quality sofa is made with a handcrafted kiln-dried hardwood frame and uses a proprietary pocket spring suspension, so each spring moves individually for the ultimate cloud-like feel. The seat cushions combine foam with down and feathers, while the back cushions combine down, feathers and polyfill.

✔️ What users say: Owners of RH sofas described them as comfortable and supportive. One owner of a Cloud sofa told us it was "absolutely" worth the price. She was especially impressed by the comfy, deep seats and said the whole process was "very easy with good customer service."

How we evaluate sectional sofas

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In the Good Housekeeping Institute, we use our fiber science analyst backgrounds to research and test sofas of all types — including sectionals. We recently evaluated sofas from more than 50 stores and brands and then surveyed our tester panel to get firsthand feedback on the couches they own.

When reviewing the data, we considered the type of sofa they have, how they made their purchase (i.e., what they considered and whether they bought online or in-store), the type of delivery and how long they've owned it.

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boxes for the albany park sofa and an analyst sitting on it once fully assembled
Emma Seymour

In our recent survey, we received responses from over 5,800 sofa owners, who each answered 27 questions about their experience. We reviewed more than 156,000 data points before choosing the best sofa brands to recommend. On top of that, we had our analysts try out newer brands with less user feedback to make sure the shopping and setup experiences were easy and the overall quality was excellent. Here's what we consider when choosing the best sectionals:

✔️ Ease of ordering and setup: Our reviewers share whether the ordering process, delivery and setup were quick and easy. They also share whether any issues arose during the process and how they were resolved.

✔️ Comfort and support: Users give ratings on these aspects, then provide more feedback by answering open-ended questions.

✔️ Upholstery: We ask respondents to specify the material, then share whether or not they like the feel of the fabric.

✔️ Craftsmanship: Reviewers weigh in on whether they feel the sectional is well-constructed and durable.

✔️ Longevity: Respondents share whether the sectional is easy to clean and whether it has held up well over time.

✔️ Style and size: We ask users if they like the style of the sofa and the color selections, as well as whether the size fits well in their space.

✔️ Value: The sofa owners share whether or not they feel the sectional was worth the price they paid.

Types of sectional sofas

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Sectionals vary greatly based on shape. It's important to consider what would look best in your room, how many people you need to seat and whether you're in a permanent location or need flexibility for future moves. Here are the main types of sectionals you'll see when you shop:

✔️ Chaise sectionals: These look more like typically three-seater sofas, but one end has a chaise for an extra lounging area. You can sometimes choose which side the chaise is on, and certain models have movable chaises that you can switch from side to side.

✔️ L-shaped or corner sectionals: The most popular sectional shape, these can typically seat at least five people, though sizes vary. Some L-shaped sectionals include chaises, while others are all typical seats.

✔️ U-shaped sectionals: These have three sides and can often fit eight people or more. They take up the most space in a room and they're among the priciest since they have the most components, but they're great for large families or people who frequently host guests. Like the L-shaped ones, these can be made with or without chaises.

✔️ Modular sectionals: For the most flexibility, modular styles allow you to customize the seating arrangement. They're also best suited for people who plan to move their sofas since you can easily take them apart. You can find modular sectionals in any shape, including pit sectionals that fill in the open space of a U-shape for a large lounging area.

✔️ Specialty sectionals: Sectionals can sometimes have special features, like sleeper sectionals with pull-out beds, storage sectionals with hidden compartments in the seats and recliner sectionals that allow you to lay back for more comfort.

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What to look for when shopping for the best sectional sofa

an image of a sofa in a showroom at pottery barn
Aidan Collins

✔️ Seating: Sectionals come in a variety of sizes with different seating options, depending on the size of your space and how many people will use it. Before buying any furniture for your home, make sure to measure the space to ensure a proper fit and measure your door frame so there are no surprises on delivery day. If you have a large family or want more lounging space, look for sectionals with four cushions and two chaises for a U-shaped design or a corner sectional.

✔️ Frame: Most sofa frames are made out of wood. Particle board frames are the cheapest and use a wood blend, while hardwood frames are made of solid wood and are more durable. Kiln-dried hardwood frames are the best option because the wood undergoes a finishing process that makes it stronger and prevents warping. The frame type isn't always listed (especially if it's a cheaper option), but brands will usually specify if they use kiln-dried hardwood.

✔️ Material: While it can be tempting to choose upholstery fabric type by looks alone, it's important to consider that some types are easier to clean or better suited for pets, which can affect the longevity of your sectional as a whole. Look for stain-resistant and durable options like polyester if you have messy pets or rambunctious kids. Natural fibers like cotton and linen have a beautiful appearance but are less durable for everyday use. While leather is pricey, it is durable over time and has a luxurious look, but it's trickier to clean and may be prone to scratches. Most brands will send free fabric swatches before purchasing, so you can determine which material is best for you.

✔️ Cost: While prices can vary dramatically, buying a new, high-quality sofa is definitely an investment. Generally, a sectional sofa will cost between $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the number of seats, materials, delivery cost and other factors. We found some compact sofas that cost less than $500. Leather materials, multiple chaises and extra-deep seats are all features that will up the overall price. As for return policies, note that made-to-order sofas are generally not eligible for returns — so make sure you love what you're ordering if that's the route you're taking.

✔️ Style: The chaise is the signature design feature of a sectional sofa and is available in a variety of styles. Some types of sectionals will have a fixed chaise where it can only be on one side while others let you switch the side, offering greater flexibility if you move or want to rearrange your living space. Most sectionals have one chaise, but others have two for a U-shaped design, which offers more seating options for larger groups.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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For over 120 years, the Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing products for your home to help you make the best purchases. Emma Seymour is the associate director of the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, where she has been evaluating home and apparel products since 2018. Seymour has tested a range of categories where comfort and style are equally important, from apparel and footwear to bedding and furniture.

This article was most recently updated by Amanda Constantine, a home & apparel reviews analyst who has been in the Textiles Lab since 2022. She reviewed survey data from the GH Institute's proprietary tester panel and utilized the most recent survey to modify our sectional picks and update the feedback on on our existing recommendations.

Headshot of Emma Seymour
Emma Seymour
Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Associate Director

Emma Seymour (she/her) is the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

Headshot of Amanda Constantine
Amanda Constantine
Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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