Expert: Mark H. Miller - 3/10/2007

Question
Over the years, have bought several low-end and high-end sofas.  NONE had a comfortable seat deck, regardless of coil or spring type.  They all pitched slightly forward after afew minutes of sitting. Looking for a sofa that sits you back with my rear somewhat lower than my knees, (even if it means some difficulty getting up.)

Answer
Hi,  what you may have done without realizing it is purchase sofa's that had what is known as a soft edge.   Price has nothing to do with that.

Here's what I recommend you do.  When you see a sofa you are considering make certain it has a hard edge, that may prevent you from sliding out.

Here's how you can tell the difference between a hard edge and a soft edge. Lift up the seat cushion and push down on the front edge of the sofa, (called the lip) if it gives and goes down, even only a few inches it is a soft edge and may be the reason you slide out.

A hard edge means that when you lift up the seat cushion and you push down on the front edge of the sofa there will be absolutely no give.  That's a hard edge.

You should also make certain that a sofa you buy has an edge, (lip) that is considerably higher  ( about 2" )than the deck, the deck is where the cushions sit and the purpose of the lip is to keep the cushions in place, keep them from sliding out.  

Next, I suggest you buy a sofa that does not have a skirt detail.  That way, if you still slide out, even with a hard edge you could put a slightly higher leg in the front.  You may be able to order a sofa with a slightly higher front leg, round legs often screw right out and you could replace them with a higher leg available in some hardware stores.

Next, you may consider a softer cushion which could cause you to sit lower, although I would only do that as a last resort.

You may also consider a fabric that doesn't slide easily, don't use a chitz or slippery smooth fabric for the upholstery,  instead choose a chenille or rough textured fabric.

I hope this helps.  Your question is a very good one, not an uncommon problem and you are right that you should sit lower that the height of your knees.

It was a pleasure answering your question.  Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of further help.

Mark Miller.