Sagging sofa cushions – what’s the cause?
“When selecting the fabric and style of a new lounge suite it is crucial to consider its future environment”
Picture this:
You purchased a brand-new couch this autumn. It has extra wide cushions on the seat. It’s sleek, it’s chic, it takes up one third of your lounge and most importantly, you can melt into it on a Friday evening after work.
Fast forward to mid-spring. Sure, you passed all those cold winter’s nights watching movies with the family and you have spent more of the lockdown sitting down than you would like to admit, but now that it’s almost time to pop your bubble your brand-new couch is looking a little… dishevelled.
When selecting the fabric and style of a new lounge suite it is crucial to consider its future environment. To prevent your dream couch from becoming saggy and stretched on the seat cushion after prolonged use, or to remedy the situation, we’ve reached out to James Dunlop Textiles’ Auckland-based Upholstery Specialist, Robert Street, to provide insight into the problem and offer some solutions.
Why does the fabric on a newly upholstered sofa appear stretched and out of shape after only a few months of use?
There are several factors that could come into play here, let’s look at them one by one.
Firstly, it is rare for an upholstery fabric with a synthetic component to stretch as synthetic fibres are very stable. Natural fibres are generally stable but can ‘move’ over time depending on the weave. Twill weaves don’t move (think denim jeans) but basket weaves can move a little. Natural fibres such as cotton and linen can absorb the humidity in the air and ‘relax.’
However, all of James Dunlop Textile’s fabrics undergo the seam slippage test, which is performed as part of the fabric’s evaluation and quality testing process, where any possible issues like the weave stretching are highlighted. Any fabrics with seam slippage test failures are identified and resolved before we manufacture a product for our range.
What is Seam Slippage?
Seam slippage is the separation of yarns in a fabric, usually along a sewn seam or join. Generally, the yarns don’t actually break, they just pull apart leaving an unsightly gap along the fabric join.
So what could be the cause?
With this in mind – we can eliminate fabric stretch as the issue here and look at what the likely cause could be.
1. Foam
Good quality foam loses 5-7% of its loft within the first 3 months of use – this may be a contributing factor here. Some furniture manufacturers use a pre-crushed foam (the Gucci of foams) which prevents this loft loss – while being more expensive, it is worth it as you really do get what you pay for in furniture.
2. The Design
There are two main types of couch designs – cushion seat and fixed seat.
Cushion Seat: The sides of a cushion seat pull upwards, and therefore do not need extra fabric as the cushion flexes to allow the fabric cover to release into the compressed foam in the centre, where you sit.
Fixed Seat: A fixed seat requires an allowance of extra fabric in the back of the base cushion. This extra fabric moves forward, compensating for the foam compressing when you sit on the couch. Once you stand, the foam lofts again and if the extra fabric does not move back to the base of the cushion fast enough it will be trapped, causing a ‘puddled’ saggy look.
Keep reading: www.curtainclean.co.nz...
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Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.
Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.
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64.2% Yes
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33.2% No
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2.6% Other - I'll share below
Tips on Accelerating Your Comfort Level with a New Mattress
Getting started on the quest for the perfect night’s sleep with a new mattress can be exciting, but it often requires a period of adjustment.
If you've recently invested in a new mattress and are wondering about the time frame for adjustment, you're not alone.
Understanding the typical adjustment period can greatly improve your sleep health and ensure you get the most comfort out of your new bed.
The Personal Touch: Individual Variation in Adjustment
When it comes to adapting to a new mattress, there's no one-size-fits-all answer.
The mattress adjustment period can vary significantly depending on a number of personal factors.
Age, health, and even your usual sleep position can influence how quickly you adjust.
Generally, most people take anywhere from a few days up to a month to fully adapt to their new sleeping environment.
During this time, your body is acclimating to the support and feel of the mattress, which may differ significantly from your old one.
Understanding Mattress Types and Their Impact
The type of mattress you choose also plays a crucial role in your adjustment period.
Memory foam, for instance, may require a longer adjustment period as it contours more significantly to your body compared to a traditional spring mattress.
On the other hand, hybrid mattresses—a combination of foam and springs—offer a balance of support and cushioning, which might ease the adaptation process.
Tips for a Smoother Transition
Adapting to your new mattress is not just about waiting it out; there are active steps you can take to make the process smoother:
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day sets your body’s internal clock, which can help reduce the adjustment time.
Create a comfortable sleep environment. Ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep—consider factors like temperature, light, and noise.
Give it time. Even if your new mattress feels different or not quite right initially, give it a few weeks, as initial discomfort is common.
Exploring more about how to enhance your sleep environment for a comfortable sleep, you can check out Beds4U Bedding.
Recognizing the Signs of Successful Adjustment
How do you know if you're well-adjusted to your new mattress?
Look for positive changes in your sleep quality and health.
You should experience less tossing and turning, fewer awakenings through the night, and reduced morning stiffness or soreness.
Increased sleep quality and waking up feeling rested are clear indicators that your body has adapted to the new mattress.
Comfort with Confidence
Adjusting to a new mattress is a unique experience that varies from person to person.
By understanding your needs and the characteristics of different mattress types, along with employing tips to aid the transition, you can enhance your sleep quality significantly.
Remember, a good night's sleep is crucial for your overall health and well-being.
At Beds4U, we are committed to helping you find that perfect sleep solution.
With a wide range of high-quality mattresses and a knowledgeable team eager to assist, finding your ideal comfort is just a visit away.
Explore our latest collections and sales at Beds4U and start enjoying a more comfortable sleep tonight.
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