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Used Sofa Detective

Open this page on your phone when checking out a used sofa on Marketplace/Craigslist.

Step 1 of 5

1. The Corner Lift Test

Lift one front corner of the sofa about 6 inches off the ground.

Does the OTHER front leg lift too?

2. The Arm Squeeze

Squeeze the top rail of the sofa arm and the back frame.

What do you feel?

3. The Sit Drop

Sit down heavily on the corner and center.

Did you hear any noise?

4. Cushion Recovery

Stand up. Watch the cushion.

How fast does it return to shape?

5. The Sniff Test

Smell the cushions and the frame base.

Any odors?