If your current sofa is no longer comfortable and supportive, its fabric has become worn and stained, its cushions have flattened, or your family has grown, it’s time to start looking for a new one.

But before you take the plunge, you should consider your lifestyle, room size, and budget. Whether you purchase it in-store or online, use the following guide to help you make the best decision.

Measure twice, order once

When buying a sofa, it’s critical to take precise measurements to ensure it will fit in the corner or along the wall where you plan on placing it. However, it is equally important to measure stairwells, doors, hallways, and ceiling heights, especially if you live in an older building or small apartment, to gauge if there’s enough clearance to get the sofa inside. Verifying how it’s shipped, such as with detached feet or removable cushions, will help you determine this.

Choose a sofa type

Sofas run the gamut when it comes to form: you can choose from a standard sofa, a sectional, a love seat, a sofa bed, or a sofa in a box. Whether you lean toward an upright midcentury modern style or a relaxed Chesterfield design, you’ll need to establish which looks the best to you, is the most comfortable, and appeals to your specific tastes.

Find your ideal fit

Consider how you generally use your sofa and ask yourself the following questions to achieve the perfect balance of form and function.

How comfortable is it?
Comfort is probably the most important feature to assess when purchasing a sofa. If you’re more likely to curl up and nap, go for a single-cushion option to prevent yourself from sinking between cushions. If you prefer to read or use your laptop, a higher seat with more back support might be best. For in-store shopping, test it as if you were at home; if you’re purchasing it online, read through customer reviews to gauge comfort level ratings to help you make the most informed choice possible.

Is it easy to get on and off?
Consider the heights of the people using the sofa most often. The rule of thumb is to be able to rest your feet on the floor while seated; this height can also help you have leverage when getting up. If you typically find that difficult or have an elderly family member, look for higher seats and firmer cushions; it’s best to avoid cushions that are too soft, which could make it harder for you or your loved one to get up.

How many people should it fit?

A large sectional is an excellent option if you have a bigger family or love to host sizeable gatherings. Depending on the configuration of your room, you could also try having two smaller couches or a sofa-and-armchair setup, which can offer the same amount of seating (or even more).

Is it durable?

If your sofa will be in an area of your home that gets a lot of use, you may want to opt for a stronger frame. Solid wood frames are typically more durable than metal, for example. Before pulling the trigger, check the frame’s construction specifications to make sure it’ll be strong enough for your everyday needs in the long run.

What type of fabric do you need?
Among the most important considerations when choosing a fabric are how it feels and its durability. For instance, if you have pets or young children in your home, you may want to choose a heavier-weight, stain-resistant fabric. Also, consider color and texture and whether it’ll be exposed to sunlight, which can affect how quickly the fabric fades.

What’s your budget?
A sofa’s size, construction, and fabric will largely dictate its price. Leather tends to be costlier than other fabrics like nylon, polyester, or velvet, and a sofa made from solid wood will have a higher price tag. Additionally, prices can vary widely from store to store and between brands, so don’t be afraid to shop around to make sure you’re getting the best sofa for you at the best deal.

Because the sofa is often the centerpiece of a living room or family room, its style and comfort can be just as important as its price and durability. Be sure to consider these tips while on the hunt for your perfect sofa match.