A slipcovered couch can change the the way your whole room feels. Slipcovers can modernize a dated room or they can add a pop of color to a drab area of your home. Slipcovers can also be used to protect furniture that gets lots of use or that has been placed in storage. Knowing how to properly measure a couch for a slipcover can be the difference between a fresh, fabulous look or a saggy, rumpled mess,

What is a slipcover?

First, let’s talk about what a couch slipcover is. A slipcover is a fitted protective cover that can be slipped off and on a piece of upholstered furniture. Slipcovers are typically made of cloth. Slipcovers may be removed for seasonal change, cleaning, moving, or storage.

Slipcovers are a budget-friendly way to transform a space, whether you need to update worn out seating or protect furniture from pets, kids, and stains.

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Measure

Getting the right measurements for your slipcover is vital to having a good fit. Carefully, take the following measurements in order to determine the appropriate size slipcover for your couch.

1. Measure and write down the total length of the couch at the widest width. This is probably from one arm to the other.
2. Measure and write down the total height of the couch. Measure from the back of the cushion, over the top of the back of the furniture, and down to the floor.

Fit

When selecting and buying a slipcover, choose the smallest size cover that will work for your couch. It is better to have a smaller slipcover and to stretch fit rather than too large and a loose, baggy fit. A tight fitting slipcover will look noticeably better. A slipcover like our Jersey Slipcovers can stretch up to 30 percent. In addition, look for slipcovers with ties around the edges like the Brown Microsuede Slipcover. This improves the look and fit of a slightly less fitted slipcover.

Material

Our slipcovers come in solid colors or prints. When choosing a print, make sure that the pattern will coordinate with the other fabrics in the room. If your slipcover will get a lot of use, consider a selecting a darker material that will hide stains. Microfiber material is a good choice for slipcovers if you own pets. Microfiber fabric is durable and easy to clean.

Check the label of your slipcover for cleaning instructions. Most slipcovers are made to be cleaned in a washing machine, using cold water, on the gentle cycle. Pre-treat any stains prior to washing. Dry the cleaned slipcover on the lowest heat setting that your dryer has. If possible, toss on an air dry setting.

Tips

Here are a few tips to help get the most out of your couch slipcovers:

• No more wrinkles. Need a quick fix to get rid of those annoying lines? Just throw your couch slipcover and a damp hand towel in the dryer. For the best results, put the slipcover back on your furniture right away.
• For a smooth, snug fit, tuck fabric into the crevices of your furniture. Look no further than your kitchen for handy tools to help. A large, wooden spoon or spatula will do the trick.
• Put those old magazines to good use! Roll one up and rub it against any creases of your slipcover for a neater appearance.
• Want a comfy, overstuffed look with your couch slipcover? Polyester batting is just what you need. Add one or two layers under the slipcover for more support and to add a plush, luxury feel and look.
• You can cover leather furniture too! Place an inexpensive non-skid rug pad under the slipcover to keep it from shifting on leather.
• Get a stretch fit. If your couch slipcover is still too big, pull the cover below the legs to achieve a more snug look.

By measuring correctly and selecting the best color and material for your couch slipcover, you can update your room in minutes. If you have more questions regarding how to measure your couch for a slipcover, just ask our expert team.