How much does it cost to reupholster a sofa?

Imagine that sofa that has witnessed your best moments: cozy evenings with a blanket and a movie, family visits, endless naps… Over time, its appearance may deteriorate, but its emotional value remains intact. This is where the big question arises: is it worth reupholstering a sofa?

The answer is a resounding Yes , especially when it comes to pieces with a solid structure or a special design. Reupholstering a sofa isn't simply replacing an old fabric with a new one; it's giving a second life to a piece of furniture that's part of your story. Many artisan upholsterers even improve the original comfort, reinforcing the foam and webbing, and adapting the finishes to your current taste.

Table of Contents

Advantages of reupholstering a sofa

Emotional and environmental sustainability : restoring a sofa avoids discarding large volumes and reduces the need to manufacture a new one.
Total customization : you can choose fabrics, colors and textures that suit the new style of your home.
Controlled cost : although it depends on the size and type of fabric, it is usually cheaper than buying a new high-end sofa.

Of course, not all sofas are ideal candidates. If the frame is damaged, the legs are unstable, or the base materials are of poor quality, you might want to consider other options. But if your sofa still has character, reupholstering it could be the best decorating investment you make this year.

Is it cheaper to refurbish a sofa or buy a new one?

This is one of the most common comparisons when we think about reupholstering the living room: is it cheaper to reupholster a sofa or buy a new one? The answer depends on multiple factors, but there are some key guidelines to help you decide.

Option	Approximate price	Durability	Level of customization
Handcrafted upholstery	€300 – €1200	High (if the structure is good)	Very high
New, affordable sofa	€250 – €600	Medium to low (depends on the quality of materials)	Limited (according to the model)
New mid-range/high-end sofa	€800 – €3000	High (since it's new)	Media (there are now better customization options)

Upholstery can be cheaper This is especially true for existing sofas of medium to high quality, particularly if the reupholstery cost is under €1,000. Furthermore, the result is usually more durable than a new, low- or mid-range sofa, which can lose its firmness and appearance within a few years.

What influences the price of upholstery?

Type of fabric (stain-resistant or natural fabrics may increase the price).
Size and shape of the sofa (chaise longues and corner sofas usually cost more).
Condition of the sofa (if the structure needs to be reinforced or repaired).
Upholsterer's labor (well-made handcrafted work has its price).

Therefore, if you already have a good sofa, reupholstering it can be a smart and economical investment.

What is the best fabric for upholstering a sofa?

Choosing the best fabric to upholster a sofa isn't just about aesthetics, it's also about functionality. The fabric defines not only the style of the sofa, but also its resistance to wear and tear, stains, and daily use. It's literally the "outfit" that one of the most important pieces of furniture in your living room will wear, so it deserves careful consideration.

What should you consider when choosing fabric?

Wear resistance : look for fabrics with a high number of Martindale cycles (more than 20,000 for intensive domestic use).
Easy cleaning : if there are children or pets, opt for washable or stain-resistant fabrics.
Aesthetics and feel : it should blend in with your style and feel pleasant to the touch.
Breathability and thermal comfort : that it is cozy both in winter and summer.

Recommended types of fabrics

Chenille : soft, durable, and with an elegant finish. Ideal for a cozy touch.

Microfiber : highly resistant and easy to clean, perfect for families.

Cotton blend : breathable and natural, but it's best to choose options with stain-resistant treatment.

Linen : sophisticated and natural, although less resistant if not mixed with other fibers.

Velvet : glamorous, elegant and soft, although more delicate to use.

Technological fabrics : such as Aquaclean or high-tech stain-resistant fabrics, which allow cleaning with just water.

Every home has its own needs. That's why the best fabric for upholstering a sofa will be the one that combines beauty, durability, and functionality in your daily life. There's no single answer, but there are many good choices depending on your priorities.

How many years does a fabric sofa last?

The lifespan of a fabric sofa depends largely on three key factors: the quality of its materials (frame, filling, and upholstery), how often it's used, and the type of maintenance it receives. But generally speaking, a well-cared-for fabric sofa can last between 8 and 15 years old without losing its functionality or its aesthetics.

Factors that influence durability

Internal structure : if it is made of solid wood or resistant materials, it will withstand the test of time.
Upholstery quality : a durable fabric (such as microfiber or chenille) extends the life of the sofa.
Daily use : a sofa in a heavily used living room will wear out faster than one in a guest room.
Care and maintenance : vacuuming regularly, protecting from direct sunlight, and cleaning stains immediately are key.

Signs that a sofa has reached the end of its life

Loss of firmness in the cushions.
Worn or visibly torn fabric.
Structure that creaks or gives way when you sit on it.

A decision with soul and style

In the world of interior design, few decisions are as emotional as keeping or reupholstering a sofa. We're not just talking about a piece of furniture, but a place for gathering, relaxing, and living. Reupholstering a sofa might seem like a practical choice, but it's much more than that: it's a way to pay homage to shared memories while simultaneously updating the style of our home.

As we've seen, the benefits of reupholstering a sofa go far beyond the price: sustainability, personalization, and the ability to choose the fabric that best suits your lifestyle. If your sofa has a good structural foundation, reupholstering it is not only a valid option, but a bold and thoughtful one.

Get inspired by sofas that are born with a story

And if, after considering all the options, you feel it's time to start from scratch, do so by choosing a sofa designed to last as long as your best memories. Unika Living You'll find models that combine design, quality, and comfort without compromise.