Sofa Problems and Easy Fixes You Can Do at Home

Your sofa is the heart of your living room — a place to relax, watch TV, and spend quality time with family. But over time, even the best-quality sofa repair can show signs of wear and tear. The good news? You don’t always need to hire a professional or replace the whole thing. Many common sofa problems can be fixed right at home with a little time, effort, and the right tools.

Here are 10 common sofa issues and easy DIY solutions to bring your couch back to life.

Sagging Cushions

Problem: Over time, sofa cushions lose their firmness and sink in, making sitting uncomfortable.

Fix:

Remove the cushion covers.
Add high-density foam or polyester fiberfill.
For quick support, insert a piece of plywood underneath the cushions.

Tip: Rotate cushions regularly to maintain shape.

Torn or Worn Fabric

Problem: Fabric sofas can rip, fade, or fray due to daily use or pet scratches.

Fix:

Small tears: Use fabric glue or iron-on patches.
Larger areas: Sew a patch or reupholster the panel.

Optional: Use slipcovers as a protective layer.

Squeaky Sofa Frame

Problem: A squeaky sound when you sit down usually means a loose joint or screw in the frame.

Fix:

Remove cushions and fabric if needed.
Tighten screws and joints with a screwdriver or wrench.
Apply wood glue to loose wooden joints and let it dry.

Tip: Add felt pads or rubber washers for extra noise reduction.

Flattened Backrest Cushions

Problem: The backrest loses fluffiness and looks deflated.

Fix:

Open the cushion seam and insert more polyfill or foam inserts.
Massage and fluff cushions by hand regularly to maintain volume.

DIY Hack: Use old pillows or stuffing from unused cushions.

Stains and Spills

Problem: Accidental spills from drinks or food can cause stubborn stains.

Fix:

Blot immediately with a dry cloth.
Use a mild fabric cleaner or homemade mix (baking soda + vinegar).
Always test any cleaner on a hidden area first.

Tip: Use a fabric protector spray after cleaning to prevent future stains.

Loose or Broken Springs

Problem: If your sofa sags or makes noise, internal springs may be dislodged or broken.

Fix:

Remove the fabric base underneath the sofa.
Re-hook loose springs using pliers.
Replace broken springs with new ones from a hardware store.

Caution: Wear gloves and eye protection during this repair.

Peeling Leather

Problem: Low-quality or aging leather can peel, flake, or crack.

Fix:

Clean the area with mild soap and water.
Use a leather repair kit with color-matching filler.
Apply leather conditioner to prevent further damage.

Alternative: Cover with a leather slip or fabric throw for temporary improvement.

Detached Zippers or Buttons

Problem: Zippers come off track or buttons fall off, making the sofa look messy.

Fix:

Zippers: Realign and press the teeth together. Replace sliders if needed.
Buttons: Sew back with strong thread and a needle.

Pro Tip: Use upholstery thread for stronger hold.

Faded Upholstery

Problem: Sunlight exposure can fade fabric or leather over time.

Fix:

Rotate cushions regularly.
Use fabric dye (for cloth sofas) or leather color balm (for leather).
Add curtains or blinds to reduce sun exposure.

Preventive: Place your sofa away from direct sunlight if possible.

Wobbly Legs

Problem: A sofa leg becomes unstable, making the sofa tilt or wobble.

Fix:

Unscrew the leg and check for damage.
Add wood glue or insert a new screw or bracket.
Replace with new sofa legs if necessary (available online or in stores).

Tip: Always lift the sofa when moving it — never drag.

When to Call a Professional

While many repairs can be handled at home, some issues—like internal frame damage or full reupholstery—may need professional attention. If you’re unsure, get a quote before attempting a complex fix.

Final Thoughts

Your sofa doesn’t have to end up in the trash because of a few flaws. With these simple tips, you can extend its life, save money, and keep your living space looking fresh. Whether it’s fixing a saggy cushion, sewing a ripped seam, or tightening a squeaky frame, DIY sofa repair is easier than you think.

Want to make it even easier? Keep a basic sofa repair kit handy at home, including: