Safety First

Sofa Safety Guidelines

We want your sofa to stay comfortable and looking great for years to come. These guidelines cover the simple things you can do to keep your furniture safe, well-maintained, and in the best possible shape for everyday use.

UK Fire Safety Compliant Family-Friendly Designs Recliner & Motion-Safe Options

Applies To

All Sofa Direct Upholstery

Genuine Leather Sofas · Bonded Leather Sofas · Leather Aire Sofas · Fabric Sofas (Various Fabric Types) · Electric and Manual Recliners.

Every material and mechanism we use is built with safety, durability, and daily comfort in mind. Follow the advice below: 

General Safety

Five Everyday Essentials

UK Fire Safety Compliance

All Sofa Direct upholstered furniture meets the requirements of the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988, as amended.

Always

  • Leave all permanent fire safety labels exactly where they are
  • Never swap out original cushion fillings for non-compliant alternatives
  • Keep your sofa well away from open flames, candles, fireplaces, portable heaters, and direct heat sources

Safe Placement

Where you put your sofa matters more than you might think — the right spot keeps it safer and helps it last longer.

Position Your Sofa

  • At least 30 cm away from radiators or any direct heat source
  • On a firm, flat, and stable surface
  • Out of prolonged direct sunlight to prevent fading or drying
  • Away from damp or high-moisture areas unless well ventilated

Weight & Everyday Use

Your sofa is built for sitting on — using it properly keeps it comfortable, shapely, and safe.

Avoid

  • Standing, kneeling, or jumping on cushions
  • Putting excessive weight on armrests or backrests
  • Letting children climb on sofas or treat them as play equipment

Moving & Handling

A little care when moving your sofa protects both the furniture and your floors.

Best practice

  • Always lift your sofa — never drag it
  • Use at least two people for larger pieces
  • Remove or secure detachable parts (feet, cushions, accessories)
  • Use floor protection to avoid scratches

Recliner Mechanisms

Recliner sofas are great — just use the moving parts sensibly.

Remember

  • Don't put hands, feet or any objects in moving parts
  • Never leave children alone to use mechanisms
  • Use the mechanism and make sure it's completely shut before moving the sofa
  • If it is difficult or feels odd, don't use it and ask an expert

Need a hand?

Got a question about sofa safety, care, or how your recliner works? Our team is happy to help — just reach out.

Contact Support Read Care Tips