The 7 Best Family Sofas That’ll Survive Your Kids and Pets

Buying a sofa of any kind is a big deal, but it can be especially overwhelming when you need something that will also stand up to all the spills and accidents, jumping and fort-building that your littles (and furry littles) will inevitably throw at it. Yes, a family sofa is a very special subsection of sofas and you should definitely consider your options and go bounce—er, sit—on it in person before making a decision.

If you’re just starting your sofa-buying journey, I highly recommend checking out our family sofa buying guide, which goes into detail about things like buttons and back cushions, as well as custom sofas. But if you’re looking for the TLDR, here’s our cheat sheet along with seven of the best family sofas on the market right now.

• You don’t need a sectional. Our list includes sectionals because they are undeniably comfy. But, don’t rule out traditional sofas, which are great for smaller spaces and also easier to move around if your needs or layout change.
• You don’t need a sofa that screams “family sofa.” We’re here to tell you that yes, you can have a mid-century modern sofa if you want.
• You should consider performance fabrics (or a slip cover). Performance fabrics are specifically engineered to be durable and stain-resistant. Alternatively, a slip cover can be removed and thrown in the wash.
• You’ll get what you pay for. A good sofa (with solid wood construction and down-wrapped pillows) will set you back at least $1,000. If you go for the cheapest option on our list, you should know that it’s probably not a forever piece.

• What we love: Pottery Barn’s Big Sur sectionals are among the brand’s top sellers, and they are a great option for families because of the wide range of performance fabrics they can choose from. Eco-minded parents will also like that these sofas are constructed with partially recycled metal and plant-based foam.
• Good to know: The design is on the boxy side and it’s big, so it can easily overwhelm your room.

• What we love: IKEA’s KIVIK sofa has a reputation for being extra comfy thanks to its generous size and casual styling. And, at less than $900, it’s an affordable option compared to everything else we’ve seen (and sat on!).
• Good to know: This is a sofa that probably won’t last a lifetime. Our best advice?Buy a second cover when you purchase the sofa.

• What we love:Crate & Barrel’s Lounge Sofa is true to its name: The soft, low-slung design is made for kicking back. Because there are so many different iterations of the design, there’s sure to be one that will fit your family’s space.
• Good to know: Some reviewers note that the pillows tend to lose shape or look wrinkled after use, so fluffing is a must!

• What we love: Thanks to slim lines and mid-century styling, Joybird’s Braxton sectional doesn’t look like a sectional. The beautifully saturated colors will also make a great statement.
• Good to know: At nearly $4,000, the Braxton sectional is on the pricier side — and it’s even more expensive if you choose a performance fabric.

• What we love: Rove Concepts’ Milo Modular Sectional has a modern profile and modular design that lets you get the right configuration for your space.
• Good to know: While the fabrics are gorgeous, if you want accident protection, there’s a fee for that. On the other hand, becoming a member (for $200) will earn you a 25% off the tag price.

• What we love: Home blogger Katy Elliott, who is a mom of two, bought her Metro Room & Board sofa fifteen years ago and says it’s still in great shape. “Honestly, it’s so great, I will reupholster it before buying new,” she says.
• Good to know: If you’re tall, the regular sofa can feel a bit shallow. Consider the deep version instead!

• What we love: Maiden Home is a decorator favorite. The brand’s Sullivan Sofa can be customized to your specifications and is a great option for many different aesthetic styles.
• Good to know: The single bench cushion means fewer pillows for fort building.

• I’m a Big Believer in Slipcovers for Your Family Sofa — Here’s Why
• I Thought These Sofas Wouldn’t Survive My Son — But I Was Wrong. They Only Get Better Over Time.
• Why We Got Rid of All the Furniture in Our Living Room to Make Room for One 9-Foot Sofa
• Sofa Toppers Are a Thing — and They’re Exactly What Your Family Sofa Needs
• Are Kids’ Couches Really Worth It? I Have The Flip, and Here’s My Review