Big Lots Sectional Sofa Covers

Big Lots Sectional Sofa Covers: Protecting Your Investment and Enhancing Your Décor

Sectional sofas represent a significant investment for many households, offering comfortable seating and versatile configuration options to adapt to various living spaces. As a result, protecting this investment from everyday wear and tear, spills, and pet damage is a priority. Big Lots offers a range of sectional sofa covers designed to address these concerns, providing an affordable and practical solution for maintaining the appearance and longevity of your furniture. This article will explore the benefits of using sectional sofa covers available at Big Lots, considering various factors such as fabric options, sizing considerations, installation techniques, and maintenance tips.

The Benefits of Using Sectional Sofa Covers

Sectional sofa covers provide a multi-faceted approach to furniture protection and décor enhancement. They serve as a barrier against a multitude of potential hazards that can degrade the appearance and condition of your sectional. Furthermore, they offer an easy and inexpensive method for updating the aesthetic of your living room.

One of the primary benefits is protection from spills and stains. Sectional sofas, often located in high-traffic areas, are susceptible to accidental spills of food, drinks, and other substances. Sofa covers act as a shield, preventing these liquids from penetrating the fabric and causing permanent stains. This is particularly crucial for households with children or pets.

Pet owners find sectional sofa covers invaluable for protecting against pet hair, scratches, and dirt. Pets often shed hair that can become embedded in the sofa's fabric, requiring extensive vacuuming to remove. Covers create a smooth surface that prevents hair from latching on readily, making cleanup considerably easier. Scratches from pet claws are another common concern, and covers offer a durable layer of protection against this type of damage. Moreover, pets can track dirt and mud indoors, which can quickly soil the sofa. Covers can be easily removed and washed, keeping the sofa clean and hygienic.

Sectional sofa covers also guard against general wear and tear. Over time, friction from repeated use can cause the original fabric to fade, pill, or become worn in specific areas. Covers distribute the wear more evenly, extending the lifespan of the sofa's upholstery. This is particularly beneficial for sofas made from delicate or expensive materials.

Beyond protection, sectional sofa covers offer an easy and affordable way to update the look of your living room. Instead of purchasing a new sofa, which can be a costly endeavor, simply changing the cover allows you to experiment with different colors, patterns, and textures. This is particularly useful for those who enjoy redecorating or who want to keep up with current design trends. Big Lots offers a variety of styles to suit different tastes and budgets.

Finally, sectional sofa covers can also be a practical solution for concealing existing damage. If your sectional has already sustained stains, tears, or fading, a cover can provide a quick and effective way to hide these imperfections, giving your sofa a refreshed appearance without the need for costly repairs or replacement.

Choosing the Right Fabric and Style

The effectiveness and aesthetic appeal of a sectional sofa cover depend largely on the fabric and style chosen. Big Lots offers a range of options to cater to different needs and preferences, each with its own unique characteristics.

One popular choice is microfiber, known for its softness, durability, and stain resistance. Microfiber covers are easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical option for households with children or pets. They also offer a comfortable and inviting feel, enhancing the overall seating experience. Furthermore, microfiber is relatively affordable, making it a budget-friendly choice.

Another common option is cotton. Cotton covers are breathable, comfortable, and hypoallergenic, making them suitable for individuals with sensitive skin. They are also relatively easy to wash and care for. However, cotton is more prone to wrinkling and staining than microfiber, so it may require more frequent cleaning and ironing. Cotton blends, which combine cotton with other synthetic fibers, offer a balance of comfort and durability. These blends are often more resistant to wrinkles and stains than pure cotton.

For those seeking a more luxurious look and feel, suede or velvet covers are available. These fabrics offer a rich texture and sophisticated appearance, adding a touch of elegance to any living room. However, suede and velvet can be more delicate and require specialized cleaning. They are also more susceptible to stains and spills, so they may not be the best choice for households with young children or pets.

In terms of style, Big Lots offers a variety of options, including fitted covers, slipcovers, and throw blankets. Fitted covers are designed to conform to the shape of the sectional, providing a snug and seamless fit. They typically feature elasticized edges or ties to secure the cover in place. Slipcovers are more relaxed and draped, offering a more casual and comfortable look. They are often easier to install and remove than fitted covers. Throw blankets provide a versatile and inexpensive way to protect specific areas of the sofa, such as the cushions or arms. They can also be easily rearranged to create different looks.

When choosing a fabric and style, it is important to consider your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic preferences. For high-traffic areas or households with children or pets, a durable and stain-resistant fabric like microfiber is a practical choice. For a more formal living room, suede or velvet may be a better option. If you prefer a clean and tailored look, a fitted cover is ideal. If you prefer a more relaxed and casual look, a slipcover may be more suitable. Big Lots' variety ensures options for differing tastes and needs.

Sizing and Installation

Proper sizing and installation are crucial for ensuring that your sectional sofa cover fits correctly and provides adequate protection. A cover that is too small will not adequately cover the sofa, while a cover that is too large will be loose and baggy, detracting from the overall appearance. Accurate measurements are essential for selecting the right size cover.

Before purchasing a cover, measure the length, width, and height of each section of your sectional sofa. Be sure to measure the entire sectional, including any arms, backrests, and cushions. Big Lots typically provides sizing charts or guidelines for their sofa covers, so be sure to consult these before making a purchase. When in doubt, it is generally better to err on the side of slightly larger, as you can always tuck or adjust the cover to achieve a better fit.

Installation techniques vary depending on the type of cover. Fitted covers typically involve stretching the cover over the sofa and securing it with elasticized edges or ties. Start by positioning the cover over the largest section of the sofa and then gradually work your way to the smaller sections. Be sure to smooth out any wrinkles or creases as you go. Use the ties or elasticized edges to secure the cover in place, ensuring that it is snug and secure.

Slipcovers are typically easier to install than fitted covers. Simply drape the cover over the sofa and adjust it to your desired fit. You may need to tuck or fold the fabric to create a more tailored look. Some slipcovers come with elasticized corners or ties to help secure them in place.

Throw blankets are the easiest to install. Simply drape them over the desired areas of the sofa. You can arrange them in a variety of ways to create different looks. For example, you can drape a throw blanket over the back of the sofa or fold it and place it on the cushions.

Regardless of the type of cover you choose, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. This will help ensure that the cover is installed correctly and provides the best possible protection. If you have any difficulty installing the cover, consider seeking assistance from a friend or family member. Correct installation enhances the cover's protective benefits.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance are essential for prolonging the life of your sectional sofa cover and keeping it looking its best. Regular cleaning will help remove dirt, dust, and stains, preventing them from becoming embedded in the fabric. The appropriate cleaning method will depend on the type of fabric.

For most covers, regular vacuuming is recommended to remove loose dirt and dust. Use a brush attachment to gently vacuum the surface of the cover, paying particular attention to creases and crevices where dirt can accumulate. Vacuuming should be done at least once a week, or more frequently if you have pets.

For spills and stains, it is important to act quickly. Blot the spill with a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towel, working from the outside in to prevent it from spreading. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can damage the fabric and make it more difficult to remove. For stubborn stains, you may need to use a stain remover specifically designed for the type of fabric. Always test the stain remover in an inconspicuous area first to ensure that it does not damage the fabric.

Most sectional sofa covers can be machine washed. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Use a mild detergent and cold water, and avoid using bleach or fabric softener. Tumble dry on low heat or hang the cover to dry. Avoid ironing the cover unless it is specifically recommended by the manufacturer.

For suede or velvet covers, professional cleaning is typically recommended. These fabrics are more delicate and require specialized cleaning techniques to avoid damage. Consult with a professional cleaner to determine the best cleaning method for your cover.

In addition to regular cleaning, it is also important to protect your sectional sofa cover from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the fabric to fade or become damaged. Consider using curtains or blinds to block out direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day. By following these care and maintenance tips, you can keep your sectional sofa cover looking its best for years to come. Proper maintenance ensures the longevity of the sofa covers and their continued effectiveness.