How Does The IKEA SÖDERHAMN Sofa Hold Up After Years Of Use? Here's What We Know

IKEA made its name selling reasonably priced furniture, and for some, the SÖDERHAMN sofa epitomizes why people love the retailer. It's low on price, high on style, and completely modular. You can get a two-seat sofa with no arms for $499 and upgrade the IKEA sectional with a custom look — even swapping out the legs for aftermarket options. But one concern that comes along with inexpensive furniture is whether or not it will last. Luckily, this IKEA staple has been around long enough that owners are weighing in, and here's what we have learned from their reviews.

The Craf-T Home on YouTube has had the sofa for three years in a house with four adults. She says the bottom cushions — which are on the thin side to begin with — are holding up well. The back cushions have held up similarly well, and, because the covers are removable and washable, the sofa is both convenient to clean and easy to fluff.

The pair behind YouTube's KRT LYFE have had the couch for five years in a home with children. They agree that the cushions have held up well and remain comfortable. They have, however, bought a new cover from an Etsy seller to have the couch match a set of chairs they have. The couple even suggests that, because the rest of the SÖDERHAMN sofa held up so well, it's worth it to pay for new covers if they get worn out.

The SÖDERHAMN sofa from IKEA may hold up well, but nothing lasts forever, especially if you do not take care of it. There are a few things you can do to make this cheap couch last a bit longer — and maybe even more comfortable.

KRT LYFE pointed out in their YouTube review that, when moving the couch, they managed to bend the back. They warn others to take a little extra time to disassemble the sofa before moving it. Over at The Craf-T Home, there are cats to contend with, and the cats' claws have caused snags. She uses a needle to push the thread back into the fabric until the snag disappears. This trick helps the cushion covers look new again, but if you are contending with pet hair and all that comes along with our furry friends, check out these tips for maintaining a stylish home with pets. 

Even if your covers are too far gone to save, you can replace them easily through IKEA or another third-party seller. And if you want to protect your cushions — and make the SÖDERHAMN a bit cushier — consider taking a cue from the ultra-chic French and adding a sofa topper. It's a lot like adding a mattress topper to a bed that's too stiff. It will also provide an extra layer of protection against spills and pets, potentially adding years of life to your sofa.