June 2022 - Comfort Works Blog & Sofa Resources

IKEA Äpplaryd review – a sofa to re-lie on

Posted on June 21, 2022April 28, 2025 by Kay

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. How does it feel?
2. How does it look?
3. Cost
4. Slipcoverability
5. How hackable is it?
6. Verdict
7. Assembly guide

A new addition to the IKEA sofa family, there is one thing that I can never forget about the Äpplaryd – the way it made me feel so comfortable.

I first saw photos of the Äpplaryd online on IKEA’s website. Without much expectations for a sofa with a simple construction, I walked into IKEA hoping to do a quick sitting test on the Äpplaryd since it is a new one. But, my, oh my…

How does it feel?

It’s really bouncy and when I sat on it, I instantly felt the power of the pocket springs in it. It’s probably also due to the high-resilient polyurethane foam in the seat cushions. I then proceeded to place my head on its pillow-like armrests. They really felt as plump as brand new pillows, to the point where I almost wished I could chop an armrest off and take it home with me.

When I was sitting upright on the IKEA Äpplaryd, the size and height of the armrests fit me perfectly (for reference, I’m about 170cm tall).

Rating: 8/10

How does it look?

Comfort is very important to me when it comes to a sofa. Once that’s settled, the aesthetics come in second place. The Äpplaryd’s appeal lies in its simple, classic looks. This makes it great for a simple space but also a luxurious one.

The IKEA Äpplaryd sofa series comes in 4 colours and 2 types of fabric. Whether it’s the red or blue soft velvet upholstery or the cotton blend fabrics in 2 different shades of grey, it’ll not change the aura it gives off.

Rating: 8/10

Grey IKEA Applaryd 3-seater sofa in IKEA showroom — *Image: IKEA Äpplaryd 3-seater sofa in Lejde Grey*

Cost

Starting from a price of $999 for the loveseat and topping out at $1,749 for the 4-seater with chaise, the Äpplaryd isn’t the most affordable sofa, but I’d pay for the feeling of comfort and the looks it offers.

The IKEA Äpplaryd sofa series has quite a range of models: 2-seater, 3-seater, 3-seater with chaise and 4-seater with chaise that can fit families of all sizes.

IKEA Applaryd 3-seater sofa with chaise measurements — *Image: IKEA Äpplaryd 3-seater with chaise lounge*

For measurements of other Äpplaryd sofa models, see here:
Äpplaryd 2-seater sofa/Loveseat
Äpplaryd 3-seater sofa
Äpplaryd 3-seater sofa with chaise lounge
Äpplaryd 4-seater sofa with chaise lounge

Slipcoverability

The Äpplaryd is upholstered, so we’re letting you know: be careful with it! Caring for the upholstery isn’t hard, as IKEA advises to vacuum clean or wipe the cotton blend fabric with a damp cloth; and you can use a damp sponge or a mild soapy solution to clean any light stains on the velvet fabric. As for daily or weekly cleaning, you can remove the dust on the sofa with a lint remover.

Take a look at our guide on various ways to clean upholstered sofas.

How hackable is it?

Its chaise can be assembled on the left or the right side of the sofa, hence there is flexibility depending on the design of your room. The chaise is also sold on its own, in case you’d want to add a chaise to your loveseat anytime.

Grey IKEA Applaryd 3-seater sofa with chaise lounge in IKEA showroom — *Image: IKEA Äpplaryd 3-seater with chaise lounge sofa in Lejde Grey*

Verdict

I would definitely buy this sofa. It’s got the comfort and looks and it comes at a decent price. The only concern for me is the frame. Firstly, it does look a little bit flimsy and secondly, when I sat on it, it just didn’t feel exactly sturdy enough to withstand some hop-on activities.

IKEA Applaryd sofa structure — *Image: IKEA Äpplaryd sofa structure*

As the Äpplaryd series is pretty new in the market, I can’t say how durable it is. We’ll just have to come back and update this sofa review in a few years’ time.

Overall rating: 7.5/10
Price: $$$ (out of 5)

Assembly guide

Download the guide below for assembly instructions:
IKEA Äpplaryd sofa assembly guide

IKEA Friheten review – IKEA’s most popular sofa bed

Posted on June 20, 2022April 28, 2025 by Kay

The IKEA Friheten sofa bed made it into a few of our “best sofas” list for a reason – it is an all-rounder due to its function, design, practicality, price and comfort that are balanced.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.First impression
2.History & slipcoverability
3.Function & practicality
4.Technical information
5.Assembly & disassembly
6.How good is it to sleep on?
7.Durability
8.In what ways can it be hacked?
9.Price
10.Verdict
11.Assembly guide

First impression

With an unassuming outer look, the boxy Friheten looks just like a normal sofa with nothing special about it. But if only you knew what was hidden underneath: a pull-out section that instantly turns it into a fully functional bed, plus storage space for bedding, pets’ toys and anything you don’t want your guests to see when they come over.

History and slipcoverability

Launched in 2015, the Friheten is easily one of the longest-standing IKEA sofa series as it’s still very popular and sold in IKEA worldwide. It doesn’t come in many colours, only in blue, black and shades of grey. We usually can’t slipcover upholstered sofas, but we’ve managed to make one for the Friheten after bettering it again and again. So, if you’d like to purchase the Friheten but want a different look on it, we’ve got you.

Unlocking possibilities for your Friheten

Function and practicality

Although it is a sofa bed, its main function isn’t as a bed for sleeping. In fact, the Friheten sofa bed is usually just a temporary bed for guests when they crash or when the heater or air-conditioning system in the room is broken. Emiko, who looks after our Japanese market, says it’s great for her kids to have movie nights on Fridays. Naomi, who manages our marketplace, says when her relatives come over, the pull-out sofa bed works as a huge seating area for them to gather and chat with drinks in their hands, happily. :)

Technical information

The Friheten comes in 2 models. Although both open up to become sofa beds, there are some differences between them. The 3-seater sleeper sofa without the chaise is less wide (225cm), but when it opens up as a bed, its seats are deeper than the one with the chaise (144cm) and there is no barrier on both sides of the bed.

IKEA Friheten sofa bed measurements — *Image: IKEA Friheten sofa bed (without chaise)*

On the other hand, the Friheten sofa bed with chaise is wider (230cm) but when it opens up, the depth is only 140cm and there’s a barrier on one side (back of the sofa). However, with this model, you’d still get a bed length of 204cm, minus one of the armrests as it is the same level as the seat cushion.

IKEA Friheten sofa bed with chaise measurements — *Image: IKEA Friheten sofa bed with chaise*

Assembly and disassembly

Our colleagues who own Friheten sofa beds mentioned that although the assembly and disassembly does take a while, it’s pretty doable especially when you’ve got two pairs of hands. It’s still a little bit of work, but in the end it’s still an alright kind of task. It wouldn’t make you go crazy.

How good is it to sleep on?

Naomi has back problems so she likes that the seat cushion is firm. Even though some people recommend using a mattress topper, she doesn’t require one for a few nights a week on the Friheten sofa bed. Emiko only uses it as a spare bed when her A/C has malfunctioned and she finds the sleeping experience alright.

Durability

Having had them for 2 years and almost 4 years respectively, both Naomi and Emiko have found the Friheten pretty durable. Except for some areas with very high traffic (especially during lockdown), the sofa bed is still pretty firm.

As it happens a lot, the back cushions of the Friheten tend to go out of shape and saggy due to frequent use. Naomi fluffs up and reverses the cushions once a week so it retains its original form. Due to the longer use of Emiko’s, hers seemed to have gone out of shape with very obvious “I’m squashed” signs at the bottom part of the cushions.

Although the original cushion covers can be removed, there is an obvious distinction between the front and back, so you can’t reverse the cushions. But, AH-HA! With the Comfort Works sofa slipcover that includes cushion covers, the front and back side of the cushion covers are the same, so you can reverse it anytime, easily.

Take a look at some of our Friheten slipcovers:

IKEA-Friheten-Sofa-Classic-Velvet-Slipcovers-Storm-Comfort-Works — *Image credit: Comfort Works*

Dog sleeping on IKEA Friheten sofa bed in gold slipcovers — *Image credit: Comfort Works customer*

Cat on cream-coloured IKEA Friheten sofa bed — *Image credit: Comfort Works customer*

Our fabric options aren’t just limited to these, visit our website to see more.

Visit our website

In what ways can it be hacked?

If you’re planning to get the Friheten with the chaise, then you are in for some modification because you can assemble it on the left or on the right. It’s fun to change the sides of the chaise once in a while, and together with our customisable slipcovers, a mini sofa transformation is simple.

Did you know though, the old Friheten slipcovers that we made required the users to disassemble the sofa and reassemble it – and it was such a hassle! Not to mention that the slipcover had some issues here and there which made assembling the Friheten harder. Good news is, our new Friheten slipcovers now require NO disassembly, and the frame cover is made of only ONE huge piece that allows you to slip it on in one go! The only thing that you need to care about when purchasing the slipcover is to know which side your chaise is on, that’s because the main frame cover can only fit the chaise one way.

Price

With a selling price that starts from USD649 and tops at USD899, I think the Friheten is quite affordable for a sofa that’s so well balanced in terms of function, design, practicality and comfort.

Verdict

When I popped the question, “Would you buy the Friheten again?”, both Naomi and Emiko said that they would. “My Friheten is impeccable” is what Naomi notes. It’s because it does its job well with such an affordable price. Being a sofa and a firm bed that’s worth every penny, it’s very hard not to like the Friheten.

Verdict: 8/10

If you have very young, jumpy kids though, the Friheten’s seat cushions might not be the most suitable sofa for your family. Take a look at the Finnala review or the Holmsund review instead.

Ratings:
Comfort: 7.5/10
Design/Aesthetics: 7/10
Price: $$ (out of 5)

Assembly guide

Download the guide below for assembly instructions:
IKEA Friheten sofa bed assembly guide

Find your Friheten slipcover

5 best IKEA 3-seater sofas

Posted on June 1, 2022April 28, 2025 by Kay

You don’t need a 2-seater, but a 3-seater for your home. We know, sometimes the 2-seater just isn’t big enough, whether you’re living alone, with a partner or have a tiny family of 3. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the 5 best IKEA 3-seater sofas that are currently available in the market.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.Uppland
2.Friheten
3.Finnala
4.Harlanda
5.Färlov

1. Uppland

IKEA Uppland sofa blekinge white — *Image: IKEA Uppland*

The Uppland has seats that run deep – 58cm (22⅞ inches) and a height that’s 47cm (18½ inches). The length of the sofa is 224cm (88¼ inches).

The Uppland’s seat cushions are made of pocket springs, high resilience foam and polyester fibres, so it’s easy to bounce off the cushion when you need to get up and get going. According to IKEA, the cushions are able to retain their shape year after year thanks to the combination of polyester fibres and cut foam.

Read the full Uppland sofa review.

2. Friheten

IKEA Friheten sleeper sofa Skiftebo grey — *Image: IKEA Friheten*

The Friheten is not exactly identified as a 3-seater, but it seats 3 people and it’s too good to not be listed here. The Friheten is a sleeper sofa, so apart from sitting and lounging on it as a sofa, it could be turned into a bed for your overnight guest too.

Considering that this is a sleeper sofa, it surely comes with a length that’s longer than the Ektorp at 225cm (88⅝ inches). It also offers pretty deep seating that’s 61cm (24 inches).

Read our IKEA Friheten sofa bed review.

Even though the Friheten is upholstered, we are able to make machine-washable slipcovers for it. Take a look at the slipcover styles for the Friheten.

3. Finnala

IKEA Finnala 3-seater sofa Gunnared beige — *Image: IKEA Finnala*

Seen as the successor to the Vimle (which has been discontinued in the US and Canada), the Finnala is similar to the Vimle in so many ways. Apart from a few parts that have increased length, the Finnala is pretty much similar to the Vimle.

The 55cm-deep seat cushions are firm and offer a lot of space for you to sit comfortably. That’s also because of the pocket springs in the seat cushions and wadding on the uppermost layer that keeps it springy.

Read the full Finnala sofa review.

However, with only 6 colour options, you might want to consider getting a naked sofa and slipcover it with customisable sofa covers instead.

4. Harlanda

IKEA Harlanda sofa Ljungen light red — *Image: IKEA Harlanda*

The Harlanda 3-seater is by far the widest among other sofas on this list, standing at 249cm (98 inches). The seat height is also comparatively higher than the others, which is 49cm (19¼ inches). If you’re tall, the Harlanda 3-seater would be a great fit in your home.

The back cushions are removable, giving you the freedom to arrange them as you like. Its seat cushions are plush, and based on how wide it is, nap times on the Harlanda are awesome!

5. Färlov

One look and you know the Färlov is a stylish one. Although the small pillows look a little extra, but they also add a touch of fanciness together with the sloped arms. Plus, we’ll never complain about getting too many pillows.

The Färlov comes in 4 slipcover options, but it seems to look better in lighter colours such as the white one by IKEA. Don’t let the colour options stop you from picking this sofa. We’ve got so many fabric colours and styles that you can choose from. You can either purchase a naked sofa and use our slipcovers, or just buy it in white and get an extra set of beautiful slipcovers from Comfort Works.

Read the full Färlov sofa review.

There’s always a sofa out there for every home, whether it’s a loveseat, 3-seater or chaise lounge. Find the best sofa for you with the help of our comprehensive guides and let us know if you found something you like.

Go to sofa guide

5 best IKEA sofas under $1000

Posted on June 1, 2022April 28, 2025 by Kay

You’re looking for a new sofa, and you’ve got some money to spend – but not that much. Budgeting is so important, especially when you’re shopping for highly priced items for your home. Enter IKEA, one of the easiest places to shop when you’re on a specific budget.

If you want to make your $1000 stretch as far as possible, we’ve lined up the best IKEA sofas that fit the bill. These sofas are stylish, comfortable and versatile – because if/when your home and decor may change over the years, your sofa can adapt with it.

So, if you’re all about the best IKEA sofas under $1000 (at the time of writing), let’s get down to business.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.Friheten
2.Uppland
3.Finnala
4.Söderhamn
5.Smedstorp

1. Friheten

IKEA Friheten sleeper sofa in vegan leather slipcovers in living room — *Image: IKEA Friheten sofa in Savannah Saddle slipcover*

There are a few models in the Friheten range, but they are all sleeper sofas. And getting a sofa that doubles as a bed for under $1000? That’s bang for your buck!

The smallest Friheten sleeper sofa is a 3-seater that’s well-structured, modern-looking and handsome enough to sit in all kinds of living rooms. If you opt for the 3-seat sleeper sectional with storage, the lack of one armrest could present asymmetry, but it is better for sleeping as the user wouldn’t feel as confined as the normal 3-seater with armrests on the both top and bottom ends of the bed.

The most basic Friheten sleeper sofa costs about $649 (Skiftebo Blue only), and the model with the highest price is the Friheten Sleeper Sectional with Storage in Bomstad Black ($899). Every other model and fabric option is within the range of $649 to $899.

Read the full IKEA Friheten sofa review.

Overall, the Friheten is a really nice sofa bed, whether you’re sitting or sleeping on it. Even though it’s upholstered, you can count on us to provide customised, washable slipcovers for the Friheten in more than 70 fabric styles.

2. Uppland

IKEA Uppland loveseat couch in Totebo dark turquoise — *Image: IKEA Uppland couch*

The Uppland looks like an improved version of the Ektorp, but with deeper seating. Its round arms and structure sort of takes you back to a time where you spent your childhood at your grandparents’.

The Uppland loveseat, 3-seater and 3-seater with chaise all fall below $1000. Even the 3-seater chaise in the most pricey fabric (Hallarp Grey and Hallarp Beige) will cost you only $999 (close call).

Firm enough to sit on, yet soft enough to lounge on, the Uppland is a classic sofa that everyone needs in their home.

Read the full Uppland couch review.

The Uppland comes in 7 different fabrics designs. If none of them seem interesting to you, just get a naked sofa from IKEA!

3. Finnala

IKEA Finnala couch in Tallmyra beige — *Image:* *IKEA Finnala* couch

Looking very much similar to the Vimle, the Finnala has a simple yet elegant design that could fit into almost any type of home interior.

As much as we like the Finnala, the only models that make the cut for the $1000 budget are the 2-seater and 3-seater. We still decided to include the Finnala in this list because it’s just so comfortable!

Its pocket spring seat cushions are firm and tad springy – just the right balance. The Finnala is really flexible as its sections can be combined in many ways to increase the size or change the shape. It’s Something to think about for the future for if/when your family grows or your home expands.

Read the full Finnala couch review.

4. Söderhamn

IKEA Soderhamn slipcovered sofa in living room — *Image: IKEA Soderhamn* *couch*

The Söderhamn sure has an appearance that looks more premium than its price. With exposed steel legs and a modern-looking structure, a Söderhamn certainly makes your living room look instantly sophisticated.

The models that made it onto the “5 best IKEA sofas under $1000” list are the 2-seater, 3-seater corner, and only 2 colours of the 4-seat sectionals: Samsta Dark Grey and Samsta Orange (both priced at $949 at the time of writing).

Expect soft seat cushions that you can sink into if you decide to purchase the Söderhamn. The seat height is also relatively low at 39cm (15⅜ inches). It’s a sofa that you don’t expect to be leaving any time soon once you’ve lowered yourself in.

Read the full Söderhamn couch review.

5. Smedstorp

IKEA Smedstorp couch Djuparp Dark Grey/Black — *Image: IKEA Smedstorp couch*

If you’re into retro designs or retro sofas specifically, look no further than the IKEA Smedstorp. Besides looking like it came from a cool time in the past, the Smedstorp also offers great comfort with the high resilient foam in its seat cushions. The cushions also quickly regain their shapes after you leave the seat.

Considering only its 2-seater and 3-seater ranges, the Smedstorp is priced from $749 to $899 depending on the type of upholstery and legs that you decide on.

We hope this article will help you in your next purchase of the best budget IKEA sofa. Good luck with budgeting and let us know how it goes!

Month: June 2022

IKEA Äpplaryd review – a sofa to re-lie on

How does it feel?

How does it look?

Cost

Slipcoverability

How hackable is it?

Verdict

Assembly guide

IKEA Friheten review – IKEA’s most popular sofa bed

First impression

History and slipcoverability

Function and practicality

Technical information

Assembly and disassembly

How good is it to sleep on?

Durability

In what ways can it be hacked?

Price

Verdict

Assembly guide

5 best IKEA 3-seater sofas

1. Uppland

2. Friheten

3. Finnala

4. Harlanda

5. Färlov

5 best IKEA sofas under $1000

1. Friheten

2. Uppland

3. Finnala

4. Söderhamn

5. Smedstorp

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