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How to Fix a Drooping Sofa

With normal use over time, a sofa’s cushions or framework may droop and sag. Jumping on the sofa or placing heavy weights on it can accelerate this process. Several problems may cause drooping, including a torn bottom cloth, misshapen springs, broken framing or compressed stuffing. Try to fix these problems with common household objects before calling an upholsterer.

Things You'll Need

  • Upholstery fabric
  • Seam ripper
  • Polyester filling or foam
  • Plywood sheets or seat savers
  • Staple gun
  • Staples
  • Pliers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Inspect the fabric underneath the couch. If it is torn, remove it and cover the bottom with a sheet of upholstery fabric. Staple the fabric in place using a staple gun and staples.

    • 2

      Open a small section of a cushion’s seam, using a seam ripper. Stuff the cushion with foam or flame-retardant polyester filling to replenish worn, compressed stuffing.

    • 3

      Place a plywood sheet or commercial plastic seat savers under the cushions to add firmness and prevent the couch from sagging when you sit.

    • 4

      Remove the fabric under the cushions to expose the springs. Fix straightened or compressed springs with pliers to give them a proper spiral shape. Use intact springs on less stressed areas of the couch as a model to indicate the proper spring shape.