How to Get a Huge Couch Upstairs

Enlist help. You could risk injury to yourself if you try to move a huge couch upstairs alone. Consider your options carefully; you can hire someone for day labor in the classified section of the newspaper, hire a professional mover, or call friends with big muscles. Choose according to how much you're willing to pay for the service. Describe the size of the couch and the nature of the move to whoever you call for assistance; make sure your help arrives mentally prepared for the task at hand.

Remove the cushions. Although they look light, cushions can considerably increase the weight of a heavy couch. Also remove any blankets, quilts or covers used to decorate the couch; you don't want any of these items sliding off the couch during the move. They could interfere with your dexterity by falling on your hands, or put you at risk for slipping and falling.

Wear heavy shoes. In case you or the person helping you drops the couch during the move, make sure your toes are protected.

Study the route ahead of time. Look at the walls and stairs where the couch will be moved. Notice any nails, splinters of wood, wet or chipped paint, or anything that could possibly damage the couch. Know what to avoid. Also plan ahead to keep yourself from being pinned in any corners while maneuvering. Remove any obstructions from the moving path.

Lift with your legs, not your back. Lifting the couch incorrectly can cause severe strain, pain and possibly long lasting injury. Hold the couch close to your body at all times. Discuss your moves with the person moving the couch with you; for example, "I'm moving the couch to your left," or "I'm setting the couch down." Act as a team.