Couch Recovery Cost: What It Really Takes to Reupholster Your Sofa

When your favorite couch recovery cost, the total expense to remove old fabric and replace it with new material on a sofa. Also known as sofa reupholstering, it’s not just about looking fresh—it’s about saving a piece that still has life left in its frame and springs. Many people assume replacing a sofa is cheaper, but that’s not always true. A solid wooden frame, tight coil springs, and well-built cushions can last decades. Reupholstering gives them a second chance—and often costs less than buying a new one of similar quality.

So what drives the couch recovery cost? It’s not just the fabric. The real price comes from labor: removing old material, repairing springs or padding, re-stuffing cushions, and hand-stitching trim. A basic two-seater with simple lines might run $500–$800. A large sectional with intricate details? That can hit $1,500 or more. Fabric choice matters too. Cheap cotton blends might cost $20 a yard, but performance fabrics designed to resist stains, pets, and wear—like those used in high-traffic homes—can run $50–$100 a yard. And yes, some shops charge extra if your couch has arms, tufting, or decorative nails. It’s not magic. It’s craftsmanship.

Before you decide, check the sofa frame, the internal wooden or metal structure that supports the entire sofa. Tap it. If it creaks or feels loose, repair might be needed before reupholstering. A solid hardwood frame? Worth saving. Particleboard or plywood? Probably not. Look at the cushion filling, the material inside sofa cushions that determines comfort and longevity. If it’s still springy and holds shape, you’re good. If it’s flat, lumpy, or smells musty, you’re paying to cover bad insulation. That’s money wasted. And don’t forget the sofa reupholstering, the process of replacing fabric and padding on a sofa to restore its appearance and comfort timeline. Most shops take 2–4 weeks. If someone promises it in three days, they’re cutting corners.

Some sofas just aren’t worth it. Tiny chairs, ultra-trendy designs with weak frames, or pieces bought on sale for under $300? Save your cash. But if you’ve got a solid, timeless couch that’s seen better days—especially one with character or heritage—reupholstering makes sense. You’re not just fixing a sofa. You’re keeping something out of a landfill and investing in a piece that fits your life, not just your budget.

Below, you’ll find real advice from people who’ve been there: how to pick fabric that hides dirt, what to look for in a quality couch before it even needs work, and when it’s smarter to replace than repair. These aren’t guesses. They’re lessons learned from worn-out cushions, stained covers, and one too many DIY disasters.