It's been over two years since we purchased our IKEA Farlov sofa and chairs, and I can't believe how these pieces have transformed our living space. Along the way, I've received many questions about these furniture items, from the fabric quality to washing tips and overall comfort. In this article, I'll be sharing my honest review of the Ikea Farlov collection, as well as some alternatives you can consider. So, let's dive in!
Why I Chose the Farlov Line
When it came to selecting our new living room furniture, I initially had my eye on a similar style from Pottery Barn. However, the price of the Farlov sofa quickly won me over. At just $849 compared to $2500+ for the Pottery Barn version, the Farlov offered the perfect balance of style and affordability. Its white slipcovered design effortlessly adapts to every season and pairs well with any decor.
The Farlov Discontinuation
It's important to note that the Farlov sofa, chair, loveseat, sleeper sofa, and ottoman have been discontinued, although some stores may still have them in stock. While there's no confirmation on whether the complete Farlov collection will return, IKEA has been known to reintroduce furniture collections under new names. So, keep an eye out for the possibility of the Farlov line making a comeback.
Farlov Alternatives
If you're set on a white slipcovered sofa and/or chairs, there are some great alternatives available. Here are a few options that closely resemble the Farlov style:
Farlov Sofa Alternatives:
Farlov Chair Alternatives:
Farlov Slipcovers and Replacement Options
Now, let's talk about the slipcovers that come with the Farlov sofa and chairs. The main drawback I found was the fabric of the white slipcovers. While they do contain some linen, they have a textured look and feel. However, I wouldn't describe them as scratchy. If the fabric doesn't suit your taste, you have the option to purchase replacement slipcovers in different materials from companies like Bemz and Comfort Works. This allows you to change the color or fabric when you're ready for a new look.
Washing Tips for Farlov Slipcovers
As someone who loves white slipcovered furniture, I've become well-versed in washing slipcovers. The Farlov covers are easy to remove and can be machine washed. Here's my washing routine:
- Pre-treat any stains with Oxy Clean spray.
- Wash the slipcovers on the WARM/COLD setting with high spin speed, using liquid Tide and a scoop of Oxy Clean powder to keep them bright white.
- Put the covers back on while they're slightly damp, smoothing out any wrinkles and utilizing the velcro strips for a neat finish.
- If necessary, steam the covers with a portable steamer to further eliminate wrinkles.
These washing tips have helped me maintain the pristine look of our slipcovers. However, keep in mind that the fabric composition of the Farlov covers is not the same as the smooth cotton ones offered by IKEA for their Gronlid (now Harlanda) sectional.
Comfort and Durability of the Farlov Collection
Since our new sofa and chairs were meant for everyday use in our living room, comfort was a top priority. The Farlov seat cushions initially felt firm, but over time, they've softened up without losing their shape. The depth of the seats and accommodating size make them perfect for lounging and relaxing. After 15 months of regular use, I can confidently say that these pieces have held up extremely well.
Assembling the Ikea Farlov Sofa and Chairs
Building the Farlov sofa and chairs is relatively straightforward, although it does require some time and effort. The cushions arrive vacuum-packed, so it's best to let them expand for about 24 hours before fitting them into the covers. The furniture pieces come in multiple boxes and can be quite heavy, so having an extra pair of hands during assembly is helpful.
Farlov Sofa and Chairs: Pros and Cons
To summarize my experience with the Farlov collection, here are the pros and cons:
Pros:
- The Farlov offers a high-end look at an affordable price, resembling the style of more expensive brands like Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware.
- The seat cushions remain neat and plush without requiring constant fluffing.
- IKEA provides a 10-year limited warranty and generous return policy.
- The versatility of these pieces allows you to purchase replacement slipcovers for a change of color or fabric.
- The design suits various styles, making it a great fit for modern coastal, European farmhouse, French country, boho, and transitional homes.
Cons:
- The Farlov sofa and chairs have a chunky design, best suited for larger spaces.
- The seat cushions are firm, which might not be ideal for those seeking a softer, sink-in feel.
- The slipcover fabric has a unique texture that some may find unusual.
- The Farlov line has been discontinued, making it difficult to find certain pieces.
Ikea Farlov Dupes and Alternative Options
As the Farlov line has been discontinued, you may be wondering about other options similar to its style. Here are a few alternatives that offer slipcovers and share the swoop arm design:
Farlov Sofa Alternatives:
Farlov Chair Alternatives:
Would I Choose the Ikea Farlov Sofa and Chairs Again?
In conclusion, I have no regrets about choosing the Ikea Farlov sofa and chairs for our living room. While I did experience initial buyer's remorse (which is quite common), my appreciation for these pieces has only grown over time. That being said, it's essential to consider the size of the furniture and your preference for the fabric before making a purchase. Overall, the Farlov line offers style, comfort, and affordability, and I wouldn't hesitate to buy from it again.
Final Thoughts on the Ikea Farlov Review
I'm still amazed at the quality and style of the Ikea Farlov collection, especially considering its affordable price point. If you're currently in the market for new living room furniture and considering a sofa or chair similar to the Farlov style, I hope this review has been helpful. If you have any additional questions, feel free to reach out. Thanks for taking the time to read this detailed review, and happy decorating!
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