Having a couch up against the wall is a common furniture arrangement, but it can lead to the couch repeatedly bumping into the wall when people sit down or get up. This can damage both the couch and the wall over time. Luckily, there are some simple solutions to prevent a couch from hitting the wall behind it.
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Couch Stoppers
One of the most straightforward options is to use couch stoppers, which are small plastic or rubber pads that attach to the back legs of the couch. Couch stoppers come in a variety of sizes and can be adjusted to leave just the right amount of space between the couch and the wall. They gently stop the couch’s backward movement before it can make contact with the wall. Couch stoppers are inexpensive, easy to install, and can be found at most hardware stores and online retailers. Make sure to get couch stoppers that are the appropriate size and shape for your couch’s legs.
Pros of Couch Stoppers
- Inexpensive – Typically $5-$20 for a set
- Easy to install – Just stick/screw them onto the couch legs
- Customizable space – Can adjust how far from the wall the couch sits
- Low profile – Don’t stick out very far from the couch
- Reusable – Can be removed and used again if moving furniture
Cons of Couch Stoppers
- Only work when furniture is in place – Must be reinstalled if couch is moved
- Some assembly required – Though simple, stoppers need to be attached to each leg
- Visibility – Stoppers are visible underneath the couch
Felt Pads
Another option is to use adhesive-backed felt pads, usually round or square shaped, to protect both the couch and wall from bumps and scrapes. The soft felt helps cushion any impact against the wall while also preventing the couch’s finish from being scratched. Felt pads are very inexpensive and can be trimmed to size as needed. Place the pads in the spots that tend to make contact with the wall.
Pros of Felt Pads
- Extremely inexpensive – Usually less than $5 for a pack
- Very easy to install – Just peel and stick on
- Protects both wall and couch from damage
- Low profile and barely visible
- Cushions impact against wall
Cons of Felt Pads
- Need to be replaced occasionally as felt wears down
- Doesn’t prevent couch from touching wall, just buffers contact
- Works best on smooth wall surfaces
- Not reusable – adhesive loses stickiness when removed
Foam Bumpers
Foam bumpers are sturdier than felt pads and provide more cushioning between the couch and wall. Bumpers made from high-density foam can absorb impacts well while resisting flattening over time. They are available in various widths, lengths, and thicknesses to accommodate different furniture sizes and gap needs. Wider foam bumpers can be used to completely prevent couch contact with the wall. Foam bumpers have adhesive backing for straightforward installation wherever protection is needed.
Pros of Foam Bumpers
- Provide substantial cushioning between couch and wall
- High density foam holds shape well over time
- Adhesive backing for easy installation
- Can completely prevent couch contact with wall
- Range of sizes for custom positioning
Cons of Foam Bumpers
- More expensive than basic felt pads
- Adhesive loses strength when removed and reattached
- Can peel paint off walls when removing
- Dense foam provides firm (not soft) cushion
Wall Coverings
For a more decorative solution, consider covering the wall behind the couch with a protective material like wallpaper, vinyl, laminate, or paneling. This will prevent drywall damage while also letting you customize the wall’s appearance. Self-adhesive wallpaper or vinyl is the easiest to install – just peel and stick. Pre-cut wall panels can provide a modern, clean look and install directly on top of existing drywall. Any wall covering should be smooth and durable enough to withstand repeated couch impacts.
Pros of Wall Coverings
- Protects wall while decorating
- Easy installation with adhesive wallpaper or panels
- Choice of materials and decorative styles
- Conceals wall flaws or damages
- Durable long-term protection
Cons of Wall Coverings
- More expensive than basic pads and stoppers
- Some materials require professional installation
- Need to repaint or patch underneath if/when removed
- Not easily adjustable like stoppers
Cushions
For a quick and customizable solution, place some cushy pillows or cushions behind your couch. You can make your own pillows and decorate them to match your space. Layering two or three substantial pillows behind the couch will act as soft buffers to prevent hard bumps against the wall. Make sure to frequently fluff and rearrange the pillows to maintain their cushioning. Cushions made from dense foam will retain their shape and cushioning ability longest.
Pros of Cushions
- Inexpensive cushioning option
- Custom look and size
- Makes use of extra throw pillows
- Can be layered for desired thickness
- Easy to install and remove
Cons of Cushions
- Prone to flattening and compression over time
- Can shift out of place easily
- Not secured in place like other buffer options
- Need occasional fluffing and replacement
Comparison Table
Here is a helpful comparison table summarizing some key factors when choosing an option to prevent your couch from hitting the wall:
| Option | Cost | Installation | Customization | Aesthetic | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Couch Stoppers | $-$$ | Easy | Adjustable | Visible | Very Effective |
| Felt Pads | $ | Very Easy | Some | Barely Visible | Moderately Effective |
| Foam Bumpers | $$ | Easy | Some | Visible | Very Effective |
| Wall Coverings | $$-$$$ | Easy to Difficult | Many Options | Decorative | Very Effective |
| Cushions | $ | Very Easy | Many Options | Decorative | Moderately Effective |
Installation Tips
Here are some useful tips for installing whichever solution you choose:
- Measure the gap – Check the current distance between the couch and wall to know what size stoppers or pads to get.
- Level the couch – Adjust legs as needed to ensure the couch sits evenly and doesn’t lean back.
- Clean surfaces – Remove any dirt or dust from the couch legs, wall, and floor before installing stoppers or pads.
- Use firm pressure – When attaching adhesive pads or stoppers, press very firmly for 30 seconds to ensure a solid bond.
- Test for movement – Push the couch gently back against the stoppers or pads to confirm they prevent excess movement.
Conclusion
Having a couch bumping repeatedly against the wall behind it is an annoying and potentially damaging issue. Luckily there are several effective and affordable solutions. Couch stoppers provide customizable and reusable protection, while felt pads softly buffer any contact. Foam bumpers are dense and durable options for substantial cushioning. For a decorative look, wall coverings can protect the wall while also enhancing appearance. With cushy pillows or cushions, you can quickly create a soft barrier. Consider the pros and cons of each method along with your specific needs and budget to choose the best fix for keeping your couch from hitting the wall.