I’m not one to gush over furniture, but my Sabai sofa has me hooked. If you’re hunting for a couch that’s stylish, sustainable, and cozy without breaking the bank, this is it. Sabai’s commitment to eco-friendly materials and thoughtful design won me over, and after months of lounging, I’m convinced it’s a game-changer.
In this review, I’ll share my experience, break down the pros and not-so-good parts, offer maintenance tips, compare it to other brands, and answer your burning questions. Trust me, you’ll want a Sabai sofa in your living room by the end.
My Journey With The Sabai Essential Sofa
Picture this: I’m moving into a new apartment, and my old couch—a hand-me-down that sagged like a tired hammock—had to go. I wanted something modern, eco-conscious, and pet-friendly since my cat, Luna, thinks every piece of furniture is her personal scratching post.
After scrolling through countless options, Sabai Design caught my eye. Their Essential Sofa in Seafoam Recycled Velvet seemed like the perfect blend of style and sustainability. I ordered it during a sale for $1,408, including shipping, and waited about four weeks for delivery.
When the boxes arrived, I was nervous. Flat-pack furniture? I’m no IKEA wizard. But Sabai’s assembly process was a breeze. The sofa came in five boxes, each labeled clearly, with a screwdriver included—no cheap Allen wrench here!
I followed their online video tutorial, and in under 30 minutes, I had a sleek, green velvet beauty in my living room. The cushions felt firm yet inviting, and the low-profile design fit my small space perfectly. Luna hopped on immediately, gave it a sniff, and claimed it as her throne.
After six months, I’m still smitten. The sofa’s sturdy frame holds up to my Netflix marathons, and the velvet feels luxurious despite being made from recycled plastic bottles. I’ve spilled coffee (oops), but the washable covers saved the day.
My only gripe?
The back cushions slide down sometimes, but a quick fluff fixes it. This sofa isn’t just furniture—it’s a lifestyle upgrade that makes me feel good about my environmental footprint. Now, let’s break down why this couch is a winner and where it falls short.
The Pros of Owning A Sabai Sofa
- Sustainability That Actually Means Something
Sabai’s eco-friendly approach isn’t just marketing fluff. Their sofas use recycled velvet from plastic bottles—mine took 400 bottles out of landfills! They also use FSC-certified wood and Certipur-US foam, ensuring no toxic chemicals sneak into your home.
The plastic-free packaging was a nice touch; my delivery arrived in sturdy cardboard boxes. Plus, their Sabai Revive buyback program lets you trade in your old couch or buy secondhand, keeping furniture out of landfills.
As someone who cares about the planet, I love that my cozy evenings don’t come at Earth’s expense.
- Comfort That Hits the Sweet Spot
This sofa nails the balance between firm and plush. The high-density foam cushions support my back during work-from-home days, and the back pillows are dense enough to prop me up without feeling like I’m sinking into a beanbag.
At 5’6”, I find the seat depth (22 inches) perfect for lounging or sitting upright. My friends, including a 6’2” buddy, have raved about its comfort during game nights. It’s not a cloud-like sink-in sofa, but if you want support for your spine, Sabai delivers.
- Easy Assembly for Non-DIYers
I’m not handy, so I was dreading the assembly. Sabai made it idiot-proof. The pieces fit together like a puzzle, and the instructions (sent via email to reduce paper waste) were clear. I did it solo in 25 minutes, though having a friend would’ve made lifting the heavier parts easier.
The modular design means you can rearrange it if you move or want a new layout. For someone like me who rearranges furniture on a whim, this flexibility is a huge win.
- Pet and Kid-Friendly Fabrics
With Luna prowling around, I needed a sofa that could handle her claws. Sabai’s recycled velvet and upcycled poly fabrics are durable, with rub counts of 30,000 and 75,000, respectively. The velvet hides minor scratches, and the covers are removable and machine-washable.
I’ve washed mine twice after Luna tracked muddy paws across it, and they came out looking brand new. If you’ve got kids or pets, Sabai’s fabrics are a lifesaver.
- Repair, Don’t Replace
Sabai’s Repair Don’t Replace program is genius. Spilled wine and can’t get the stain out? New cushion covers start at $30. Dog chewed a leg? Replacement legs are $35. You can even buy expansion kits to turn your sofa into a sectional.
This extendable lifespan makes the sofa feel like a long-term investment, not a disposable piece. I haven’t needed replacements yet, but knowing I can fix instead of toss gives me peace of mind.
The Not-So-Good Parts of The Sabai Sofa
- Limited Customization Options
Sabai’s selection is sleek but limited.
You get three sofa styles (Essential, Elevate, Evergreen), a handful of fabrics (recycled velvet, upcycled poly, hemp), and eight colors.
I love my Seafoam Velvet, but if you’re craving endless patterns or leather, you’ll need to shop elsewhere.
Compared to brands like Article, which offers dozens of styles, Sabai’s lineup feels restrictive. I wish they had more bold prints or textures for those who want a statement piece.
- Low Back Height Can Be a Dealbreaker
The sofa’s low-profile design looks chic, but the backrest (29 inches high) doesn’t offer much support for taller folks. My 6’2” friend said he had to slouch to rest his head comfortably.
Even I sometimes wish for a taller back when I’m reading for hours. If you love high-back sofas for neck support, you might find Sabai’s design lacking. Their Evergreen line is slightly taller, but it’s still not ideal for those over 6 feet.
- Assembly Hiccups for Some
While I found assembly easy, I’ve read reviews where others struggled with misaligned screw holes or warped frames. My sofa went together smoothly, but one reviewer mentioned a front rail that sank after two weeks, even after replacing parts.
Sabai’s customer service was responsive, offering replacements, but it’s a hassle. If you’re not patient with potential hiccups, this could be a frustration point.
- No White-Glove Delivery
Sabai uses curbside delivery via FedEx, which means you’re hauling boxes yourself. My five boxes weren’t too heavy, but if you live in a walk-up apartment (like one reviewer in a fourth-floor unit), it’s a workout.
White-glove delivery, where pros set up the sofa, is only available for select pieces and costs $325 for the Elevate Sofa. For the price, I wish free white-glove was an option, especially for larger sectionals.
Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Sabai Sofa Looking Fresh
- Regular Fluffing Keeps It Plump: Sabai’s cushions are stuffed with recycled fiber, which can flatten over time if you don’t maintain them. I fluff my back pillows weekly by giving them a good shake and punch to redistribute the filling. For seat cushions, flip them every month to prevent uneven wear. It takes five minutes and keeps the sofa looking full and inviting. If you notice sagging, Sabai sells replacement inserts starting at $95, but regular fluffing has kept mine in great shape.
- Wash Covers with Care: The removable covers are a godsend, but treat them gently. I machine-wash my velvet covers on a cold, delicate cycle with mild detergent and air-dry them to avoid shrinkage. For poly or hemp, the same rules apply, though they’re more stain-resistant. Spot-clean spills immediately with soap and water to prevent stains from setting. I keep a spray bottle of water and dish soap handy for quick fixes when Luna makes a mess.
- Vacuum to Banish Pet Hair: If you’ve got pets, pet hair is your enemy. I vacuum my sofa biweekly using a brush attachment to lift Luna’s fur from the velvet. For deeper cleaning, I use a lint roller on tight corners. Sabai’s fabrics resist pet hair sticking, but regular vacuuming keeps it pristine. If you’re allergic to pet dander, this routine also helps keep allergens at bay.
- Protect the Frame: The FSC-certified wood frame is sturdy, but avoid dragging the sofa during moves to prevent stress on the joints. If you’re rearranging, lift it with a friend to avoid loosening screws. I check the screws every few months and tighten them with the included screwdriver to keep everything snug. This small habit extends the frame’s life and prevents wobbling.
- Store Replacement Parts Smartly: If you buy extra covers or legs, store them in a dry, cool place to avoid mildew or warping. I keep my fabric swatches in a sealed container in case I need to order matching parts later. Sabai’s Repair Don’t Replace program makes it easy to get components, but proper storage ensures they’re ready when you need them.
How Sabai Stacks Up Against the Competition?
I’ve been lounging on my Sabai Essential Sofa for months, and it’s time to see how it measures up against other popular options: the Article Ceni Sofa, Burrow Range Sofa, Room & Board Metro Sofa, and Anabei Sofa.
Each brand brings something unique, but I’ll break down how they compare in terms of design, sustainability, comfort, assembly, and price to help you decide if Sabai’s your best bet. Spoiler: my green velvet beauty holds its own, but let’s get into the details.
- Sabai Essential Sofa Vs. Article Ceni Sofa
The Article Ceni Sofa, priced around $1,199, is a mid-century dream with clean lines and bold fabric options like leather or vibrant chenille. I love its retro vibe, which feels a bit more polished than Sabai’s minimalist look.
However, Sabai’s recycled velvet, made from 400 plastic bottles, gives it a sustainability edge—Article doesn’t emphasize eco-friendly materials as much. Comfort-wise, both sofas are supportive, but Sabai’s high-density foam (1.8 pounds per cubic foot) feels firmer, ideal for long-term sitting, while Ceni’s cushions are slightly softer, better for sinking in.
Assembly?
Sabai’s flat-pack setup took me 25 minutes, while Article’s requires more effort, with some users reporting tricky leg attachments. Price-wise, Ceni’s $200 cheaper, but Sabai’s washable covers and Repair Don’t Replace program add longevity that Article lacks. If you prioritize style and a lower upfront cost, Ceni’s tempting, but Sabai wins for eco-conscious durability.
- Sabai Essential Sofa Vs. Burrow Range Sofa
Burrow’s Range 3-Piece Sofa, at $1,399, is a modular marvel like Sabai, letting you rearrange sections for new layouts. Its design is modern and plush, with softer cushions that feel like a warm hug compared to Sabai’s firmer seat.
However, Burrow’s cushions sag faster—my friend’s Range showed wear after a year, while my Sabai still looks fresh. Sustainability is where Sabai shines; its recycled fabrics and buyback program outdo Burrow’s partial use of sustainable materials.
Assembly for both is DIY-friendly, but Sabai’s included screwdriver and video tutorial made my setup smoother than Burrow’s, which some users found finicky due to connector issues. Burrow’s return policy (30 days, 15% restocking fee) is stricter than Sabai’s flexible 30-day trial with free returns on some models.
Price is close, but Sabai’s eco-credentials and durability tip the scales for me.
- Sabai Essential Sofa Vs. Room & Board Metro Sofa
Room & Board’s Metro Sofa, starting at $1,799, screams luxury with its timeless design and pre-assembled delivery—perfect if you hate DIY like I sometimes do. Its craftsmanship feels a notch above Sabai’s, with premium fabrics like wool blends that rival Sabai’s recycled velvet in elegance.
Comfort is comparable; both offer firm support, but Metro’s deeper seat (24 inches vs. Sabai’s 22 inches) suits taller folks better. Sustainability? Room & Board uses some eco-friendly fabrics, but Sabai’s FSC-certified wood, recycled materials, and Revive buyback program are more comprehensive.
Assembly isn’t a factor for Metro since it arrives ready, while Sabai’s flat-pack requires 30 minutes of your time. The price gap is significant—Metro’s $400 pricier—and Sabai’s washable covers and repair options make it a better value for budget-conscious buyers like me.
Metro’s for those who want luxury without lifting a screwdriver.
- Sabai Essential Sofa Vs. Anabei Sofa
The Anabei Sofa, around $1,500, is a lesser-known contender with a focus on customizable modular designs.
Its aesthetic is bolder, with vibrant patterns and textures that outshine Sabai’s limited eight-color palette.
I was tempted by Anabei’s funky prints, but Sabai’s sleek, neutral vibe fit my apartment better.
Comfort-wise, Anabei’s foam is less dense (1.6 pounds per cubic foot), making it softer but prone to sagging over time, unlike Sabai’s sturdy cushions.
Anabei’s sustainability efforts are minimal—no recycled fabrics or buyback programs—while Sabai’s eco-commitment is front and center.
Assembly for Anabei is similar to Sabai’s modular setup, but some reviews mention unclear instructions, whereas Sabai’s video guide was a lifesaver for me. Price is close, but Anabei’s shipping fees can push it higher, and their 14-day return window feels tight compared to Sabai’s 30 days.
If you want bold customization, Anabei’s your pick; for eco-friendly practicality, Sabai’s the winner.
Which Sofa Should You Choose?
Sabai’s Essential Sofa stands out for its sustainability, affordability, and pet-friendly features. Article’s Ceni offers style on a budget but lacks eco-cred. Burrow’s Range is cozy and modular but sags faster. Room & Board’s Metro brings luxury without assembly hassles, at a premium.
Anabei’s customization is fun but falls short on durability and green initiatives. For me, Sabai’s balance of comfort, eco-consciousness, and value—plus those washable covers for Luna’s messes—makes it my top choice. Your pick depends on whether you prioritize style, sustainability, or ready-to-use luxury.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Absolutely, Sabai is a legit brand. Founded in 2019, it’s a certified B Corp based in New York, focusing on sustainable, American-made furniture. Their sofas are crafted in High Point, North Carolina, with transparent sourcing and eco-friendly materials. Hundreds of five-star reviews on their site and third-party platforms like The Good Trade back their quality. I’ve had no issues with my purchase, and their responsive customer service sealed the deal for me.
Sabai couches are made in High Point, North Carolina, in a family-owned factory. Ninety percent of their materials, like FSC-certified wood and recycled fabrics, are sourced within 100 miles of the facility. This local production reduces their carbon footprint and supports American workers. My sofa feels like a quality piece, and knowing it’s made domestically makes me appreciate it more.
Yes, Sabai’s couch covers are removable and machine-washable. Both the recycled velvet and upcycled poly fabrics can be cleaned on a cold, delicate cycle with mild detergent. I’ve washed mine twice, and they held up perfectly. For tough stains, spot-clean with soap and water. The hemp fabric on their Evergreen line is also washable but requires extra care to avoid fading.
Sabai uses high-density Certipur-US-certified foam for their cushions, with a density of about 1.8 pounds per cubic foot for seat cushions and softer fiber fill for back cushions. This makes the seats supportive yet comfortable, while the back pillows are plush but not overly squishy. I find the density perfect for long-term sitting without sagging, though some might prefer a softer feel.
Why You Should Buy A Sabai Sofa?
After months of living with my Sabai Essential Sofa, I can say it’s worth every penny. It’s not just a couch—it’s a stylish, sustainable statement that fits my life perfectly. From its eco-friendly materials to its pet-proof fabrics and easy maintenance, Sabai delivers on comfort and conscience.
Despite minor drawbacks like limited customization, it’s a fantastic value for anyone who wants a modern, durable sofa. Head to Sabai’s website and grab one; your living room (and the planet) will thank you.