How to Create a Heated Sofa

As sofas are one of the most frequently occupied places in a home, after the beds, it makes sense for a sofa to be customized for absolute comfort. Some fabrics, particularly leather, can retain a coolness that is desirable in the summer but can chill occupants during the winter. To combat this and create the most comfortable relaxation space, it is possible to install permanent heating pads in the sofa in a way that will provide convenient warmth.

Man on his sofa listening to music with a smartphone
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How to Create a Heated Sofa

Step 1

Gain access to the interior of the couch seat and backrest by removing the fabric from the base of the couch. Pull out the staples that hold the fabric in place or simply cut the fabric discreetly with a utility knife in a location that can easily be stapled back into place. Pull up the fabric until you have just slight access to the seat and the backrest.

Step 2

Slide electric heating pads into position throughout the seat of the couch and the backrest. Position them so that they are not directly under the exterior fabric but are sandwiched by at least 1 inch of cushioning. If this method of installation is not possible, set the pads on top of the seat and backrest then spread a 1-inch-thick layer of foam on top of them.

Step 3

Secure the pads to the seat and backrest by wrapping thin cord, rope or bungee cords around them and then around a section of the couch frame. Secure the attachment with tight knots. Connect extension cords, if necessary, to the pad cords, turn on the pads then run the cords out of the couch and connect them to a power strip.

Step 4

Reattach the couch fabric with staples driven into the fabric and the wood frame at discreet locations.

Nat Fondell
