Giga
The short answer
Taking off the feet and unbolting the brackets solves most narrow-door problems
Taking modular and reclining sofas apart before a move is the safest way to protect door frames and upholstery. Find the joints, take off the feet, unbolt the brackets and keep every fixing together.
- Leg removal: Unscrewing the legs gives you an extra 10–15cm of clearance.
- Modular brackets: Lift each section straight up to slide it off its bracket.
- Armrest removal: Look for hex bolts under the fabric lining on the base.
- Access override: If a solid frame will not split, a balcony hoist is the next best option.
How to Remove Sofa Armrests & Sides
A fixed-back 3-seater is a solid piece, but many modern sofas, including some Chesterfield and scatter-back designs, have removable arms. To reach the bolts, lay the sofa on its back and peel back the dust cover underneath. It is usually held with Velcro or staples.
Find the steel bolts that join each arm to the seat frame and loosen them with a socket wrench or Allen key. Taking off both arms can make the sofa up to 30cm narrower, often enough for a tight Victorian hallway or doorway.
Dismantling Tools Needed
Have these tools ready before you start:
- Socket Wrench Set: For the heavier M10 and M12 frame bolts.
- Allen Keys: Metric hex keys for modular bracket fittings.
- Staple Remover & Stapler: To open the dust cover and fix it back.
- Hardware Bags: Zip bags to keep bolts, washers and feet together.
Unjoining L-Shaped & Corner Sectionals
Corner sofas are too big to move in one piece. They are made to split into sections: chaise, corner unit and seats, joined by metal alligator clips or drop-in brackets.
To split them, hold the corner section and lift it straight up. The bracket pins slide out of their slots. Wrap each section in its own blanket. Smaller pieces are much safer to carry through lifts and stairwells.
Common Sectional Joint Designs
Knowing which bracket your sofa uses makes it much easier to split:
| Bracket Style | How to Separate | Reassembly Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Drop-in Slide Bracket | Lift one module straight up about 10cm | Align bracket pins from above and push down |
| Alligator Clip Joint | Push the modules sideways to release teeth | Push sections together until teeth lock |
Related reading: London Narrow Staircase Furniture Access Solutions and IKEA Sofa Delivery & Assembly London Guide.
Handling Solid, Non-Dismantlable Frames
If your sofa has a solid wooden frame, fixed arms and a fixed back, do not force it through a tight space. That can warp the frame or tear the leather.
Use our Sofa Hoisting service instead. We lift solid-frame sofas in through a window or balcony, from £150 to £280. If you need transport and assembly too, see our Sofa Delivery London page for prices, vans and cover.
Clear answers
Frequently asked questions
Usually not for simple jobs. Screw-on feet and modular sections are designed to come apart, so removing them should not affect the warranty. Opening the internal frame or stapled backing is different and can cause problems, so leave that to someone experienced. If you are unsure, check the warranty terms or ask the retailer first.
It depends on the sofa. A standard L-shaped corner sofa usually takes 20 to 30 minutes to split and rejoin. A sofa bed, or a sofa with bolted arms, typically takes 45 to 60 minutes. Send photos of the sofa, including underneath and the joints, so we can plan the time and bring the right tools.
