If you’re passionate about interior design and keeping your home an indoor haven, then you’ll know that the details matter when it comes to your furnishing.
Even small details that many may overlook or not even be able to see can make a big difference. In this case, we’re talking about castors, furniture legs, and floor protectors.
Often these vital parts of upholstery can go unnoticed, usually because they’re hidden underneath your sofa. And let’s face it – unless you’ve dropped something or your cats/hamster/tortoise is hiding - whoever looks there?
The choice of these underrated bits of furniture can enhance both the look and functionality of your furniture, adding to the room’s overall aesthetic.
So to help you choose what’s best for you, let’s explore some of the different types of castors, as well as sofa legs and floor protection options at your disposal.
Types of Castors and Their Usage
Castors are essentially furniture legs with small wheels attached at the bottom. They usually resemble shopping trolleys, office chairs or suitcase-like wheels but come in many different designs - much nicer than a shopping trolley!
You may be interested in attaching castors if you want to be able to move around certain pieces of furniture easily.
It could be for your sofa, a table, a chest of drawers, even a bed or cot. If it makes sense, it can be done with the power of some upholstery work.
Each type of castor is suitable for different uses and furniture styles, so let’s take a look at some of the most common types…
Brass Castors
Brass castors are elegant in design, so if you’re going for a vintage look or are giving some reupholstering love to an antique piece of furniture, these are a very suitable choice and won’t look out of place.
Perfect for Victorian style furniture, brass castors are often used on wooden chairs and tables, as well as the (usually vintage style) sofas mentioned.
Rubber Castors
Rubber castors are a great choice for use in a room (or sometimes outdoor areas) with hard floors, such as wood or laminate, concrete or tile. This is because they’ll prevent scratches to both the floor and the wheel, providing more durability.
Rubber castors also provide smooth movement and are used in modern and contemporary settings – such as on office chairs or lightweight furniture. They offer a sleek appearance.
Steel Castors
For even more durability, steel castors are used on heavy furniture and for industrial use. They are able to handle heavy weights whilst still remaining mobile.
Though steel castors are more practical than attractive, they are highly functional and will fit in various modern or industrial aesthetics.
Polyurethane Castors
These castors are perfect if you require balance and versatility. Soft yet durable, they are suitable for a variety of surfaces, including both carpets and hard floors.
Their versatility also extends to their aesthetic, as they may be able to complement both modern and traditional furniture designs. There are a range of colours to choose from.
Furniture Legs
Don’t need wheels? Here’s a few different types of furniture legs to consider:
Wooden Legs
A very common choice for sofas, chairs, and tables due to their versatility in fitting with various aesthetics such as traditional, modern, rustic and farmhouse styles. Wooden legs offer strength and natural beauty. Great for living rooms and dining areas.
Wooden legs can be simple or designed/carved with decorative elements.
Metal Legs
Just like steel castors, metal legs are the go to option if you need more durability. They are used in both modern and industrial applications and are great for those who prefer a sleek, minimalist design – though decorative options are also available.
Tapered Legs
Narrower at the bottom, these are a popular design for both modern and retro looks. Available in both wood and metal versions.
Cabriole Legs
These legs are characterised by their curved shape and are often found on antique French style furniture. A great choice for antique lovers and those who like to keep things looking as sophisticated as possible.
Items for Protecting Your Floor
You’ve got the legs but now you may want to prevent damage to your floors, which can be caused by occasionally moving your furniture. There are several options for floor protection, which will be placed on the bottom of your sofa legs/castors.
Here are some floor protectors you may want to consider:
Felt pads – reduce noise and scratches on harder floors, works well with any furniture style, modern or antique
Rubber caps – also blend with any décor often used on chairs and tables to create a non-slip effect, ideal for tile floor, etc.
Plastic glides – makes it easy to move furniture across carpeted floors
Metal caps – durable and often used with metal legs, good for hard surfaces like concrete and goes with modern décor or industrial uses
Final Thoughts
Now you have all the information you need to give the underside of your furniture some love and support whilst also protecting your precious flooring. Whatever you need, there’s a perfect solution out there.
