Costco reading chair goes viral: transforms your space but comes with a catch

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• Why shoppers are flocking to the viral Thomasville oversize reading chair
• Fabric problems customers mention: why the furry corduroy draws criticism
  • What reviewers actually said
• How to care for faux-fur or corduroy upholstery
  • Preventive steps to keep the chair looking new
• Durability, sustainability, and what $699 actually gets you
• Practical buying tips: try before you commit
  • Small upgrades that improve daily use

A plush, oversized chair from Costco has taken social feeds by storm. The Thomasville Wills Fabric Oversize Chair with Storage Ottoman, listed at about $699, is winning fans for its deep seat and cozy look. At 64 inches wide it blurs the line between chair and loveseat. The piece comes with a storage ottoman and two throw pillows. But while many shoppers praise its comfort, others flag problems with the fabric that may affect long-term value.

Why shoppers are flocking to the viral Thomasville oversize reading chair

Short videos and photos of the chair made it trend. Influencers and moms posted it as a cozy reading or gaming nook. The oversized frame invites lounging. The storage ottoman adds a practical benefit for small spaces. And the included pillows help the whole set look styled out of the box.

• Comfort: Many users call it sink-in comfy, even nap-worthy.
• Scale: At about 64 inches it fits like a small loveseat.
• Value: For many buyers, the $699 price felt reasonable for the size and included ottoman.
• Delivery: Several reviewers praised fast, professional delivery and setup.

Fabric problems customers mention: why the furry corduroy draws criticism

What attracts buyers at first glance can create issues later. The chair’s plush, faux-fur corduroy surface feels luxe. But multiple reviewers raised the same concerns.

• Many call the fabric slippery, making cushions slide and users slide back when they sit upright.
• Some find the material traps heat and feels hot in warm rooms.
• Reports of fraying or seams splitting emerged after moderate use.
• Low armrests mean pillows can shift and fall off the seat.
• As a synthetic, the faux fur is mainly polyester and not biodegradable.

What reviewers actually said

Even with a high average rating, buyers split into two camps. One group called the chair a new favorite spot at home. The other returned it because the fabric changed their experience. One common complaint: the slick pile makes sitting upright awkward. Another problem: long-term wear showed signs of rubbing and pulling at seams.

How to care for faux-fur or corduroy upholstery

If you decide the look is worth it, a few simple routines can slow matting and extend the finish.

1. Brush regularly: Use a soft pet brush or upholstery brush to lift fibers.
2. Vacuum lightly: Use a brush attachment on low suction to remove dust.
3. Spot clean fast: Blot spills with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid saturating the cushion.
4. Use a fabric cleaner: An upholstery-safe cleaner will handle tougher stains.
5. Test products first: Try any cleaner on a hidden area or fabric sample.
6. Rotate and fluff: Flip and reposition pillows to reduce uneven wear.

Preventive steps to keep the chair looking new

• Request or order fabric swatches before buying.
• Consider an upholstery protector sprayed lightly on the fabric.
• Use a fitted slipcover in high-traffic rooms.
• Avoid sharp objects and pets that scratch or snag the pile.

Durability, sustainability, and what $699 actually gets you

The chair’s rating sits near 4.7 out of 5 across many listings. That number reflects many satisfied users. But ratings mask specific risks buyers should weigh.

• Durability: Cushion fill and frame seem solid for typical home use. Fabric longevity is the main concern.
• Sustainability: Faux fur is vegan but made of polyester. It looks and feels like fur but is plastic-based.
• Cost vs. trend: The plush corduroy is trendy. If you want a long-term staple, choose a less fashion-driven fabric.

Practical buying tips: try before you commit

Smart shoppers can reduce risk with a few checks before purchase.

• Order a fabric sample to judge texture and temperature.
• Measure your room and doorways to confirm fit and delivery access.
• Review the return policy and warranty details from Costco.
• Read recent user photos and comments for real-world wear patterns.
• Consider alternatives like performance woven fabrics for durability.

Small upgrades that improve daily use

• Add non-slip pads under pillows to keep them in place.
• Top with a lightweight throw to protect high-contact areas.
• Pair with hard-wearing accent pillows to reduce wear on the included cushions.