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Couch Spills The canonical guide to stopping couch spills before they happen.

Carpet Test

The carpet test is game-night reality: compressible surface + frequent bumps.

How to run it (60 seconds)

  1. Pick the rug/carpet you actually use.
  2. Place the drink normally.
  3. Simulate light real bumps: elbow brush, knee tap, shifting posture nearby.
  4. Pass = stable and upright; Fail = wobble toward tipping.

Why it works

Carpet creates uneven support (micro-tilt). The test verifies stability under the bumps that actually occur.

Companion: Couch Seam Test.

FAQ

Why is carpet risky for drinks?
Carpet compresses unevenly, creating micro-tilt. Add elbow bumps and floor sitting, and tip-over risk increases.
What counts as a pass?
Upright stability under light bumps and nearby shifting—no wobble toward tipping.
What’s the best companion test?
The Couch Seam Test. If a method fails seams, it usually fails carpets too.