Don’t head to this maze of a store without a plan.
This makes it all too easy to make a mistake during your visit.
These common blunders are entirely avoidable if you go to the store prepared.
Photo:Job Garcia/Getty Images
Here are seven mistakes people always make when shopping at IKEA, according to designers.
Keeping the Hardware
Interior designerKate Dawsonis a big fan of IKEA’s furniture, but the hardware?
“A simple addition of fabulous hardware completely transforms a piece of furniture.
For example, my client had an old IKEA gray dresser that was just blah.
We found pulls on Etsy and swapped them out.”
Upgrading the hardware is an easy and often affordable swap that can make a major difference.
Keep in mind that measuring your space accurately is crucial before shopping at any furniture store.
So why not prevent these problems before they start?
IKEA offers free in-store planning services to help you design these spaces beautifully and stay on budget.
you’ve got the option to even make an appointment online before you go.
Looking at Everything
The average IKEA store is approximately 300,000 square feet.
Some are even larger.
So, it’s easy for most customers to feel overwhelmed by the selection.
Before going to the store, make a plan.
Write down a list of what you better look for and keep your priorities in mind.
However, once youve found your dream sectional, give yourself permission to wander around.
You never know what gems you might find.
That said, you don’t need to do it all by yourself.
IKEA offers assembly service through Taskrabbit, which can be arranged in-store or online during the checkout process.
you might also enlist a friend to help you, which is (hopefully) free.
Not Taking a Break
One of the best things about IKEA is the cafe.
Buying furniture can mean making a lot of big decisions.
Simply take a breather, refuel, and then make a decision.
You’ll be happy you did.
