How To Spot The IKEA Products That Aren't Worth Buying

IKEA is a great option for furniture if you are on the hunt for affordable pieces you can use to decorate your home on a budget. However, if you shop there frequently, you know some of the items are not the highest quality. Given the budget-friendly price point of much of the retailer's products, this likely doesn't come as a surprise for most IKEA shoppers, but that doesn't mean it isn't still quite the inconvenience. Thankfully, it's pretty easy to spot the IKEA products that aren't worth buying. If you come across features like thin particleboard, thin paint, or thin padding, it's probably a good idea to steer clear of those products. You may also want to avoid faux materials that are known to not last as long as the real thing. 

Consider the design and structure of the item you're interested in as well. If it's an outdoor item, evaluate if it was actually properly manufactured to withstand the elements. Things like exposed bolts on outdoor pieces should be avoided. A furniture piece's joints can also tell you a lot about the quality of the item, so be sure to evaluate those as well. The next time you browse IKEA aisles, keep these tips in mind to ensure you're making the right choices. 

It's a smart idea to shop at IKEA in person rather than online if you want to get a more accurate feel for the quality of the products. To determine whether an IKEA item is actually worth buying, start out by testing its sturdiness. You can do this by giving it a gentle push to see whether it wobbles or remains firmly in place. For seating, try it out in the store to see how it holds up when you sit down on it. If you notice creaking or wobbling, it's worth questioning whether that item is a smart investment.

Next, evaluate the material it is made out of. Take a look at the product's label to find this information. Many of IKEA's items are made of particleboard or other low-cost materials like medium-density fiberboard. Keep in mind that these materials are not as reliable as pricier options. Particleboard, for example, does not last as long as wood and is not as durable. Consider sticking to real wood and other more reliable materials. These IKEA home decor essentials are typically worth the price.

Finally, if you are evaluating a furniture piece from IKEA, it's also a good idea to check the joints that hold the material together. Items held together with staples, nails, or wood glue typically won't hold together well or last long. Alternatively, reinforced corner blocks, dowels, and screws indicate that the joints should be sturdier. Don't forget to avoid thin paint and padding, too — these pieces could easily chip or quickly become uncomfortable with use.