9 Surprisingly Simple Ways To Save On Big Purchases When Shopping At IKEA

Swedish retailer IKEA is known for its affordable, modern, and versatile furniture, but did you know there's a way to stretch your dollar at the store even further? It doesn't matter if you're outfitting an entire home or just your bedroom with IKEA pieces, it's worth looking into ways you can save money. The right strategies can make saving on big purchases at IKEA surprisingly simple, from signing up to the retailer's free loyalty program to buying during timed sale events on select categories. And the best part? You don't even have to be an IKEA insider to find out how to use these savings hacks.

Visiting an IKEA store can feel like navigating a two-level maze as you get rooms worth of inspiration for your dream home. Filled with stimuli, plenty of meatballs, and so much furniture, IKEA can make your mind race with all of the projects you never planned. You may have gone in just looking at your options, only to come home with a long wish list — or even the supplies for an impromptu project. From the smartly organized kitchen section to the adorable children's bedrooms, all of the details quickly add up, often leaving you with sticker shock. The good news is that there are ways to cut the cost on the things you need, whether you're buying online or in-store. Many are just a click away. Before you splurge at IKEA, try these simple actions to save you hundreds of dollars on your new large purchase.

The free-to-join IKEA Family Member loyalty program assigns you an ID number to unlock limited-edition promotions and member-only discounts. You earn a point for every dollar you spend with IKEA, plus additional points for other actions, such as in-store dining or using the IKEA kitchen planner to design your dream space. You may also save on certain shipping and delivery options through the program. IKEA offers its members 90-day price protection, refunding the difference if the price lowers within 90 days of purchase. Signing up gives you a coupon of $20 or more for your first purchase.

Experienced IKEA fans know all about finding the best deals in the IKEA As-Is section. This section features items that have minor damage, so they can't be sold as brand new. You'll find the section typically located on the first floor near the checkout — look for the signage. It's also online, which helps you browse multiple pieces at your local stores. Visiting the section is like a treasure hunt — you never know what you'll find. It could be an IKEA gas stove, an upholstered bed, or a pair of bathroom vanities, giving you the chance to save on big purchases.

When you're tired of your old IKEA furniture, you can use the retailer's Buyback and Resell Service in participating stores. You must be an IKEA Family member to use the service. By returning your pre-owned IKEA pieces to the company, you can get store credit for the items. Not every IKEA item is eligible — the offer applies to furniture such as bookcases, shelving units, tables, desks, and cabinets. After you receive a quote online, a staff member will assess your furniture's condition, and offer a refund card for an approved amount.

If you plan on making frequent IKEA purchases, it might be worth getting one of the two IKEA credit cards. Offers include rewards on everyday purchases, such as grocery stores, utilities, and dining out. You also receive 5% cashback on IKEA purchases and a $25 off coupon for your first purchase if you use it the same day you sign up. The cards offer IKEA Rewards Dollars redeemable in $15 increments for purchases over $500. Exact details can change, so check the website or in-store brochure for more information. Paying off the card before interest accrues is the best way to save money.

Envision spending a lot when you completely transform your bedroom using popular IKEA items?  Consider gift cards. Some bank and credit card reward programs offer points redeemable for IKEA and other retailer gift cards. Another option is buying gift cards with Fetch Rewards. This program uses photos of your receipts for everywhere you shop, offering you a standard set of points and, sometimes, additional points on certain items by a particular brand. It also connects to your email for online purchases. Once you reach a certain level, you can redeem points for IKEA cards.

IKEA features the Click-and-Collect option where you can pick up your online purchases at a nearby store. Using this feature can save you on the cost of home delivery, which starts at $29 for IKEA Family Members and $39 for non-members, with the exact cost varying by distance from the store. Click-and-Collect is free at IKEA and at certain Pick-Up points for large orders over $50. Considering you could use that difference to buy something else from IKEA, such as a plant stand or a comforter, these savings add up.

Do you plan on a kitchen or bathroom makeover but have a flexible timeline? Putting off your purchase until a big IKEA sale might offer significant savings. The IKEA Dream Kitchen event can help you save 10% off kitchen purchases of a certain amount, while similar sales include discounts on outdoor furniture and bedroom setups. Like most retailers, the company also offers Black Friday sales with up to 50% off on certain pieces. Pay attention to all IKEA offers so you can find the ideal purchase time.

IKEA is popular with students because of the low costs and versatile products. Students can save on dorm room essentials during the back-to-school time with a discount. If you're a part-time or full-time college or university student, you can use your verified student ID to access a coupon for your purchase from the retailer. You'll have to use an IKEA Family account, then upload your college ID or other accepted documentation. But it could be worth it to get extra savings on your back-to-school purchases.

Not all IKEA products last forever, and eventually the company phases some of its pieces out. If you're a savvy shopper who loves finding a bargain on furniture, you can check out the Last Chance to Buy items available in-store or online. Here you'll find items the brand discontinues, and like the As-Is section, it can be a treasure hunt. Offerings can include kitchen appliances, storage pieces, children's furniture, and more. Sometimes you can pick up your purchase in-store as well, offering you even more savings without expensive delivery fees.