According to LifeHacker, January is the best month to get the best furniture deals online or in stores. You see, furniture stores have clearance sales in January because manufacturers release new products in February. By offering the best furniture prices at this time, they’ll have store room for the new lines.
As low and attractive as the “best furniture prices” may be, it’s important to keep in mind that the real best furniture prices may not be the lowest ones. Furniture is the third most expensive investment a person can make, which means that you’ve got to shop for quality, and not just affordability.
To the inexperienced shopper, determining furniture’s quality might seem like an impossible task. Thankfully, it’s easier than you’d think. Here are a few tips to help you get the best furniture prices on quality pieces!
Construction.
The joint construction is the main determinant of quality, wooden furniture. If it’s made with nails and glue, it’s no good. Instead, find pieces that are have dowels, dovetails, or mortise-and-tenon joints. Corners should also have a reinforcing blog. The piece shouldn’t rock or wobble either, so be sure to test it.
As for upholstered furniture, check the frame and cushions, and then feel the padding. You can check the frame by trying to twist or wriggle it. These should be no excessive movement. Look for the terms “kiln-dried hardwood” and “furniture-grade plywood,” because these furniture material types denote high-quality. Check to make sure that the cushions are made of high-density foam, and that the padding isn’t lumpy.
Composition.
For wooden furniture, the best pieces are solid wood. Check for knots, which are susceptible to cracks. Pine and other kinds of wood are more knotty than others, so it’s best to avoid those. You should also avoid particleboard, fiberboard, or pressed wood.
If you stay on the lookout for these tell tale signs of quality, you’ll be sure to find the best furniture prices. If you have any questions about hunting for the best furniture prices, feel free to ask in the comments. Great references here.