14 Dos and Don'ts of Buying Second-Hand Furniture
Buying second-hand furniture is a great way of finding unique and affordable pieces in a more sustainable way (for the planet and your bank account). Whether you’re a budding up-cycler or a vintage collector, it’s best to make sure you’re getting a gem and not a dud. To help you out, follow these essential dos and don’ts to ensure you find your perfect piece.
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Do
Do check thoroughly for damage: This is a very important step. Check every angle, every drawer, inside and out for scratches, scuffs, holes, loose joints, water rings, and signs of infestation. If you're buying online, don't hold back on asking for more pictures of the item, and don't be shy to give it a full once-over when you're with it in person.
Do measure, measure, measure: There’s nothing more disheartening than falling in love with a piece of furniture, dreaming of how it’ll look in your space, only to find it doesn’t fit. Measure the furniture itself (or ask for measurements if you’re buying online), measure the space it’s going into, and any hallways and stairwells you may need to pass through with it.
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Do try before you buy: If you’re buying sofas, armchairs, dining chairs, take a seat and test them out before you buy them. No one wants an uncomfortable sofa. For any case goods (drawers, TV units, wardrobes), open and close drawers, extend tables, open cupboards to check to see if everything runs smoothly.
Do ask questions: Don’t be shy. Ask the seller about the item’s history, why they’re selling it, if it’s from a pet-free or smoke-free home, and if there’s any issues with it that you should be aware of.
Do consider its potential: Look past minor cosmetic flaws and easy fixes. If the piece has good bones, a lick of paint, new hardware, or updated upholstery can transform a once dated piece into something beautiful and unique.
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Do factor in transportation: Transporting second-hand furniture can often come at an extra cost (and effort). Will you need to rent or borrow a friend’s van? Hire a courier? Is it small enough and close enough to pick up in person? It’s important to factor the potential cost and effort into your decision.
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Do negotiate (politely): Second-hand furniture sellers are usually open to negotiations, especially if you’re paying cash and can pick it up quickly. If you have the capacity and think it’s worth it, make an offer just under the asking price but remember to be respectful if they decline.
Don’t
Don't buy upholstered items without seeing them: Odours like pet smells, smoke, and damp can be difficult, if not impossible, to remove. Upholstery can also trap dust and pet hair which can trigger allergies. Always check upholstered items meticulously and in person for stains, tears, and damp.
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Don’t ignore your gut feeling: Always trust your gut. If something feels off about the sale, it’s best to walk away. There’ll always be other pieces.
Don’t assume it’s a bargain just because it’s used: Though second-hand furniture is generally cheaper, some sellers will over-price items. Do a quick online search for similar items to check the market price, ask for more photos to study the condition of the pieces, and ask for the piece’s history for a more informed price evaluation.
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Don’t rush your decision: Take the time to examine your purchase properly. If you feel pressured by the seller (some can be quite pushy), step back and re-evaluate. A hasty decision can lead to buyer’s remorse and finding problems with your piece after the deal is done.
Don’t forget about extra costs: Transport, repairs, new hardware, upholstery, and general maintenance can all add up beyond the buying price. Consider what you want to do with your furniture before you buy it and if you’re willing to pay the extra costs to reach your furniture goal.
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Don’t buy anything with active pests: Sounds like a given, but it takes a good, thorough inspection to make sure your furniture is pest-free. If you see any signs of woodworm, termites, carpet moths, or bed bugs (holes, shavings, dark spots on upholstery), step back from buying it as you could risk infesting your own home.
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Don’t overlook safety concerns: For items like cots, high chairs, wardrobes, and other large case goods, ensure they’re up to today’s safety standards. Sharp edges, lead paint (on antique pieces), and furniture without a wall-lock system can pose a risk to yourself, children, and pets.
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There it is — your essential guide to second-hand furniture buying. By keeping these tips in mind, a keen eye, and a little bit of patience, you’ll be well equipped to find unique, sustainable, and stylish additions to your home without breaking the bank. Happy hunting.
