Furniture plays a significant role in our daily lives and directly impacts both the quality of life and physical well-being. As soon as you step into a furniture store, you're surrounded by attractive pieces that catch your eye. But have you ever considered what goes into choosing the right furniture? Do you know how to evaluate it before making a purchase? Here are some expert tips to help you make an informed decision:
1. Check the Material Quality
Furniture materials vary depending on the type. For example, tables, chairs, and cabinet legs often use hardwood, which is durable and strong. However, internal structures may be made from other materials. The legs of large wardrobes should be at least 2.5 cm thick—too thick can look bulky, while too thin may bend or warp over time. Kitchen and bathroom cabinets shouldn't be made from fiberboard, as it can swell when exposed to moisture. Instead, choose plywood for better durability. When inspecting a dining table, check for signs of insect damage or warping, which could indicate poor drying. Open the drawers and doors to examine the internal structure. Use your fingernail to test for softness or decay. Also, sniff the surface—if it smells strongly of glue or causes irritation, it may contain excessive formaldehyde, which is harmful to health.
2. Ensure Stability and Levelness
Place the furniture on the floor and gently shake it. If it wobbles or only has three legs touching the ground, it may not be stable. Check the tabletop for straightness—make sure it doesn’t sag or collapse. Place a glass plate on the table top to see if it remains level. A sunken area could cause the glass to crack under pressure. Inspect the cabinet doors and drawers. The gaps should be even and not too wide. The doors should hang evenly without sagging.
3. Evaluate Structural Strength
For smaller furniture like chairs or stools, try dragging them across the floor. A crisp sound when they hit the ground suggests good quality. If the sound is dull or muffled, it may indicate weak joints. Test the stability of a table by shaking it. For sofas, sit down and move around—it should feel solid and not wobble. When shaking the frame, it should be tightly nailed and not loose. Chairs and tables with four legs should have triangular supports for added strength. When selecting a chair, run your hands over the surface to check for smoothness and comfort.
4. Examine Veneer Quality
If the furniture is veneered, whether with wood, PVC, or pre-painted paper, make sure the surface is flat and free from bubbles or peeling. Check under light to spot any imperfections. Ash veneer furniture tends to degrade faster, so it’s best used for short-term purposes. Wood veneer is generally better than cut veneer. You can tell the difference by looking at the grain pattern—cut veneer has straight, dense lines, while veneered veneer has curved, looser patterns. Particleboard veneer furniture must have proper edge banding to prevent moisture damage. Corners of veneered furniture tend to lift easily, so test them by rubbing with your fingers. If they come off, it may indicate poor adhesion.
5. Check Paint Finish
The painted parts of the furniture should be smooth and free from cracks, bubbles, or uneven textures. Corners should be sharp and clean, not rounded or chipped. The door surfaces should also be properly painted to avoid warping or discoloration. Lacquered boards are more durable and visually appealing.
6. Match Color with Interior Design
While white furniture looks elegant, it may yellow over time. Black furniture can fade or turn gray. Choose colors that will last and complement your space. Mahogany-colored furniture is less prone to discoloration. By understanding these key factors, you’ll be able to make smarter choices when buying furniture. Whether shopping online or in-store, always take the time to inspect and evaluate. With the rise of e-commerce, many people now prefer to shop for furniture from home. Clicking a few buttons and having it delivered directly to your door is convenient and cost-effective. Online prices can be up to 50–60% lower than in physical stores.
Qimu Furniture: Known for its innovative design and advanced technology, Qimu offers a luxury curved wood furniture series that has earned a national invention patent. Each piece is uniquely crafted in China, combining ergonomic principles with aesthetic appeal. The curved sections are seamless, with no welding marks or rough edges. The chairs feature a smooth, hyperbolic shape, making them ideal for high-end environments such as hotels, offices, libraries, and homes. With a strong R&D team and unique production techniques, Qimu continues to push boundaries and deliver exceptional quality. Committed to innovation and excellence, Qimu aims to create lasting value for every customer.
Hanghong Lighting (Linyi) Co., Ltd. , https://www.sdhhzm.com