Will your IKEA buys go the distance? Experts reveal their favorite surprisingly durable finds
Key Points:
- Vintage IKEA furniture from the 1970s and 1980s is increasingly popular among new generations of shoppers, with some pieces fetching thousands of dollars despite IKEA’s affordable reputation.
- Storage and organization products, such as the Billy Bookcase and Kallax series, are highly recommended for durability and practicality, often lasting many years with minimal wear.
- Solid wood and high-quality plywood IKEA furniture tend to be more durable than particleboard, especially when constructed with strong joinery methods like dowels or mortise and tenon.
- Smaller housewares, including cookware, glassware, durable duvet covers, picture frames with Plexiglass, and lamps made of sturdy materials, are considered reliable long-term purchases.
- Upholstered furniture quality varies; pieces with removable slipcovers and strong warranties, like those in the Stockholm line, offer better longevity, while foam cushions may wear out faster.