Purchasing secondhand furniture is a cost effective and sustainable way to furnish your home or office. However, selecting high-quality pieces requires attention to detail to ensure durability and value for money. This guide outlines key factors to consider when shopping for pre-owned furniture in Perth.
Welcome to eFurniture Repurposing, a leading secondhand furniture shop in Perth. We offer a carefully curated range of quality pre-loved furniture that brings character and practicality to any space.
Assessing the Condition
Stability and Structure
- Tables, Chairs & Sofas: Test the sturdiness by sitting on chairs and gently leaning on tables. Check for any wobbling or instability by lightly shaking the piece.
- Drawers & Cabinets: Open and close drawers to ensure smooth operation. Doors should sit evenly when shut without dragging.
Frame Quality
- Upholstered Furniture: Lift one corner to gauge frame rigidity. Creaking sounds may indicate wear or previous repairs.
- Materials: Opt for solid wood frames for durability. Avoid particleboard or flimsy metal constructions that may not withstand prolonged use.
Surface Check
- Scratches & Dents: Inspect surfaces from different angles to detect imperfections. Minor scratches can often be repaired with polish or a furniture marker.
- Water Marks & Burns: Look for discoloration caused by water damage. Some marks can be restored, but severe damage may require professional refinishing.
Identifying Durable Materials
Wood
- Hardwoods vs. Softwoods: Hardwoods like oak, maple, and teak offer superior durability. Softwoods like pine are more affordable but require refinishing over time.
- Veneers vs. Solid Wood: Veneers provide a cost-effective alternative to solid wood. Ensure there are no peeling edges or bubbles.
Metals
- Structural Integrity: Check for rust, flaking paint, or fatigue in metal parts.
- Outdoor Use: Ensure metal furniture is treated or coated for weather resistance to prevent rust.
Fabrics
- Durability & Maintenance: Microfiber is durable and easy to clean, while genuine leather requires conditioning but ages well over time.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Pest Infestation
- Inspection Tips: Look for small holes, sawdust, or signs of insect activity, particularly around joints and crevices where pests may hide. Bedbugs, termites, and wood borers are common culprits in secondhand furniture.
- Wood Furniture: Tap the surface near your ear—hollow sounds could indicate internal damage from termites or rot. Also, check the undersides of tables and chairs for small tunnels or powdery residue, which could be signs of infestation.
- Upholstered Items: Run a flashlight along seams and folds in fabric to check for tiny black dots (bedbug waste) or shed skins. Consider steam cleaning or treating the fabric with a specialised pest spray before bringing it into your home.
Odours
- Eliminating Smells: Strong, unpleasant odours can be difficult to remove and may indicate deeper issues like mould, mildew, or pet damage.
- Non-Fabric Furniture: Wipe surfaces with a mix of vinegar and water to neutralise odours. Placing the furniture in direct sunlight for a few hours can also help eliminate musty smells.
- Fabric Upholstery: Baking soda can help absorb odours—sprinkle it generously over the fabric, let it sit overnight, then vacuum thoroughly. For persistent smells, consider using an enzyme-based cleaner or professional steam cleaning.
- Leather Furniture: Use a mixture of mild soap and water to clean the surface, followed by a leather conditioner to restore its original scent and texture.
General Cleanliness
- Maintenance Signs: Well-maintained furniture typically lasts longer and indicates responsible previous ownership.
- Hidden Dirt: Check in crevices, under cushions, and along edges where dust and debris tend to accumulate. A build-up of grime may suggest neglect and potential structural issues.
- Mould & Mildew: Inspect the furniture for dark spots or musty smells, especially on wood or fabric pieces stored in damp conditions. Avoid items with extensive mould growth, as it can be challenging to remove and may pose health risks.
- Sanitisation Tips: Before bringing any secondhand furniture into your home, clean it thoroughly with antibacterial wipes or a mild soap solution to remove surface germs. Consider using a fabric-safe disinfectant for upholstered pieces.
Tips for Successful Shopping
Plan Ahead
- Measurements: Always bring a tape measure to ensure the furniture fits your space and can pass through doorways.
- Colour & Style: Consider how the piece will fit with your existing decor. Neutral colours and classic designs tend to be more versatile.
Research & Compare
- Brand Check: If possible, look up the furniture brand to assess quality and durability.
- Compare Prices: Browse multiple secondhand furniture sellers to find the best deal for similar items.
Negotiate & Inspect Carefully
- Bargaining Tips: Sellers often expect some negotiation, especially for minor imperfections that don’t impact functionality.
- Final Inspection: Before purchasing, sit on chairs, open drawers, and check all structural elements for hidden damage.
Think Long-Term
- Versatility: Choose pieces that will work across different styles or room configurations.
- Restoration Potential: If you enjoy DIY projects, look for furniture with good bones that can be refurbished with a fresh coat of paint, new hardware, or reupholstering.
Conclusion
Shopping for secondhand furniture in Perth offers a sustainable and affordable way to furnish your home or office with unique, high-quality pieces. By carefully inspecting items for structural integrity, durable materials, cleanliness, and potential restoration opportunities, you can make informed purchasing decisions that ensure longevity and value. Prioritising well-maintained furniture, avoiding common pitfalls, and negotiating wisely will help you secure the best finds. With the right approach, secondhand furniture shopping can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, allowing you to enhance your space while contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.
