Guide: What to consider when buying second-hand furniture

Second hand and used furniture have become an obvious choice for furnishing your home in a smart, sustainable and economical way. Furniture gets a new lease of life, resources are saved and you can find models that are no longer manufactured. At the same time, second hand requires a little more thought than when buying new. Condition, materials, previous use and quality vary, which makes it important to know what to look for.

This guide provides a clear overview of what to consider, both when buying from private individuals and when buying from players who work professionally with used furniture.

Buying furniture from private individuals

Buying directly from private individuals can be affordable, but it requires you to do a proper check yourself.

Ask for clear pictures and information
Ask about condition, use, any stains, and whether the furniture comes from a smoke-free or pet-free home. Many details are not immediately visible in pictures, so feel free to ask for close-ups of worn areas or surfaces that take a beating.

Check stability and functions
If you have the opportunity to look at the furniture before buying, it is a good idea to feel the cushions, press lightly on the armrests and test the stability. This also applies to dressers, tables and cabinets where hinges and drawers may be worn.

Plan for cleaning
Private individuals rarely deep clean furniture before selling it. Sofas, armchairs and textile furniture often need to be deep cleaned with a machine to feel completely fresh.

Think about transportation
Private purchases almost always mean that you are responsible for the transport yourself. Find out the dimensions, weight and carrying capacity before you decide.

Buy without warranty
When purchasing privately, there is no possibility of feedback or complaints. This means that you need to be extra careful before making a decision.

Buy from a professional second-hand dealer

Buying from a store or operator that deals in used furniture involves a more predictable process.

The furniture has been inspected.
Professionals clean, inspect and repair furniture before sale. This can include everything from deep cleaning of fabrics to tightening frames and minor repairs.

Clearer information
You get accurate measurements, honest descriptions and clear images, making it easier to plan how the furniture will fit in the room.

Security when purchasing
You avoid the uncertainty that can arise in private transactions. The furniture has already been checked and you get a more reliable overall picture of the condition.

Smoother handling
You usually don't need to arrange transportation yourself, making the process simple from start to finish.

The advantages of second-hand

Buying second-hand is not just about saving money. You often get higher quality furniture than what is available in today's fast-paced production. You also contribute to more sustainable consumption by giving already manufactured furniture a longer life.

Many who choose second-hand also discover the charm of unique models, older materials and a feeling that the home gains more personality.

Termination

Whether you buy from a private individual or a professional, second-hand is often a good and well-considered choice. With a little extra attention to materials, condition, functions and dimensions, you will get a piece of furniture that will last a long time and really suit your home.

When you want to see reconditioned furniture that has already been tested and is ready for a new home, there are plenty of players in Malmö, Lund, Helsingborg, Kristianstad and all of Skåne who offer flexible solutions. The most important thing is that you find something that feels right for you and your home. Here you will find a quick checklist that you can keep in your pocket or on your phone!