IKEA Purchases: Editor's Personal Preferences Revealed (Avoiding These 4 Items, but Regularly Buying These 4)
Top Picks and Skips at IKEA: Unveiling the Hidden Gems and Overlooked Items
Experiencing the labyrinthine IKEA showroom can be exhilarating and paralyzing, leaving you in doubt about what to buy and what to pass on. But fear not! Our team has dived deep into the world of IKEA products to deliver an expert-backed shopper's guide. Here's what you should add to your cart and what you'd be wise to leave behind.
1. The Beds
Our Home Wellness writer, Amiya Baratan, admits, "IKEA's collection is commendable, but its beds aren't something I'm over the moon about." If you opt for a bedframe, opt for the solid wood ones as they boast surprising sturdiness and a cozy mattress in acclaim.
Instead...
According to Amiya, IKEA is the haven for lamps. With a plethora of lamps that exude a soft ambient glow, IKEA is the go-to destination for a chic and affordable lighting solution.
The DEJSA Series lamp boasts chrome details and opal glass shades, flood your room with a soft, dim light that creates a comfy atmosphere. On the hunt for something more statement-worthy? The IKEA BÄCKNATE lamp makes a bold addition to any room.
2. The Candles
The Digital Deputy Editor, Debbie Black, suggests giving IKEA's signature fragrances a miss due to their somewhat overpowering nature.
Instead...
Set your sights on IKEA's delightful vase collection, which is perfect for bringing vibrant colors to your home while keeping costs low-key. The pastel TJAERLEK vase trio is just one among the colorful array at IKEA that will elevate your space.
3. The Bed Linen
When it comes to bedding trends, IKEA may not be the front-runner. Our Interiors Editor, Emma Breislin, shares her experience of being drawn in by IKEA's vibrant upholstery and eye-catching price tag but warns that the fabric felt coarse and failed to soften.
Instead...
Emma vouches for IKEA's duvet inserts and pillows, which are affordably priced and joy to sleep on. A splurge on ultra-soft European linen may be a better investment for the bedroom.
IKEA's Stockholm 2025 collection features stunning prints inspired by Josef Frank, perfect for use as cushion covers, curtains, or furniture upholstery.
4. Small Knick-Knacks
When it comes to unique, personal pieces, IKEA may fall short. However, IKEA shines when it comes to storage solutions, especially when it comes to customizable bookcases and cubby-hole style shelves.
This storage bench and smaller cubby-hole style bookcases are reminiscent of the luxury design pieces you may have spied elsewhere. For those looking to buy from smaller, independent brands, check out our roundup of Best IKEA Alternatives to Shop From.
- In the realm of interior design, IKEA's bed linens might not be the trendsetter, as our Interiors Editor, Emma Breislin, advises that the fabric can feel coarse despite the eye-catching prices.
- For the living room, decorate with vibrant colors by opting for IKEA's affordable and delightful vase collection, such as the pastel TJAERLEK vase trio.
- Amiya, our Home Wellness writer, recommends skipping IKEA's signature candles due to their strong scents. Instead, explore IKEA's duvet inserts and pillows, which offer budget-friendly comfort.
- Debbie Black, the Digital Deputy Editor, suggests passing on the bedroom candles but highlights IKEA's unmatched offerings in storage solutions, particularly customizable bookcases and cubby-hole style shelves.
- Scandinavian minimalism melds with fashion-and-beauty in IKEA's Stockholm 2025 collection, featuring stunning prints inspired by Josef Frank, perfect for various home and garden settings such as cushion covers, curtains, or furniture upholstery.
- While IKEA may not have a wide range of personal pieces like other independent brands, it offers a variety of kitchen furniture and decor that rivals luxury designs, as evidenced by the storage bench and smaller cubby-hole style bookcases.
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