TOP MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN BUYING FURNITURE ONLINE

AND HOW TO CHOOSE WISELY!

Shopping for furniture online is incredibly convenient—scroll, click, delivered to your door. But let’s face it, we have all heard the nightmare stories: the sofa that looked plush but felt like concrete, the coffee table that turned out child-sized or the colour that was completely off. Buying furniture online can be a bit of a minefield, but with a few savvy tips, you can furnish your home like a design pro.

Here are the top mistakes to avoid when buying furniture online, plus some smart advice to help you make the best choices for a stylish, practical home.

❌ Mistake #1: Not Measuring Your Space

Why it’s an issue: What looks like a modest-sized armchair on your screen might take over your entire lounge—or barely make an impact.

How to choose wisely:

• Measure your space (length, width, and height) before browsing.

• Check the dimensions listed online and compare them with your room.

• Use masking tape on the floor to visualise where the piece will sit.

• Don’t forget to consider doorways, staircases and lifts for delivery!

❌ Mistake #2: Ignoring Scale and Proportion

Why it’s an issue: Furniture that is out of scale can throw off the entire balance of a room.

How to choose wisely:

• Keep everything in proportion. For instance, a low-slung sofa needs a coffee table that matches its height.

• Ask help to an Online Interior Designer or use design apps to test your layout.

• Mix furniture heights for variety, but ensure the scale feels cohesive.

  
  

❌ Mistake #3: Choosing Style Over Substance

Why it’s an issue: That chic velvet chair might look stunning but feel flimsy or wear poorly if it is made from substandard materials.

How to choose wisely:

• Read product descriptions carefully—look out for frame construction, fabric quality and cushion filling.

• Prioritise solid wood or metal frames for long-lasting furniture.

• Check for upholstery durability ratings (e.g., Martindale rub test results).

❌ Mistake #4: Skipping Customer Reviews

Why it’s an issue: Photos can be misleading. Reviews reveal the real experience.

How to choose wisely:

• Read a mix of positive and negative reviews.

• Look for customer-uploaded photos to get a true sense of the product.

• Pay attention to comments about comfort, assembly and colour accuracy.

❌ Mistake #5: Not Checking Return Policies

Why it’s an issue: Some retailers charge hefty return fees or do not accept returns on furniture at all.

How to choose wisely:

• Read the store’s returns policy, including any restocking fees or return shipping costs.

• Choose retailers that offer free or easy returns—especially for bulky items.

• Keep all packaging just in case you need to return the item.

❌ Mistake #6: Forgetting Your Lifestyle

Why it’s an issue: That minimalist white sofa might be a regret if you have got young children or pets.

How to choose wisely:

• Think about how you live and who uses the space.

• Opt for durable, stain-resistant fabrics in busy areas.

• Choose multifunctional or modular furniture for smaller homes or family living.

✅ Extra Tips for Smarter Online Furniture Shopping:

• Order fabric swatches where available to check texture and colour in natural light.

• Compare prices across different sites—often the same item is listed under various names.

• Sign up to newsletters for first dibs on discounts and sales.

• Take your time. A well-decorated home is built with thoughtful decisions.

Final Thoughts

Buying furniture online does not have to be a risky venture. By avoiding common mistakes and following a few clever strategies, you can create a home that is both beautiful and practical—without ever stepping foot in a showroom.

That said, if you are feeling overwhelmed by choices or want to make sure everything ties together seamlessly, it is worth getting in touch with an interior designer. A professional can help you make confident decisions, avoid costly errors and bring your vision to life with ease. Even a one-off consultation can make a big difference when it comes to choosing the right pieces for your space, style and lifestyle.

Thinking of furnishing a particular room or achieving a specific style? Drop me a message—I would be happy to help you source the perfect pieces for your space!

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ABOUT MIKA DESIGN STUDIO

Mika Design Studio is an interior design studio on a mission to make a positive and meaningful impact on our clients’ lives; inspire them on the use of creativity and sustainable materials to create authentic interiors that organically evolve with them.

We are based in Royal Leamington Spa (Warwickshire, UK) but also operate online nationwide. We provide Consultation and Home Staging services for properties to sell, Re-design & Styling services for serviced accommodation/buy-to-let properties, and Online Interior Design for single bespoke rooms.

Visit our website to find out more about us.