Looking for high-quality furniture without the full price tag? The Room and Board Outlet in Oak Brook, Illinois, is a hidden gem for savvy shoppers. This outlet offers discontinued, overstock, and slightly imperfect items at significant discounts—often 30-60% off retail. But shopping an outlet requires strategy. In this guide, you’ll learn how to navigate the Oak Brook location, what to look for, and common pitfalls to avoid.
What Makes the Room and Board Outlet Oak Brook Special?
Unlike a typical clearance section, the Oak Brook outlet is a dedicated store with a constantly changing inventory. Items include floor models, customer returns, and pieces with minor cosmetic flaws (like a small scratch or dent). The outlet carries furniture for every room: sofas, dining tables, bedroom sets, and accessories. Because Room and Board is known for its modern, minimalist designs and solid construction, the outlet offers a chance to own premium pieces at a fraction of the cost.
How to Find the Best Deals at the Oak Brook Outlet
Timing is key. The outlet receives new shipments on weekdays, especially Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. Visit early in the day for the best selection. End-of-month and holiday weekends often bring additional markdowns on already discounted items. Sign up for the Room and Board email list to receive notifications about outlet sales (though they don’t advertise heavily).
Check the condition tags. Each item has a tag explaining why it’s discounted. Look for codes like “D” for discontinued, “O” for overstock, and “F” for floor model. Floor models may have more wear but deeper discounts. If a flaw is minor (e.g., a tiny scratch on a table leg), you can often negotiate an extra 5-10% off.
Measure your space before you go. Outlet sales are final, so know your room dimensions and doorways. Bring a tape measure and photos of your space to avoid buying something that won’t fit.
What to Inspect Before Buying (Avoid These Mistakes)
Check for structural integrity. Open drawers, sit on sofas, and wiggle table legs. Look for loose joints or wobbly parts. Minor cosmetic flaws are acceptable, but structural issues are not worth the discount.
Examine upholstery carefully. For fabric sofas, look for stains, pulls, or fading. For leather, check for cracks or peeling. The outlet often has a “no returns” policy for custom upholstery, so if you’re buying a floor model, ensure the fabric is in good condition.
Don’t overlook accessories. Smaller items like lamps, rugs, and decorative pillows are often deeply discounted and have fewer flaws. They can be great additions to complete a room.
Common Misconceptions About the Outlet
Myth: Outlet items are always damaged. Reality: Many items are simply discontinued or overstock, meaning they are brand new but no longer in the main catalog. You can find pristine pieces at outlet prices.
Myth: You can’t return anything. Reality: While most sales are final, the Oak Brook outlet does allow returns within 7 days for store credit if the item is in original condition. However, floor models and clearance items are typically non-returnable. Always ask the sales associate about the return policy before purchasing.
Myth: The outlet is only for bargain hunters. Reality: Even if you’re not on a tight budget, the outlet offers unique pieces that may not be available in the main showroom. Designers often shop here for one-of-a-kind items.
Practical Shopping Tips for First-Timers
Go with a plan. List the pieces you need and set a budget. The outlet can be overwhelming with its ever-changing inventory, so focus on your must-haves first.
Bring a friend. A second opinion helps, especially when assessing flaws or color matches. Also, large items (like a sofa) may require two people to load, though the store can arrange delivery for an extra fee.
Ask about delivery options. The outlet offers delivery for a flat fee (varies by distance). If you have a truck, you can take items home immediately. For large purchases, compare the delivery cost with renting a truck yourself.
Don’t rush. Take your time walking through the entire store. Inventory changes daily, so what you see at the front may not be the best deal. Check the back corners where floor models often end up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the address of the Room and Board Outlet Oak Brook?
A: The outlet is located at 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, IL 60523, inside the Oakbrook Center mall.
Q: Are the discounts really 30-60% off?
A: Yes, most items are marked down 30-60% from the original retail price. However, floor models with heavy wear may be discounted up to 70%.
Q: Do they offer warranty on outlet items?
A: Room and Board’s standard warranty applies to new items (discontinued and overstock). For floor models and damaged items, the warranty may be limited. Always confirm with the salesperson.
Q: Can I order online for pickup at the outlet?
A: No, the outlet is in-store only. You must visit to see and purchase items. However, you can check the main Room and Board website for outlet inventory updates (though not all items are listed).
Shopping at the Room and Board Outlet Oak Brook can be a rewarding experience if you go prepared. Focus on quality, inspect carefully, and don’t settle for items that don’t meet your standards. With these tips, you’ll score beautiful furniture that lasts—without breaking the bank.