Ashley Furniture is one of the most popular brands for living room furniture in the US, offering a wide range of styles from traditional to contemporary. But with so many options, how do you pick the right pieces for your home? This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider, common pitfalls to avoid, and actionable steps to make a smart purchase.
1. Measure Your Space Before You Shop
One of the biggest mistakes shoppers make is buying furniture without measuring their room. Start by measuring the length and width of your living room, and note the locations of doors, windows, and outlets. Use painter's tape to outline the footprint of potential sofas and chairs on the floor. Ashley's furniture dimensions are listed online and in-store, so compare them to your taped outlines. Remember to account for walkways—leave at least 18 inches of space for traffic flow. Also, measure doorways and hallways to ensure the furniture can be delivered without issues.
2. Understand Ashley's Quality Tiers
Ashley offers different quality levels, often reflected in price. Their Signature Design line is mid-range, while Benchcraft and Millennium are more budget-friendly. Higher-priced pieces typically use better materials like hardwood frames and high-density foam. To check quality, sit on the furniture in-store. Look for sturdy frames without creaking, and test the cushions—they should spring back quickly. Avoid pieces with particleboard frames if you want longevity. Also, check the fabric: performance fabrics are stain-resistant and ideal for families with kids or pets.
3. Match the Style to Your Existing Decor
Ashley's living room furniture comes in various styles: modern, farmhouse, traditional, and transitional. Before buying, decide on a cohesive look. For a modern vibe, choose sofas with clean lines and neutral colors like gray or beige. For farmhouse style, look for distressed wood and slipcovered sofas. If you're unsure, stick with neutral tones and add pops of color with pillows and throws. Avoid mixing too many styles in one room—it can look cluttered. Bring photos of your room to the store to compare.
4. Evaluate Comfort and Functionality
Comfort is subjective, so test pieces personally. Consider the seat depth: deeper seats (22-24 inches) are great for lounging, while shallower seats (20-21 inches) suit formal sitting. Also, check the back height—high backs offer more support. For functionality, think about your lifestyle. If you entertain often, consider a sectional with a chaise. If you have a small space, a loveseat or apartment-sized sofa might be better. Ashley also offers reclining sofas and sleeper sofas—test the mechanisms to ensure they operate smoothly.
5. Avoid Common Buying Mistakes
Many shoppers overlook the importance of fabric durability. Check the rub count (Wyzenbeek test) for fabrics—over 15,000 is good for residential use. Also, avoid buying without a warranty. Ashley offers a limited warranty, but ask about specific coverage for frames and cushions. Another mistake is ignoring delivery costs and timelines. Ashley often has free delivery on orders over a certain amount, but confirm. Finally, don't rush into a purchase. Compare prices online and in-store, and look for sales around holidays like Memorial Day or Labor Day.
FAQ
Q: How long does Ashley furniture last? With proper care, sofas can last 7-10 years. Higher-end pieces last longer due to better materials.
Q: Is Ashley furniture good quality for the price? Yes, it's considered good value for mid-range furniture. It's not luxury but offers reliability.
Q: Can I return Ashley furniture if I don't like it? Return policies vary by store. Many Ashley HomeStores allow returns within 30 days, but may charge a restocking fee.
Q: How do I clean Ashley fabric sofas? Check the care tag. Most performance fabrics can be spot-cleaned with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Q: What's the best way to save on Ashley furniture? Shop during major sales events, sign up for the Ashley email list, or consider buying floor models at a discount.
Choosing Ashley's living room furniture doesn't have to be overwhelming. By measuring your space, understanding quality, matching style, testing comfort, and avoiding common mistakes, you can find pieces that look great and last. Take your time, do your research, and enjoy creating a living room you'll love.