If you're furnishing your home in Long Beach, Ashley Furniture is a go-to destination for stylish and affordable pieces. But walking into a showroom can be overwhelming with so many options. This guide will help you navigate the Ashley Furniture store in Long Beach, from what to expect to practical tips for selecting the best furniture for your space. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned shopper, these insights will save you time and money.
What to Expect at the Ashley Furniture Store in Long Beach
The Long Beach location typically offers a wide selection of living room, bedroom, dining, and home office furniture. You'll find popular collections like Signature Design by Ashley and Benchcraft. The store is often well-organized by room, making it easy to browse. Staff members are usually available to help, but they may not be pushy—feel free to ask questions. Expect to see floor models you can touch and test. Many items are in stock, but some may need to be ordered with a lead time of a few weeks. Check the clearance section for deals on floor models or discontinued items.
How to Choose the Right Furniture: Key Parameters
Before you shop, measure your room and doorways. For sofas, consider seat depth (22-24 inches is standard) and back height. For dining tables, allow at least 36 inches of space around the table for chairs. Check the material: solid wood is durable but heavier; engineered wood is lighter and more affordable. Upholstery fabrics vary—polyester blends resist stains, while cotton is breathable but may wrinkle. For leather, look for top-grain for durability. Also, check the warranty: Ashley offers a limited warranty, but ask about coverage on frames and cushions.
Practical Steps for a Successful Visit
1. Plan ahead: Browse the Ashley website to find items you like and check availability at the Long Beach store. Write down model numbers.
2. Bring measurements: Note your room dimensions, door widths, and any obstacles like stairs. Use painter's tape to outline furniture size on your floor at home.
3. Test in person: Sit on sofas, lie on beds, and open drawers. Check for wobbles or uneven gaps.
4. Ask about delivery: Inquire about fees, assembly options, and old furniture removal. Some stores offer free delivery on orders over a certain amount.
5. Compare prices: Check if the store matches its online prices. Sometimes floor models are discounted.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Furniture
Mistake 1: Ignoring scale. A massive sectional can overwhelm a small apartment. Always visualize with measurements.
Mistake 2: Choosing style over comfort. A trendy chair may look great but be uncomfortable for long use. Test for at least 10 minutes.
Mistake 3: Overlooking fabric durability. If you have kids or pets, opt for performance fabrics like microfiber or Crypton.
Mistake 4: Forgetting about delivery logistics. Measure hallways and elevators to ensure furniture fits.
Mistake 5: Not reading the return policy. Most Ashley stores have a 30-day return window, but restocking fees may apply.
Real Shopping Tips from Long Beach Customers
Many locals suggest visiting on weekdays to avoid crowds. One tip: ask about open-box items or scratch-and-dent discounts. Another shopper recommends signing up for the Ashley Furniture email list to get notifications about sales. If you're on a budget, look for the “Ashley Advantage” financing option, but read the fine print on interest rates. Finally, consider mixing high-use pieces (like a sofa) with lower-cost accent tables to balance quality and cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Long Beach Ashley store have a clearance section?
A: Yes, usually near the back. Look for yellow tags or ask staff.
Q: Can I return furniture if I don't like it?
A: Typically within 30 days, but items must be unused and in original packaging. Some stores charge a 15% restocking fee.
Q: Do they offer price matching?
A: Some locations may match their own website prices. Ask at checkout.
Q: How long does delivery take?
A: In-stock items often ship within 1-2 weeks; special orders can take 4-8 weeks.
Final Thoughts
Shopping at the Ashley Furniture store in Long Beach can be a rewarding experience if you go prepared. Focus on quality, fit, and function over flashy designs. Take your time, ask questions, and don't rush into a purchase. With these tips, you'll furnish your home with confidence and avoid common pitfalls.