Located on Pulaski Highway in Baltimore, Ashley Furniture HomeStore is a go-to destination for affordable, stylish home furnishings. Whether you're furnishing a new home or updating a room, this store offers a wide selection of sofas, beds, dining tables, and decor. But with so many options, how do you pick the right pieces? This guide covers everything you need to know about shopping at Ashley Furniture Pulaski Highway, including practical steps, buying parameters, common pitfalls, and real advice to help you make smart purchases.
What to Expect at the Ashley Furniture Pulaski Highway Store
The Pulaski Highway location is a full-service Ashley HomeStore with a large showroom. You'll find living room sets, bedroom furniture, mattresses, and home office solutions. The store often has clearance sections and seasonal sales. Unlike some furniture chains, Ashley offers a mix of budget-friendly and mid-range options. Look for their signature pieces like the "Restoration Hardware" style sofas or the "Broyhill" bedroom collections. Tip: Visit on weekdays for less crowd and better attention from sales associates.
How to Choose the Right Sofa: A Step-by-Step Guide
Picking a sofa at Ashley Furniture Pulaski Highway can be overwhelming. Follow these steps:
1. Measure your space – Bring a tape measure and note door widths, hallway turns, and room dimensions. Ashley sofas range from 60 to 100 inches wide.
2. Test the comfort – Sit on the sofa for at least 5 minutes. Check seat depth (21-24 inches is standard) and back height.
3. Check the frame – Ask if it’s kiln-dried hardwood or plywood. Avoid particleboard frames.
4. Fabric selection – For homes with kids or pets, choose performance fabrics (e.g., microfiber or Crypton) that resist stains.
5. Compare prices – Ashley often runs 20-30% off sales. Check if the price includes delivery and setup.
Mattress Buying Tips: Avoid These Common Mistakes
Many shoppers at Pulaski Highway make errors when buying mattresses. Mistake #1: Not testing the mattress with your sleeping position. Side sleepers need softer foam, back sleepers medium-firm, stomach sleepers firm. Mistake #2: Ignoring the return policy. Ashley offers a 100-night sleep trial, but read the fine print – some fees apply for returns. Mistake #3: Buying too cheap. A $300 queen mattress may sag within a year. Look for at least 8-inch coils or 3-inch memory foam layers. Mistake #4: Forgetting about foundation. Ashley often sells box springs separately. A platform bed may work without one.
Dining Sets and Bedroom Furniture: What to Look For
For dining tables, check the material: solid wood (oak, mahogany) is durable but heavy; veneers are lighter but can chip. Extendable tables are great for hosting. Buying parameter: Allow 24 inches of table edge per person. For bedroom sets, consider storage – nightstands with drawers, beds with under-bed storage. Avoid sets with laminated particleboard (often labeled as "engineered wood") if you want longevity. Ashley’s better collections use solid wood with dovetail joints.
Real Shopping Advice: How to Save Money and Avoid Regrets
Here’s insider advice: 1. Negotiate. Yes, you can haggle at Ashley. Ask for a discount on floor models or last year’s stock. 2. Check for damage. Inspect all pieces for scratches or loose joints before purchase. 3. Delivery timing. Ask about delivery windows – some slots cost extra. 4. Read reviews. Look up specific model names (e.g., "Ashley Larkinhurst sofa") online for real user feedback. 5. Warranty. Ashley offers a 1-year warranty on most items; extended plans are available but often not worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Ashley Furniture Pulaski Highway offer financing? Yes, they have a store credit card with deferred interest options. Read terms carefully – missed payments can trigger high interest.
Q: Can I order online and pick up at the store? Yes, but check availability. Some items are online-only and ship from warehouses.
Q: What is the return policy? You have 30 days to return furniture (except mattresses, which have a 100-night trial). Restocking fees may apply.
Q: Do they price match? Ashley does not officially price match, but you can ask a manager to match a competitor’s sale.
Final Thoughts
Shopping at Ashley Furniture Pulaski Highway can be a rewarding experience if you go prepared. Measure your space, test everything, and don’t rush into a purchase. Look for sales around major holidays (Memorial Day, Labor Day) and always inspect items upon delivery. With these tips, you’ll find durable, stylish furniture that fits your home and budget.