When you're shopping for a new bedroom set, Bassett Furniture is a name that often comes up. Known for its American craftsmanship and customizable options, Bassett offers a range of styles from traditional to modern. But with so many choices, how do you know which set is right for you? This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider, common pitfalls to avoid, and practical steps to ensure you get the best value for your money.
1. Understanding Bassett’s Construction and Materials
Bassett Furniture uses a mix of solid wood and engineered wood products. Most bedroom case goods (dressers, chests, nightstands) feature solid wood frames with veneer panels on large flat surfaces. The solid wood is typically poplar, oak, or cherry, while veneers are often matched for grain continuity. Drawers use dovetail joinery (on higher-end lines) or French dovetail on lower-priced collections. Check the underside of drawers for the joinery type—full dovetail indicates better durability. Also, look for the “BenchMade” line if you want all-solid construction, but expect higher prices.
2. Sizing Your Room and Choosing the Right Pieces
Before buying, measure your bedroom dimensions. A typical Bassett bed frame adds 6-10 inches beyond the mattress size. For a queen, that's about 66 inches wide and 90 inches long. Leave at least 24 inches of walking space around the bed. For dressers, consider depth: standard is 18-20 inches. If your room is narrow, opt for a chest or armoire instead of a deep dresser. Bassett's website offers a “Room Planner” tool—use it to visualize the set in your space. Also, think about storage needs: do you need a 9-drawer dresser or will a 6-drawer plus a chest suffice?
3. Customization Options: What You Can (and Can’t) Change
One of Bassett’s strengths is customization. You can choose from hundreds of fabric options for upholstered beds and headboards, and dozens of wood finishes. However, not all styles are available in all finishes. For example, a painted finish may not be offered on certain traditional pieces. When customizing, order free finish samples (up to 5) to see the color in your room’s lighting. Also, note that custom orders are non-returnable, so be certain. Standard in-stock items can be returned within 30 days, but custom pieces have a 50% restocking fee if canceled.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Bassett Bedroom Furniture
Mistake 1: Ignoring the weight limit – Some Bassett beds have a weight limit of 500 lbs (including mattress). If you have a heavy mattress or plan to use a memory foam topper, check the specs. Mistake 2: Assuming all finishes are durable – Glossy finishes show scratches more easily. If you have pets or kids, choose a matte or distressed finish. Mistake 3: Not checking drawer glides – Lower-end collections use side-mounted glides; higher-end use undermount with soft-close. Test in the store. Mistake 4: Overlooking delivery fees – In-home delivery starts at $199, and they may not remove old furniture. Ask upfront.
5. Real Buying Tips: Where to Save and Where to Splurge
Save on the bed frame – a simple panel bed is functional and costs less than a sleigh bed. Splurge on the mattress foundation – a good box spring extends mattress life. For dressers, invest in a piece with dovetail drawers and solid wood fronts; the back and bottom can be engineered wood. Check for clearance items at Bassett Home Furnishings stores – they often have floor models at 20-40% off. Also, sign up for their email list to get 10% off your first purchase. Finally, read reviews on third-party sites like Wayfair or Houzz for real-world feedback on specific collections.
FAQ
Q: Is Bassett furniture good quality? A: Yes, generally. Their BenchMade line is top-tier solid wood, while standard lines offer good value with mixed materials. Avoid their lowest-priced “Bassett by” line if you want longevity.
Q: How long does a custom order take? A: Typically 6-8 weeks, but can be longer during peak seasons (fall and spring). Always ask for a written delivery estimate.
Q: Can I mix and match collections? A: Yes, but ensure finishes match. Bassett’s finish names vary by collection, so order finish samples.
Q: Does Bassett have sales? A: Yes, they have semi-annual sales (January and July) with up to 30% off. Also, check for “Clearance Center” items.
Conclusion
Choosing a Bassett bedroom set is about balancing style, budget, and functionality. Focus on construction details like dovetail joinery and solid wood frames. Measure your room, use the customization options wisely, and avoid common mistakes like ignoring weight limits or delivery fees. By following this guide, you’ll be able to select a set that looks great and lasts for years. Happy furniture hunting!