Things to check before buying home furniture online

Before making any impulse purchases, experts advise taking specific measures when buying furniture online. Raghunandan Saraf, CEO and founder of Saraf Furniture, provides a comprehensive list of considerations for a more informed decision during the festive season:

1. **Measure Your Space:** When eyeing a bed or sofa set online, start by measuring the intended space for placement. Furniture comes in various sizes, so carefully review the size specifications provided. Additionally, check whether the seller or service provider offers installation services or leaves it to the buyer.
2. **Read Product Descriptions:** Once you’ve chosen a product, thoroughly read its online description. Pay attention to details such as material, color, and precautionary measures to ensure the product aligns with your preferences and requirements.

3. **Evaluate Shipping Charges:** Transporting large furniture items can incur significant shipping and handling charges, which are often passed on to the buyer. It’s crucial to assess these costs to avoid surprises when receiving the invoice.
4. **Check Seller Details:** While the online retailer may be reputable, it’s essential to verify details about the specific merchant selling the product. This step helps gauge the quality of products, packaging, and highlights any previous order or shipping issues. Avoid sellers with low ratings.
5. **Understand Return Policies:** In the event that the delivered product doesn’t meet your expectations, understanding the return policy is crucial. Some online platforms may have strict return policies, so check in advance to be aware of exchange terms, return shipping fees, and other relevant details.

Sameer A.M, founder and CEO of Bonito Designs, offers additional tips for a smoother online furniture shopping experience:

1. **Define Expectations:** Before exploring online furniture stores, outline your expectations regarding functionality, design, and budget. Start by prioritizing functionality and design before considering budget constraints.
2. **Prioritize Functionality and Aesthetics:** When browsing furniture online, focus initially on functionality and aesthetics before delving into budget considerations. This approach prevents compromising on quality and design for the sake of budget constraints.

3. **Create a Wishlist:** After identifying potential furniture pieces, add them to your wishlist. Create a list of options and verify their fit in your space, considering dimensions, functional elements, and maintenance requirements.
4. **Match with Existing Decor:** Ensure that the selected furniture aligns with your existing decor theme. For instance, if your space has a vintage style, a contemporary piece might clash. Seek consulting help if needed before finalizing the purchase.