Ah, the magic of online furniture shopping! Endless options, competitive prices, and the convenience of browsing from your couch. But before you click "add to cart" on that dream sectional, there's a crucial step often overlooked: measuring your space.
A mismatch between furniture size and room dimensions can lead to major headaches (and return hassles). Fear not, savvy shopper! This guide equips you with top tips for measuring your space before buying furniture online, ensuring a perfect fit and a happy home.
Gather Your Tools:
- Tape Measure: This trusty tool is your key to accurate measurements.
- Paper and Pen: Sketch a simple floor plan to visualize furniture placement.
- Room Calculator Apps (Optional): Some online furniture stores offer handy room calculator apps to help you visualize furniture placement.
Master the Art of Measurement:
- Measure Everything: Don't just focus on the length and width of the room. Measure doorways, walkways, and any tight corners where the furniture needs to pass through.
- Account for Baseboards and Trim: Factor in the thickness of baseboards and trim when measuring wall space.
- Don't Forget Clearance: Leave enough space for comfortable walking areas around furniture, and account for doors swinging open freely.
- Measure Twice, Buy Once: This age-old adage applies perfectly to furniture shopping. Double-check all your measurements before moving on to the next step.
Visualize Furniture Placement:
- Sketch It Out: Draw a basic floor plan of your room, marking doorways, windows, and electrical outlets. Then, use scaled measurements to represent the furniture you're considering. This helps visualize traffic flow and avoid any potential furniture-blocking-door situations.
- Consider Furniture Layout: Think about how you'll use the furniture in the space. Will you need space for a coffee table in front of the sofa? Will a dining table fit comfortably with chairs pulled out? Planning the layout helps you determine the best furniture size.
Beyond the Basics:
- Account for Furniture Height: Don't just focus on length and width. Consider the height of the furniture in relation to existing furniture, windows, and lighting fixtures to avoid any awkward placements.
- Think About Functionality: Measure the space you need for drawers, doors, and recliners to open and operate smoothly.
By following these top tips and taking the time to measure your space accurately, you'll be well on your way to purchasing furniture that fits seamlessly into your home. No more wrestling with oversized furniture or dealing with return hassles. Happy (and frustration-free) online furniture shopping!