Online vs In-Store Furniture Shopping: Pros and Cons

So, you're after some new furniture? Exciting times! But the big question is: do you hit the high street, or do you shop from the comfort of your sofa? Both online and in-store shopping have their pluses and minuses. Let's break it down so you can figure out the best way to find your perfect piece.

Online Furniture Shopping

The internet has changed the way we shop for everything, and furniture is no exception.

Pros of Online Furniture Shopping

• Convenience: You can browse thousands of items at any time of day or night, without even leaving your house. Perfect for those who are short on time or prefer to shop in their PJs!
• Wider Selection: Online stores often have a much larger inventory than physical shops. You're more likely to find exactly what you're looking for, whether it's a specific style, colour, or size.
• Better Prices: Online retailers often have lower overheads than brick-and-mortar stores, which means they can offer lower prices and more frequent sales.
• Easy Price Comparisons: It's easy to compare prices from different retailers online, so you can be sure you're getting the best deal.
• Reviews, Reviews, Reviews: You’re also able to get a gauge of other shopper's experiences.

Cons of Online Furniture Shopping

• You Can't See or Touch the Furniture: This is the biggest drawback. You can't sit on that sofa, feel the fabric, or check the build quality in person.
• Colours Can Be Misleading: Colours can look different on a screen than they do in real life.
• Returns Can Be a Hassle: If you don't like the furniture, returning it can be a bit of a faff, especially for large items.
• Delivery Times Can Vary: You might have to wait a while for your furniture to arrive, depending on the retailer and the item.

In-Store Furniture Shopping

There's still something to be said for the traditional way of shopping for furniture.

Pros of In-Store Furniture Shopping

• You Can See and Try Before You Buy: This is the major advantage - you can sit on the sofa, test the comfort, and check the quality up close.
• You Get a Better Sense of Scale: It's easier to visualise how a piece of furniture will look in your home when you see it in person.
• You Can Get Expert Advice: Sales assistants can answer your questions and offer advice on choosing the right furniture for your needs.
• You Can Often Take the Furniture Home Straight Away: If the item is in stock, you might be able to take it home with you on the same day.

Cons of In-Store Furniture Shopping

• Limited Selection: Physical stores can only display a limited number of items, so you might not find exactly what you're looking for.
• Higher Prices: Brick-and-mortar stores often have higher overheads, which can mean higher prices.
• Less Convenient: You have to travel to the store, which can take time and effort.
• Sales Pressure: You might feel pressured to buy something by overzealous sales assistants.

Comparing Costs: Online vs. In-Store Furniture Shopping

Money matters, so let's see how the two options stack up:

Pricing & Discounts

Online retailers often have lower prices and more frequent sales. But don't forget to factor in delivery costs!

Shipping vs. Delivery Costs

Online stores usually charge for delivery, especially for large items. In-store, you might be able to collect the furniture yourself, or the store might offer free local delivery.

Hidden Costs to Watch For

Be aware of potential hidden costs, such as assembly fees or restocking fees for returns.

Quality & Durability Considerations

You want your furniture to last, so quality is key:

Materials & Construction

Whether you're shopping online or in-store, pay attention to the materials and construction of the furniture. Look for solid wood frames, high-quality fabrics, and good reviews.

Customer Reviews & Manufacturer Reputation

Online reviews can be a great way to gauge the quality of a piece of furniture. Also, research the manufacturer's reputation for quality and customer service. If in doubt, maybe consider checking out our tips on how to purchase a sofa online to avoid common pitfalls.

Return Policies & Warranties

Make sure you understand the retailer's return policy and warranty before you buy. This will protect you if there's a problem with the furniture.

Customisation & Personalisation Options

Want something unique?

Custom Orders & Made-to-Order Furniture

Some online and in-store retailers offer custom-made furniture, where you can choose the fabric, colour, and even the dimensions.

In-Store Customisation Services

Some stores have in-house design consultants who can help you create a custom look.

Delivery & Assembly: What to Expect

Getting your furniture home is the final hurdle:

Delivery Timelines & Expectations

Delivery times can vary depending on the retailer and the item, so always ask for an estimated delivery date before you buy. If you're shopping for larger items, be sure to ask about appropriate delivery methods. You’ll want it to be a smooth process, especially if you're after some spacious seating for large living areas, which tend to be more complex to deliver.

Furniture Assembly & Installation

Some furniture comes fully assembled, while others require some assembly. Check if the retailer offers assembly services, or if you'll need to do it yourself.

Shopping Experience & Customer Support

Good customer service can make all the difference:

Personalised Service & Expert Advice

In-store, you can get face-to-face advice from sales assistants.

Online Customer Support & Chatbots

Online retailers often offer customer support via email, phone, or live chat. Some even have chatbots that can answer basic questions. 

When to Choose Online vs. In-Store Shopping

So, which is best? It depends on your priorities:

Best for Budget-Conscious Shoppers

Online shopping often offers better prices and more discounts.

Best for High-End & Luxury Furniture

If you're after something really special, you might prefer to shop in-store, where you can see and touch the furniture before you buy.

Best for Urgent Purchases

If you need something right now, in-store shopping is usually the quickest option (if the item is in stock!).

Final Thoughts

Both online and in-store furniture shopping have their pros and cons. The best option for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Weigh up the factors that are most important to you – convenience, price, selection, quality – and you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect furniture for your home!