Shop Like an Expert at Discount Home Goods Stores

This article provides practical advice for consumers looking to purchase high-quality home decor items at discount stores. It highlights the importance of carefully inspecting products before buying, as not all items found in these stores offer genuine value despite their low prices. The author, Wendy Helfenbaum, a contributing writer for AARP, gathered insights from interior designers and home stagers to offer expert tips on what to look for and what to avoid. The article begins by suggesting that discount home goods stores like HomeGoods, T.J. Maxx, and Marshalls can be excellent sources for redecorating without overspending. It emphasizes that while attractive prices are abundant, the quality of items can vary significantly. Therefore, a discerning eye is crucial for distinguishing between true bargains and products that are best left on the shelf. Key product categories are then discussed, starting with lamps. Artem Kropovinsky, founder of Arsight, advises checking for sturdiness, a solid switch, and a securely attached cord. Any looseness or wobbling indicates poor quality. Lampshades should be well-stitched and made of durable material, free from glue drippings, chips, or dents. If a lamp base is desirable but the shade is subpar, purchasing a separate, better-quality shade is recommended, ensuring it covers electrical elements and is proportionate to the base. For an expensive look on a budget, muted colors and natural materials like wrought iron, wood, linen, glass, or rattan are suggested. It's also advised to avoid metal finishes that are painted to look distressed if surrounded by higher-quality furnishings, opting for solid colors instead. Next, the article addresses rugs, noting their potential to transform a room with new colors and patterns. Diana Hathaway, founder of GorgeousColor.com, suggests examining the corners of a rug to assess its weight and likelihood of curling or wrinkling. The binding should also be inspected for unraveling or missing sections, as this indicates poor construction. Kropovinsky recommends checking a rug's density by counting knots or loops on the back, with 150 knots per square inch considered good quality. The fibers should be thick and plush, not revealing the backing, to ensure durability and a good appearance over time. Shedding at the store is a red flag for continued shedding. A practical styling tip is to invest in a good-quality rug pad to enhance the look of inexpensive rugs and prevent wear. For bedding, the article advises feeling the fabric to gauge softness, which typically correlates with higher thread count and durability. A thread count between 400 and 1,000 is considered suitable, with 400 being a good budget-friendly option. Loose threads or irregularities in stitching and quilting on comforters and duvet covers should be avoided, as they can lead to bunching. Buying bedding sets is recommended for cost-effectiveness, as they often include items like bed skirts and pillow covers. An expert tip for a luxurious bed is to add extra pillows with plain pillowcases. Pillows and throws are highlighted as easy and affordable ways to add color and texture. For existing pillows, new zippered covers can refresh them, but seams and zippers should be durable. Pillows should regain their shape quickly after being squeezed. Throws should be machine-washable, especially for homes with pets or children. The fringe or edging of throws should be securely attached to prevent unraveling. Avoiding loosely stitched woven yarns that can catch on clothing is also recommended. A cost-saving tip is to purchase pillow covers and inserts separately, and to mix and match different pillow sizes and patterns for a coordinated, not perfectly matched, look. Decorative storage solutions, such as bins, are discussed as functional and aesthetic additions. Woven jute baskets, glass apothecary jars, and trays are identified as versatile options. Neutral-colored fabric-covered storage boxes are preferred for their subtlety. Sturdiness is paramount: baskets should hold their shape when empty, and trays or bins should not warp. Cardboard bins and wire frames are generally discouraged due to their lack of durability. Seagrass or rope baskets are suggested for their natural thickness and longevity. Nesting bins are also recommended for their versatility in accessorizing. The article cautions against purchasing furniture from discount stores due to potential issues with manufacturer warranties and construction. If furniture is considered, particular attention should be paid to leg construction, ensuring screws are used instead of glue. Fabric dye lots can vary, making it difficult to match pieces if not bought at the same time. The same matching rule applies to smaller items like drapes. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of planning before shopping to avoid impulsive purchases and ensure items align with one's desired home aesthetic. #DiscountHomeGoods #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecor #SmartShopping #QualityCheck #HomeStaging #AffordableHome #DiscountHomeGoods #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecor #SmartShopping #QualityCheck #HomeStaging #AffordableHome

24 months ago

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