As spring renovations come to an end, many families are now entering the phase of selecting furniture. With so many options available in the market, choosing durable and high-quality furniture can be a challenge for consumers. In this article, we’ve gathered expert advice on how to make informed decisions when purchasing furniture.
Panel Furniture
Environmental Protection is Key
When it comes to panel furniture, environmental protection should be the top priority. According to Wen Shiquan, chairman of Yifeng Furniture, domestic panel materials are typically categorized into four types. The first is low-cost, low-quality panels from small factories. The second is panels from small to medium-sized domestic manufacturers, which may have good quality but low brand recognition. The third is well-known domestic brands like Lushuihe, which offer different grades with excellent environmental performance. Finally, there are imported panels used by high-end brands, which are more expensive but also ensure better environmental standards.
When buying panel furniture, it's important to check the type of board used. Make sure it’s clearly stated in the contract, such as whether it’s premium or imported (specify the country and brand). Also, confirm if it's 100% solid or if it's veneered. You can verify certifications, such as authorization documents, origin certificates, and customs declarations for imported panels. A simple sniff test can also help—look for areas like hinge holes or handle openings. If there's a strong chemical smell, it might indicate poor quality.
Beyond environmental concerns, here are some additional tips for selecting quality panel furniture:
First, inspect the appearance and surface finish. Look for scratches, dents, water stains, bubbles, or glue residue. A good surface should be smooth, flat, and visually appealing. For symmetrical furniture, check that both panels match in color and pattern, giving a seamless look.
Second, test the structural stability. Gently push the furniture—if it wobbles or makes noise, the structure may not be sturdy.
Third, check the gaps between moving parts like doors and drawers. They should open and close smoothly without any noise, and the hardware should be intact without peeling.
Fourth, examine the edges of the panels. A high-quality edge should be smooth, straight, and well-attached to the board, with no roughness or warping.
Understanding multiple aspects of furniture will help you make a more informed decision.
Sofa Selection
Fabric Sofas
How to Determine Fabric Quality
According to Li Zizheng, sales manager at Beijing Ai Rui Ruisi Furniture Co., Ltd., fabric sofas should have loops on the seat and back cover, and zippers should be long enough for easy cleaning. Some manufacturers use shorter zippers to save fabric, making future maintenance difficult. A tear-resistant elastic at the bottom of the zipper indicates better craftsmanship. High-end fabric sofas often have thick cotton padding, which prevents dust from entering and keeps feathers secure.
“The fabric should be thick and durable, able to withstand wear,†Li added. Fabrics can be divided into domestic and imported varieties, and further categorized by material. Cotton and linen fabrics are breathable but feel rough, while pure cotton offers comfort. Anti-stain fabrics like suede are popular, and chenille and velvet are considered high-end. Imported European and American fabrics tend to be more consistent in color and texture, with features like anti-static and flame resistance.
High-end fabrics require dry cleaning. If a salesperson claims it can be washed, it's likely a blended fabric. After washing, avoid using a washing machine to spin-dry, as this could damage the fabric’s texture.
Check the internal materials, such as the seat cushion and backrest. High-quality sofas usually use high-density foam and down filling for comfort. The frame is typically made of solid wood, like birch, known for its strength and durability. When shopping, feel the internal filling to ensure it’s even and full, with no creases or seams.
Leather Sofas
Zhu Changling, vice chairman of the China Furniture Association, noted that most leather sofas today feature real leather on key areas. Distinguishing between genuine and imitation leather can be tricky. Li Zizheng shared a simple tip: gently press the leather with your fingers. If small wrinkles appear, it's likely genuine leather; otherwise, it may be synthetic.
Consumers should also ask about the proportion of cowhide in half-leather sofas. While the contract may not specify exact percentages, you can request a detailed plan showing where the leather is applied. This helps clarify expectations before purchase.
Solid Wood Furniture
Identifying True Solid Wood
According to the "General Technical Conditions for Wood Furniture" standard, solid wood furniture is divided into three categories: pure solid wood, solid wood combined with panels, and solid WOOD VENEER. Only furniture made entirely of solid wood can be called pure solid wood. Solid wood combined furniture uses solid wood for major components like table tops and legs, while other parts are made of panels. Solid wood veneer furniture has a core of panels covered with a thin layer of real wood.
To avoid being misled, always ask whether the furniture is pure solid wood, combined, or veneered. Ensure all materials are clearly stated in the contract. Pure solid wood furniture lacks edge banding, and its grain patterns and annual rings are visible. If some parts don’t match these characteristics, it may be a combination piece. If the joints are sealed and the color remains unchanged over time, it may be veneered.
Different wood species have unique properties. For example, black walnut has a rich, dark brown color with a parabolic grain, while cherry wood has a light yellowish-brown tone with a subtle pattern. Maple and birch are mid-range woods commonly used in furniture. Rubber wood, often falsely labeled as oak, is lower quality and softer.
Additional Tips for Buying
Always check the product manual, which should include details about materials, performance, environmental standards, and moisture content. Moisture content should ideally be between 8% and 12%. Fewer knots are better, as they affect the appearance and durability. Look for well-known hardware brands, and test drawer and door movements for smoothness and silence.
For glass furniture, tempered glass is safer and more durable. It breaks into small, harmless pieces, unlike ordinary glass, which can shatter into sharp shards. Tempered glass may appear slightly less clear under certain lighting conditions, but it’s generally safer for home use.
Choosing the right furniture requires careful consideration of materials, design, and quality. By following these expert tips, you can make smarter choices and enjoy long-lasting, stylish furniture in your home.
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