Used furniture stores can be goldmines—if you know what to look for. Whether you're furnishing your first place or hunting for something unique, buying secondhand can help you stretch your budget without sacrificing style. It’s also a more sustainable choice, keeping good furniture out of landfills and reducing demand for fast furniture that doesn’t last.
But not everything on a thrift store floor is a good buy. Here’s how to spot the quality gems and avoid the junk.
Why Shop at Used Furniture Stores?
Let’s start with the perks.
Pros:
- Lower prices than buying new
- Access to unique or vintage styles
- More sustainable than buying mass-produced items
- Often made with solid wood or with better craftsmanship than today’s fast furniture
Cons:
- More time and effort to find good pieces
- May need repairs or cleaning
- No warranty or return policy
- It can be hard to match with other furniture
So, is it worth it? If you’re picky and don’t mind putting in a bit of work, yes.
What to Check Before You Buy
Not all deals are worth it. Here’s how to inspect furniture before pulling out your wallet:
The Frame
Give it a good shake. Is it sturdy or wobbly?
Solid wood frames are ideal, especially on sofas and chairs.
Avoid pieces made of thin particleboard or heavily warped wood.
Drawers and Doors
Open every drawer and door.
They should slide or swing smoothly without sticking.
Check for missing hardware or sagging bottoms inside drawers.
Upholstery
Stains and smells are red flags.
Lift the cushions and look underneath.
Watch for sagging, crumbling foam, or frayed fabric.
If the frame is great, reupholstering might be an option—but price that out first.
Odours
Smell it. Seriously.
If it smells like smoke, mildew, or anything strong, it might not come out.
A slight mustiness is normal with older furniture, but trust your nose.
Stability and Structure
Look underneath. Are all the screws and joints in place?
Is anything cracked or bent?
Test sitting, opening, leaning. If it feels off, it probably is.
Refreshing Your Find: Simple Fixes That Work
Once you find a piece with good bones, there’s lots you can do to freshen it up.
Stain or Paint: Sand it lightly, then re-stain for a richer wood tone or paint for a clean look.
New Hardware: Swap out knobs and handles for a quick style upgrade.
Reupholster: Basic seat cushions are easy DIY projects. Full sofas might need professional help.
Clean it up: A mix of vinegar and water or mild soap works for most surfaces. Always test first.
You don’t need to be a DIY expert—just start small.
Where to Look in Calgary
Used furniture stores around Calgary range from curated vintage shops to donation-based thrift stores. You can also check Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, or local estate sales. If you're looking for both used and new, Showhome Furniture often rotates showroom models and display pieces at discounted rates—great if you want something high-end without the full price.
Final Tips for Shopping Used
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Bring a tape measure. Always check the size before buying.
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Take photos of your space to help you visualize.
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Visit often—stock changes quickly.
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Don’t rush. It takes time to find something that fits your space and holds up.
Used furniture shopping can be hit or miss, but when you find the right piece, it’s worth it. You’ll save money, reduce waste, and maybe even enjoy the hunt. Keep your standards high—quality lasts, and a little effort goes a long way.
FAQs: How to Find Quality Pieces at Used Furniture Stores
1. Why should I consider buying from used furniture stores instead of buying new?
Used furniture stores offer great value, especially if you're shopping on a budget or prefer unique styles. You often get solid wood construction and better craftsmanship than many new, mass-produced pieces. It’s also more sustainable—you're giving furniture a second life and keeping it out of landfills. If you're willing to inspect carefully and maybe do some light repairs or cleaning, you can find excellent pieces for much less than retail prices.
2. What types of furniture are best to buy secondhand?
Solid wood furniture like dressers, tables, and bookshelves are great finds at used furniture stores. These pieces are durable and easy to clean or refinish. Upholstered items can also be worth it if the frame is strong and there's no odour or heavy staining. Dining chairs, coffee tables, and nightstands are often easy to update with paint or new hardware. Avoid used mattresses, unless you know their history and condition.
3. How do I know if used furniture is still structurally sound?
Start by giving it a shake or light push. It should feel stable, not wobbly. Check joints, corners, and screws. Open and close drawers and doors to see how they function. If you hear creaking or see loose hardware, that could mean future repairs. Look underneath for cracks, water damage, or missing support beams. If it seems well-built and solid, it’s probably a safe buy.
4. What should I avoid when shopping for secondhand furniture?
Avoid furniture with strong odours, major water damage, or visible mold. Smells like smoke or mildew can be very hard to remove. Deep stains, sagging cushions, or broken frames are often not worth the repair costs. Also, steer clear of particleboard if it’s chipping or swollen from moisture. Always trust your gut—if something looks or smells off, leave it behind.
5. What are easy ways to refresh or update used furniture at home?
A quick sand and coat of paint or wood stain can completely change the look of a piece. Swapping out hardware like knobs and handles is an easy upgrade. For chairs or benches, consider reupholstering the seat or adding a new cushion. A good cleaning with vinegar and water or wood-safe cleaner can also go a long way. Start simple, and don’t overcomplicate the project unless the piece is worth the effort.
Looking for Affordable, Quality Furniture? Visit Showhome Furniture in Calgary Today
If you’re hunting for quality furniture at better prices, check out Showhome Furniture in Calgary. While known for its custom Canadian-made furniture and massive 70,000 sq. ft. showroom, Showhome also offers discounted items from display models and overstock. Their team can help you find stylish furniture that lasts—without the high price tag. Book a free design consultation or explore their selection of unique finds for every room. It’s a smart option for shoppers who want quality without compromise.
