I’m a shopping expert – three things to always buy at IKEA and the two to avoid
IKEA shoppers looking to pick up a bargain should keep their eyes peeled for certain products.
The company, which was founded in Sweden in 1943, sells everything from meatballs to desks, curtains and blinds to outdoor lighting.
But if you’ve ever headed down to one of its stores you might have found the experience a touch overwhelming.
To save you time and money on your next trip, The Sun spoke to Vicki Bahra, lifestyle expert and personal stylist.
She revealed three items to always pick up and two to avoid.
Vicki said: “The best things to buy at IKEA are plain, understated staple pieces of furniture that don’t add too much character, are simple and minimalistic and a great price.
“These pieces tend to be more expensive and larger elsewhere so going lower on cost allows you to spend more and shop elsewhere on the finishing touches that allow you to make them personal, unique and tailored to your taste.”
Children’s beds
You might not think it, but IKEA is a great spot if you’re looking to pick up a children’s bed.
Prices start below £100 so you don’t have to burst the bank either.
Vicki said: “IKEA does some incredible children’s beds which are functional, fun and adorable.
“There are beds with desks underneath them for example and it’s great as you get to see them in person when you visit the store.”
Wardrobes
Wardrobes are another item worth checking out next time you’re in your local IKEA branch, Vicki said.
Prices start from around £100.
Vicki said: “IKEA has a really good range of wardrobes which are practical, big and with great storage.
“A wardrobe is more of a practical item of furniture as opposed to being in the room to look beautiful so it’s definitely one to save on.”
Plants
Plants can spruce up any home, and even add thousands to the value of your property.
You can pick up artificial plants as well as the real deal in IKEA, starting from just 50p – much cheaper than from other retailers.
Vicki said: “Plants are beautiful and a necessity for any home.
“They can be pricey if you go to a premium place or a garden centre but IKEA has some lovely, adorable plants which can really life your home at a low cost.”
Items to avoid
It may be a cult favourite for good reason, but Vicki says IKEA does some things less well.
Cushions
You can pick up cushions from just £1 in IKEA, but they can be quite a basic design.
Instead, it’s worth going elsewhere and spending a bit more.
Vicki said: “It is obvious they are from IKEA sometimes.
“You can get some really beautiful cushions at other shops which are personal and have more unique colours, textures and patterns.”
Candles
Vicki said IKEA was a great one-stop shop for basic tea lights, which you can pick up for £1.30 a pack.
That said, it might be best to swerve the retailer if you’re wanting to pick up statement candles.
She said: “Candles are a beautiful way to elevate a room and the scent and size is unique to you.
“So I would take some time to find special candles beyond IKEA that really lift your mood.”
In other shopping news, we reveal the items to always buy at Sainsbury’s, and the ones to avoid.
Plus, what to pick up on eBay and what to ditch.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk