As I was preparing to post Jaden's room makeover last week.
I realized his room is primarily furnished with Ikea pieces
{really I stood there like, oh! All this stuff is from Ikea.}.
Most of that furniture aside from his desk is several years old.
And still in good to great condition!
Then I started thinking about all the other Ikea pieces {big and small} that I've had for years now.
I thought it be helpful to share how a few of my favorite Ikea pieces have held up over the years.
{I will be doing a separate post for the Ektorp sectional}.
I know there is a general sentiment that Ikea furniture is only for twenty-something. First-time apartment renters, college students, and the like.
Well, I respectfully disagree.
Shopping at retailers like Ikea really helps stretch your decorating dollars.
Especially if you can pull off an Ikea hack or two!
How My Ikea Furniture Has Held Up Over The Years:
Henriksdal Dining Chair
You guys this is my second favorite {we'll talk about my absolute fave later} Ikea purchase of all time.
At $89 this white slipcovered chair is a classic piece that can work with many different decor styles.
The white slipcover is thick cotton and removes easily for washing and dealing with stains.
After washing I put the slipcovers back on slightly damp, and haven't had issues with shrinkage.
I've had these chairs for a little over three years now and the seats are still firm with moderate use.
Jennylund Armchair
We originally purchased the Jennylund armchair for my daughter's nursery six years ago.
In that time I've also used it in my bedroom and it's currently in our living room. The small profile makes it ideal for small spaces.
Although we have switched out the slipcover over the years.
The chair itself has held up better than I expected with daily use and two active kids climbing {and jumping} on it.
Admittedly it does need to be replaced now due to the seat cushions sagging, but after six years I think I got my money's worth.
TULLSTA armchair
Another armchair we've had forever and a day {or seven years}.
Just as with the Jennylund armchair, the chair itself has held up great with moderate use.
The cushions are still firm and it looks brand new, with the updated gray slipcover {that I got $10 in the As-Is section at Ikea}.
KALLAX {formally Expedit} Shelving
This shelving unit is my favorite Ikea purchase of all time! I
could have written a whole post on them alone! I got four of them, two singles and two doubles {shown. Approximately six years ago {they were called Expedit at the time}.
They have held up extremely well with heavy usage and three moves!
There are a few scratches here and there {nothing a little paint couldn't easily fix}. But they are still very sturdy!
I'm currently using one in my master closet for extra storage, my son's room, our playroom, and my daughter's room as a window seat.
I can't recommend these enough!
MALM Dressing Table
My favorite thing about the Malm dressing table is its clean and simple lines that can be accessorized to fit different styles.
I've seen some pretty hacks for this piece.
Although sold as a dressing table, I have been using it as a desk for the past three years with no complaints.
I've moved with it once and it's still very sturdy. It's also pretty slim, so it would work well in a small space.
LINDVED Side Table
I've had this little metal table forever. Ok not forever. But a seriously long time {like ten years}.
It's still in great condition after years of being in Kayla's room and several moves.
I love the shape and for $20 {current price} it's a bargain.
Also because its metal it would work outdoors too, we've used it outdoors with no adverse effects.
Ribba Frames
These streamlined frames are great for gallery walls.
They won't break the bank when buying multiples!
I've had them for over three years and well they're great!
Although the hardware to hang them can cause SCS {sudden cursing syndrome ?}!
SOCKERÄRT Pitcher
I have both the small and large Sockerart pitchers. They are so versatile.
In the three years, I've had these enamel pitchers {Ikea says vase, I say pitcher LOL}.
They have been used to hold kitchen utensils, flowers, and as a watering can.
You can also use it as pitcher for drinks {they are safe for food}. It's hand wash only, but that's not a big deal to me.
MOSSLANDA Picture Ledge
I've had these picture ledges for close to three years and they are very sturdy!
I have put really heavy books, knick-knacks, and pictures on them with no issues at all.
{just make sure you use the proper hardware to mount them}.
There are some minor scratches from normal wear and tear, but again nothing a little paint can't fix.
I love that I can easily change out my pictures without putting excessive holes in the wall.
I know there are a ton of DIY versions of these ledges floating around the internet.
But honestly, for $10-$15, I would rather just buy them.
So overall I've been satisfied with all my Ikea purchases given the price points. Just like any other furniture in your house, if you take care of them they will last just fine.
Do you have any favorite Ikea pieces? Let me know below!
Johan says
Any ideas on how to fix the poor quality seats of Henriksdal? They quite soon will sag, leaving your arse on the rim rather than the cushion. Not so comfy…
Mary-the boondocks blog says
This is such a great post. You always wonder how well these pieces will last. I have a few desks I bought and they have not lasted as well as I have wanted them to. But that may be due to teenage angst! 😉 I am hosting a new link party Sweet Inspiration, and would love to have you visit us. We run Friday till Tuesday.
Linda P. says
Thank you Mary! You know with Ikea i've had as many pieces fall apart on me as I've had last for years and years. It's really a curious thing but I'm sure kids and teenagers alike can help shortened their lifespan ?. I will be sure to add your link party to my list! I prescient you stopping by.
Mistie says
I honestly have to say I have never purchased IKEA before. I have no real reason why I haven't purchased from them before. I am looking for a dresser and new desk, so now I'm going to have to head over to the IKEA site and give it a looksee. Love the pieces you featured, and LOVE your home. So beautiful. Please, feel free to come my way anytime to decorate. 🙂
Linda P. says
Mistie, thank you so much for your kind words I really do appreciate it! I think it's definitely worth a look if you're looking for a desk and a dresser. They do have some pieces that are higher quality but still affordable. Good luck!
Vin says
This is such a lovely post Linda! Personally I love IKEA and I think it receives a lot of unwarranted hate. I think it's much more well made than some other department stores that sell similar or even higher priced furniture. With IKEA, I think you truly get every penny you pay for, and a little more.
I looooove the Ribba frame - I have got a few. HA ha ,it is true - why are those things such a pain to hang. Another of my favorite is the entire Hemnes line - very well made for the price.
I have been looking for a desk - glad to know the MALM dressing table works well. I'm bookmarking it! : )
Linda P. says
It's funny how Ikea is just so polarizing. I also agree about their quality vs. other department stores. I also agree that the Hemnes line is definitely one of their better made line of furniture, and certainly more affordable then other similar looking pieces that you can get at places like Pottery Barn. The MALM dressing table us a great for the price and I love the clean lines! I always appreciate you stopping by Vin!
Alaya says
I love me some IKEA stuff too. I did hae some cheap pieces from there in college that didn't last, but then again they were the cheapest option there. I have a dresser I love from there that has last for about 5 years! Great Post Linda!
Linda P. says
You're so right Alaya, there are levels to this Ikea thing LOL! Not all their products are the same quality! Thanks for stopping by!
Erin Marshall says
Its great to see how well your items have held up. I just love everything you do!
Linda P. says
Thanks for taking the time to comment Erin! I truly appreciate your kinds words! ❤️
Carli says
Such a great post! So good to know seeing how I've just recently fallen back in love with Ikea since I was in my 20's, lol. Thanks for sharing!
Linda P. says
Hey Carli! I'm not sure if it's a fact but I feel almost like the furniture quality has gotten better over the years. Thanks for stopping by sweetie!