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NEW YORK (AP) — Furniture presents a significant challenge during relocations, as quality dressers and couches are often both bulky and costly. In times
of stress, the appeal of inexpensive options delivered directly to your home becomes clear, leading many to consider fast furniture.
The Drawbacks of Fast Furniture
Fast furniture consists of simple pieces constructed from various plastics, fiberboard, and chipboard, designed for quick assembly and mass production. While they fulfill immediate needs, their non-recyclable components and poor decomposition raise environmental concerns.“It’s of little emotional value, it’s fleeting, and it is not going to accompany you through your life’s journey,” stated Deana McDonagh, a furniture and design expert at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
In 2018, Americans discarded over 12 million tons of furniture, with approximately 80% ending up in landfills, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
Community Resources for Affordable Furniture
Heather Strong, newly single and moving to her own place in Los Angeles, discovered the Buy Nothing Project, a network where individuals give and receive items for free. Over a year and a half, she furnished her home with items sourced from her community.“I’ve had the chance to explore different areas of my own community and venture out a little. And I’ve made some friends,” said Strong, who owns a business.
Liesl Clark, co-founder of Buy Nothing, encourages seeking out neighbors for furniture before resorting to online orders. She suggests checking neighborhood Facebook and Nextdoor groups, exploring gifting sites like Freecycle, and considering items left on curbs.
“You will get so much more satisfaction. You’ll save funds that you can then perhaps spend more locally,” Clark noted.
Maddie Fischer, a social media manager in Brooklyn, furnished her apartment with secondhand pieces, including a chair found in a trash bag and a kitchen table acquired for free during a move-out giveaway.
“I don’t mind when things look like they’ve had a little bit of wear and tear,” Fischer expressed. “I think it gives them more character.”
Investing in Quality Over Time
If budget allows, investing in high-quality furniture early on can be beneficial. Items made from wood and natural materials provide uniqueness and longevity, reducing the need for frequent replacements.McDonagh suggests acquiring one quality piece each year to spread costs. “If you’re doing it for your future self, take your time,” she advised.
Opting for modular pieces that can adapt to various spaces allows for gradual collection of durable, personalized items.
In the interim, creative solutions like stacks of books or boxes can serve as temporary furniture until a more permanent piece arrives. Outdoor furniture can also be used indoors due to its durability against wear and stains.
Extending the Life of Fast Furniture
Despite its name, fast furniture can endure with proper care. With creativity and maintenance, these pieces need not be replaced frequently.“I don’t believe that any furniture is inherently fast. It’s our decision as consumers whether it’s fast or not,” stated Katryn Furmston, a fast furniture expert at Nottingham Trent University.
For those who prefer to avoid secondhand items, it's essential to purchase from reputable sources to avoid issues with missing parts. Once received, maintaining the furniture can include using tablecloths to cover scratches or rotating pieces to prevent uneven wear.
When moving, keeping a photo of the furniture can help facilitate resale or gifting within the community, promoting sustainability and extending the item's life.
