Skip to main content

Save even more at IKEA with these 5 incredible shopping strategies

One of the best things about IKEA shopping — aside from the delicious meatballs — is the store’s affordable pricing. Whether you’re in need of a bookcase, a sofa, or a new home office desk, you’ll find sleek options that won’t break the bank. But who doesn’t love getting a deal on top of an already good deal? With these tips and strategies, you’ll save even more money on your next IKEA excursion.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Go in with a plan

There’s no denying that IKEA is a maze. We love wandering around the showroom, gathering ideas, and seeing furniture assembled in person, but it can all be a bit overwhelming. If you don’t do your research beforehand, it’s very easy to make an impulse buy you’ll regret later. (We’ve all been there. You go in to get a storage cabinet, and come out with a rug, coffee mugs, a desk organizer, and pillows.)

By checking out your options beforehand and reading reviews for your top choices, you’ll go in well-informed, which makes it easier to make smart decisions. That doesn’t mean you won’t find something else you’ll fall in love with — but it will give you more time to focus on making the right purchasing decisions.

And when you’re shopping, be sure to grab a map. It’ll allow you to take advantage of shortcuts, so you see everything you want — and can skip the rest.

Shop the As-Is section on the right day

IKEA’s As-Is section can be an absolute treasure trove for the discerning shopper. Filled with items that have been returned, lightly damaged, or that used to be floor models, you’ll find discounts that range from 30-60%.

And rather than shop the section on a weekend — when everyone else is milling about the store — go early in the week. Many of those weekend shoppers will have returned items, which means you’ll have plenty of As-Is options if you shop on a Monday or Tuesday.

Tanansan Sungkaew / Shutterstock

Join the loyalty program

It can be annoying keeping track of all of your store loyalty programs. (Who doesn’t have a separate email address — or at least a dedicated folder — to deal with all of them?) But they are worth it. IKEA Family members get discounts on items, free tea and coffee anytime you visit, 90-day price protection, birthday offers, free workshops and events, and more. And it’s free to sign up.

It’s a small thing, but by taking 30 seconds to join, you could find yourself saving quite a bit (and at the very least, there’s always a cup of coffee in it for you).

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Eat for free

Another benefit of being part of the IKEA Family program? On certain days, you can eat for free as long as you spend $100 on furniture. (And let’s be honest: That’s not exactly a hard goal to meet.) There are also other special offers throughout the year — like kids eating for free or discounted prices.

Check out Amazon

If you have your heart set on a particular item, see if it’s listed on Amazon. Many IKEA products can be found on the site — and sometimes for as much as half off. Plus, Amazon Prime members might be able to reap the benefits of their free shipping perks.

You can find a lot of great deals at IKEA, but by implementing these strategies, you can save even more time and money. And who doesn’t love that?

Editors' Recommendations

Nicole Carlino
Is September a good time to sell your home?
When is the best time to sell a home? Here's what you should know
house in autumn

All across the nation, real estate prices are at record highs. Between COVID lockdowns refocusing Americans on the pleasures of home and remote work encouraging migration out of the cities, the housing market is booming. With a deep, professional cleaning, revamped landscape, and a few little home repairs, you can maximize your selling price.

Once your home is prepared, when is the best time to list it? Should you sell your home in September? Is now the best time? The short answer is yes, and we'll tell you why.

Read more
The hidden costs of charging an electric vehicle nobody is talking about
Are there unknown costs to charging an EV? We've got the scoop
EV car charging

Are you among the many people considering an electric vehicle (EV) for their next car purchase? Before you take the leap into EV ownership, it's best to familiarize yourself with the cost. This includes not only the prices of electric cars themselves but also EV charging costs, including how much installing an EV adapter will cost you.

You likely won't be disappointed in your new eco-friendly vehicle. A recent J.D. Power study found that the majority of first-time EV owners are reluctant to go back to gasoline-powered cars. In fact, the popularity of electric vehicles is steadily on the rise, and almost 50% of the U.S. population is in support of phasing out gasoline cars completely.

Read more
Should you be using vinegar in your washing machine?
We weigh in on if vinegar is a good fabric softener or if it's a myth
Woman putting dirty clothes in washing machine

There are so many practical uses for white vinegar that go way beyond an ingredient for salad dressing or brining. Vinegar has long been used as a natural cleaning option, beauty product, and overall household miracle worker. You may have heard your grandparents offering advice to use vinegar for nearly any household obstacle. And to this day, many people tout its numerous benefits, uses, and applications. If you want an idea of some of the incredible ways white vinegar can benefit you and your household, we'll list a few below.

Just a few of the many out-of-box uses for white vinegar:

Read more