Americans throw away nearly 12 million tons of furniture every year. That’s a staggering amount of waste, and much of it could be reused or repurposed. Not only is buying used furniture good for the planet, but it can also be a great way to save money and find unique pieces for your home.
OfferUp is a popular mobile app that connects buyers and sellers of secondhand goods, including a wide variety of furniture. If you’re looking for a bargain on furniture, OfferUp is a great place to start. But with so many options available, it can be tough to know where to begin.
This blog post will guide you through the best and worst used furniture items to buy on OfferUp, so you can make informed decisions and find hidden gems without falling for common pitfalls.
The Best Used Furniture to Buy on OfferUp
While buying anything secondhand comes with inherent risks, some furniture items are generally safer and more rewarding to purchase used. Here are some of the best categories:
Solid Wood Furniture
Solid wood furniture is built to last, and often becomes more beautiful with age. Pieces made from hardwoods like oak, maple, or cherry can withstand years of use and still look stunning.
Good Examples to Look For:
- Dressers
- Tables
- Chairs
- Bed Frames
OfferUp Search Tips:
- “Solid wood dresser”
- “Oak table”
- “Vintage wood chairs”
Vintage & Antique Pieces
OfferUp can be a treasure trove for vintage and antique furniture enthusiasts. You might stumble upon a beautiful mid-century modern coffee table, an ornate Art Deco mirror, or a charming farmhouse dining set.
Tips for Identifying Vintage & Antique Pieces on OfferUp:
- Look for specific style keywords in listings: “Mid-century modern,” “Art Deco,” “Victorian,” “Antique dresser.”
- Check for maker’s marks or labels: These can help you authenticate the age and origin of a piece.
- Pay attention to the condition: Authentic antiques and vintage pieces will show some signs of age and wear, but these should add to their character, not detract from their functionality.
Gently Used Children’s Furniture
Kids grow quickly, which means their furniture is often outgrown before it has a chance to wear out. OfferUp is a great place to find gently used cribs, toddler beds, changing tables, and play furniture at a fraction of the retail price.
OfferUp Search Tips:
- “Toddler bed”
- “Children’s dresser”
- “Play kitchen”
Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor furniture is often made to withstand the elements, making it a good candidate for secondhand purchase. You can find sturdy patio sets, Adirondack chairs, picnic tables, and more on OfferUp, often at deep discounts.
OfferUp Search Tips:
- “Patio set”
- “Wicker chairs”
- “Wooden bench”
The Worst Used Furniture to Buy on OfferUp
While OfferUp offers great deals, there are certain types of furniture you should generally avoid buying used. Here are some of the worst offenders:
Upholstered Furniture (Couches, Chairs)
Upholstered furniture can harbor dust mites, bed bugs, stains, and odors that are difficult or impossible to remove. Unless you know the seller personally and trust the item’s history, it’s best to steer clear of used couches, armchairs, and upholstered dining chairs.
Mattresses and Bedding
Mattresses and bedding are breeding grounds for bacteria, dust mites, and other allergens. For hygiene reasons, it’s never a good idea to buy these items used.
Particle Board or Veneer Furniture
Particle board and veneer furniture is typically less durable than solid wood and more prone to damage from moisture, scratches, and dents. While these pieces may be tempting for their low prices, they are unlikely to last long, making them a poor investment.
OfferUp Search Tips (To Avoid):
- “Particle board”
- “Veneer desk”
Furniture with Significant Damage or Wear
It’s important to carefully inspect the condition of any used furniture you’re considering buying on OfferUp. Look closely at the photos and descriptions for any signs of damage, stains, tears, scratches, or broken parts. Significant damage may not be worth the cost of repair, even if the price seems low.
Tips for Buying Used Furniture on OfferUp
To make your secondhand shopping experience on OfferUp as successful as possible, keep these tips in mind:
Inspect Carefully (Photos and In-Person)
- Don’t rely solely on photos: OfferUp listings often include multiple photos, but these can be deceiving. Look closely for any signs of damage or wear that might not be immediately obvious.
- In-person inspection is essential (if possible): Whenever possible, ask to see the furniture in person before you commit to buying. This allows you to examine the condition thoroughly, check for any hidden flaws, and test the functionality of drawers, doors, and mechanisms.
Ask Questions (Previous Repairs, History)
Don’t be afraid to ask the seller questions about the item’s history and condition. This can give you a better sense of its value and potential issues.
Examples of Questions to Ask OfferUp Sellers:
- “Has the furniture been repaired or reupholstered?”
- “Is the item from a smoke-free or pet-free home?”
- “How long have you owned the furniture?”
- “What is the reason for selling?”
Negotiate the Price
Prices on OfferUp are rarely set in stone. Don’t hesitate to negotiate with the seller to see if you can get a better deal. Research comparable items to understand fair market value, and make a polite offer that reflects the condition of the piece you’re interested in.
Safety First (Meet in Public, Bring a Friend)
Always prioritize safety when meeting up with strangers to buy or sell on OfferUp.
Safety Tips:
- Meet in a public place during daylight hours: Avoid meeting at a private residence, especially if you’re going alone. Opt for a well-lit and populated location like a coffee shop, library, or shopping center parking lot.
- Bring a friend or family member along: Having someone with you can provide an extra layer of security and make you feel more comfortable.
- Inform someone of your meeting plans: Let a friend or family member know where you’re going, who you’re meeting, and when you expect to be back.
- Have your phone charged: Make sure your phone is fully charged in case you need to make a call or access GPS.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Buying Used Furniture on OfferUp
To help you make the most informed decision, consider the pros and cons:
Advantages
- Cost Savings: Secondhand furniture on OfferUp is almost always significantly cheaper than buying new. This can be a huge advantage if you’re on a budget.
- Unique Finds: OfferUp gives you access to a wide range of furniture styles, including vintage and antique pieces that you won’t find in mainstream stores. This can be a great way to add character and personality to your home decor.
- Sustainability: Buying used furniture is a sustainable choice that reduces waste and helps minimize your environmental impact.
Disadvantages
- Condition: Secondhand furniture comes with the risk of unknown damage, wear, and tear. You may need to spend time and money on repairs or restoration.
- Effort: It takes time and effort to find quality used furniture on OfferUp. You’ll need to browse listings carefully, communicate with sellers, and often travel to inspect items in person.
- Safety: Meeting up with strangers online always carries some safety risks. It’s essential to follow safety precautions and be vigilant when arranging transactions.
FAQ Section
Is OfferUp safe for buying used furniture?
OfferUp has implemented safety features to make transactions more secure, including account verification and a TruYou program that verifies sellers’ identities. However, it’s essential to remember that user responsibility plays a significant role in safe transactions. Always meet in a public place, bring a friend, inform someone of your plans, and be aware of your surroundings.
Can I get a refund if I’m not happy with my used furniture purchase?
OfferUp’s policies on refunds for used items may vary, so it’s important to check individual listings for seller return policies. Communicate clearly with the seller about any concerns before making a purchase. If a seller misrepresented an item or it was damaged during transport, it’s wise to discuss the issue with them to see if a resolution can be reached.
What are some other good places to buy used furniture?
If OfferUp doesn’t yield the results you’re looking for, there are many other excellent sources for secondhand furniture, both online and offline.
Alternatives to OfferUp:
- Thrift stores: Goodwill, Salvation Army, local charities
- Consignment shops: These shops curate higher-quality used furniture and typically offer a more refined shopping experience.
- Estate sales: Estate sales can be a great source for unique furniture and antiques, often at bargain prices.
- Online classifieds: Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor
- Online auction sites: eBay
Conclusion
OfferUp offers a convenient and potentially rewarding way to buy used furniture, but it’s essential to approach it with caution and a discerning eye. By focusing on the best categories for secondhand purchase, avoiding the worst offenders, and following safety tips, you can increase your chances of finding incredible deals and creating a stylish and budget-friendly home. Happy shopping!