Americans (specifically millennials) are oddly obsessed with the Swedish furniture giant, and for a good reason. IKEA was a pioneer in a number of areas before they branched out to America. Started in 1943, IKEA quickly grew to be one of the biggest furniture chains in Europe. Expanding to America in 1985, they became the largest furniture retailer in the world in 2008.
What is it that draws young people to IKEA? The experience, the sensory overload. IKEA stores have a unique culture that draws people from all parts of the country to shop there. The company is known for its modern architectural designs for various types of furniture and home accessories, and its interior design work is often associated with an eco-friendly simplicity, a favorite among millennials. The average IKEA store is over 100,00 square feet, with the biggest store sizing up close to 600,000 square feet (that’s ten and a half football fields). If you recently purchased an apartment or are looking for some dorm decorations, a trip to IKEA is a must. Before embarking on your IKEA journey, take these tips into consideration:
1. Bring a bag
IKEA does not provide bags for checkout. Bringing your own bag ensures that you don’t have a handful of stuff when you leave. They do have bags available for purchase at checkout, and free bags to carry with you while you shop.
2. Take pictures
Take pictures of what you like. Every item has a unique code on it, which you will need so you can go find it in the warehouse after shopping (or you can pay extra for IKEA to find it for you). Each IKEA has a vast selection of completely set up rooms. Each with their own style. Within these rooms, they break it down piece by piece on price.
3. Look for instructions
Packages say on the back what you need to put the furniture together. IKEA simplifies this process by selling kits that have all the tools you need in them.
4. Read Instructions
Don’t try to just put things together. Read the instructions. Not doing so could be detrimental to your sanity. The instructions often look like something out of a cartoon and are left for you to decipher.
5. Follow the arrows
Like the boxed instructions that come with anything from IKEA, follow the store instructions. There are arrows conveniently placed on the floor to guide to all areas of the store, so you do not get lost.
6. Come hungry
Most (if not all IKEA’s) have restaurants in the building. You can get an entire meal for less than $10. They serve a variety of Swedish food. Most food is very health conscious, and of course, all served on IKEA dinnerware. The Swedish meatball meal is a must try when you go.
If you’ve only ever dreamt of going to an IKEA, but have not had the chance to make it one, fear no more. New stores are constantly being built to keep up with the demand of needy millennials. Hopefully, these tips help you navigate the furniture mecca that is IKEA.
