As anyone who has shopped at Ikea can attest, a trip to one of the company's maze-like furniture stores can be a soul-sucking, stress-inducing, relationship-ruining slog. But it doesn't have to be.
Before embarking on a recent trip to the Ikea in Brooklyn, NY, we spoke to a company spokesperson about how to avoid burning out while shopping at the store. Once there, we put her tips to the test.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to best turn your Ikea nightmare into a somewhat pleasant dream — or, as they say in Sweden, dröm.
1. Enter with a game plan.
Going in without a game plan is a customer's No. 1 mistake when visiting Ikea, according to Ikea US design spokesperson, Janice Simonsen.
In fact, you need to prepare before even leaving your home. Make sure you have measurements on hand and check out Ikea's tools, like the home planner and online shopping list, before you visit.
2. Enter with the correct mindset: This is a marathon, not a sprint.
Even if you have a strict game plan, Ikea's expansive design and tendency to be overrun with crowds means it is unlikely this will be a quick trip in and out. If you start your day thinking it will be, you're only going to get flustered and upset.
3. Make the cafeteria your first stop.
Many people don't realize that every Ikea location has a bistro near the checkout, serving items like pizza and frozen yogurt, and a full-service restaurant, typically upstairs near the showroom.
The full-service restaurant is far superior to the bistro, serving up items such as Swedish pancakes, ribs, and Ikea's signature meatballs at very low prices. A Swedish meatball meal, complete with veggies and mashed potatoes, costs $4.99. A cup of coffee — with unlimited refills — is just 75¢.
Stop by the full-service restaurant for some inexpensive sustenance before going into the belly of the beast.
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