Furniture Delivery or Pickup

When you're ordering furniture through Instacart, it's important to make sure you know the complete dimensions of the piece. The width and depth of the item will tell you how large its footprint is. The height lets you know how tall the piece stands.

Measure the area where you plan to put the furniture. You might consider laying painter's tape on the floor to mark out the dimensions. 

If you're purchasing a couch or chair, the height can give you an idea of how comfortable the item will be. Compare the new item's height to the height of another chair or couch in the home to get an idea of how it will feel. If you're purchasing a desk, it should be tall enough for you to slide your legs under while sitting in the chair that you plan to use with it.

To get the right size cover for a chair or couch, you will need to measure:

These three measurements should give you the information you need to gauge the appropriate size for a furniture cover. You may also need to measure the height of the chair or couch's back for some items. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for a sofa, loveseat, or chair cover to make sure it's appropriate for your furniture. 

If you're looking for something easier to fit, consider a furniture protector rather than a furniture cover. This lays on top of the furniture but does not envelope it completely.

Material is an important consideration when you're selecting shelves, drawers, and other storage items. Plastic and wire are typically the cheapest options, but they're also the least durable. Plastic drawers are particularly problematic because they can warp if they have too much weight inside or on top.

Particleboard offers a good middle ground that offers more durability while remaining fairly affordable. Particleboard can offer the same appearance as wood, making it a welcome touch for most types of home decor.

Solid wood and metal will give you the most durability and longevity. These items are built to last so that you can rely on them long into the future. 

When you're selecting lighting, you need to consider function more than style or form. Carefully assess the tasks that you perform in a particular space. If you read in bed, a bedside lamp should offer enough brightness to help you avoid eye strain. Task lighting at your desk or in your kitchen should be directional and bright so you can clearly see what you're doing.

In other areas, you'll want soft ambient lighting or decorative accent lighting. These options are not as bright. Ambient lighting puts out a soft glow over a large space. Accent lighting adds intrigue to your space and may be colored for more interest. A good rule of thumb is to have three different types of lighting in each part of the house so you can set the right mood for any occasion.