These Are the Most “Controversial” IKEA Products, According to Designers

In almost every home decor category I can think of, IKEA offers quality pieces at a fraction of the price of other retailers. Whether you’re a first-time home decorator or an interior pro, IKEA has something in your budget.

But there are a few items that the pros tend to skip in favor of other pieces instead. Some of these are IKEA’s most popular items (they’ve even been covered in great detail on Apartment Therapy). Certain designers, though, believe that these items don’t tend to last as long or quite deliver on their promises. This can lead to a tug-of-war on these “controversial” items, with some people in their favor and others strictly against them. 

Durability comes down to how you use and look after your furniture, and it can look very different in each home, so take these as general guidelines rather than strict commandments. That being said, here’s what designers tend to pass over at IKEA, and what they buy instead. And as always, take all opinions with a grain of salt!

The HEMNES bathroom vanity “is not really cut out to handle the high moisture that comes with bathrooms, and it starts to peel and chip quite quickly. Storage is super tight as well and eventually (likely also due to the moisture factor) the drawers get wobbly,” says Vicky Floros, founder of Vicky Floros Styling.

While more modern and minimal by comparison, Floros favors the GODMORGON vanity, as “it still offers a versatile design and includes customisable options which is always a bonus.” Although pricier, it’s worth it “as it does tend to withstand the test of time,” adds Floros.

According to Mackenzie Collier, founder of Mackenzie Collier Interiors, there is one IKEA sofa that doesn’t last quite as well as others. “Skip the KIVIK, because the cushions and fabric tend to wear out more quickly than I’d like,” says Collier.

Instead, Collier turns to the ÄPPLARYD loveseat again and again for durability and style. “The design feels more structured and sophisticated, and the cushions hold their shape better over time, which is critical for longevity,” says Collier. “It also comes in durable fabrics like the dark blue velvet, which gives it a luxe look and feel without the high price tag,” adds Collier.

“The SALNÖ armchair’s overly high back means it’s quite uncomfortable, and I really don’t like the metal fixings, which are very visible and spoil the whole boho vibe,” says Rebecca Kerry, founder of Rebel Interior Design.

Instead, Kerry prefers the HOLMSTA armchair with cushions, as it has more of a bohemian look and the proportions make it far more comfortable.

“I had the STOCKHOLM rug, and unfortunately, it stained right away and didn’t hold up well over time,” says Collier.

Instead, Collier recommends the budget-friendly STARREKLINTE rug to clients, not just for its beautiful texture, but also because the “neutral, natural, and black tones help conceal dirt, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas. Another bonus is that it’s machine-washable, which adds convenience for families and homes with pets.”

“At first glance, the UPPLAND sofa looks good — but only in a very specific aesthetic. Also, the fabric isn’t really durable, as it loses shape quickly and starts pilling,” says Floros.

The HYLTARP sofa is a great alternative, according to Floros, because it has “impressive detailing and is made with higher-quality materials, generally making it more durable and designed for longevity. The quality is reflected in the slightly higher price point, but it’s still very affordable for a sofa and you’re likely to get longer use out of it as a result.”

IKEA’s KALLAX range is a storage staple that’s popular with designers and regular shoppers alike. But its inserts are another story. According to Floros, “They are not made with the same attention to detail synonymous with IKEA add-on products. They lack structural integrity and tend to sag when filled with items.” 

While IKEA doesn’t have replacements for this (as the KALLAX inserts are made for the KALLAX range), it might be worth DIYing your own or buying inserts from another brand, sized to fit the KALLAX shelves.