The 5 IKEA Finds That Apartment Therapy Staffers Swear By Most

Apartment Therapy staffers are often more than happy to share the latest product drops, DIY hacks, and style solutions when IKEA is in the mix, and that’s simply because the beloved budget retailer rarely disappoints for design inspiration. And when it comes to how we’ve used IKEA in our private lives, our off-the-clock takes are as complimentary as our professional ones. Some staffers have even signed up for the IKEA family card for extra perks throughout the year.

I asked my fellow AT staffers to share the IKEA finds they swear by, and some of their responses have been staples of their homes for years. Read on to see what they recommend, and don’t be surprised if you have to bring home an item for yourself. 

“The RASKOG cart is ENDLESSLY useful. Over the years, mine has been craft storage, corralled office supplies, served as a makeup/skincare station in my bathroom, and is currently a quick-grab snack cart in my kitchen.” —Tara Bellucci, News and Culture Director

“The NISSEDAL mirror has been my go-to body mirror for years. I’m finally selling it because I’m moving, but it’s easy to transport and durable enough to lean against my wall versus hanging it up. I’ll definitely be buying another one after I move!” —Noella Williams, Assistant Editor, News and Culture

“My KYRRE stool has served as a nightstand, coffee table, and an extra place to sit — all in the same apartment! I love the versatility of this little guy, and the fact that it can be painted again and again as my design tastes change over the years.” —Madeline Bilis, Deputy Lifestyle Director

“With its white finish and tulip silhouette, the DOCKSTA table is a total design chameleon, and it’s been the workhorse of my dining room for years. I take calls and write stories at it, eat meals at it, and have even used it for setting out spreads. Sure, one day, I’d love to have a real Saarinen table, but until then, I’m more than happy to recommend this budget dupe for one to others. It’s great for small spaces, and you can even jazz it up with a round tablecloth — I have one for every season!” —Danielle Blundell, Executive Home Director

“I’ve talked about this before, but the KOMPLEMENT hanger has been a saving grace for organizing my accessories over the years — I’m pretty sure I paid $5 for it in college. It folds flat when it’s empty, so it’s been easy to move it from apartment to apartment (and even across the country). I have never found an accessory hanger that beats it. This thing is going to be my personal, low-stakes heirloom so my future kids never have to know life without it.” —Megan Baker, Projects Director