Hey earth muffins! Have you heard the term “fast furniture” before?? Fast fashion has been all the rage, but there are other types of “fast” consumer goods that you should also consider. Just look at furniture – we all need it; but, a lot of it is cheap and bad for the environment these days. Let’s delve into the definition and explore how you can avoid it!
So, What is Fast Furniture?
Similar to fast fashion, this term refers to inexpensive, mass-produced furniture that is designed for short-term use. Examples of this are most things purchased at places like Wayfair and Overstock (and even some IKEA pieces too). While it may seem tempting to furnish your home with affordable and trendy pieces, the environmental and social costs of fast furniture are significant. From deforestation and excessive resource consumption to poor labor practices, it takes a toll on the planet and its inhabitants. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to avoid this type of furniture:
1. Choose secondhand instead
Embrace used, secondhand pieces first! Shopping at thrift stores, consignment shops, or online marketplaces allows you to find unique, pre-loved pieces that add character to your home. Buying used reduces demand for new production and gives existing items a new lease on life. In addition, many of these pieces are much higher quality than newer ones on the market.
2. Repair what you already have!
Get creative and upcycle old chairs, couches, etc. Or repair it so that you don’t have to get a replacement just yet. Support a local upholsterer and change out the fabric. Or, embroider some cute designs to cover a few holes. It is important to use what you have before buying anything (even something secondhand).
3. Avoid buying things you don’t need
The allure of fast furniture lies in its affordability and instant availability. However, avoid making impulsive purchases. Take your time to research and compare furniture options, considering their materials, construction, and eco-credentials.
4. Invest in high quality pieces
Fast furniture is designed to be short-lived, leading to frequent replacements and increased waste generation. Instead, invest in high-quality, durable furniture pieces that stand the test of time. Although they may come with a higher upfront cost, they will save you money in the long run as they won’t need to be replaced as frequently. Plus it is much better for the planet!
By making intentional choices, you can furnish your home sustainably and responsibly. Embrace quality over quantity, support ethical practices, and explore creative alternatives to avoid the throwaway culture associated with fast furniture. Ultimately, investing in sustainable furniture not only benefits the planet but also enhances the beauty and longevity of your home. How do you avoid fast furniture??
Love,
Jenna ♥
What a great post! Almost all of our furniture is IKEA due to our budget, but it’s been 8+ years with it all and it is still doing well. Since we can’t necessarily afford to replace everything all the time, we’ve been doing touch ups with wood pens and whatnot. Recently, my husband and I had to replace our IKEA couch and decided to invest in something that would last for a long long time. Hopefully it does so there will be less waste!