The 15 Best Furniture Stores for Online Shopping

Our favorites include Pottery Barn, Ikea, Wayfair, and Ashley Furniture

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Best Furniture Retailers

CB2 / Article / West Elm

“The best places to shop for furniture are retailers that showcase a wide range of brands, styles and price points including housewares, rugs and furniture, accessories and nursery decor,” says Megan Hersch, co-founder of roomLift. That’s exactly the benefit of online furniture shopping—with the click of a mouse, you have access to an endless selection of sizes, styles, colors, and finishes. 

But how do you know where to begin your search? We researched all of the top furniture retailers, evaluating inventory, affordability, customer reviews, warranty, and return policies. Our favorites include online-only retailers like Wayfair, Article, brands with online ordering, and brick-and-mortar stores, including Ashley Furniture, Ikea, and Pottery Barn. 

Here are the best furniture stores.

Ashley Furniture

Ashley Furniture Gamaliel 2-Piece Sectional with Chaise

Ashley Furniture

What We Like
  • Large selection

  • Retail locations around the country

  • Price matching available

What We Don’t Like
  • Not as contemporary

This American furniture store originated in Alaska in the late 1990s, but now has more than 680 locations in the United States, plus an additional 150-plus worldwide. But the store isn’t just pervasive—each showroom offers a wide range of furniture pieces housed within a vast, easy-to-navigate showroom. 

Ashley Furniture is also known for having plenty of salespeople on hand to offer in-store shoppers help. Online, you can also find the help you need, thanks to a convenient interactive chat system, and the retailer has tools like a “room builder” to make it easy to find exactly what you’re looking for. 

There are plenty of deals to be had, too. Pricing is fair, but they also offer price matching, plus frequent deals and sales, as well as 10% off if you sign up for the newsletter.

Return window: 30 days | Delivery options: Doorstep or no-hassle delivery | Perks: 10% off with newsletter signup

IKEA

IKEA RANARP Wall/clamp spotlight

IKEA

What We Like
  • Affordable pricing

  • Wide range of styles

What We Don’t Like
  • Assembly required

  • The furniture isn’t built to last

The Swedish retailer is internationally-recognized for good reason: It’s one of the most convenient and reliable places to go for budget furniture. IKEA has a massive online presence, as well as hundreds of warehouse-style stores around the world—there are more than 50 in the United States alone. 

Whether shopping online or in-store, you can find just about whatever you need to furnish your home, from baby cribs to sofas to kitchen cabinets. You can even find items like faucets, artwork, and trash cans. When it comes to home hardware and decor, if you can dream it, IKEA probably has it. 

The furniture does skew more contemporary—and you’ll have to assemble everything yourself (not great for longevity). But prices are undeniably hard to beat, making this retailer an excellent option for anyone on a budget or those who tend to move around a lot and need something more temporary.

Return window: 180 days for opened products | Delivery options: Ground shipping | Perks: Store club offers in-store perks and discounts

Wayfair

What We Like
  • Wide selection

  • Affordable prices

  • Frequent sales and promotions

What We Don’t Like
  • Quality is hit or miss

  • Items often go out of stock

It’s not hard to understand why Wayfair’s tagline is “We’ve got just what you need.” The online giant really does have it all—and for every room in your house. You can find just about any piece of furniture you could need (beds, sofas, desks, bar stools, and even outdoor furniture sets), but you can also find the finer items (light fixtures, faucets, and cabinet hardware), as well as the little details that truly make your house feel like home (artwork, sculptures, and even holiday decorations). 

All of these items come in a wide range of styles and at varying price points, too. You’ll have no trouble finding both low- and high-end items in styles ranging from rustic farmhouse to sleek and modern. And if you’re not sure about something, you’ll love the extensive reviews, many complete with pictures of the item in someone else’s home. 

If there’s any downside, it’s that you can’t test out an item before you buy (like you might in a traditional showroom), but Wayfair gets items to your doorstep quickly and has a fair return policy—just in case.

Return window: 30 days | Delivery options: Ground or freight shipping | Perks: Free shipping over $35

Article

Article Sven Sofa

Article

What We Like
  • Sleek mid-century styles

  • Reasonable prices

  • Free upholstery swatches

  • Free shipping on orders over $999

What We Don't Like
  • No stores to try before you buy

Article doesn’t have any brick-and-mortar stores, but the online retailer doesn’t leave you wanting for much. It offers an array of modern furniture at a fair price point, especially given the quality and aesthetic. You can find all kinds of sophisticated items, from leather sofas and upholstered armchairs to marble coffee tables and wood dining tables. Most items also come in a range of colors and finishes, so you can customize your purchase without having to place a fully custom order that will take weeks (or even months) to arrive.

At the end of the day, there’s no better way to get quality furniture quickly. Most orders ship from the company's warehouses within two weeks or less. How Article they pull off all of these great perks for a reasonable price? It’s all made possible by the brand’s direct-to-consumer model, which they say is 30% better than what traditional retailers can offer.

Return window: 30 days | Delivery options: Contactless or in-room delivery | Perks: Free delivery on orders over $999

Joybird

Joybird Briar Sectional with Storage

Joybird

What We Like
  • Wide variety of colors/fabrics

  • Order-tracking system

  • Free design services

What We Don't Like
  • Only ships to contiguous 48 U.S. states

Though it’s a relatively new furniture retailer, Joybird is quickly becoming a go-to, particularly for younger consumers who are attracted to their collection of mid-century modern furniture that can be compared to West Elm on a budget.

At Joybird you can find furniture for most rooms in your house—beds, sofas, chairs, tables, storage pieces, and even rugs. And most pieces come in a variety of wood finishes, plus over 50 fabrics and colors, so you can get a truly custom product without actually having to go custom. 

Unfortunately, you can’t view your prospective purchases in person as you might in a traditional store, but you can easily order free swatches before you commit, making it a little bit easier to confidently settle on something ideal for your house. What’s more, you can utilize their free online design services for help making a purchase. 

As an added bonus, shipping is comparably pretty affordable, especially for large items. Joybird also offers 90 days for returns, though you will have to pay a restocking fee.

Return window: 90 days with a 10% restocking fee | Delivery options: Curbside or in-home delivery | Perks: The retailer’s club offers exclusive discounts

Pottery Barn

What We Like
  • High-quality construction

  • White glove delivery available

  • Free design services

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

  • Long wait time for select items

If you’re considering a big furniture purchase, like a couch for your family room, a bed for your sleeping quarters, or a bookshelf for your living room, Pottery Barn is probably one of the first retailers to come to mind. The retailer, which has both a big online and in-store presence, is about as classic as you can get, and that’s because it offers well-made and stylish furniture that doesn’t skew too trendy. It’s a classic farmhouse-type aesthetic that stands the test of time and toes the line between various personal styles.

And though you may pay a little bit more at Pottery Barn than comparable retailers, you know that what you’re getting is an investment—their furniture is widely-known to go the distance. The retailer is also committed to sustainability and using ethically sourced materials to help you feel even better about your purchase. 

Another nice perk: Because Pottery Barn has various spin-offs, including Pottery Barn Kids and PB Teen, you’re sure to find exactly what you need for the kids and their rooms, too.

Return window: 30 days | Delivery options: White glove or doorstep delivery | Perks: 15% off with newsletter signup

West Elm

What We Like
  • High-quality products offered at reasonable prices

  • Sustainable options available

  • Delivery and in-store pickup

What We Don't Like
  • Long lead time for custom products

You’ve likely heard of West Elm—and that’s because it’s one of the most popular choices among millennials today. The furniture, which spans from couches, dining tables, and beds to smaller home decor items, has a recognizable mid-century modern aesthetic that’s just right for transitional spaces. 

It’s also well-known for responsible practices. West Elm has a wide range of organic, hand-crafted, and fair trade-certified items within their list of offerings. It also supports independent artists wherever possible—especially within their decor items, including artwork and trinkets like candles. 

Most of what West Elm offers is at a slightly elevated but still accessible price point that puts it in a sweet spot. Plus, the furniture is made to last, so you can feel good about the investment you’re making. 

If there’s any downside, it’s that shipping is expensive and can take a long time, particularly if you order a custom fabric—often a requirement, unless you’re happy to choose from just one or two in-stock options.

Return window: 30 days | Delivery options: Shipping and in-store pickup | Perks: 15% off with newsletter signup

Restoration Hardware

Restoration Hardware BOULE DE CRISTAL CLEAR GLASS PETITE FLUSHMOUNT

Restoration Hardware

What We Like
  • High-quality materials

  • Pieces are made to last

  • White glove delivery

What We Don't Like
  • Very expensive

You may recognize the name Restoration Hardware if you've ever received the brand’s characteristically large catalog in the mail—it’s almost as extensive (and heavy!) as a textbook. 

Inside said catalog—and in the retailer’s stores and online platform—you’ll find a large collection of high-end and intricately-crafted furniture that comes at an equally large price tag. When you examine the quality, you’ll understand why their offerings of tables, chairs, beds, media cabinets, and more come at such a premium. Everything is built to last for years and years, no matter how many times you move. 

If it’s any consolation, Restoration Hardware offers shoppers a special membership that costs $175 per year and gives you plenty of perks, including early access to sales and “member pricing” of 25 percent off everything, no matter how pricey!

Return window: 30 days | Delivery options: Standard ground, rush delivery, white glove delivery | Perks: Club membership entitles you to discounts and special prices

Crate & Barrel

What We Like
  • Stylish selection

  • Many items come in a variety of finishes/fabrics

What We Don't Like
  • Shipping can be very expensive

Like West Elm, Crate & Barrel is a popular retailer that stocks quality furniture at an elevated, yet accessible, price point. Options are sleek, stylish, and perfect for the modern transitional home. You’ll find just about everything you need, from dining tables and chairs to sofas and beds—you can even find fireplace screens, bookcases, and other decorative items to add to your assortment of furniture. Most items also come in a variety of finishes and fabrics, so you can personalize your choice without having to spring for a fully custom piece of furniture. 

Shopping is a breezy experience at Crate & Barrel, too. The brand has plenty of physical locations to check out items in person, but the website is also largely intuitive, so you can order what you want and have it delivered to your front door. Just be prepared to pay for shipping for this convenience—basic freight delivery can cost upwards of $100.

Return window: 30 days | Delivery options: Standard, freight, and in-home delivery | Perks: 10% off with newsletter signup

Raymour & Flanigan

Raymour & Flanigan

Raymour & Flanigan

What We Like
  • Has multiple online tools

  • Large offering

What We Don’t Like
  • Not as stylish 

  • Unfriendly return policy

Raymour & Flanigan has a particularly large presence in the Northeast, but it has locations all around the country, plus has a large online website for anyone to shop. No matter how you shop, you can find just about any kind of furniture you could ever want, and the store also sells many sets to help take the guesswork out of shopping. 

Another helpful way to shop: In stores, Raymour & Flanigan is known to have many knowledgeable salespeople who can offer personalized help, while online, there is a variety of interactive tools—like room planners and instant chat—to help you shop confidently. 

While you can certainly find what you’re looking for at Raymour & Flanigan, it’s worth noting that the style tends to be a little more classic than modern, so you can’t bet on finding trendy items there. What’s more, you’ll want to be sure you love what you buy, as the retailer does not accept returns on furniture.

Return window: No returns on furniture | Delivery options: Showroom pickup and white glove | Perks: Become a VIP for exclusive discounts

Ethan Allen

Ethan Allen

Ethan Allen

What We Like
  • Classic styles

  • Free fabric swatches

  • Premium in-home delivery

  • Free design services

What We Don’t Like
  • No returns of made-to-order items

This American furniture company is known for producing original, hand-crafted designs for every room, both inside and outside of the house. While most pieces skew a bit more classic than contemporary, they do complement a variety of decor styles.

There are plenty of ways to shop for whatever furniture you need—beds, dining tables, dressers, couches, and more. You can shop with a designer in-store (at no cost to you!), or you can head to their website from the comfort of your own home. Online, you can still shop confidently, thanks to an online chat that lets you ask just about anything, including personalized questions like “What fabric should I get?” The chat agent will walk you through the whole process and can even help you place your order. 

Just note: Shopping can be pricey—premier shipping starts at $99. What’s more, you can’t return made-to-order items, so make sure you use all of their helpful services to get something you’re sure you love.

Return window: 10 days | Delivery options: Premier in-home delivery | Perks: Newsletter signup gives you access to special sales and discounts

Joss & Main

Joss & Main Ravenna Steel Dimmable Pendant

Joss & Main

What We Like
  • Traditional style

  • Variety of price points

  • Curated lists

What We Don’t Like
  • Return fee

Another Wayfair-owned company: it’s no surprise that Joss & Main is a great resource for furniture if you like to shop online. It has a large selection of furniture that covers all areas of the home, from the kitchen and living rooms to bedrooms and home offices. 

The style, while attractive, does skew a bit more traditional. But overall, you’ll find a decent variety of both more classic and more modern pieces. The company also has specially curated lists to help make the whole shopping process easier. Browse through inspiration pages categorized by room, decor style, or even seasonality. And if you need more help, you can always utilize the convenient online chat system. 

Shipping is friendlier than most. You can get free shipping on a vast array of items over $35. Returns are easy, too. As long as you’re within 30 days and willing to pay a return fee based on shipping, you can return most items in their original packaging.

Return window: 30 days | Delivery options: Freight | Perks: 10% off with newsletter signup

Serena & Lily

Serena & Lily Capiz Flushmount

Serena & Lily

What We Like
  • High-quality materials

  • Coastal style

  • Flat rate shipping

What We Don’t Like
  • Very expensive

It may be a pricey pick, but Serena & Lily is beloved by many all across the country for its super chic beachy style. The coastal vibe is undeniable, but subtle enough to blend into a wide range of decor styles. The pieces are built with high-quality materials that are meant to last for years on end. Bottom line: If you’re willing to splurge, the furniture is an expense well worth it. 

There are also ways to save: The retailer offers a variety of great sales throughout the year, plus offers a 20% discount to anyone who signs up for their newsletter—worth keeping in your back pocket until you’re ready to make a big furniture purchase. 

Shipping is also convenient, since you have so many different choices. Each shipping method comes at a flat rate, so you’ll never be caught off guard. Worst case, if you don’t love something, you can return it within 30 days for a full refund—you just need to pay for return shipping.

Return window: 30 days for non-custom items | Delivery options: Ground shipping, doorstep, room of choice, and white glove | Perks: 20% off with newsletter signup

CB2

CB2

CB2

What We Like
  • Slightly more affordable than its sister brand

  • Large selection

What We Don't Like
  • Strict return policy for furniture

As you may guess from the name, CB2 is the sister brand to Crate & Barrel. You’ll find a similar collection of both furniture and home decor items—just with a slightly more modern edge and at a slightly more tangible price point. 

Both in stores and online, the retailer stocks lots of stylish furniture that’s always right on trend (but also pervasive enough to go the distance). They also have plenty of smaller household essentials like flatware, barware, bath linens, and small giftables. 

The website is easy to navigate but also has a convenient chat feature, should you need more help finding or selecting just the right thing. But buyer beware: You can only return furniture if it’s a stocked, non-custom piece. Even those eligible items have stipulations—you need to call within seven days to schedule a return within 30 days.

Return window: 30 days for non-custom furniture | Delivery options: Freight and in-home delivery | Perks: 15% off with newsletter signup

AllModern

AllModern Byers Steel Armed Sconce

AllModern

What We Like
  • Large selection

  • Modern style

  • Affordable shipping

What We Don’t Like
  • Some items available for less elsewhere

The name gives it away: AllModern offers furniture and home decor with a—what else—modern aesthetic. The furniture has sleek lines and striking materials that fit right in contemporary spaces. 

The offerings are vast, too. You’ll find everything from sofas and benches, to headboards and nightstands, to dining tables and bar carts. If you’re having trouble finding what you need, you can browse curated lists by design style or room to help you find just what you’re looking for. 

The designs from the Wayfair-owned company aren’t necessarily unique to them. In some cases, you may even find the item for less at another retailer, but it’s worth giving AllModern a chance, especially because of how affordable the shipping is. The retailer offers free shipping on many items, even furniture, over $35—much less than some other places.

Return window: 30 days | Delivery options: Freight | Perks: 10% off with newsletter signup

What to Look for in a Furniture Store

Knowledgeable Salespeople

Some brick-and-mortar or online furniture retailers and independent shops employ hourly workers who are just trying to pay the bills. But many high-end retailers and independent furniture makers have deep knowledge about the furniture they offer that goes beyond just making sales. Take the opportunity to learn about the furniture you are interested in buying by asking questions. It will help make daunting decisions about choosing furniture less overwhelming once you have some information that can help streamline your decision-making process and figure out your furniture-buying preferences and priorities.

Delivery and Returns

Even the most skilled interior designers sometimes get it wrong when trying to select the right furniture for a space. Whether it be a large anchor piece like a couch, or smaller items like nightstands or coffee tables. Look for a furniture retailer that makes delivery and returns easy, particularly if you are buying from an online-only retailer and will be seeing your new sofa in person for the first time when it arrives on your doorstep. Be sure to check the fine print if you are having furniture delivered to an apartment building on a high floor, or you might end up sitting on your brand new couch on the curb, wondering whom to call.

Transparency

Increasingly, today’s consumers want to know where the things they buy are made. Whether you’re dealing with a local artisan or a big box retailer, look for transparency around everything. From what materials were used to make your furniture, where those materials were sourced, and to where the furniture is manufactured. Make sure that you are buying quality materials and supporting companies that favor things that are important to you, whether that means using renewable materials, or local labor and manufacturing. 

FAQ
  • What questions should I ask about furniture?

    Some good questions to ask your furniture salesperson include the five essential questions journalists ask when reporting a story: who, what, when, where, and how? First, ask who made the furniture, whether a brand name or a local independent designer. Then ask what it’s made from (type of wood, plastic, and types of filling on upholstered furniture such as a couch or armchair). If the furniture you’re considering buying is second hand, vintage, or antique, ask when it was made. (This is often an estimate based on the specialist’s knowledge of furniture styles and periods.) Find out where it was manufactured and where the materials that it was made from were sourced. Finally, inquire about how it was constructed so that you can evaluate how long it will hold up and how it would need to be repaired in case it gets damaged.


  • What is the best day to buy furniture?

    While you are more likely to find deals on furniture during certain times of the year, and holidays such as Memorial Day and the Fourth of July are known for furniture sales, there is no single best day to buy furniture.


  • What month does furniture go on sale?

    In the U.S., the best months of the year to buy indoor furniture on sale are January and July, since retailers typically begin selling the next season’s furniture in February and August. In addition to this biannual cycle, you can find sales on furniture during holiday weekends such as Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and the Fourth of July. Consumer shopping holidays, such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and retail-specific days, such as Amazon Prime Day, are also good times to find deals. For outdoor furniture, sales generally begin around the Fourth of July. You can also find increasingly good deals in August, September, and October as retailers clear inventory to make room for new season's stock.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This roundup was written by Brigitt Earley, who has written and edited hundreds of buying guides, particularly in the home space, for various publications over the last 10 years. Her own home is filled with finds from many retailers on this list, including West Elm, Crate & Barrel, CB2, Pottery Barn, IKEA, Wayfair, and Restoration Hardware. To curate this list, she leaned on her own purchasing experience and scoured dozens of retailers to see how easy their websites are to navigate, and read all of the fine print about shipping, returns, deals, and more. Earley also interviewed interior designer Megan Hersch, co-founder of roomLift.

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