13 Affordable IKEA Items That Are Built for Life

By

Andreas Jones

Hey! I’m Andreas Jones and I am the founder of KindaFrugal.com. I’m passionate about all things personal finance, side hustles, making extra money, and lifestyle businesses. I have been featured in major publications such as Forbes, Entrepreneur On Fire, Lifehack.org, Influencive and Goalcast.

| Published on January 17, 2024

Woman shopping in IKEA

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IKEA is not always known for its high-quality materials and construction, especially considering you sometimes do the building. Many IKEA products fall apart after a year, but not every item is doomed to disintegrate after a short while. IKEA makes a few products that are unexpectedly durable and long-lasting.

The next time you’re stuck in an IKEA store maze, consider grabbing the products some people say are built to last a lifetime.

1. Kitchen Knives and Utensils

IKEA knife
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People will pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars for top-notch kitchen knives. Dull, low-quality knives can be hazardous in the kitchen, so well-made knives are necessary. According to some shoppers, IKEA’s knives are incredibly durable and last decades. They’re even impressing pro chefs. The same goes for other kitchen tools, like cheese graters, scissors, and timers.

2. Rechargeable Batteries

IKEA rechargeable batteries
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Many recommend IKEA’s rechargeable batteries because they perform well, are easy to use, and won’t stop working after two uses. Some rechargeable batteries promise to work forever but malfunction after one recharge. But IKEA’s batteries come through for people time and time again.

3. Wooden Shelves

Wooden shelf
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Quality wooden shelving can be expensive, but IKEA sells affordable shelves that have held people’s items for years. Some people recommend the floating shelves attached to the wall, while others rave about the bookshelves and entertainment center shelves.

4. Curtains and Drapes

Bedroom with quilted curtains
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It’s shocking how expensive curtains and drapes can be at standard furniture stores, but IKEA may be the solution. Like most things at IKEA, the curtains and drapes are affordable but are also heavy-duty and attractive. People especially recommend getting blackout curtains that help you sleep in!

5. Luggage

Different suitcases
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Luggage is another item that can be astonishingly expensive. People pay hundreds of dollars for tough luggage that will protect their belongings while traveling. You can satisfy all your luggage needs at IKEA with nifty travel backpacks, kids’ suitcases, garment bags, and more.

6. Towels and Sheets

Woman buying IKEA towels
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You can spend between $5 and $500 on towels and sheets. You want soft, quality materials but don’t want to pay an arm and a leg. Many IKEA customers report that their IKEA sheets and towels have stood the test of time, remaining supple and absorbent, even after years of use.

7. Kids’ Toys

IKEA toys
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Not everyone realizes that IKEA has a robust selection of children’s toys, from kitchen play sets to snuggly stuffed animals to stimulating puzzles. Their collection of toys is diverse, and many people say these toys have lasted long enough to be passed down to the next generation.

8. Pots and Pans

IKEA kitchenware
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Why IKEA kitchenware is of such high quality is something of a mystery, but let’s not question it; let’s just enjoy it. In recent years, their selection of pots and pans has substantially grown to include stainless steel, carbon steel, and cast iron pans and pots of all sizes.

9. Clothing Hangers

IKEA clothing hangers
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If you buy new clothes hangers every other year, consider heading to IKEA for replacements. They have plastic, velvet, wood, satin, and more hanger options, so you can find the perfect material for your clothes. The selection of innovative clothing storage solutions, like the clothes bar and multi-use hangers, is also popular.

10. Vases and Planters

IKEA planters
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Finding attractive and sturdy vases and planters can be tricky, as some are made with flimsy materials, and others are bland. IKEA sells a wide variety of long-lasting planters for your little green friends and stunning vases that are thick and tough but still delicately beautiful.

11. Lamps and Lighting

IKEA lamps
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While many college students have the basic white IKEA lamp in their dorm rooms, IKEA’s lighting selection goes far beyond that. From dramatic sconces to bright ceiling spotlights to sleek standing lamps and more, you can find a lamp or light that speaks to your aesthetic in the extensive collection.

12. Rugs and Mats

IKEA mats
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Whether you need a welcome mat or a massive fluffy rug for a playroom, IKEA probably has the perfect one. People say that IKEA rugs are a fraction of the cost of other brands but are just as rugged and long-lasting. They use plush piles for rugs and rigid materials for mats, elevating the comfort and cleanliness of your home.

13. Mirrors

IKEA mirrors
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Ask any interior designer, and they’ll tell you mirrors are magic when enhancing a space. Mirrors are functional but can also be fabulous, making small spaces feel bigger and adding a chic element. IKEA has every kind of mirror, from simple full-length mirrors to extravagant and artistic accent pieces. 17 Practical Frugal Living Tips to Save Money

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