Tips for Buying Dining Room Furniture
So you're in the market for a new dining table and chairs. While it's super exciting, it can also be a little daunting if you aren't 100% sure about what you want. How do you know kind of table to get? Do you go with hardwoods, softwoods, or laminates? And what kind of shape? Square, round, or rectanble? And then there are the chairs! Do you do wood, leather, or fabric upholstery?? So. Many. Choices! Here are a handful of tips to help steer you in the right direction when it comes to purchasing a dining room table and chairs that will be right for you and your family.....
TABLES:
- If the table has a leaf, make sure it fits snuggly.
- Hardwoods, Softwoods, or laminates? Depends on your lifestyle and budget. Hardwoods are definitely more durable than softwoods, while laminates are definitely the least expensive option.
- Square, round, or rectangle? It completely depends on the room, how many people you need to be able to seat, and also your personal preference. Round tables make the room feel a lot bigger, and create an intimate, warm atmosphere. Square and Rectangle tables are great at making a grand presence in a large room.
- Dining tables generally stand 29 to 30 inches high.
CHAIRS:
- Wood, fabric upholstered, or leather chairs? Wood seats to tend last longer, and are a heck of a lot easier to clean than upholstered chairs. Leather chairs (real or imitation) are low maintenance and easy to clean. Ultrasuade, cotton blends or a commercial fabric are your best bets if you want to go with upholstery. Avoid fabrics like chenille and velvet, as they will show wear.
- Rungs between the legs on a chair add stability.
- Chairs shouldn't wiggle when you sit on them, or bend in the back.
- Sit down on upholstered chairs to make sure it's comfortable and you don't feel like you're bottoming out.
- 18 or 19 inches is an ideal height for a dining chair seat. As a rule of thumb, try to allow a minimum of 12 inches between the top of the seat and the top of the table.