Buying vintage furniture online — a 7-point checklist
Vintage furniture is one of the few categories where buying online can get you a better piece than any local shop — if you ask the right questions.
1. Solid wood or veneer?
Both are fine, but they age differently. Veneer chips and lifts at the edges; solid wood shows dents and can be refinished more than once. Ask which it is.
2. Original or restored?
“Restored” can mean anything from a light oiling to a full re-lacquer. Ask what was done and whether original hardware was kept.
3. Measure twice
Check width, depth and height against your room and the doorways, stairs and lift on the way in.
4. Look for damage the photos may hide
Request photos of the back, underside, inside the drawers and the legs. Look for water rings, woodworm holes and loose joints.
5. Smell and storage
Ask whether the piece comes from a smoke-free home and how it was stored. Odours in old wood are hard to remove.
6. Delivery and insurance
Large items often ship by specialist couriers. Confirm the price, whether delivery is to the room or the kerb, and who is liable for damage in transit.
7. Returns
Under EU rules you usually get 14 days to return items bought online from a business seller. Private sellers may not offer returns at all — factor that into the price.
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