how to find cheap furniture

do you finally have your first apartment in the US, and are looking for a way to furnish it on the cheap?
a few years ago, second hand would have been the way to go. however, due to recent bedbug epidemics in the US, buying new is now a much safer option. however, new doesn't have to mean super expensive.

mattresses are a big priority. if you get the traditional american style inner spring mattress, they can get a little pricey. in addition, the inner spring style mattresses are sometimes uncomfortable to people coming especially from the east, where harder beds are the preference.

in this situation, the best solution is a futon. futon mattresses are the closest thing you can find here to a more eastern type of bed. and the great thing about a futon, is that they can be converted into a sofa as well. so double duty. they are also usually fairly cheap even brand new.

a good student always needs a place to study as well.
even brand new, it's pretty easy to come by something that will work as a desk for cheap.
and if you order something online, you get the benefit of having it delivered to your door rather than have to find a way to pick it up.

it's a little safer to buy desks and tables second hand as well.
a great resource for buying items second hand...or even finding them for free...is craigslist.

you can really find anything on craigslist. but whenever you're going to buy something, be sure and take friends with you. you don't always know if you can trust people from the internet.

another great resource to find free stuff is freecycle.
to see what is available from this site, you actually have to join a local freecycle mailing list, though it can be worth it. when items are offered for free though, you will have to find a way to pick them up yourself, so be prepared to rent a truck, or find a friend with one.

i hope these tips will help someone.


if you've found a great resource for furniture, then please share it here!