You must have heard about fast fashion, fast food, etc but do you know what exactly fast furniture is? 
Fast furniture refers to furniture which is designed, produced, and consumed quickly. Fast furniture means cheap and quickly made items that typically last for a shorter period of time. It gets manufactured quickly & in large quantities. Fast furniture products are made using cost-cutting techniques to keep the prices of such home décor low as compared to premium home décor. When you are buying fast furniture it may often seem like a great deal but it is important to consider its lifespan. It may be made with less durable materials which means that you may need to replace these pieces more frequently.

When people's preferences change, they often choose to replace their home décor with fast furniture. Similar to fast fashion, home décor styles can quickly become popular or go out of fashion. Fast furniture is designed to be easily replaceable, allowing consumers to keep up with the latest trends without spending too much money. However, this type of home décor is typically made from low-quality materials, so it doesn't last very long. Let's break it down using examples to explain it to you.

For instance, if you purchase a tray made from low-quality materials, it may be lighter on your pockets initially. But it will start showing signs of wear and tear after just a couple of uses, which means you'll have to buy a new tray more often. In the end, you might end up spending more money buying multiple low-quality trays instead of investing in a single high-quality tray that lasts longer.

Difference between fast furniture vs premium quality home décor

Fast furniture, often characterized by low cost and mass production, offers affordability and convenience. It is readily available in numerous styles and designs, allowing individuals to quickly furnish their homes at a lower price point. However, fast furniture tends to be made from lower-quality materials and may have a shorter lifespan. It is often less durable and may not withstand frequent use or wear and tear. Fast furniture can also contribute to environmental issues due to its disposable nature and the unsustainable manufacturing practices associated with mass production.

On the other hand, premium quality furniture is typically crafted with higher-quality materials and superior craftsmanship. It offers better durability, and longevity, and often comes with warranties or guarantees. Premium furniture tends to have a timeless design aesthetic, and it is often seen as an investment in both comfort and style. While premium furniture may come with a higher price tag, it can provide better value in the long run due to its durability and longevity.

Here are some examples that highlight the differences between fast furniture and premium furniture:

Sofa:

Fast furniture: A flat-packed sofa made from particleboard with a fabric cover that can be easily assembled at home.

Premium furniture: A handcrafted leather sofa with a solid wood frame, intricately carved details, and high-quality upholstery.

Dining Table:

Fast furniture: A lightweight, foldable dining table made from plastic or lightweight metal that can be easily moved around and stored.

Premium furniture: A solid hardwood dining table with a polished finish, elegant design, and sturdy construction that can accommodate large gatherings.

Bed:

Fast furniture: A metal or wooden bed frame that can be quickly assembled using basic tools, with a mattress made from foam or synthetic materials.

Premium furniture: A handcrafted, solid wood bed frame with intricate detailing, a luxurious upholstered headboard, and a high-quality, natural latex or memory foam mattress.

Bookshelf:

Fast furniture: A modular bookshelf made from lightweight materials like plastic or thin particleboard, designed for easy assembly and disassembly.

Premium furniture: A solid hardwood bookshelf with adjustable shelves, dovetail joinery, and a hand-rubbed finish, showcasing fine craftsmanship and durability.

Desk:

Fast furniture: A simple, flat-packed desk made from laminated particleboard with minimal storage options.
Premium furniture: A solid wood desk with hand-finished edges, intricate carving, and multiple drawers for storage, providing a timeless and elegant workspace.
It's important to note that the difference between fast furniture and premium furniture is not just about price but also about the quality, craftsmanship, and materials used. Premium furniture tends to have a longer lifespan and is often considered an investment, while fast furniture offers more affordable options that may have a shorter lifespan or require more frequent replacements.

 

Why You Should Rethink Your Approach to Buy Fast Furniture

Low-quality furniture: Fast furniture refers to low-quality home décor which is often made from materials that don’t last for a longer time. Most of it is made from particle board which has been covered with laminate. Such products when exposed to moisture will swell up & start warping. Laminate starts peeling off when you clean it with water regularly causing it to only last for a few months.

Produced with harmful chemicals: Fast furniture can pose health risks with the release of toxic chemicals into the air in your home. These chemicals come from the particleboard, glues, and finishes used in its manufacturing process. Breathing in these chemicals can cause irritation, respiratory problems, and other health issues. It's important to be aware of these risks and consider alternative options for healthier furniture choices.

Can be unrecyclable: Fast furniture is non-biodegradable or recyclable which can make disposal a huge issue as the waste gets clogged up in the landfills. Some chemicals can be burned but other harmful materials in the home décor are highly toxic & so shouldn’t be burned at all. 

Mass-produced: These home décor products are made in bulk quality & so you have to limit yourself to the colors, designs & options which are readily available. Fast furniture makes you settle for what is available instead of making what you love.

Not eco-friendly: Fast furniture has an impact on the environment as its short lifespan means it is likely to end up in landfills increasing the waste. The production of fast furniture involves high energy consumption & greenhouse emissions. The use of Chemical finishes in the furniture adds to pollution. It is important for every customer to look at various factors before making buying decisions and explore alternative options that promote sustainable practices in the furniture industry.

Few Alternatives to Fast Furniture

Sustainable and Ethical Furniture: Opt for furniture made from sustainable materials like bamboo and reclaimed wood. Look for brands that prioritize ethical manufacturing practices and use eco-friendly finishes.

Vintage and Antique Furniture: Consider shopping for second-hand furniture from thrift stores or online marketplaces. Vintage and antique pieces can add character to your space and are often made with higher-quality materials and craftsmanship.

Upcycled or DIY Furniture: Get creative and repurpose old furniture or materials into new pieces. You can transform an old dresser into a TV stand or use reclaimed wood to build a unique coffee table. There are numerous DIY tutorials available online to guide you through the process.

High-Quality, Timeless Designs: Invest in well-crafted, timeless furniture pieces that are built to last. Look for brands that prioritize quality materials, solid construction, and classic designs that won't go out of style. While these pieces may initially be more expensive, they often offer better value in the long run.

Custom-Made Furniture: Consider working with local artisans or furniture makers to create custom pieces tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Custom furniture allows you to choose the materials, dimensions, and design elements, resulting in a unique and personalized product.

Conclusion

When considering the choice between fast furniture and premium quality home décor, it is essential to evaluate personal circumstances and priorities. If affordability, immediate availability, and flexibility in changing styles frequently are important factors, fast furniture may be a suitable option. However, if durability, longevity, and long-term satisfaction are higher priorities, investing in premium quality furniture may be more beneficial. Ultimately, the decision should be based on an individual's budget, lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and values. It is also worth considering alternative options, such as second-hand home decor, which can provide a balance between affordability and better quality.

We at bambaiSe make premium quality products that are durable & long-lasting. All our products have elegant colors & a touch of mandala art on them. We believe in long-term customer satisfaction & so all our products are made keeping in mind the needs of the customer.