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Reupholstering an old or antique chair can be worthwhile if the frame is still sturdy and the piece has sentimental or monetary value. Reupholstery often costs less than buying a high-quality new chair, and you can customize the look. However, extensive repairs or rare fabrics may increase the total cost.

To safeguard your furniture and upholstered items, it's best to use plastic wrap or specially-made plastic sofa covers. However, you should avoid wrapping wooden furniture in plastic if you plan on storing it, as plastic can trap moisture and warp the wood, plus it may damage certain finishes. In either case, old blankets or moving blankets make excellent alternatives. For protecting delicate glass table tops and mirrors, bubble wrap is always a reliable choice.

When deciding whether to repair, reupholster, or replace old furniture, consider its age, quality, level of wear, and overall value, including sentimental attachment. In many cases, it is more affordable to reupholster or repair furniture than to replace it, especially for antique, vintage, or discontinued pieces.

Older furniture is often made from durable hardwoods like oak and maple, giving it a longer lifespan than newer furniture, which frequently uses lower-quality materials such as plywood or medium-density fiberboard (MDF). Because of this, repairing or reupholstering a well-made older piece is often a worthwhile investment.

To determine the best course of action from a financial perspective, compare quotes from local furniture repair services with the price of a new, similar piece. Reupholstery may not be cost-effective for furniture that was originally inexpensive (e.g., under $300). For high-quality or sentimental items, however, it is an excellent way to preserve the piece and extend its life. If you're unsure, a furniture reupholstery specialist can help you evaluate the piece and make an informed decision.

The best way to test the quality of a leather couch is to put your hands on it. If the upholstery is soft and warm, that’s a good indication that the quality is higher. It should also smell like traditional leather. If it smells like chemicals, you’re probably dealing with low-grade leather.