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Not always—heavily worn or broken furniture often isn’t worth repairing or refinishing (if it’s even possible). While some damage can be repaired and some of the visual appeal restored, major flaws, such as structural issues, can’t be fixed as easily. If you still want a cost-saving furniture refinishing project rather than purchasing all new, consider shopping for similar secondhand pieces at thrift stores, garage sales, and estate sales.

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.

In most cases, it is more affordable to reupholster furniture than it is to replace it, but it depends on the quality and age of the furniture you’re considering getting reupholstered. Antique pieces are always worth reupholstering, as it’s the only way to preserve the piece and extend its life. Newer pieces of furniture are more often made using lower-quality materials like medium-density fiberboard or plywood that don’t have the same lifespan as things like hardwood. For newer pieces, your furniture reupholstery specialist should be able to help you determine the best course of action.

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.