That $40 thrifted leather chair cost me $200 in hidden repairs

I found a vintage leather chair at a Goodwill near me for $40 and thought I scored big. Got it home and noticed a weird smell, turns out the foam inside was completely rotted from moisture. Had to pay $160 to a local upholsterer to strip and replace the foam, plus the leather had a tiny tear I didn't see. Anyone else gotten burned on 'bargain' furniture that needed way more work than it was worth?

2 comments

2 Comments

elizabeth_ramirez4d ago

Tbh that $160 sounds about right for foam replacement but I think you overpaid slightly on labor. A local guy near me charges $120 for the same job including material. Next time check the foam springs first by pressing hard on the seat, if it doesn't bounce back walk away.

alex_hall914d ago

Oh man, I feel your pain. I snagged a "vintage" armchair from a flea market for $50 and was so proud until I flipped it over and found the whole bottom frame was basically dust from dry rot. Had to spend $180 on a new frame and re-stapling the webbing myself because my guy wanted $250. Learned my lesson the hard way too, now I always bend down and sniff inside the cushions before buying anything. What's the worst fix you've had to do on a thrifted piece?