It’s a universally acknowledged truth: assembling IKEA furniture with your partner can lead to some serious relationship friction. A recent study confirms what many couples have suspected—your visit to the Swedish furniture giant may reveal just how much stress your relationship can withstand. Instead of investing in couples therapy, why not tackle a challenging 42-piece IKEA cabinet together?
Psychologist Amy Johnson shared insights with The Wall Street Journal, noting, “The store becomes a metaphor for relationship turmoil.” She often encourages couples to assemble a large piece of furniture and report back on their experience.
IKEA, however, seems less than thrilled with its newfound reputation as a catalyst for couple disputes. A spokesperson informed The Huffington Post, “Customers can prepare by browsing our catalog online before their visit. Once in-store, couples can enjoy a meal or drink at our restaurant to discuss their options. When they’re ready, various services, including picking, delivering, and assembly, can be selected to ensure a smooth shopping experience.”
Really? I doubt that a plate of Swedish meatballs will stave off conflict. Unless a friendly IKEA employee is ready to follow you home to assist with that confusing HEMNES dresser or whatever you’ve just purchased, you’re likely to find yourselves at odds. Expect the squabbling to start as you navigate the labyrinth of the showroom (I told you to turn left at the fake plants, didn’t I?), and it will escalate when you attempt to cram that oversized box (meant to transform into your new entertainment center) into your trunk. Just wait until you crack open the instruction manual—filled with pictures but devoid of words. One of you will likely end up in tears.
If you’re determined to put your relationship to the test by assembling a piece from IKEA, here’s a helpful guide to get you started:
- MOLGER Step Stool
Difficulty Level: Novice
Instruction Manual Length: 8 Pages
Thoughts Upon Completion: High five! - NORNAS Bench
Difficulty Level: Beginner
Instruction Manual Length: 16 Pages
Thoughts Upon Completion: I had a moment of doubt watching him struggle with the manual. How could it be this hard when there are no words? But once he figured out the screw sizes weren’t to scale, I regained faith in his genetic legacy. - HEMNES 8-Drawer Dresser
Difficulty Level: Advanced
Instruction Manual Length: 34 Pages
Thoughts Upon Completion: Seriously? There are 18 screws left over! The little drawers should open, not mock me! I’m convinced I would have done better with a monkey. - LIATORP Storage Unit
Difficulty Level: Impossible
Instruction Manual Length: 40 Pages
Thoughts Upon Completion: I can’t even look at you right now.
To safeguard your relationship, consider hiring someone for assembly—this is perhaps the best-kept secret of retail. Did you know that was an option? But then again, that undermines the purpose of buying affordable furniture.
Ah, IKEA.
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In summary, assembling IKEA furniture can be a true test of your relationship. From navigating the store to deciphering the instructions, couples may find themselves arguing over trivial matters that arise during the process. If you’re willing to brave this challenge, prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions, or simply opt for professional assembly to keep the peace.