Broyhill Bedroom Furniture

Broyhill Bedroom Furniture has gotten complicated with all the conflicting advice flying around. As someone who researched and evaluated dozens of options in this space, I learned everything there is to know about what actually matters versus what’s just marketing. Today, I’ll share the real insights.

My grandparents had Broyhill furniture in their house – a massive bedroom set from sometime in the 1970s. I remember thinking it looked old-fashioned when I was a kid. Now, forty-something years later, that same dresser is in my guest room, and it still works perfectly. Thats what got me thinking about this brand again.

For anyone looking at bedroom furniture and seeing the Broyhill name pop up, heres what Ive learned from owning pieces, shopping for pieces, and talking to furniture people over the years.

A Little Background

Broyhill started way back in the early 1900s in North Carolina, right in the heart of American furniture country. For a long time, they were known for solid, middle-of-the-road furniture – not the cheapest stuff, not luxury either, but well-built pieces that regular families could afford.

The company has changed hands a few times. It got bought by larger corporations, went through some rough patches, and the quality has honestly varied depending on when you look. Some of the older pieces are built like tanks. Some of the newer production is more hit or miss.

What Youre Actually Getting

Current Broyhill furniture tends to be a mix of solid wood and veneers over engineered wood. Nothing wrong with that – most furniture at this price point is similar. The key is knowing what youre paying for.

That’s what makes this endearing to us furniture makers — understanding these details helps make better decisions.

The drawers are usually the tell. Good Broyhill pieces have dovetail drawer construction, which holds up way better than stapled or glued corners. Pull out a drawer, flip it over, look at how its put together. Thats more important than whatever finish is on the front.

Hardware quality varies by collection. Some lines have solid metal pulls and hinges. Others cut corners there. Its worth checking before you buy.

Collections Ive Seen Up Close

I spent some time looking at their bedroom furniture last year when my daughter moved into her first apartment. Few observations:

The more rustic collections – natural wood looks with visible grain – tend to be their stronger offerings in my opinion. They hide minor imperfections better and feel more like real furniture.

The sleeker, more modern-looking pieces sometimes feel cheaper than they should for the price. That super-smooth finish can show every ding and scratch.

Anything with hand-distressing or antique-style details tends to be pricier but ages better. When the piece is already supposed to look a little worn, actual wear just adds character instead of looking like damage.

Probably should have led with this section, honestly.

Comparing to Other Options

Broyhill sits in a weird middle zone. Its more expensive than IKEA or the really budget brands, but less than premium furniture makers. Whether thats a good deal depends on what youre comparing to.

Versus IKEA: Broyhills heavier, more traditional, and will generally last longer. But IKEA is way easier to move and replace.

Versus vintage furniture: A well-built used piece from the 70s or 80s – including old Broyhill – often beats new production at the same price point. If youve got time to hunt, thrift stores and estate sales can turn up amazing deals.

Versus premium brands: Youre not getting the same quality as a custom furniture maker or high-end manufacturer. But youre also not paying those prices.

Where Things Go Wrong

Biggest complaint I hear about Broyhill is consistency. Two dressers from the same collection, bought a year apart, might be noticeably different in quality. Manufacturing changes, supplier changes, all that affects the end product.

Customer service can be frustrating too. If something arrives damaged or develops problems, the warranty process is apparently pretty hit or miss. Worth buying from a retailer with a good return policy as backup.

Also – and this applies to lots of furniture brands now – some of what looks solid is actually veneer over particleboard. Not necessarily bad, but not what some people expect. Ask questions before buying.

Care and Maintenance

If you do get Broyhill furniture, taking care of it is pretty straightforward. Dust regularly. Wipe spills immediately. Avoid putting hot or wet items directly on wood surfaces.

For the finish, I use a simple furniture polish maybe once a month. Nothing fancy – just keeps the surface looking fresh and adds a little protection. Avoid silicone-based polishes if you think you might ever want to refinish the piece.

For scratches, those furniture markers you can get at hardware stores work surprisingly well for minor damage. Match the color as close as you can, touch up the scratch, buff it a little. Not invisible, but much less noticeable.

My Take

Would I buy Broyhill today? Maybe. It depends on the specific piece and the price.

If I found a well-built piece at a good sale price, Id consider it. But Id examine it carefully first – check the drawers, test the joints, look at the actual construction rather than just the style.

If I were looking for furniture to last decades like my grandparents set, Id probably spend more and go with a maker that specializes in quality over volume. Or Id hunt for vintage pieces from Broyhills better production years.

For a first apartment or a room that doesnt need to be forever furniture? Broyhill can be a reasonable choice. Just go in with realistic expectations about what youre getting.