How to Choose a Well Made Dresser

Measure the space allocated for the dresser. Add another 18 inches for walking comfortably and safely past the dresser once it is delivered and in use. Write all of the measurements on paper for reference later.

Look at various dressers that have potential to fit the allotted space in the bedroom. Select a dresser and take out the drawers, one by one. Inspect the construction of each one. Inspect the interior runners for each drawer while it rests on the dresser top. Look for solid wood construction of the entire drawer, including its sides and its bottom.

Inspect the joinery of the entire dresser and each drawer. Look for construction similar to the tongue and groove joinery method used in wood flooring. Check the overall construction closely for bead drops of glue, concealed wood screws and concealed finishing nails. Check each drawer again as well, both inside and out. Pull each drawer in and out with the drawer handle or drawer pull. Determine that each is securely mounted.

Look at the legs and feet construction of the dresser. Determine that each foot is carved as one unit with the corresponding leg. Tip the dresser slightly to inspect the bottom of the feet for casters or pads.

Determine that the dresser is indeed solid wood. Measure it top to bottom, front to back and side to side. Compare those with the measurements of the space where it will sit. Ask a sales person if the wood was cured or kiln dried prior to construction. Shop around until finding a dresser which is solid wood, sturdy and easily serviced.