The dining table is a necessary and much used piece of furniture so you want to make sure that you get the right one!  That’s why we’ve put together this guide to buying a dining table.  When you’re ready to take a look at what’s available near you, a furniture retailer is the perfect place to start.

How Big Does the Table Need to Be?

The first thing that you need to know is how big your dining table will need to be.  That is, how many people will you need to seat at the table regularly?  Two seater or four seater tables are perfect for smaller households while larger households may benefit from a six seater or larger.  Remember that you don’t just need enough room for people to eat at the table. The dining table will also need to be able to comfortably hold drink bottles, glasses, food set out in the middle of the table and even a centrepiece if you wish to have one.

How Much Space Do You Have?

This is one of the most important things to consider when you are buying a dining table.  After all, it doesn’t matter how beautiful the table is if it is just too big for the area and people can’t actually get in to sit at it easily.  Always measure your space before going shopping and allow room for people to push chairs in and out, and to get past when there are people seated (people often get up to get extra food, to go to the toilet, etc).  If you have a smaller space but need a larger table, consider one with an extension or a pull out leaf.

How Will You Be Using the Table?

How you use the table will be a big determinant of the type that you choose as well.  Will you just be eating at it or will it also be used for other things such as homework, arts and crafts, paying bills, having meetings etc?  If there is a chance that the table will get messy, look for a hard wearing surface that is easy to clean and difficult to damage.

What is Your Budget?

When you are buying a dining table you’ll need to keep your budget in mind.  Don’t forget that it’s not just the table you are buying; it is the chairs as well in most cases.  Set an upper limit for how much you are willing to spend before you go to the store and stick to it!

Choose the Right Style Dining Table

Last but by no means least, you’ll have to choose a dining table that suits your home.  This means choosing a shape, material and colour that complements the other furniture that you already have in your home as well as your home’s theme.  For example, if you have a modern home, a glass topped table with a sleek metal frame will look perfect, while country style homes look great if you have a sturdy, polished wood table with gorgeous turned legs.