Let’s face it: assembling IKEA furniture with your partner can feel like the ultimate relationship stress test. If you’ve ever tried to piece together a flat-packed item with someone you love, you know the truth—it’s a recipe for frustration. Experts are now backing this up, suggesting that a trip to IKEA might just reveal how much pressure your relationship can withstand. So, before you book that couples therapy session, why not try tackling a 42-piece wardrobe instead?
Psychologist Emily Richards shared with The Journal of Relationships that an IKEA visit can turn into a “relationship map of chaos.” She often challenges couples to assemble a complex piece of furniture and report back on their experience.
IKEA, however, isn’t thrilled with its reputation as a catalyst for couple squabbles. A representative from the company mentioned to The Daily Buzz, “We encourage customers to prepare before their visit by browsing our catalog online. Once at the store, couples can enjoy a meal or drink and discuss their options. After making a decision, they can select from various services to streamline the process, including assembly.”
Sure, because nothing says “couples bonding” like Swedish meatballs, right? But let’s be real—unless a cheerful staff member is following you home to assist with that confusing SPROCKEN, you’re likely to find yourselves in an argument. The bickering starts as soon as you navigate the labyrinth of the showroom (I told you we should have gone left after the fake plants!). Then, when it comes time to fit that massive, seemingly endless box into your trunk, the fun really begins. Don’t even get me started on the instruction manual—which is basically a pictorial mystery with no words. One of you will definitely end up in tears.
If you’re considering testing your partnership by taking on one of these DIY projects, here’s a little guide to help you decide which piece is right for you:
- MOLGER Step Stool
Difficulty: Novice
Instruction Manual Length: 8 pages
Post-Completion Thoughts: High five! - NORNAS Bench
Difficulty: Beginner
Instruction Manual Length: 16 pages
Post-Completion Thoughts: I briefly wondered why this was so complicated for him. I mean, there are no words! But he finally figured out those screw pictures weren’t to scale, which restored my faith in his gene-passing potential. - HEMNES 8-Drawer Dresser
Difficulty: Advanced
Instruction Manual Length: 34 pages
Post-Completion Thoughts: Seriously? No, they don’t include “extra parts” as a backup. There are 18 screws left over! Was I assembling a piece of furniture or building a rocket? - LIATORP Storage Unit
Difficulty: NO
Instruction Manual Length: 40 pages
Post-Completion Thoughts: I can’t stand your face right now.
The safest way to preserve your sanity? Pay for assembly—it’s like the best-kept secret of the retail world. Did you even know that was an option? But then that kind of defeats the purpose of buying affordable furniture.
Oh, IKEA.
If you’re interested in other ways to enhance your family journey, check out our post on home insemination and learn more about the process at Make a Mom. And for more in-depth information, Wikipedia has excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, assembling IKEA furniture isn’t just about the end product—it’s a true test of love and patience. So, if you’re feeling brave, grab a toolbox, but be prepared for some emotional roller coasters along the way!