Do You Own The Most Popular IKEA Item Ever?

If you’ve ever shopped at IKEA, chances are you have at least one of these items in your home. The question is, which one?

IKEA’s reps gave us insight into the Swedish brand’s most beloved products of all-time, based on their worldwide appeal and popularity. Although IKEA’s collections have evolved over the years (like this new gothic glam collaboration with fashion activist Bea Åkerlund), some items are classic staples that never go out of style.

BILLY bookcase

The BILLY bookcase first debuted in 1979 and is now one of IKEA’s most iconic products. It’s even estimated that one BILLY bookcase is sold every five seconds around the world. It comes in a variety of colors and sizes (some of which are stackable), and prices start at only $29. The simplicity of design means that your colorful collection of books can really shine, as long as you’re not into that backwards book trend (which we never, ever want to see again).

The POÄNG Chair has 5 out of 5 stars on IKEA’s website and has been around for over forty years. Made with a high-backed beech frame, this timeless chair comes in various colors (even Ransta red!) and goes for just under $100. It’s one of those bouncy chairs that can work in any room—an office, a living room, a nursery—which may account for its popularity.

RENS sheepskin rug

Perhaps you missed it, but did you know that the Game of Thrones’ costume designer actually used IKEA rugs to outfit members of the Night’s Watch—Including Jon Snow? So, yes, these rugs are pretty versatile. Prices start at $29 for one of IKEA’s most popular items to-date.

MALM bed

Could this be the best bed for your buck? At $199, the MALM bed is perhaps the world’s favorite ‘starter’ bed, gracing college dorm rooms all over the world. Made with a birch wood, the bed also doubles as a storage space (you can add stackable boxes underneath or sliding drawers, if you get the upgraded version). The headboard is essentially just for show, but it’s the cheapest bed-dresser-storage combo deal ever.

KALLAX shelf

The KALLAX shelf is one of those do-it-all shelves that can hold either books, trinkets, artwork, candles, or…anything really. You can also get creative with the shelving unit and use it to divide a room. The shelf is not only versatile, customizable, and affordable, but its simple design can blend in with virtually any existing décor.

STOCKHOLM rug

With several varieties, textures, sizes, and colors to choose from, it’s no surprise the STOCKHOLM rugs are so popular. Plus, they’re all handwoven by skilled craftspeople in India (at fair wages), made from 100% wool, soil-resistant and reversible (which means they last longer). If you don’t currently own one of these rugs, you probably know at least one person who does.

LACK tables

It’s been around since 1979 and it’s only $8 bucks. What other side table can you get for that price? While it’s not a fancy table by any means, the versatile design means it can seamlessly blend in with your existing living room furniture. Plus, if it gets a little beat up over the years, it won’t break the bank to buy a new one.

EKTORP sofa

Another college dorm room staple, the EKTORP sofa has reversible back cushions with removable, coordinated covers that come in a variety of shades. It’s small enough to fit in a tiny apartment and just big enough for a cozy, weekend lounge session.

DOCKSTA table

Admittedly it’s not the most glamorous table in the world, but that still hasn’t deterred the world from buying it. The relaxed, rounded design makes for a simple breakfast table or simply a place to throw your keys at the end of the day.

KLIPPAN sofa

Like the EKTORP sofa, the KLIPPAN sofa also comes in your choice of colors, ranging from multicolored designs (like Sangis multicolor) to vibrant hues (like Vissle yellow). Most color variations go for under $250. The loveseat has been around since the ’80s, but its affordable price point and washable slipcovers means that it’s still a hot commodity—even 30+ years later.

FÄRGRIK mug

Everyone loves a good mug, right? Especially when it’s only $1. The FÄRGRIK mug comes in a variety of shades and can suit all occasions with its unpretentious design (and price point).

RIBBA frames

RIBBA frames can either stand on their own or be mounted to the wall. They come in all different styles and sizes, so you can customize your own gallery wall at minimal cost.

Want more home décor on a budget? Check out this new 2018 collection from IKEA, inspired by gothic Hollywood glamour.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.