Inspect the complete piece
Check doors, drawers, shelves, joints, and included hardware. Look for damage, persistent odors, and missing components that affect use. Confirm the dimensions with drawers and doors open, not just the exterior footprint. Identify the model when possible so you can find assembly guidance and check relevant recalls. Do not assume a heavy piece is automatically stable.
Budget for making it usable
Include transport, replacement parts, cleaning, and appropriate installation or anchoring. Follow manufacturer instructions and CPSC furniture tip-over guidance where relevant. Avoid placing clothing inside until the piece is clean, dry, and ready for use. Test a drawer or shelf with the intended contents before organizing everything. If safe installation depends on unavailable parts or uncertain repairs, reconsider the purchase. A useful secondhand item should solve a storage problem without introducing a larger assembly, fit, or maintenance problem than the one you started with.
Further reading
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