Mercer Island Hardware Store: A Shopper’s Guide

Why You Should Visit

• Exceptionally Helpful Staff: You’ll find staff consistently praised for their friendliness and willingness to assist. Many shoppers describe receiving immediate help upon entering, with staff actively guiding customers to needed items, even at near closing time. Several reviewers highlighted the staff’s patience and personalized service, especially with elderly customers. One shopper even noted being helped with a plumbing fitting just two minutes before closing time. I’ve personally experienced this attentiveness; it’s refreshing.
• Extensive Product Selection: Despite its smaller size, the store boasts a surprising range of products. You’ll find everything from screws and washers to garden supplies (tools, fertilizer, seeds), plumbing fittings, and even Benjamin Moore paints. They also carry a wide variety of small hardware items sold individually, like nuts, bolts, and grommets—a rarity these days.
• Convenient Location and Parking: The store is conveniently located and offers ample free parking, making it a hassle-free shopping experience. Its smaller size means you can usually get in and out quickly. The convenient location makes this my go-to for many of my projects.
• Community Feel: There’s a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by the presence of a very mellow store dog. While I personally haven’t experienced the dog licking me, it’s a unique and positive feature mentioned by several other shoppers.
• Knowledgeable Staff: Long-term employees possess extensive product knowledge, offering valuable advice and support for DIY projects. Even newer staff members are reported to be helpful and willing to assist.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

• Inconsistent Customer Service: While many rave about the helpful staff, some recent experiences highlight a decline in service quality. One shopper encountered a rude employee who showed poor customer interaction and tossed items onto the counter. Another reported difficulty finding the store and a less-than-helpful response when seeking assistance.
• Price Point: While some consider the prices reasonable, others report higher prices compared to larger retailers. Be aware that you might find some items more expensive here.
• Limited Inventory: While the selection is impressive for its size, shoppers shouldn’t expect to find items like large plywood sheets or significant lumber. This is explicitly mentioned as the store does not carry these items.
• No Curbside Pickup: At least at one point, curbside pickup was not available. It’s wise to check for this option before heading there for your online order.
• Health and Safety Concerns: In at least one instance, the staff was noted as not consistently wearing masks during a pandemic.