Caring for Your Wood Furniture in Preparation for Winter

It’s that time of year again: the days are getting colder and winter is just around the corner. That means that the humidity is also dropping and if you’ve recently acquired a few new pieces of solid wood furniture or are thinking of buying some soon, then there are a few things that you need to know in order to properly care for these fine items through the colder season.

 

That’s why we’re here to remind you of the finer details to help ensure that your heirloom items get the care they deserve so that they’ll last you a lifetime and be in top condition when you eventually pass them on.

 

Considering Humidity

 

For the same reason that all types of wood tend to expand in the humid months of summer, they will also contract in the dry months of winter: humidity. While some variation is to be expected and is entirely normal, you want to do everything you can to ensure that these natural changes do not result in any damage to items like solid wood dining table and chairs or dining hutches and sideboards.

 

Luckily, there are ways to combat changes in humidity that are guaranteed to provide you with lasting quality furniture if followed. One of the best ways to prevent any permanent damage that can be caused by humidity is to control the moisture levels of any room in your home that contains solid wood furniture.

 

You can measure the humidity levels in your home by using a hygrometer and use humidifiers and air conditioners to adjust the levels to the ideal humidity of between 35% to 45%. Taking these steps to control the atmosphere inside your home will ensure that your furniture does not sustain any damage, no matter how dry or humid the air becomes outside.

 

Keep Wood Furniture Away From Heaters and Heating Vents

 

While handcrafted solid wood furniture is extremely durable, excessive levels of heat can do damage to even the most resilient wooden dining room chairs or tables. The best way to prevent such damage is to simply place your furniture at a comfortable distance from any heaters or heating vents in your home.

 

Prevent Water Damage

 

If your wooden furniture is left exposed to water or containers with condensation for a long period of time, it can result in white, cloudy marks tarnishing the surface. Repairing such damage can be costly or even impossible in extreme situations. The best way to prevent this type of damage is to simply avoid exposing your furniture to these things at all costs.

 

A good rule of thumb is that if a container is too hot or cold to comfortably hold in your hands, then it should not be left on any piece of furniture made of solid wood. You can also help to protect the finish of your wood furniture by using coasters on tables. Any spilled water should be cleaned off immediately. And remember, you can always call us to learn more about any aspect of properly caring for your finely-crafted solid wood items from Woodcraft.

 

Quality handcrafted furniture is built to last a lifetime, but that doesn’t mean that it can be disregarded and treated without any care. It doesn’t take much to ensure that your solid wood furniture will last, but you should be informed and follow our advice to ensure the best satisfaction out of your products.