India’s diverse climate—ranging from humid monsoons and dry summers to chilly winters—can be tough on wooden furniture. While solid wood furniture is durable and timeless, proper care is essential to preserve its beauty, strength, and finish for years to come. With the right maintenance practices, handcrafted wooden furniture can age gracefully and even become a cherished heirloom.
Here’s a complete guide to maintaining wooden furniture in Indian weather conditions.
1. Protect Wooden Furniture from Excess Humidity
High humidity during the monsoon season can cause wood to swell, warp, or develop mold.
What you should do:- Keep furniture in well-ventilated areas.
- Use dehumidifiers or moisture absorbers in closed rooms.
- Avoid placing wooden furniture directly against damp walls.
- Wipe surfaces dry immediately if exposed to moisture.
Pro tip: Avoid covering wooden furniture with plastic sheets during monsoon—this traps moisture and can damage the wood.
2. Shield Furniture from Direct Sunlight
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade the polish and dry out the wood, leading to cracks.
Best practices:- Place furniture away from windows with harsh sunlight.
- Use curtains, blinds, or UV-protective window films.
- Rotate furniture occasionally to ensure even exposure.
This is especially important for handcrafted furniture with natural finishes.
3. Regular Dusting Is Essential
Dust particles may seem harmless, but over time they act like sandpaper and dull the surface.
How to clean properly:- Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth for daily dusting.
- Avoid rough or wet cloths.
- For carved or detailed pieces, use a soft brush to reach crevices.
This is especially important for handcrafted furniture with natural finishes.
4. Clean Spills Immediately
Dust particles may seem harmless, but over time they act like sandpaper and dull the surface.
What to do:- Blot spills immediately with a dry cloth..
- Never rub aggressively. .
- Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that strip natural oils from the wood.
5. Oil or Polish Wooden Furniture Periodically
Indian weather can dry out wood, especially during summers and winters.
Maintenance tip:- Apply natural wood oil or polish every 6–12 months.
- This nourishes the wood, enhances grain visibility, and prevents cracking .
- Always test the polish on a small hidden area first.
Handcrafted solid wood furniture benefits greatly from regular oiling.
6. Prevent Termite and Pest Damage
Termites thrive in warm and humid Indian conditions.
Prevention measures:- Keep furniture away from damp floors.
- Use natural termite repellents like neem oil. .
- Inspect furniture regularly, especially legs and joints.
- Ensure professional termite treatment for your home when needed.
Handcrafted solid wood furniture benefits greatly from regular oiling.
7. Use Coasters, Mats & Felt Pads
Heat and scratches are common causes of surface damage.
Protective steps:- Always use coasters under hot cups or glasses.
- Use natural termite repellents like neem oil. .
- Place mats under décor items.
- Add felt pads under furniture legs to prevent floor and furniture damage. .
8. Avoid Frequent Movement
Handcrafted wooden furniture is sturdy, but excessive dragging or shifting can weaken joints over time.
- Lift furniture instead of dragging it.
- If relocation is needed, wrap it in breathable cloth rather than plastic.
Why Handcrafted Wooden Furniture Needs Special Care
Handcrafted furniture is made from solid wood and finished using traditional techniques. Unlike factory-made furniture, it retains the natural characteristics of wood, making it more responsive to climate changes—but also more beautiful when maintained properly.
With mindful care, handcrafted wooden furniture not only lasts longer but develops a rich patina that adds to its charm.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining wooden furniture in Indian weather isn’t difficult—it simply requires consistency and care. By protecting it from moisture, sunlight, pests, and daily wear, you ensure that your handcrafted furniture remains strong, elegant, and timeless.
At Tivraa, every piece is crafted to endure—but a little love goes a long way in preserving its beauty.