It’s easy to forget sometimes that wood is alive, and that it came from a living thing. As a result, just like us, wood reacts to changes in the environment. Depending on conditions, it will expand and contract. Exactly like your hands, if wood gets dry, it will lose moisture and begin cracking. We’re the world’s largest supplier of teak shower benches, and it’s become important to us to take steps to protect the wood to maximize its looks and functionality.

You can easily do the same thing. Keep reading for a few simple tips for protecting your wood furniture.

• The ideal condition for wood inside your home is a temperature of about 70-72 degrees Fahrenheit, with humidity levels of 50%-55%.
• During winter months, humidity levels drop, which can cause problems with wood. To level things out, use a humidifier during dry months.
• Along similar lines, try to avoid any abrupt changes in humidity. Wood likes a consistent environment, and damage can gradually occur otherwise.
• If you’re storing wood furniture, don’t leave it in areas like attics, garages, or basements. By leaving furniture in unprotected areas like these, you can actually cause the aging of the wood to accelerate.
• Also with storage, be sure not to store wood pieces in hot areas or near fireplaces and heating vents. The excess heat can dry out the wood.
• If your wood pieces are in a damp area, or during rainy seasons, use dehumidifiers to combat excess moisture.
• When placing wood furniture around your home, try to make sure it’s not placed in direct sunlight.
• When storing table leaves, try to keep them close to the table itself in order to ensure they’re both exposed to the same humidity levels consistently.