8 min · Updated 2026-03-08
Wood Furniture Care Across U.S. Climates
Humidity swings crack finishes and swell drawers. Care routines should match where you live.
Humidity and heating seasons
Winter heating dries indoor air and can shrink wood; summer humidity can swell drawers. Keep pieces away from direct vents when possible, and use a humidifier or dehumidifier to stabilize indoor RH around 40–55%.
Light and cleaning
Direct sun fades wood unevenly. Rotate decorative objects occasionally. Dust with a soft cloth; avoid soaking wood with spray cleaners. Use coasters and trivets—water rings are the classic dining table heartbreak.