Wooden furniture has long been a popular choice for homeowners in the UAE. From classic oak dining tables to finely crafted teak wardrobes, wood brings a warm, timeless charm to every space. But while wood is durable, the UAE’s unique climate—characterized by extreme heat, low humidity, and occasional dust storms—can take a toll on even the highest quality pieces.
Whether you’ve recently purchased from a high-end furniture shop or inherited heirloom pieces, maintaining wooden furniture in UAE requires regular care and attention. In this article, we’ll share practical tips to keep your furniture looking beautiful for years to come.
1. Understand How UAE’s Climate Affects Wood
Before diving into maintenance techniques, it’s important to understand how the climate impacts your furniture. The UAE’s hot and dry weather can cause wood to shrink, crack, or warp over time. Humidity may be low most of the year, but with the use of air conditioning indoors, the indoor climate can fluctuate rapidly—also putting pressure on the wood’s natural fibers.
Dust is another concern. With occasional sandstorms and year-round dry winds, dust tends to accumulate quickly, dulling the finish and penetrating cracks.
Understanding these environmental factors can help you tailor your furniture care routines more effectively.
2. Keep Furniture Away from Direct Sunlight
Sunlight is one of the biggest enemies of wood. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading, discoloration, and drying out of wood surfaces.
To prevent this, position your home furniture in UAE away from windows or glass doors where sunlight pours in. Use curtains or UV-protective window films if you can’t reposition the furniture. This simple adjustment can extend the life of your wooden furniture significantly.
3. Use a Humidifier Indoors
While most of us use air conditioning to beat the heat, AC systems pull moisture out of the air, making indoor environments even drier. Wood, being a natural material, absorbs and releases moisture depending on the surroundings. In excessively dry conditions, it can shrink, crack, or lose its sheen.
A humidifier can help balance indoor humidity levels, reducing the strain on your furniture. This is especially important during summer months when AC usage is at its peak.
4. Clean Regularly, But Gently
Cleaning your wooden furniture in UAE doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does need to be done correctly. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive materials, which can damage the finish.
Instead, follow this simple routine:
- Dust surfaces regularly with a soft, dry microfiber cloth.
- For deeper cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth with a mild soap solution, then dry immediately with a clean cloth.
- Avoid soaking the wood or letting moisture sit on the surface.
Regular, gentle cleaning helps keep the finish looking fresh and protects against dust build-up.
5. Polish with Quality Products
Polishing your wooden furniture every few months can restore its natural shine and create a protective barrier. Choose a polish that is suitable for the type of finish your furniture has—oil-based, wax, or lacquer.
Stay away from silicone-based products as they can create a residue that’s difficult to remove. When in doubt, ask for recommendations at a reputable furniture store in UAE, as staff are usually well-informed about care products for their collections.
6. Protect Surfaces from Scratches and Heat
One of the easiest ways to prolong the life of wooden furniture is to use protective accessories. Place coasters under cups, use placemats on dining tables, and consider adding felt pads under decorative objects.
Avoid placing hot items directly on wooden surfaces. Heat can leave unsightly marks or cause warping. Always use trivets or heat-resistant mats to prevent direct contact.
7. Refinish When Needed
Even with the best care, wooden furniture can show signs of wear over time. If the finish begins to look dull or the surface gets scratched, consider refinishing. This process involves sanding down the wood and applying a fresh coat of stain or varnish.
While it can be done at home for minor touch-ups, larger projects are best left to professionals. Many furniture shops in the UAE offer refinishing or restoration services, so it’s worth checking with them before attempting it yourself.
8. Control Pests and Mold
Although less common in dry environments, pests like termites can still find their way into homes and attack wooden furniture. Mold may also develop in poorly ventilated areas, especially during winter when windows remain closed for long periods.
Inspect your furniture periodically for signs of infestation or mold. If you notice small holes, powdery dust, or a musty smell, act quickly. Contact a professional pest control service or consult your local furniture store in UAE for recommendations.
9. Choose the Right Furniture for the Environment
Prevention is better than cure. When buying new pieces, consider materials and finishes that are suitable for the UAE’s climate. Hardwoods like teak and mahogany are more resistant to changes in temperature and humidity. Engineered wood with veneer surfaces can also be a good alternative, offering durability with a lower price tag.
Always shop from a trusted furniture shop that offers guidance on the best materials for your specific needs and living conditions.
10. Rotate and Rearrange Occasionally
To ensure even wear and tear, consider rotating cushions, drawers, or chairs if they’re part of a set. Rearranging furniture occasionally can also help avoid damage caused by consistent exposure to certain conditions, such as uneven sunlight or airflow.
This small habit goes a long way in keeping your home furniture in UAE in top shape.
Final Thoughts
Owning wooden furniture in UAE comes with both beauty and responsibility. The region’s climate may be harsh, but with thoughtful care, your furniture can remain in excellent condition for years—be it an elegant coffee table from a luxury furniture store in UAE or a custom-built piece from a boutique furniture shop.
By following the tips outlined above, you’re not just preserving furniture; you’re protecting a valuable investment and adding long-term value to your home.