Seasonal Maintenance Methods for Wooden Furniture

Maintenance of Wooden Furniture: Following the Rhythm of the Seasons.Wooden furniture adheres to the natural property of wood—"expanding when wet and shrinking when dry". It may deform, shrink, or crack due to changes in its moisture content. Therefore, the core of furniture maintenance lies in addressing the fundamental issue of the material’s own moisture content. Just as the principle "nourish in spring, dispel heat in summer, replenish in autumn, and conserve in winter" guides human health maintenance throughout the year, the same logic applies to wooden furniture care.

Spring Maintenance

1.When dust accumulates, first use a feather duster to remove loose dust, then wipe the furniture surface with a clean, slightly damp cotton cloth. Avoid using overly dry or excessively wet cloths.

2.Protect the furniture from direct wind and sunlight. By late May, wipe the entire surface thoroughly with a soft cotton cloth, ensuring appropriate speed and pressure.

3.In southern regions, where spring and summer are humid (during the rainy season), open windows at noon on sunny days to maintain air circulation. Alternatively, place moisture-absorbing boxes or dehumidifying bags indoors, or use an air conditioner’s dehumidification function to prevent the furniture from absorbing excess moisture and deforming.

Summer Maintenance

1. Wipe and check the furniture frequently. Keep it away from direct sunlight and direct blasts of air conditioning.

2.Regularly inspect for signs of insect infestation (e.g., wood-boring beetles) and address the issue promptly if detected.

3.Two methods to eliminate wood-boring insects：

① Use a needle to inject insecticide into the insect holes.

② Seal the insect holes with sawdust paste, then cover the area with plastic film and leave it sealed for at least three days.

Autumn Maintenance

1.In autumn, check the mortise-and-tenon joints (a traditional woodworking connection method) of the furniture for looseness or cracks. Repair any issues immediately.

2. Prevent the furniture from being exposed to direct autumn winds.

3. Dust the furniture regularly, following these steps：

①First, remove dust with a feather duster;

② Then wipe the surface with a cotton cloth. Be sure to use pure cotton cloth—other rough or stiff fabrics may scratch the furniture finish.

4.Maintain the furniture more frequently in autumn. Wipe it regularly with a cotton cloth, and wipe quickly to generate slight warmth on the furniture surface (helping to stabilize its moisture content).

Winter Maintenance

1.Before winter arrives, check the copper fittings (e.g., handles, hinges) of the furniture for looseness. Repair or tighten them if necessary.

2.Keep the indoor temperature in winter at an appropriate level—around 18°C (64.4°F) is ideal. Excessively high temperatures can cause the furniture to shrink, crack, or lose its shape.

3.Increase indoor humidity to prevent the furniture from drying out. You can use a humidifier or place a basin of water on top of radiators.

4.Do not expose the furniture to direct air conditioning blasts.

5.Pay special attention to dust removal, as dust can absorb moisture from the furniture. Gently dust the surface with a feather duster, especially the side of the furniture that is against the wall.