There’s something irresistibly warm about wooden furniture, be it a sense of craftsmanship or pure natural beauty. At Incanda, our wooden creations are made right here in Paarl, handcrafted by skilled artisans who give each piece its distinct South African character.
We believe that the beauty of our wooden furniture is worth preserving. By embracing a few simple habits, you can maintain the functionality and finish of your furniture for years to come. Read on to learn all you need to know about wooden furniture care across our country’s diverse climates, from crisp Cape winters to the sun-drenched Highveld.
Why Wood Thrives with Proper Care
Wood is a living material that expands, contracts, and responds to its environment. With proper care, it resists warping, preserves its glow, and maintains its centrepiece status in your living space. Here’s what that entails:
1. Daily Dusting and Gentle Cleaning
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth (like microfibre) to dust surfaces daily, or at least weekly. This prevents buildup that can dull the finish.
- For surface cleaning, dampen the cloth slightly; avoid soaking. A mild solution of soap and water is fine for stubborn marks, but after application it should always be dried immediately. This approach prevents moisture damage, especially in fluctuating humidity.
2. Shield from Sun, Heat and Extreme Weather
- Prolonged direct sunlight can bleach and crack wood finishes. Keep furniture a safe distance from windows or rotate items occasionally to ensure even exposure.
- Avoid placing furniture pieces near heat sources like heaters and fireplaces, especially in colder provinces. This prevents drying and splitting.
- In hot, dry regions, such as parts of the Northern Cape or Highveld, consider using a humidifier or indoor plant clusters to stabilise air moisture.
3. Maintain Optimal Humidity
Wood naturally reacts to humidity. In dry winters, your furniture may shrink or crack. Conversely, in coastal interiors, it might swell in the moist air.
The solution is to aim for steady indoor humidity levels (roughly 40–60%). A simple room humidifier or a small decorative water tray nearby can make a noticeable difference in furniture longevity.
4. Treat with Wood-Specified Products
Incanda offers a dedicated Wood Care range that you can find under our Furniture Care category. It features products designed to enrich and protect your furniture’s finish.
- Apply wood balm or care oil once or twice a year, depending on seasonal dryness or your home’s humidity.
- Use a clean, soft cloth, applying gently in the direction of the wood grain. Let it absorb fully, then gently buff it to remove any excess.
5. Handle Spills and Scuffs Promptly
- For water rings or spills, wipe away droplets immediately. Never let water sit on wood.
- Minor nicks or scuffs can often be gently blended with a matching wax stick or subtly polished with care oil.
- Avoid coasters for any damp items (cups, plants, etc.), and use felt pads on décor pieces to prevent indentations.
6. Perform Seasonal Check‑Ups
- Spring & Summer: This is ideal for light re-oiling, as warmer temperatures encourage absorption.
- Autumn & Winter: Closely monitor wood joints, looking for gaps or signs of drying. Increase humidity if your interior gets too dry.
In South African households with underfloor heating or high-beamed ceilings, check corners and curves where movement may be more noticeable.
Incanda’s Local Insight
As a proud South African brand, Incanda understands the craftsmanship that goes into wooden furniture and décor, as well as the environmental challenges it faces. We design every piece for durability using premium materials and processes. Now the rest is up to you.
With thoughtful care that includes dusting, conditioning, climate control, and protective habits, you ensure your wooden furniture continues to deliver style and longevity through South Africa’s shifting seasons. When you transform upkeep into a mindful ritual, your furniture not only endures but flourishes, becoming even more beautiful as it ages with grace.
