What’s the best wood for furniture? Of course, this is a matter of personal taste and style. But there are also some other things to consider when choosing the right type of wood for your furniture ensemble.
Let’s take a quick look at this topic and see if we can come up with some guidelines.
What kind of wood is best for furniture — and why?
As we said, choosing the best wood is really a matter of personal taste. There are lots of quality woods used to make lots of quality furniture. Wood allows for a tremendous variety of customization — not just in the wood grain itself, but in color and application.
Plus, there are many ways to incorporate wood into your furniture choices. You can consider purchasing solid wood furniture, for example. Or wood can be used as accents on furniture made of other materials. (Learn more about our customization options here.)
The most popular types of wood for furniture are usually oak, ash, maple, walnut, and cherry. Each has its own unique characteristics.
- Oak is super dense, making it very strong.
- Ash is heavy and renowned for its grain.
- Maple is also very strong and fits well with modern decors.
- Cherry is rugged enough to withstand generations of families and all their activities. (Almost as if it has built-in shock resistance.)
- Walnut’s elegance is based on its striking color and texture.
So what’s the best wood? It’s up to you.
Of course, there’s a lot of quality wood furniture that isn’t made from solid wood. Budget-conscious furniture buyers looking for a certain style of furniture can find a number of appealing options with hardwood, softwood, pine wood, and more.
The furniture experts at Broadway are happy to be your guide. Let us know if you need assistance determining the best wood for your particular furniture tastes.
What factors should you consider when choosing wood?
When choosing wood, there are a few factors to consider in order to get the best results.
The first is the hardness of the wood. Harder woods are more durable and best suited for high-traffic areas or furniture pieces that will see a lot of wear and tear. Softer woods are best used for more delicate, decorative items.
The next factor to consider is the grain. Some woods have a very straight grain that is easy to work with, while others have a more decorative grain that can be difficult to match when working with multiple pieces. Pine, for example, can have large knots and a distinctive grain pattern. Cherry has a smooth grain that can be stained or painted to match your décor.
Finally, you’ll want to take into account the color and finish of the wood. Some woods take stain well, while others are best left natural.
With so many options available, taking the time to choose the best wood for your project — whether it’s indoor furniture or outdoor furniture — will ensure that you’re happy with the results for years to come.
Ultimately, the best wood for furniture is the one that best suits your needs in terms of durability, appearance, and price.
For dining room or kitchen furniture, some buyers prefer creamy white oak, black walnut, cherry wood, maple wood, or red oak. These are stylish and elegant natural colors, especially in rooms where a piece of furniture goes well with chocolate brown-colored decorations.
How to care for your furniture so it lasts for years
Anyone who’s ever owned a piece of wood furniture knows that it is beautiful and elegant, but it can also be challenging to care for. Here are a few tips to help you keep your furniture looking its best.
Not all wood is created equal. When choosing, be sure to ask about the best type of wood for your needs.
Once you have your furniture, it’s important to take care of it properly. Dust regularly with a soft cloth, and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives. Keep your furniture out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources, as this can cause the wood to warp or discolor over time.
With proper care, your wood furniture will be a beautiful addition to your home for years to come. Usually, all it takes to ensure your wood furniture lasts for generations is to do the following:
- Dust regularly with a soft cloth or brush.
- Place your furniture out of direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading.
- If you spill something on your furniture, wipe it up immediately.
- Periodically polish your furniture with high-quality furniture polish.
When caring for your furniture, regular dusting and vacuuming will help to keep it looking its best. In addition, avoid putting hot items directly on the surface, as this can cause discoloration or even scorch marks.
If you take care of your furniture, it will provide you with years of enjoyment. And when all is said and done, the best wood for furniture is the one that you’re proud to own and take care of for decades.
At Broadway Furniture, we know you have choices when it comes to your furniture-buying experience. What’s more, we understand that there are lots of choices when it comes to choosing the best wood for furniture.
We’re here to help put you at ease and to make the buying experience as pleasant as possible. Don’t be afraid to ask us for help or for recommendations. We look forward to speaking with you!
