Love your Furniture Longer: Essential Wood Care Tips

 That's why we've curated a collection of wood furniture that celebrates the natural beauty and versatility of this timeless material. Whether you're drawn to the rustic charm of solid timber or the modern elegance of veneered wood, we offer a diverse selection to suit your taste and budget.

The allure of solid timber furniture lies in its inherent individuality. Each piece carries the story of its decades-long growth, its surface showcasing a unique tapestry of grain patterns and natural variations. Solid timber also possesses a living quality, responding to its environment by absorbing and releasing moisture. This can sometimes lead to minor cracking, warping, or cupping – a testament to the wood's natural movement. But fear not, these characteristics add to the piece's character.

We understand that owning a piece of solid timber furniture is an investment, and we're here to provide you with the knowledge and care tips you need to ensure it endures for generations to come. Here's how to nurture the natural beauty of your solid timber furniture:

• Find a Stable Home: Avoid placing your furniture in direct sunlight, near heat sources, or in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations. Consistent temperature and humidity levels help minimize wood movement.
• Embrace the Natural Movement: Minor cracks and warping are a normal part of a solid timber piece's life. To prevent excessive movement, however, avoid placing your furniture outdoors or in heavily air-conditioned areas.
• Love it Regularly: Regularly polish your solid timber furniture with a high-quality wood polish following the grain direction. This removes dust and grime, protects the wood, and enhances its natural lustre.
• Spills Happen: Act fast! Clean up spills immediately with a damp cloth to prevent liquids from seeping into the wood. For tougher stains, consult a professional furniture restoration service.

For those seeking a wider design palette or a more budget-conscious option, veneered wood offers a compelling alternative. This innovative technique involves adhering thin slices of real wood, called veneer, to a stable core material. This allows for intricate marquetry patterns, a broader range of finishes, and the ability to utilize rare or exotic wood species in a way that maximizes their beauty and minimizes waste. The result is furniture that is not only visually stunning but also promotes sustainable practices by using precious wood resources more efficiently. Veneered wood also offers greater stability, making it a good choice for areas with fluctuating temperatures or humidity.

Veneered wood, while requiring less maintenance than solid timber, still benefits from proper care: Dust Regularly: Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and prevent buildup. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using abrasive cleaners or household chemicals on your veneered furniture, as they can damage the finish. Opt for a gentle wood cleaner or a solution of water and mild dish soap. Keep it Balanced: Similar to solid timber, avoid placing veneered furniture in extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, as this can cause the veneer to crack or peel.

Solid timber and veneered wood furniture, both beautiful in their way, take centre stage at Bradford's. Discover the timeless elegance they bring to your home