Due to the shortage of rosewood, proper care and maintenance of any items you already have is essential. Older furniture built from timber that can no longer be exported in any form cannot be easily replaced, and you’d be wise to maintain it well.

The growing demands for rosewood have endangered the trees’ extinction, resulting in strict trade laws and higher rosewood prices in general. Furthermore, rosewood is becoming associated with premium and luxurious furniture due to its remarkable colouration and density.

If you own a piece of rosewood furniture, it is a must to ensure that you apply the best care. To help you, here are five tips to always remember:

1 – Know What Your Furniture Is Made Of

When purchasing rosewood furniture, consider the wood quality. Padauk and rosewood, for instance, are classified as high-quality and precious materials. These types of timber are solid and durable, known for their beautiful grain. They are gleaming and silky and are not easily rusted or damaged.

Padauk and rosewood are the primary components of high-quality rosewood furniture. If you know what your pieces are made of, it’ll be easier to determine what goes into their care. Take time to inspect the bottom and assess the character and grain of the wood to maintain each piece properly.

2 – Know Your Climate

When relative humidity changes, rosewood furniture stretches and shrinks. It is a type of hardwood that thrives in subtropical conditions in many parts of the globe, making it sensitive to its surroundings. Tongue and groove construction in well-made rosewood furniture allows for natural movement of the wood without affecting the finish or longevity of the furniture.

If it was not kiln-dried adequately before production, note that the finish might have a rippling look due to shrinking during humidity changes. Additionally, inspect the polish of the furniture before buying to guarantee a smooth, mirror-like finish.

3 – Know Proper Furniture Placement

Do not store rosewood furniture in basements or attics, which are often humid and hot. The wood does not do well when placed in such environments. Following the same logic, avoid placing your pieces next to direct heat sources such as radiators, fireplaces, heaters, or wood stoves, as extreme heat and dryness can cause the wood to split and crack. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can fade its beautiful colours. Periodically move accessories placed on the surface of rosewood furniture to prevent dark spots from forming underneath.

4 – Know How to Maintain a Beautiful Sheen

Lacquer, which creates a high-gloss sheen and helps preserve the wood from heat and moisture, is frequently used to polish rosewood. Eliminate dust using a soft, dry cloth or a gently moistened cloth followed by a dry cloth to remove any moisture accumulated. Although lacquer is moisture resistant, wipe liquid spills with paper towels or a clean cloth as soon as possible to prevent ruining the finish. Set coasters underneath beverages to avoid moisture rings from cold drinks or heat transfers from hot drinks since both may harm the finish. It is best to avoid multipurpose and silicone-based cleansers completely.

5 – Know How to Correctly Use Oil to Restore Your Pieces

Once or twice a year, apply oil to your rosewood pieces to gently restore them to like-new condition. Using a soft, clean cloth, apply a little quantity of furniture oil to the furniture’s surface, working with the grain of the wood. When too much oil is used, a greasy film is left on the surface, so apply it cautiously. Remember to oil rosewood furniture in the spring and autumn, when the humidity in the house is most likely to alter. However, only use oil on soft-finished rosewood furniture; otherwise, the oil will damage your prized piece.

Final Thoughts

Rosewood furniture, like any other high-quality piece you keep in your home, requires love and care. The wood expands and contracts, and natural gaps may form. To keep them in control, it is suggested that you follow the procedures outlined above to guarantee your furniture piece is always in pristine shape.

Should you find yourself stressing over restoring and keeping your antique rosewood furniture in shape, you can always seek help from professionals. At Cavalier Antiques, one of the best companies that offer furniture restoration in Adelaide will help bring back your furniture to its priced condition. Drop us a message today to learn more!