Caring for Wooden Furniture in the Saudi Climate

Wood is a living material: it swells and shrinks with heat and humidity. Our climate brings both: strong sun and dry air-conditioned air most of the year, and high humidity in the coastal cities. So your wooden pieces need simple but regular care. Keep furniture out of direct sun. Sunlight through a window changes the colour of wood over the months, leaving it lighter in one place and darker in another. Draw a light curtain at midday, and move the decor pieces on a top now and then so they do not leave shadows. Do not place pieces right in front of an air-conditioning vent. Cold, dry air draws moisture out of wood, and fine cracks appear or the joints between boards open. Leave some distance between the piece and the vent, or turn the airflow away from it. For everyday cleaning, a soft dry or lightly damp cloth is enough; dry the wood straight away. Avoid sprays that contain silicone or alcohol, and always put a coaster under hot and cold cups. Oil-finished wood welcomes a fresh coat of oil once a year; you will see the difference in its colour and feel.