Quick answer: Keep indoor humidity around 35–50%, shade furniture from intense afternoon sun, keep it away from AC vents blowing directly on it, dust often to remove fine grit and oil or wax tabletops two or three times a year. Small seasonal changes are normal.
Why dry heat matters
Summers in eastern Washington are hot, sunny and dry. Solid wood responds to dry air by releasing moisture and shrinking slightly. Well-built furniture is designed to allow this movement, but very dry air for long stretches can open small gaps or make finishes look dull.
A hygrometer helps you see what your indoor air is actually doing.
Shade from strong sun
Intense sun can fade or darken wood and dry out finishes. Use sheer curtains, blinds or UV-filtering film on west- and south-facing windows. Rotate lamps and decor on a TV console so the finish ages evenly.
Move pieces a few feet from the sunniest windows if you can.
Air conditioning and vents
Air conditioning dries air as it cools. Avoid placing furniture where a vent blows directly on it, which dries one side faster than the other. A simple vent deflector redirects airflow.
Keep furniture a few inches from exterior walls that heat up in the afternoon.
Dust is the enemy
Dry, windy regions bring fine dust indoors. Dust acts like fine sandpaper when wiped across a surface. Use a soft dry microfiber cloth weekly and lift objects rather than sliding them.
Skip silicone polishes, which leave a film that attracts more dust.
Oil and wax
In dry climates, finishes appreciate a little more attention. Give tabletops and desktops a thin coat of paste wax or furniture oil two or three times a year. A coffee table that sees daily use benefits most.
Bookshelves and wall pieces need care only once or twice a year.
Humidity targets
Aim for about 35 to 50 percent relative humidity indoors. In very dry spells a room humidifier helps; in winter, when the furnace runs, it may help even more. Don't overdo it — condensation on windows means the air is too moist.
Plants and an open pot of water near a heat source add modest moisture too.
New furniture arriving
When a new piece arrives on a hot day, let it acclimate indoors for a day before loading it with heavy items. Unwrap it in the room where it will live so it adjusts gradually.
If a drawer feels snug at first, give it a few days to settle.
What's normal
Slight seasonal gaps between boards, or drawers that slide differently between summer and winter, are natural wood movement. Growing splits, loose joints or peeling finish are not — if you see those, email us with photos.
With shade, steady humidity and a bit of wax, hardwood thrives even in a desert summer.
Outdoor and patio pieces
Solid wood benches and tables on a patio face even more sun and heat. Keep them under a covered porch or shade sail when possible, lift them off hot concrete with pads, and apply an outdoor oil at the start of each summer. Bring cushions inside after use.
Bare wood left outdoors will gray naturally; regular oiling keeps its warm color longer.
Moving and rearranging
Summer is a popular time to move. Lift furniture rather than dragging it, remove drawers and shelves before carrying cabinets, and wrap pieces in moving blankets rather than plastic, which traps heat and moisture. Never leave furniture in a hot truck or garage for days.
Once in place, let the piece settle for a day before loading it fully.
Frequently asked questions
What indoor humidity is best for wood?
About 35–50% relative humidity.
How often should I wax a tabletop?
Two or three times a year in dry climates.
Does sun damage wood furniture?
Strong sun can fade or darken it; use shades and rotate decor.
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