Cover photo: Rachel Claire, Pexels
Wood is a living material. It swells when the air is humid and shrinks when conditions are dry. In Bujumbura, with year-round heat, the nearby lake, and the rainy season, your furniture is exposed to more wear than in many other places. A few simple habits can help keep it looking beautiful for years.
Place it in the right spot
Direct sunlight can fade wood and dry out its finish. Avoid placing a table or chest of drawers right in front of a window without a curtain. Leave a few inches between furniture and the wall, too. This allows air to circulate and helps prevent moisture from an exterior wall from reaching the back of a wardrobe.
Take extra care during the rainy season
This is when drawers can stick and mold may appear inside cupboards. Air out rooms whenever the weather is clear, open cupboards from time to time, and avoid placing furniture on a floor that remains wet after cleaning. A small pad under each leg can make a difference.
If a drawer sticks, don’t force it. Wait for a few drier days, or lightly rub the runners with a piece of candle wax.
Clean without causing damage
Use a soft, dry cloth for dust and a barely damp cloth for marks, then wipe the surface dry. Harsh household cleaners and bleach can damage the finish. Use coasters and placemats on tables: a cold glass can quickly leave a white ring on a varnished surface.
Treat the wood from time to time
Oiled furniture can lose its luster over time. Once or twice a year, apply a suitable coat of oil or wax to restore its color. For varnished furniture, dusting is usually all that’s needed. If you’re unsure which product to use, ask us. The right choice depends on the original finish.
Watch out for termites
Small holes in the wood, fine dust around the furniture’s feet, or mud tubes along a wall are signs to take seriously. The sooner you act, the better the chance of saving the piece. Keep furniture away from areas where soil touches the wall, and arrange treatment if needed.
A scratch or a wobbly leg?
Many types of damage can be repaired. Call Maza Furniture at +257 79 915 323 or visit us on Avenue Kigobe. We’ll let you know whether a touch-up will do or whether the furniture needs to come back to the workshop.