May 14, 2021, 2:46 am | Read time: 2 minutes
If you have solid wood furniture, it’s important to ventilate your indoor spaces adequately. Untreated wood, in particular, reacts to consistently high humidity levels. Here’s what you need to know.
Untreated wood can expand with consistently high humidity. If the indoor humidity suddenly drops, it can lead to cracks in beloved wooden furniture, explains the initiative Pro Massivholz. Experts refer to this process as swelling and shrinking.
Untreated Wooden Furniture–or Better to Oil and Wax?
To counteract swelling and shrinking, you can treat the wood’s surface by waxing or oiling it. This prevents static electricity in natural furniture, which is beneficial for allergy sufferers as the furniture attracts less dust and dirt.
However, solid wood furniture with untreated surfaces also has advantages. They have a greater impact on humidity–able to bind it more, as well as pollutants from the air. Both positively affect the living environment.
Related: Tips for Repainting Old Wooden Furniture
Ventilate Adequately and Correctly
In general, you should ensure that indoor humidity averages around 45 to 55 percent, with temperatures between 64 and 73 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the initiative Pro Massivholz.
To prevent high humidity, you should ventilate regularly. Ideally, for example, immediately after showering or cooking, advises the Association of Windows and Facades (VFF). During the day, ventilate briefly and create a draft if possible.
To avoid overheating rooms, you should ventilate mainly early in the morning, late in the evening, or at night during the summer. With one exception: In the bedroom, it may be beneficial to leave the windows slightly open at night.