Winter is the season for warmth and comfort—but your furniture might be feeling the chill in ways you don’t expect.

While the fireplace is roaring and the windows are shut for warmth, our furniture is silently suffering from dry air, humidity fluctuations and high temperatures. Even the most expensive furniture will show signs of wear and tear if not properly cared for. We’ll show you how to protect your furniture and keep it stylish this winter.

1. Keep Indoor Air Moist with Humidifiers or Plants

Winter heating turns our homes into dry zones, and while that helps keep us warm, it’s not ideal for materials like wood. You might not notice it right away, but your favorite oak dresser or walnut coffee table could be slowly drying out.

To combat this invisible threat:

• Use a humidifier to keep the indoor humidity between 40%–55%.

• If you don’t have one, try placing bowls of water near heat sources, or bring in moisture-loving houseplants like peace lilies or spider plants.

• Avoid placing wooden furniture right next to heaters or radiators.

2. Keep Furniture Away from Heat Sources

It’s tempting to rearrange everything closer to the fireplace or heater during cold months—but that comfort comes at a cost to your furniture. Prolonged exposure to heat can cause irreversible damage to several materials.

Let’s break it down:

Ideally, keep all furniture at least 1 meter (3 feet) away from radiators, vents, and fireplaces.

3. Condition Wooden Surfaces Regularly

Just like your skin gets dry in winter, so does your wooden furniture. Without sufficient moisture, it can lose its natural sheen and start developing fine cracks or rough textures.

To restore and protect your wood:

• Apply natural oils like teak, linseed, or Danish oil every 1–2 months.

• Use beeswax polish on antique or rustic pieces for a soft, protective finish.

• Avoid silicone-based sprays, which may trap moisture unevenly and cause patchy results.

4. Vacuum and Rotate Upholstery Weekly

Dust tends to accumulate more during winter, when ventilation is limited and windows stay shut for longer periods. Upholstered furniture, in particular, needs more attention to maintain hygiene and shape.

To keep fabric furniture fresh:

• Vacuum once a week using a soft brush attachment.

• Flip or rotate cushions to prevent uneven fading or sagging.

• Consider slipcovers if your furniture is in high-traffic or pet-friendly areas.

5. Protect Entryway Furniture from Snow and Water

Wet shoes, umbrellas, and bags—your entryway furniture deals with all of it. During winter, the constant contact with moisture and dirt can shorten the life of benches, racks, and storage units placed near doorways.

Keep your entry furniture safe by:

• Placing absorbent mats and shoe trays right at the entrance.

• Wiping surfaces dry weekly, especially if they’re wooden or metal.

• Using rubber or felt pads under furniture legs to prevent swelling or staining from melted snow.

6. Watch Out for Condensation and Rust on Metal Parts

When warm indoor air meets cold metal surfaces, it can lead to condensation. Over time, this moisture can cause rust, discoloration, or even corrosion on bed frames, shelving, and cabinet handles.

To prevent that:

• Wipe down metal parts immediately after floor cleaning.

• Apply WD-40 or rust-preventive spray every few months, especially on exposed steel or iron.

• Place rugs or mats under metal-based furniture to reduce temperature shock from cold floors.

7. Let Furniture Breathe: Airflow Matters

When furniture is pressed tightly against a wall in a closed room, it creates the perfect pocket for condensation, mildew, and stale air buildup. That’s especially true in areas with little circulation like bedrooms and hallways.

Help your furniture stay fresh by:

• Leaving at least 5–10 cm (2–4 inches) between furniture and walls.

• Opening windows for 5–10 minutes daily, even on cold days.

• Using air purifiers or dehumidifiers in poorly ventilated spaces.

Quick Winter Maintenance Checklist

Before spring arrives, take a few moments to give your furniture a full check-up. Here’s a simple list to follow:

A Little Love Goes a Long Way

Your furniture has seen countless nights out, festive dinners, and maybe even the occasional hot cocoa spill. This winter, treat them to the season’s care and give them the love they deserve.

Small details—like painting your couch, moving a side table, or protecting your entryway bench—can extend the life of your furniture and make your home more beautiful every year.