Types of wood
Deciding on sheesham wood or mango wood
Both of these woods are hardwoods and they are strong, durable and beautiful. However, if you want a smooth finished wood with natural marking in a chestnut colour, sheesham wood should be your choice. If you want solid wood furniture that is lighter, water resistant, and carved intricately, mango wood is what you should look for when shopping. By choosing either one, you’ll be pleased with the life you’ll get with them, so you can enjoy them for decades.
About sheesham wood
Sheesham wood, or also known as indian rosewood, is found in india. The trees grow for as long as 22 years, and they can reach to as much as 30 meters tall. The diameter of the trees can be as wide as 1.5 meters. These large trees produce wood that’s heavy and dense. It has superior strength, which makes it a high quality wood for fine furniture. Upon collection, the wood is polished, which leaves behind a smooth surface that is attractive. The natural marking of the wood makes every piece of furniture made from sheesham wood unique. Many people who consider buying sheesham wood furniture pieces do so because it’s high quality and has a rich chestnut colour and rustic appearance.
How do i clean sheesham wood?
• alcohol, deodorants and perfumes should not be used near sheesham wood furniture and/or décor as some chemicals in these types of products may harm the finish of the wood.
• dust regularly using a slightly moistened cotton or microfiber dusting cloth. Polish occasionally with any wood safe polish available through your local grocery or variety store to restore the wood’s shine.
• sheesham wood furniture and/or decor should not be exposed to extreme humidity changes.
• moisture may cause the wood to expand and contract, which can result in cracking.
• in order to prevent staining and warping of your beautiful sheesham wood furniture, always use mats and coasters when placing any food or beverage item on the furniture. Do not place any hot item on the furniture directly. If liquid spills over it, immediately wipe it with a sponge or towel.
About mango wood
Mango wood is derived from the mango tree. This is the same tree that produces the sweet fleshy fruit known as ‘a mango’, characterised by skin that turns from green to yellow/red and an inside comprised of a large stone surrounded by juicy yellow flesh. Its ‘latin’ name is mangifera indica.
At the opposite end of the scale to mahogany, mango presents a sustainable hardwood that is extremely durable, versatile, and affordable. Mango heartwood is usually golden-brown in appearance but darkens over time. It possesses excellent water-resistant qualities, especially when polished or waxed. The grain is densely packed, and though it is strong and durable (as strong as cherry or ash) it can be easily worked by hand. Of all the wood types listed here, mango offers a way forward for a more sustainable source of timber, allowing stocks of rarer species time to recover. A mango tree can reach 100ft in 15 years, making it too hazardous to harvest the fruit. In the past, the trees would be felled and burned. Now, the timber is sold to be made into furniture, ornaments, musical instruments and so on. This means that the farmers increase their income as well as reducing air pollution.
How do i clean mango wood?
• Although mango wood is fairly water-resistant, it is advised that you do not clean it by applying water to the surface and removing with a sponge.
• wipe down periodically with a slightly damp or dry dust cloth that contains no heavy stitching, in order to avoid scratches.
• avoid all cleaning tools with a rough surface.
• avoid polish or cleaning products containing silicone, which can dry out natural wood over time.
• do not use detergents or any cleaning products that contain ammonia.
• be careful when using a liquid or spray polish, as residue left on the surface can lead to discoloring.
• rub wax in to the wood to create a beautiful shine and a natural protective finish. It also prevents the wood from drying out.
• Mineral oil can be applied using a cloth. This will build up over time to produce a protective surface.
• Minor scratches and chips can be repaired with furniture touch-up pens or soft wax filler.