Is your furniture monsoon proof?

Himanee Mrug

With monsoon just around the corner, it's time to bid adieu to the long hot summer days. While, most of us are relieved from the scorching heat, we cannot say the same about our furniture. Keeping in mind India's monsoon scenario, the saying 'Prevention is better than cure', is a perfect fit for this season. One has to be cautious with both interiors and exteriors of their premises. One such element is furniture. A long-term investment, furniture is often neglected during the rainy season. Lack of maintenance degrades its quality and shortens its life, making it swell or useless post monsoon. It is of utmost importance to focus on furniture, as much as taking care of the wall or repairing your electrical equipment. 

Maintaining your furniture during monsoon is not as hard as it sounds. Breathe easy, follow these suggested tips and be ready when rains hit this season.

Be prepared

Before going all out on maintenance it is vital to figure out if the furniture is actually monsoon ready. Check and cross-check if anything is chipped, broken, rusted, has a nail or spring out. Take a look at the edge bands, they prevent moisture from seeping in. See if they are still in place or about to be dismantled. 

To avoid such mishaps, use water resistant glue and materials to upkeep the furniture. It is recommendable to get the repair work done prior to the rainy season. 

Maintain distance

Your furniture should be kept a few inches away from the wall or huge windows. During monsoons, walls tend to get damp, this results in excess moisture or leakage. With huge windows, water can seep in and cause irreversible damage. Prevent this by shifting your furniture immediately from such spots. Wooden furniture might absorb moisture causing it to swell. Metal furniture can be affected with rust and tarnish easily. While, sticking your furniture to the wall might make a space look bigger, it is ideal to maintain a gap. 

Cleanliness

In damp weather, it is ideal to protect your furniture from dust. As dust absorbs moisture, it can further ruin the furniture. It is highly advisable to clean your furniture with a dry cloth during monsoon especially as a damp cloth can transfer the moisture to the furniture.  

Keep your space dry

With all the rain, there is a musty odour in the air. Make sure you keep your space dry, cross ventilation is highly recommendable. As it is not possible for your space to breathe during monsoon, it is advisable to invest in a good humidifier. Also known as a de-humidifier, this machine keeps temperature and moisture levels in control. Your air-conditioner too plays a pivotal role in maintaining a moisture free zone. This will not only keep your furniture fungus-free but also help to enhance its life, making it more durable.

A cheaper solution. Wait for the rains to stop and let the direct sunlight seep in. However, don't go overboard by placing the furniture in the sun. Keep it in for a limited time, as excess sunlight can also cause damage. In terms of your outdoor furniture, elements made out of wicker are quick to dry. However, one can't say the same about others. Basic precautionary measure is to either keep your furniture indoors or cover it up.

Don’t renovate, just maintain

Lastly, avoid any painting and renovation work of furniture. With high moisture level in the environment, desired output will not be achieved. Stick to plain maintenance, for the season of showers is all about conservation and not enhancements.

Let your furniture be as happy as you are this monsoon. Follow these simple steps, preserve your investment and enjoy the season hassle free. Happy Monsoon Everyone!

— The writer is Director, Vector Projects (I) Pvt. Ltd