Do You Know Why Furniture Suffers in Summer? Tips to Protect It from Sun & Heat
Hello from Okawa Kagu Dot Com,
This summer has been a scorcher, and for many of us, the air conditioner is running nonstop just to stay comfortable.
But here’s something you might not know: this same extreme summer environment can take a real toll on your furniture, too.
In this issue, we’ll share:
- 5 common ways summer heat and humidity can damage furniture
- The difference between wood veneer and printed laminate – and why it matters
- Care tips for solid wood furniture
And at the end, we’ll include our Obon holiday shipping schedule so you can plan ahead.
● Summer: A “Trial by Fire” for Furniture
When temperatures soar past 95°F (35°C) and humidity spikes to 80% or more, your furniture is quietly under stress.
Here are some of the most common summer damage points to watch for:
① Swelling or Peeling of Plywood Panels
Moisture absorption can cause panels to swell, joints to lift, or surface layers to peel—especially in furniture placed directly on the floor with poor ventilation.
② Adhesive Deterioration
High heat can weaken glue, making veneer edges curl up. Lower-cost furniture that uses hot-melt adhesives is especially at risk. If peeling occurs, reattach promptly with wood glue.
③ Cracks, Warping, or Discoloration
Printed laminate (faux woodgrain) is highly vulnerable to UV light, leading to fading, yellowing, or surface waviness in just a few years.
④ Stiff or Sticking Drawers
Wood swells as it absorbs moisture, making drawers harder to open or causing them to snag.
⑤ Mold or Insect Problems in Clothing Storage
Closed storage traps heat and humidity, creating an ideal environment for mold or fabric pests—particularly in furniture made from non-breathable materials.
However, our rail-free paulownia wood drawers maintain a stable interior climate, minimizing rapid temperature and humidity swings.
In fact, our in-house test on sealed drawers during the rainy season showed surprisingly stable conditions, ideal for long-term clothing storage. See the results here ›
● Veneer vs. Printed Laminate – Know the Difference
Two pieces of furniture may look similar, but the materials tell a different story:
| Feature | Printed Laminate | Veneer (Real Wood) |
|---|---|---|
| UV Resistance | Weak (fades/yellows quickly) | Moderate (color changes with age, gains character) |
| Look After Aging | Appears worn or cheap | Develops rich patina |
| Repairability | Not repairable | Can be refinished or waxed |
| Wood Grain | Printed pattern | Authentic, unique grain |
Veneer is made by slicing real wood into thin sheets and applying it to a substrate. It offers warmth and depth that change beautifully in the light.
Printed laminate is budget-friendly and easy to process, but far more vulnerable to UV and moisture damage. Whenever possible, keep laminate surfaces out of direct sunlight.
● For Solid Wood (Including Veneer) – Extra Care in Summer
Even sturdy veneer and solid wood benefit from protection from direct sunlight. Solid wood, being a full block of natural material, is especially sensitive.
Oil-Finished Furniture
Oil finishes highlight the natural beauty of wood but can dry out in summer heat, leaving the surface rough, prone to dirt, and fading faster.
Tip: Apply maintenance oil every 6–12 months. See our care set here ›
Solid Wood – Watch for Cracking or Warping
- Use curtains or UV-filtering window film
- Place a cloth or mat on tabletops
- Avoid direct blasts from air conditioners or dehumidifiers
- Maintain indoor humidity between 40–60%
● A Quick Word from Us
At Okawa Kagu Dot Com, we select furniture with longevity in mind—from materials to construction to finish.
Handled with the right care, a good piece of furniture can be your companion for 10, 20 years or more.
If you’re unsure about the materials in your furniture—or want advice on caring for natural wood—please reach out via Chat or our contact form.
See our full collection of carefully selected furniture ›
【Important】Obon Holiday Shipping Schedule
We will be closed for the Obon holiday:
- Closed: Aug 9 (Sat) – Aug 17 (Sun)
- Final orders for pre-holiday shipping: Aug 6 (Wed) morning
- Shipping resumes: Aug 18 (Mon)
Due to high demand, delivery times before and after these dates may be longer than usual. For urgent orders, we recommend placing them by late July or early August.
Final Thought
Furniture isn’t just something you set in place—it’s something you live with and care for. By understanding the materials and environment, you can enjoy its beauty and usefulness for decades to come.
Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy your summer.
— The Okawa Kagu Dot Com Team