Monsoon furniture care tips: How to protect your chairs, sofas and beds from damage during rainy season

With rain comes the increased humidity and moisture, which pose a threat to home furniture, especially to materials like wood, metal, and fabric. Plus, without proper precautions, your furniture can suffer damage from dampness, mildew, and even fungal growth.

Monsoon months often create an environment conducive to mould, mildew, and moisture buildup, says Raghunandan Saraf, Founder and CEO of Saraf Furniture. “As humidity rises, wooden furniture can swell and lose its shine, metal can rust, and fabric can absorb dampness that leads to unpleasant odour and mould,” he says.

Saraf suggests the following simple ways to ensure your furniture remains safe during the rainy season:

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• Move furniture away from walls: In order to maintain your furniture in the rainy season, it is to important to ensure that it isn’t placed too close to walls. “When furniture is against walls, moisture can become trapped behind larger pieces like sofas and wardrobes, which could promote the growth of bacteria or fungal algae. Make sure there’s enough space between the wall and your furniture to encourage airflow, which helps prevent moisture buildup," he says.

• Use moisture absorbers: To control moisture, use moisture absorbers like silica gel packets, activated charcoal, or naphthalene balls. These can be placed in drawers, cabinets, and other closed spaces where fabrics or leather are stored. Not only do they absorb moisture, but they also neutralise any unpleasant odours that tend to accumulate in the damp environment.

• Opt for water resistant furniture: When purchasing new furniture or refurbishing old pieces, consider opting for water-resistant finishes. Applying a layer of waterproof varnish to wooden furniture can prevent the material from absorbing excess moisture, which can lead to swelling and permanent damage. This simple step can save you from costly repairs later on.

• Use clean upholstery: Upholstered furniture is particularly vulnerable during the monsoon due to the high humidity. Damp cushions and sofa fabrics can quickly become breeding grounds for mildew. Regular cleaning of the upholstery, such as vacuuming or shampooing, will help keep the material fresh. “Moreover, placing cushions in the sun occasionally will help reduce dampness and prevent mold. Opt for washable, detachable covers that can be easily cleaned after each monsoon season,” he says.

• Keep windows and curtains dry: Rainwater can easily enter your home through windows. It's important to ensure that the windows are thoroughly dried after rain. Investing in thick curtains or moisture-resistant blinds can help protect your furniture from getting damp, also, wipe down the windows regularly to avoid water seepage.

• Raise the furniture: In areas where water tends to seep into the house, raising furniture off the floor is a smart preventive measure. Look for furniture with higher legs or use rubber protective pads beneath the legs. This keeps the wooden legs from absorbing water, which can warp the furniture over time.

• Ventilate properly: Proper ventilation is vital during the monsoon months. By opening windows on dry days, you allow fresh air to circulate and help control indoor humidity levels. A well-ventilated room discourages the growth of mould and mildew while ensuring that moisture doesn’t linger in your living space.