Care tips for summer: protect your furniture from heat and humidity

Summer in Montreal brings warmth, longer days, and the joy of open windows, but it also brings challenges for your high-end furniture. As temperatures rise and humidity levels fluctuate, your cherished pieces need a little extra attention to maintain their elegance and longevity.

At Casavogue, your high-end furniture store in Montreal, we believe that whether you've invested in handcrafted wood dining table or leather recliner, protecting your furniture during these warmer months isn't just about maintenance, it’s about preserving the memories and comfort they bring to your home.

4 essential furniture care tips for Summer

1. Shield wood from direct sunlight and temperature swings

Your wooden furniture, whether it's a stunning dining table or an elegant sideboard, needs protection from Montreal's summer sun. Direct sunlight can cause wood to fade, crack, or warp over time.

What to do?

• Position wooden pieces away from windows that receive intense afternoon sun
• Use curtains, blinds, or UV-filtering window film
• Maintain consistent indoor temperatures when possible (air conditioning helps, but avoid placing furniture directly in front of AC vents)
• Apply a high-quality wood conditioner or polish monthly to keep the wood nourished

The key is consistency, dramatic temperature changes stress wood fibers more than steady, moderate heat. Like in the case of the Viola Bedroom Set, which features a glossy lacquered wood finish, protecting these surfaces from prolonged sun exposure is essential to preserve their shine.

2. Keep leather supple and protected

High-end leather furniture brings timeless elegance to any space and, just like skin, it benefits from regular hydration and protection. With a little seasonal care, its rich texture and refined appearance only become more beautiful over time.

What to do?

• Clean leather monthly with a specialized leather cleaner to remove oils and dirt
• Apply a leather conditioner every 2-3 months to maintain suppleness
• Keep leather furniture at least 2 feet away from windows and heat sources
• If you notice any small cracks forming, address them immediately with leather repair products

Quality leather improves with proper care. The Aida Sectional Sofa, with its elegant full-grain leather, is a perfect example of a sectional sofa that benefits from regular conditioning and care to avoid drying or cracking during summer months.

3. Manage humidity for fabric upholstery

Montreal summers can be unexpectedly humid, and fabric upholstery can quickly become problematic if moisture gets trapped. The goal is maintaining proper air circulation while preventing mold and mildew.

What to do?

• Vacuum upholstered furniture weekly, including cushions and crevices where moisture can hide
• Use a dehumidifier in rooms with poor ventilation
• Rotate and flip cushions regularly to ensure even wear and air circulation
• Address spills immediately, dampness in summer heat creates ideal conditions for mold growth
• Consider professional cleaning before the humid season peaks

A good example is the La Française Sofa, whose refined fabric upholstery benefits greatly from regular vacuuming and proper air circulation. These simple habits help preserve its fresh appearance.

4. Protect metal elements from humidity

Whether it's the legs of your dining chairs, home decorations, or designer side tables, metal components can suffer from increased humidity. Tarnishing, rust, or corrosion can develop surprisingly quickly during humid summer months.

What to do?

• Dust metal surfaces weekly with a dry microfiber cloth
• Apply appropriate metal polish monthly (different metals require different products)
• Check for early signs of tarnishing or corrosion, especially in areas with poor air circulation
• Ensure good ventilation around metal furniture, stagnant air accelerates tarnishing
• Consider using moisture absorbers in particularly humid rooms

Well-maintained metal accents keep your furniture looking cohesive and polished throughout the season. The Onda Dining Table, which features sleek metal legs supporting its elegant top, illustrates the importance of keeping metal components clean and dry. These simple care steps help maintain its crisp, modern look and elevate the overall aesthetic of your dining room.

Making summer furniture care part of your routine

Caring for high-end furniture doesn't require hours of work, it requires consistency. Set aside 30 minutes each weekend for a quick furniture check. Walk through your home, dust surfaces, check for any concerning changes, and address small issues before they become larger problems.

Consider creating a simple schedule: tackle fabric care in the first week of the month, move on to wood conditioning the second week, handle leather care in the third, and finish with metal polishing in the fourth. This approach ensures nothing gets overlooked while keeping the workload manageable.

Enjoying summer while protecting your home

Your furniture should enhance your life, not add stress. With a few simple habits, you can enjoy Montreal’s summer knowing your pieces are well cared for. Open the windows on warm evenings, host friends around your table, and relax into your favorite dining room seat. Thoughtful maintenance helps create a home where each season is welcomed and your furniture continues to reflect your unique style.

At Casavogue, we understand that high-end furniture deserves the finest care. As Montreal's premier destination for luxury pieces, we're here to help you create spaces that thrive through every season. Visit our store in Montreal to discover furniture built to last.