Ethan Allen furniture is made of real wood, ensuring durability and timeless beauty in your home. With a rich history from the 1930s, Ethan Allen has perfected the art of crafting high-quality furniture that stands the test of time.
In the event that you favor the exemplary look of cherry or oak’s provincial appeal, Ethan Allen offers an extensive variety of genuine wood furniture choices to suit each style and taste. You can guarantee that your Ethan Allen pieces will remain in pristine condition for many years to come if you follow our advice on identifying and caring for real wood furniture.
The History of Ethan Allen Furniture
Ethan Allen furniture is steeped in a rich history that dates back to 1932, when the first Ethan Allen shop opened in Beecher Falls, Vermont. Theodore Baumeister and Nathan Ansell founded the company initially focused on producing handcrafted pieces made from sturdy maple wood.
Types of Wood Used in Ethan Allen Furniture
Ethan Allen furniture, the type of wood used plays a significant role in its quality and durability. One common wood choice is cherry, known for its rich color and smooth grain. Cherry wood ages beautifully, developing a warm patina that adds character to the piece.
Another popular option is maple wood, prized for its strength and versatility. Maple furniture from Ethan Allen can range from light blond hues to deeper amber tones, depending on how it’s finished. This hardwood is highly durable and resistant to wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for long-lasting pieces.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Real Wood Furniture
Regarding real wood furniture, numerous benefits make it a popular choice among homeowners. One of the main advantages is its durability and longevity. Real wood furniture is known for its ability to withstand wear and tear over time, making it a worthwhile investment for your home.
Real wood furniture has a timeless aesthetic appeal that can enhance any room’s decor. Its natural grain patterns and unique characteristics add warmth and charm to your living space.
On the flip side, one drawback of real wood furniture is its higher cost than other materials like particle board or laminate. However, many argue that the quality and craftsmanship of real wood justify the price tag. It’s also important to note that real wood furniture requires regular maintenance to preserve its appearance and prevent damage from moisture or sunlight exposure.
How to Identify Real Wood Furniture
Determining whether a piece is made of real wood or a cheaper alternative can be challenging. One way to identify real wood furniture is by examining the grain pattern. Real wood will have natural variations in the grain that synthetic materials cannot replicate.
Real wood is weight – solid hardwood pieces are heavier than particle board or laminate furniture. You can also look at the edges of the furniture – solid wood will typically show end grains, while fake materials may have veneers covering them.
If you’re unsure, try tapping on the piece – real wood produces a solid sound, whereas composite materials sound hollow. Inspect any joints or corners for signs of craftsmanship like dovetail or mortise and tenon joints which are typical in high-quality wooden pieces.
Tips for Caring for Ethan Allen Furniture
Maintaining the beauty of your Ethan Allen furniture is essential to ensure its longevity and timeless appeal. Here are some tips to keep your real wood pieces looking their best.
Regular dusting with a soft cloth or microfiber duster can help prevent dirt and grime buildup. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the wood’s finish.
For spills or stains, gently blot the affected area with a clean, damp cloth immediately. Do not rub vigorously, as this may spread the stain further. For tough stains, consult a professional cleaner specializing in wood furniture.
To protect the wood from sunlight and humidity, consider placing your furniture away from direct sunlight and using coasters or placemats for beverages and hot items.
Periodically polish your real wood furniture with a high-quality furniture polish recommended by Ethan Allen to maintain its luster and nourish the wood fibers.
Alternatives to Real Wood Furniture
A few options are worth exploring if you’re considering alternatives to real wood furniture. One popular choice is engineered wood, composite, or manufactured wood. This material is made by binding wood fibers with adhesives, resulting in a durable and cost-effective alternative to solid wood.
Another option is metal furniture, adding a modern and sleek look to your space. Metal pieces are often lightweight and easy to maintain, making them ideal for busy households or outdoor settings.
For those looking for a more eco-friendly option, bamboo furniture is a sustainable choice that offers strength and durability similar to hardwood. Bamboo grows rapidly and regenerates quickly, making it an environmentally conscious alternative to traditional woods.
Plastic furniture has come a long way in terms of design and durability. With advancements in technology, plastic pieces can mimic the look of real wood while being lightweight and weather-resistant.
Conclusion
While alternatives to real wood furniture are available on the market, nothing quite compares to the warmth and character that genuine wood brings to your living space. Invest in Ethan Allen furniture today and enjoy the beauty and craftsmanship of real wood in your home for generations.
