The beautiful, versatile material of mango wood has gained popularity in furniture-making for many reasons. It’s durable, affordable, and sustainably sourced. It also pairs well with a wide variety of interior design styles. But what exactly is mango wood and what are the properties that make it such an attractive crafting material?
Mango wood is a type of tropical hardwood that comes from the mango tree or Mangifera indica. This fruit-bearing tree is native to India and can now be found in a number of different climates, including Southeast Asia, Brazil, Mexico and Australia, as well as southern Florida and California. The wood is used in a variety of ways including construction, veneer, plywood, turned objects and kitchenware. Mango wood is relatively easy to work with, making it ideal for furniture. It can be cut, carved and shaped easily, is soft enough to be sanded, and has natural resistance to water. It is therefore a popular choice of material for wooden furniture, especially for indoor spaces such as dining tables and television stands.
Its unique grain patterns and variation in color makes mango wood furniture highly appealing to designers. Each piece is unique and adds character to any space. It is a more sustainable option than oak or mahogany as mango trees are harvested at the end of their fruit-producing lives and this practice helps to reduce deforestation.
Mango trees grow quickly, reaching maturity in as little as 15 years. This fast growth cycle means that they can be used to make sustainable wooden furniture faster than oak or other types of traditional timber. Harvesting the wood from these mature trees also helps to reduce pressure on more endangered trees.
Unlike some other types of wood, mango wood doesn’t lose its shine over time. In fact, it becomes more lustrous and darker with age, creating a timeless look that works well in a range of different interior design styles. Its warm, golden-brown hue and textured finish pair perfectly with both contemporary and classic pieces.
When a piece of mango wood furniture is properly cared for, it will last for generations. It is important to regularly wipe it down with a furniture polish, especially after a lot of use. Regular polishing will keep the wood hydrated and prevent it from drying out, which can cause cracking. It is also recommended that the wood is kept away from heat sources, as this can cause it to warp over time.
Like other kinds of wood, it is best to avoid putting your mango wood furniture in direct sunlight as the heat will cause it to dry out and crack. It is a good idea to position the furniture in areas that are shaded and rotate it often to ensure that all sides get equal exposure.