Quick answer: Keep indoor humidity around 35–55% with air conditioning or a dehumidifier in summer, keep wood out of direct sun and away from heat vents, wipe spills right away and re-oil or wax once or twice a year. Small seasonal movement is normal for solid wood.
Why wood moves
Solid wood swells in humid Carolina summers and shrinks in winter heat; a rustic console table may shift slightly with the seasons.
Bathrooms
Run the fan after showers and wipe standing water off a farmhouse solid wood vanity.
Shelves and books
Leave a little air behind a tree bookshelf on an exterior wall.
Doors
Seal all six faces of a handcrafted solid wood door before hanging it.
Frequently asked questions
Is humidity bad for wood?
Only extremes — steady 35–55% keeps it stable.
How often should I oil it?
Once or twice a year, or when the surface looks dry.
Can I use a vanity in a bathroom?
Yes — vanities are sealed for bathroom use; wipe standing water.
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