Help Your Heirlooms Beat the Heat: How to Care for Vintage Furniture in Hot, Humid Weather

• Posted on 18 July 2025

A DC summer can sometimes feel like living in a terrarium: high heat, heavy humidity, and strong sunlight that arcs long into the evening. This combination can be tough on vintage or antique furniture and textiles by swelling wood, curling veneer, bleaching fabrics, and clouding finishes. The Good news? With a little care, you can help your cherished pieces beat the heat and look beautiful for years to come.

Read on for our top tips for protecting furniture, art, and textiles during the hot summer months:

Keep It Cool

Temperature fluctuations cause wood to expand and contract, leading to cracks, loose joints, and veneer damage. Aim to keep your indoor temperatures between 68°F and 78°F, and avoid positioning antiques directly over floor vents or under AC blasts as localized cooling can crack finishes.

Rather than keeping a "perfect" temperature, aim to hold your set point at a comfortable place in the 70s. If you need to adjust (i.g, weekend trips, longer vacations, or energy savings), ramp your temperatures up or down gradually.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

UV light can fade fabrics, artwork, and wood finishes. Use UV-filtering window film, sheer or lined curtains, interior shades you can drop during peak sun, and thoughtful placement—angle pieces so that the most fragile surfaces aren't taking the brunt of the sunlight.

For artwork, use UV-protective glass and avoid hanging valuable pieces on exterior walls where temperature changes are the most extreme.

Manage Moisture

DC humidity is notorious, and high moisture levels can lead to swelling, warping, and even mold growth, especially on wood and textiles. Use a hygrometer to monitor indoor conditions and keep relative humidity between 40–55%. 

A dehumidifier can help in the summer, while a humidifier may be necessary during dry winter months to prevent cracking. (Just don't forget to empty and clean drip pans to keep mildew from growing in your equipment!)

Rotate Rugs

Rugs and textiles can fade unevenly when exposed to sunlight or heavy foot traffic. Rotate your rugs every few months to ensure even wear and color retention. While you’re at it, vacuum the bottoms and the floor beneath to break up grit that can abrade fibers. And if you use rug pads, opt for breathable versions as solid rubber can trap moisture against wood floors. Regular rug rotation also helps prevent the crushing of fibers in high-traffic zones.

Antique and vintage pieces have already stood the test of time, and a little extra care and consideration during the summer months can make a big difference in the ongoing longevity of your furnishings.

Have additional questions about caring for vintage and antique pieces?
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