Wondering what all the fuss is about mango wood? Read on to find out everything you need to know about this wood of the moment
Table of Contents
What is Mango Wood?
The mango fruit tree is known for its juicy and delicious mangoes and from there comes the mango wood. The mango tree (Mangifera Indica) belongs to the Anacardiaceae family and is native to South Asia, where it is widely cultivated.
The life cycle of a mango three ranges from 4 to 15 years, but what makes mango wood a sustainable wood is the fact that it comes from fast-growing trees (compared with other hardwoods that can take 50-100 years to reach their maturity stage) and the trees are only cut down when they stop producing mangoes.
Instead of wasting the tree, they use its wood to produce incredible furniture, accessories and other nice stuff. The farmers then plant new trees for mango production and repeat the cycle when the fruit production stops.
This recycling process is what makes mango wood an affordable hardwood.
What Colour is Mango Wood?
Mango wood is well known for its unique grain patterns and tones. Generally speaking, mango wood has a medium golden brown base colour (it is darker than oak) and comes with a variety of shades of gold, yellow, green and streaks of pink and black.
These natural qualities make mango an exciting hardwood as no piece of wood is the same as another, and you will have a truly unique item with its own history and characteristics.
What is Mango Wood Furniture? Is Mango Wood Good for Furniture?
Mango wood was not commonly used for furniture, but now it is a popular choice - it has a distinctive blend of natural beauty and affordable prices, as it is created from the wood of mango trees that were going to waste.
Mango wood furniture does not only look great, but it is sustainable, benefiting both design enthusiasts and the eco-conscious people. Mango wood is extremely durable and easy to use, which makes it ideal for building a variety of furniture items, including tables, bedsides, consoles, coffee tables and cabinets.
It can withstand regular use like a champ, so you won't have to be concerned about it breaking down. Plus, it has a gorgeous natural grain pattern that gives any piece a hint of rustic character.
You can rely on your furniture to last because mango wood is renowned for being strong and long-lasting. And the best part? Mango wood accepts wood stains really well, allowing you to get the finish you desire on a sustainable piece of furniture.
Can Mango Wood Furniture be Used Outdoors?
It's better to keep our mango wood furniture within, as much as we'd love to take it outside for a sunny day! Because mango wood isn't inherently resistant to the elements like sunlight and rain, it shouldn't be used outside.
You see, furniture made of mango wood does best indoors, in a warm, comfortable space protected from the untamed whims of Mother Nature. Additionally, indoor storage prolongs its life and preserves its natural beauty, therefore, it's preferable to allow it to soak up the sun from behind the windows and curtains!
Pros and Cons of Mango Wood Furniture
As happens with all kinds of woods, the use of mango wood has its pros and cons, let's break them down.
Pros:
Mango wood with its unique grain patterns and hues, makes it highly desirable for people who appreciate a quirky and unique piece - you will never find an item that is identical to yours.
It is a durable and sturdy hardwood, does not wear out quickly and ages graciously, making it perfect for everyday items. With the proper care, it will stay looking fabulous for years to come.
Since mango wood is a sub-product of a tree that ended its cycle of fruit production and has simple and minimal processing, it makes it an affordable and accessible hardwood compared with others being used for the same end.
It is a sustainable option that gives mango trees a second life when they are finished producing fruit.
Mango wood is a flexible hardwood, making it easy to work with, especially to use in furniture carving.
Mango wood is very easy to maintain and to keep it looking great.
Cons:
If not well cared for, the mango wood - although durable and sturdy - is prone to scratches and dents.
It’s not recommended to be used outdoors and be exposed to the elements like sunlight and rain.
Although it does not require high maintenance, in dry environments or when exposed to heat or the sun, the wood can crack. In these situations, it is recommended to keep the wood moisturised with furniture polish and keep the room’s humidity as normal as possible.
Skin irritation has been known to be caused by mango wood, however, severe reactions are rare. If you choose mango wood for a piece of furniture and are prone to skin allergies, be sure the piece of furniture won't be in regular touch with your skin.
What is Mango Wood Used for?
Mango wood is a flexible wood that can be used in various applications due to its strength, durability, and attractive grain patterns. The mango tree was commonly known for its juicy fruits but today, it is becoming popular for being the source of a beautiful wood that is used to craft furniture such as tables, chairs, bed frames, cabinets, bookshelves and much more. Its unique grain patterns and warm tones make it a fantastic wood to craft unique furniture.
Decorative items such as bowls, trays, vases, picture frames, and candle holders.
In some cases, but not usually, mango wood is used as flooring material.
Kitchen utensils, cutting boards, and serving platters can be made with mango wood due to its natural antibacterial properties.
Carving, turning, and woodworking.
Musical instruments, such as guitars and drums.
Overall, mango wood is prized for its aesthetic appeal, sustainability, and versatility, making it a popular choice for a wide range of applications in furniture making, home decor, and beyond.
Is Mango Wood Eco-friendly?
Mango wood is your go-to choice if you are looking for furniture that is sustainably harvested and is as kind to the planet as it is to your eyes. Instead of letting the mango trees go to waste after they stop producing fruits, they are given a second life when their wood gets turned into gorgeous furniture and decor items. Only after the tree finishes its fruit production cycle it is used for wood.
Mango wood can be considered a valuable byproduct of the mango tree, providing an additional source of income and utilization beyond its primary purpose of fruit production.
This utilization of mango wood helps to reduce waste and maximize the sustainable use of the mango tree, making it an eco-friendly choice for furniture and other products. Plus its easy processing and fast growth rate make it much more affordable than other hardwoods. It’s a win-win!
Is Mango Wood Expensive?
Compared to some other types of wood commonly used for furniture making, mango wood is affordable. Its quick growing cycle, sustainable production, easy processing and being a sub-product of the mango tree make the wood cheaper and more accessible.
Even though it will not cost you an arm and a leg, it still delivers big time on style, durability, and sustainability.
Is Mango Wood a Hardwood?
Due to being a high-density, hard and durable wood, mango wood is considered a hardwood. On average, mango wood has a density ranging from 0.6 to 0.8 g/cm³, it is easy to work with, making it a great choice for furniture makers who want a hardwood that will stand the test of time.
If cared for properly, it will last generations and will keep looking great year after year.
How to Take Care of Mango Wood Furniture?
Thankfully, keeping your mango wood furniture looking great is not a difficult task. Is it a low-maintenance wood and all you need to do is to keep it clean, polish it from time to time and keep it away from water and heat sources.
Here are some points to keep in mind if you want to have your mango wood furniture looking amazing for years to come:
Keep water out of the way by using coasters to keep the wood surface dry and prevent stains and by wiping up spills right away. Water stains erode the wood protection over time and cannot be removed.
Steer clear of radiators and direct sunshine, these sources of heat can cause wood to expand or shrink, which can result in warping or cracking. Decide where in your house to put it to keep it out of the sun and away from heating sources like radiators.
Maintain the natural sheen and longevity of your mango wood furniture by polishing it from time to time. This will also prevent the wood from drying up and help preserve its natural gloss.
Furniture should not be exposed to dampness to minimise needless movement of the wood and consequent deterioration. Natural wood is susceptible to exposure to chemicals and lacks heat and water resistance.
Don’t use chemicals to clean furniture made of mango wood.
Which Polishes are Recommended for Mango Wood Furniture?
When selecting a polish for your mango wood furniture, choose one that will nourish the wood, bring out its inherent beauty, and offer protection. Here are a few choices:
Natural Oils: Wood is nourished from the inside out by natural oils like walnut or linseed oil, which also highlight the wood's inherent colour and grain.
Beeswax Polish: Polishes containing beeswax are soft and give wood surfaces a layer of protection. They shield the wood from dampness and scratches while also adding to its lustre.
Wood Wax: Wood wax polish leaves the wood with a polished, smooth surface and offers a layer of protection. It is yet another fantastic choice for furniture made of mango wood.
Wood Polish: Mango wood can be polished with commercial wood polishes designed especially for hardwood furniture. Make sure the polish is safe to use indoors and devoid of harmful chemicals.
DIY Vinegar and Olive Oil Mix: For those who enjoy do-it-yourself projects, combining equal parts white vinegar and olive oil can yield a natural and affordable solution. Use it sparingly on the wooden surface, then lightly buff it with a clean soft cloth.
Mango wood furniture looks finest for years to come with regular polishing, which prolongs its beauty and durability.
How to Polish Mango Wood Furniture?
Polishing your mango wood furniture is easy peasy. Giving your mango wood furniture some TLC will keep it looking its best longer. Here are the steps to help you polish it:
To begin with, use a soft, dry cloth to lightly dust your furniture to remove any surface dust or debris. This helps prep the wood for polishing.
Select a furniture polish made especially for wood furniture. Verify if it is appropriate for mango wood and adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines.
To make sure the polish doesn't damage or discolour the furniture, it's a good idea to test it in a tiny, hidden area before applying it to the entire item.
Working with one piece of wood at a time, apply the polish in small, circular motions with a clean, soft cloth or applicator. For a consistent finish, make sure the polish is applied equally.
After applying the polish, buff the wood in gently circular motions with a separated, clean cloth. This enhances the gloss and helps get rid of extra polish.
As directed by the manufacturer, let the polish completely dry. This typically takes an hour or so, depending on the kind of polish being used.
Your mango wood furniture should now be looking shiny and refreshed, ready to shine in your home. Periodically polishing your furniture will help to preserve its aesthetic appeal and preserve the wood.
If you're after furniture with character and sustainability in mind, mango wood is definitely one of the best choices. Mango wood's unique grain patterns make it a popular choice for furniture and decor, offering a balance of strength, beauty, and affordability. Just be sure to give it the love and care it deserves to ensure it stays looking fabulous for years to come.
Check out our shop for a gorgeous array of mango wood furniture. Boho, Mid-century and Scandi are some of our collections, full of high-quality mango wood furniture ready to find a home. They're not just stylish—they're planet-friendly too!
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