Mango Wood: All You Need To Know

Mangifera Indica or the delicious Mango, is a fruit well known across the world. But did you know that the wood from its trees is quite useful too. Yes, I am talking about Mango Wood! Only a small percentage of people who devour this fruit know how incredible its wood is. 

Strong and sturdy, Mango wood is found mostly in India and is used to create a wide range of furniture. Chairs, bar stools, benches, sideboards, cabinets, closets, dining room tables, dressers, desks etc. anything and everything can be made from it. Here are a few properties of Mango wood that make it exceptional for furniture-making.

Characteristics of Mango Wood

Mango wood is light to golden brown in color. It falls under the Hardwood category, but it’s ideal for making furniture because it’s soft. It has fine, dense grain and medium to coarse texture. Being highly resistant to water, Mango wood is often used for making outdoor furniture. 

A unique effect called ‘Spalting’, usually present in Mango wood is the colouration found in wood due to fungi. This effect is pleasing to the eye as it results in streaks of various colours such as amber, yellow, black, green and even pink. Loved by both craftsmen and customers, this makes Mango wood furniture look exotic and one of a kind! You must be thinking how and why you should use Mango Wood furniture. There are a lot of reasons why!

Why Use Mango Wood Furniture

1. Aesthetically pleasing.    The distinctive texture and patterns present in this wood (can be seen in the swatch above) are a delight to look at. For those who look for uniqueness in their furniture should definitely go for Mango wood furniture.
2. Stains well.    Mango wood responds beautifully to wood stains. Stains and waxes highlight the natural color of this wood and give definition to its pleasing patterns. Stains also increase its durability. Because it’s densely grained, it can be polished well. Distress effect also looks great on Mango wood. If you are thinking of going for the trendy distressed look, you can choose Mango wood furniture.
3. Can be used for ornate carving.    It is easy to cut and shape and it can be intricately carved as it’s soft. Mango wood is also used for turned objects because of this property. You can easily choose it for Colonial furniture as it can be carved to perfection.
4. Strong furniture that lasts.    The furniture made from Mango wood is light yet strong. It can bear heavy weights thereby making it an excellent choice for large products such as beds, cabinets, desks, sideboards etc. that need to be moved.
5. Sustainable furniture. A mango tree becomes mature in about 15 years. Mango wood is extremely environment friendly as the trees are cut down for lumber only when they stop producing the fruit hence, the wood that is cut is sustainable.  By using Mango wood you do your bit for the environment and help in making our planet greener.
6. Affordability.  Mango trees grow faster as compared to other hardwoods.  A mango tree can grow upto 90 ft tall, the diameter of the trunk is more than other woods (upto 1.2 m) so it can be easily used for furniture items that need large widths such as table tops. Also, this wood does not need a lot of seasoning and processing, cutting down on the treatment cost.
7. Ideal for the vintage look.    Because of its mottled and curly grain patterns, it appears to be faded, hence, making it perfect for creating antique looking furniture. 
8. Longevity.    Its a durable and sturdy wood. Its strength is comparable to woods such as Ash and Oak. Mango wood does not wear out quickly and ages beautifully. Be assured, that your mango wood furniture will last for decades.
9. Water resistant.    With a few treatments Mango wood can be used for outdoor furniture, as it’s resistant to water. But prolonged exposure to sun should be avoided as it might fade the colour. It is also a good choice for kitchen ware such as serving platters, chopping boards, trays etc. 
10. Fuss free maintenance.    Just use a dry microfibre cloth to wipe your Mango wood furniture. You can also use a damp cloth. Washing with soap should be avoided as it might harm your precious wooden furniture.

What all furniture can be made with Mango Wood ?

• Tables
  • End Tables
  • Dining Tables
  • Coffee Tables
  • Side Tables
  • Bedside Tables
  • Community Tables
  • Nesting Tables

• Chairs and Stools
  • Bar Chairs
  • Low Height Chairs
  • Dining Chairs
  • Restaurant/Café Chairs
  • Rocking Chairs
  • Baby Chairs
  • Desk Chairs
  • Bar Stools
  • Outdoor Chairs
  • Wicker Chairs

• Storage
  
  • Cabinets
  • Cupboards
  • Sideboards
  • Racks
  • Shelves
  • Display Units
  • Wine Cabinets

The list is extensive and endless! For more information and queries about Mango wood and to see more products handcrafted from it click here. I hope you warmed up to this alluring wood and will use its furniture in your house or in your next project as it is sustainable, durable, strong and looks exquisite!