How to Care for Antique Inlaid Furniture

Antique inlaid furniture — whether bone, mother of pearl, or wood marquetry — is more resilient than it looks, but it rewards considered care. The following applies to both antique pieces and new production inlaid furniture.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Prolonged UV exposure bleaches both the inlay and the ground unevenly — a result that is very difficult to reverse. Position inlaid pieces away from south-facing windows, or use UV-filtering glass where sunlight is unavoidable.

Maintain Stable Humidity

Inlaid furniture is built on a wooden substrate that expands and contracts with humidity changes; the inlay does not move at the same rate. In very dry environments or rooms with seasonal humidity swings, tiles can lift or crack over time. A stable indoor humidity of 45–55% is ideal. Avoid placing inlaid pieces near radiators or air conditioning vents.

Clean Gently

A soft dry cloth is sufficient for routine cleaning. For more thorough cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth — never wet — and dry the surface immediately. Do not use chemical cleaners or polishes; most commercial furniture products are formulated for solid wood or lacquer and will damage the inlay or the grout. For mother of pearl specifically, avoid acidic cleaners entirely — the shell is sensitive to acid and can be etched permanently.

For Antique Pieces

Antique inlaid furniture may have areas of previous repair, replacement tiles, or cracked grout — this is normal and does not indicate structural failure. If tiles are loose, do not attempt to re-adhere them yourself; contact a specialist conservator. For advice on a specific piece, contact us directly — we are happy to advise.