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15 Mar 2025

12+ Different Types Of Wood For Furniture And Their Uses

Wooden Street presents you with a list of different types of wood for furniture that guarantees to meet your needs and style.

12+ Different Types of wood for furniture in india
Table of Content
  1. How to Choose the Right Types Of Wood for Your Furniture
  2. How many types of wood are there?
  3. Hardwoods
  4. Softwoods
  5. Engineered Wood
  6. List Of 12+ Best Types of Wood For Furniture in India
  7. 5 Reasons Why Choose Wooden Furniture? 
  8. What Are Some Notable Qualities of types of wood?
  9. Compression Of Different Types Of Wood For Furniture
  10. Composition of Hardwood and Softwood

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How to Choose the Right Types Of Wood for Your Furniture

When it comes to furnishing your home, choosing the right types of wood is essential for achieving the perfect look and feel. From traditional styles to modern designs, wooden furniture adds warmth and character to any space. There are two types of wood that are mainly used for furniture such as solid wood and engineered wood. Solid wood also consists of two types - Hardwood and softwood. Hardwood consists of mango, rosewood, and acacia.  Softwood is less expensive compared to hardwood and easily obtainable. Whereas, engineered wood is generally used in the furniture industry and its types are MDF, Plywood, and LSI. India is a country that has always been known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship. One of the most prominent examples of this is Indian furniture, which is renowned worldwide for its beauty and quality. Each types of wood has its own unique qualities and benefits that make it ideal for specific applications. Today, let us explore 12 different types of wood for furniture in India, highlighting their advantages so you can choose which one suits your needs best!

How many types of wood are there?

There are around 1,00,000 different types of wood available on this planet. Generally, this 1,00,000 wood species is divided into two parts. There are several types of wood used for furniture, including hardwoods, maple, oak,  mahogany, walnut, and teak.  Also,  softwoods like pine and cedar are available too. So, in order to choose wisely, gain insight into the best types of wood for furniture in India.

Hardwoods

It refers to wood that comes from deciduous trees like walnut, maple, and oak. A category of wood that is obtained from the deciduous species of broad-leaved trees. All hardwoods are angiosperms (flowering plants), the largest group of land plants. Hardwood is contrasted to softwood, which comes from conifers, cone-bearing seed plants. These woods are denser, stronger, and more durable as compared to softwoods. They are generally used for durability and longevity, making them a popular choice for furniture.

1. Teak

Well known for its resistance to water, rot, and strong durability, making it an ideal choice for outdoor furniture.

2. Oak

This wood is generally used for furniture in high-traffic areas due to its durability.

3. Maple

Maple wood is light in colour and comes with a fine grain, and is generally used for furniture that needs to be painted.

4. Cherry And Mahogany

Used for high-end furniture as it contains grains and is made of reddish brown hardwood.

5. Sheesham (Indian Rosewood)

This is one of the most common types of hardwood used for making bed frames and other home furniture.

Moreover, acacia, rosewood, sal wood, birch, ash, and deodar are also common hardwoods used for carvings and making indoor furniture.

Softwoods

Softwood is wood from gymnosperm trees such as conifers. The wood is the source of about 80% of the world's production of timber. Considering the composition and quality of softwood it is not regarded as a supreme quality of wood for home furniture. Being a heterogeneous mixture of woods, it doesn’t appear beautiful and durable like hardwood.It can be used in furniture and doors, but it is primarily used in construction projects.

1. Pine 

This softwood is readily available and is used for making affordable furniture. It falls under softwood and in Hindi is known as चीड़ की लकड़ी. 

2. Cedar

It is a durable and fragrant softwood used for making cabinets and closets.

3. Fir

It is a strong and durable softwood, generally used for furniture and construction

4. Redwood

This wood is used for outdoor furniture and decks as it is rot-resistant.

Engineered Wood

It is made up of processed timber. A very budget-friendly option made from glue and wood chips, generally used for backing and frames.

1. Veneer

It is a thin layer of hardwood placed on the substrate and is very cost-effective.

2. Bamboo

This is a sustainable resource, used for flooring and indoor furniture making.

However, the best type of wood for furniture mainly depends on budget, style, and design of furniture. For instance, for bed frame, teak, sheesham, and oak wood are the right choice, while for coffee table, office furniture, pine, and engineered wood are a suitable option.

List Of 12+ Best Types of Wood For Furniture in India

1. Sheesham Wood (Indian Rosewood, hardwood; Hindi name: शीशम की लकड़ी)

best wood for furniture Sheesham Wood | types of wood

First on our list we have is the Sheesham wood aka Indian Rosewood. This type of wood has a rich brown color with distinctive grain patterns that make each piece unique. Sheesham wood is highly durable and resistant to termites and decay, which makes it an excellent choice for long-lasting furniture. One of the distinctive advantages of Sheesham wood is its ability to take on different finishes beautifully. The natural finish highlights the beautiful grains while staining can create a darker or lighter tone depending on your preference. This versatility allows you to customize your furniture according to your taste and home decor. At WoodenStreet, one can explore what dynamic furniture designs can come to life with solid Sheesham wood. Browse our Sheesham wood furniture to explore the wonders of our creation.

Explore Sheesham Wood Furniture

2. Teak Wood (hardwood; Hindi name: सागौन की लकड़ी) 

best wood for furniture Teak Wood | types of wood

Teak wood is one of the most popular types of wood used in furniture making in India. It is known for its durability, strength, and resistance to weather conditions, which makes it ideal for outdoor furniture as well. The natural oils present in teak wood make it resistant to termites and other pests, which can prolong the life of your furniture. The high oil content also gives teak a beautiful golden color that darkens with age. This teak wood furniture has been used for centuries due to its ability to withstand harsh environments without rotting or warping.

Explore Teak Wood Furniture

3. The Grainy Mango Wood (hardwood; Hindi name: आम की लकड़ी) 

best wood for furniture Mango Wood

Mango wood is famous for its alluring grainy texture, the unique swirls are nowhere to be found in any other choice of an affordable and durable type of wood. Another benefit of mango wood furniture is that it's eco-friendly since it's a byproduct of the fruit industry. This means that no trees are cut down specifically for their wood, reducing deforestation rates.

Mango wood ages gracefully over time and develops a beautiful patina that enhances its natural beauty.

Explore Mango Wood Furniture

4. The Antibacterial Acacia Wood (hardwood; Hindi name: बबूल की लकड़ी)

best wood for furniture Acacia wood

Acacia wood is another type of wood commonly used for furniture making in India. Acacia wood is among the most demanded type of wood in the industry because of its resistance to water damage. Due to its dense grain structure, this wood can repel moisture and resist warping or cracking. This property also makes it an excellent option for outdoor furniture.

Acacia wood's unique appearance adds character to the craft and has natural variations in color ranging from light yellowish-brown to dark reddish-brown, giving each piece its own distinct look. Another edge to Acacia being the best type of wood for furniture is its affordability compared to other hardwoods like Sheesham or Teak wood. Despite being budget-friendly, it still offers many benefits such as durability, strength, and beauty.

5. The Economically Engineered Wood

best types of wood for furniture Engineered Wood

Engineered wood is a popular choice for furniture making in India, especially for those looking for an affordable alternative to solid wood. It is made by combining multiple layers of wood veneers and bonding them together with adhesives under heat and pressure. Unlike solid wood, which expands or contracts depending on humidity levels, engineered type of wood has a stable structure that resists warping or twisting. This makes it ideal for areas with high moisture content like kitchens and bathrooms. Another benefit of using engineered wood furniture is its versatility. It can be finished with a variety of laminates, veneers or paints giving it different textures and finishes that mimic the look of natural woods like teak or oak at a fraction of the cost.

Explore Engineered Wood Furniture

 

6. Sal Wood  (softwood; Hindi name: साल की लकड़ी)

sal wood best wood for furniture

Sal wood is a dark brown, extremely strong timber wood which is generally used as wood for furniture as well as home construction. It is one of the most resilient wood types, which is known for its termite and fungus resistance. Sal wood is majorly used for making sturdy main door designs, window frames, and beams, which offers longevity and reliability in both modern as well as traditional homes.

7. Cedar (Marandi softwood; Hindi name: देवदार की लकड़ी) 

 cedar marandi wood best wood for furniture | types of wood

Among the best types of wood for furniture, cedarwood is a very good option, majorly this popular for being used for making wardrobes and cabinets. It is naturally weather-resistant because of the presence of cedar oil, that helps in preventing fungal growth and bacteria. This wood material has a quite pleasant fragrance that acts as a natural insect repellent, which have made it perfect for furniture wood in humid climates.

8. Mahogany Wood (hardwood; Hindi name: महोगनी की लकड़ी)

mahogany wood best wood for furniture | types of wood

Mahogany is one of the most premium wood types, this is known for the deep reddish-brown colour and fine grain patterns. It possesses moisture resistant properties and does not warp or shrink, which have made this one of the best wood for furniture. This is generally used for making bed frames, cabinets and doors. And the best part,Mahogany wood’s ability to absorb polish improves its durability and luxurious appeal.

9. Oak Wood (hardwood; Hindi name: बलूत का लकड़ा)

oak best wood for furniture | types of wood

If you are looking for a tough and versatile wood material, oak wood is an excellent choice. This is available in different types of shades, from light to dark brown, this type of wood is highly resistant to daily wear and tear. This is ideal for every day-use furniture like dining tables and chairs, which makes this most practical wood types in India.

10. Mulberry Wood (Hardwood; Hindi name: शहतूत)

mulberry best wood for furniture | types of wood

Mulberry wood stands out among the best types of wood for furniture because of its unique aging properties. With time, it changes color, which offers the furniture a differentiated vintage charm, making it even more beautiful. This durable wood for furniture is generally used for creating rustic-style tables, chairs, and wooden decor pieces.

11. Deodar Wood (Softwood; Hindi name: देवदारु)

deodar best wood for furniture |  types of wood

If you live in a colder region, then deodar wood is one of the best wood types because of its property of being resistance to low temperatures. This type of wood come with natural anti-fungal properties, making it a good choice for wood material used in interiors, especially in wooden flooring and cabinets. Deodar is known as popular timber wood in India because of its smooth texture and durability aspect.

12. Jackwood (Hardwood; Hindi name: कटहल की लकड़ी)

jackwood best wood for furniture | types of wood

Jackwood, obtained from the Jackfruit tree, is an unusual but a highly valuable type of wood in India. Apart from being used in wood for furniture, this wood is popular for making musical instruments. The golden-brown tone of Jackwood gives the overall furniture a beautiful finish, which have made it a great choice for decorating and for making artistic wooden pieces.

13. Satinwood (Hardwood; Hindi name: साटन की लकड़ी)

satinwood best wood for furniture | types of wood

Satinwood, a premium timber wood from southern India, is majorly used for making antique furniture. It also has a smooth finish and a distinctive shine which improves the overall look of wooden furniture. This wood material can be blemished in different types of shades, making it a flexible choice, if you are looking wood for vintage inspired for furniture or for cabinets, tables, and decorative pieces.

5 Reasons Why Choose Wooden Furniture? 

best wood for furniture Wooden Furniture

Wooden Furniture is the most preferred choice of investment for your home and this is not just a statement but a fact too. Here we present you with 5 valuable reasons to choose wooden furniture to make the most out of your space within your budget.

Timeless Beauty

Wood has a natural beauty that never goes out of style. Whether you prefer a modern or classic look, wooden furniture can complement any decor. The natural grains and patterns of wood give it a unique character that cannot be replicated by any other material. Additionally, wooden furniture is versatile, as it can be stained, painted, or left natural, depending on your preference.

Durability

Wooden furniture is built to last. Unlike other materials that may wear out or break easily, wooden furniture can withstand daily wear and tear. The strength and durability of wood make it an excellent investment for your space. Moreover, wooden furniture can be repaired and refinished, allowing you to extend its lifespan and value.

Eco-Friendly

Wood is a renewable resource that can be sustainably harvested. When you invest in wooden furniture, you are supporting the environment by choosing a material that is biodegradable and recyclable. Additionally, wooden furniture is a better alternative to synthetic materials that are made from non-renewable resources and may contain harmful chemicals.

Health Benefits

Wooden furniture is also beneficial to your health. Unlike synthetic materials that may emit harmful chemicals, wooden furniture does not release any toxins into your space. Additionally, wood is a natural insulator that can regulate humidity levels and improve air quality, creating a healthier environment for you and your family.

Value for Money

Wooden furniture is an investment that can appreciate over time. Unlike other materials that may lose value, wooden furniture can increase in value as it ages. Additionally, wooden furniture is a timeless piece that can be passed down from generation to generation, making it a valuable family antique.

What Are Some Notable Qualities of types of wood?

Choosing the right wood for furniture is important for ensuring quality, durability, and aesthetics. Here are some key aspects to consider when you choose good-quality timber wood.

  • Appearance: High-quality wood material has a smooth surface with natural grain patterns. If the wood looks rough, uneven, or scratched, it may not be genuine timber wood.

  • Color: The colour of different types of wood for furniture varies naturally. If the shade appears overly bright or artificial, it’s best to check the authenticity of the wood.

  • Durability: The best wood for furniture is strong and long-lasting. If your furniture starts to wear out quickly, it is likely to be made from low-quality wood types.

compression of different types of wood furniture

 

Basis Solid wood  Engineered Wood Veneer wood
Definition Solid wood is the term used to distinguish between lumber and engineered wood. It is a superlative form wood that has no hollow spaces in its composition, thus being the best for furniture. A versatile alternative to solidwood, engineered wood is manufactured by binding together wood strands, fibers, etc. with adhesives under heat and pressure. A technically thin layer of solid wood, usually thinner than 1/8 of an inch. The wood is typically bonded with adhesives to a cheaper surface that is hidden below.
Quality High in quality and looks, solidwood constitutes to be the finest material for your home furniture. Since it is composed using various wood forms, it is not the same throughout, therefore not high in quality. Veneered wood is a lower quality of timber that can only be used with a supreme quality wood for best results.
Durability Higher durability and consistency compared to other wood varieties. A combination of woods make it a somewhat durable wood for home furniture. Not a durable wood; therefore, not a great choice for home furniture.
Looks Exhilarating looks and admirable grace make it a perfect wood for furniture. A heterogeneous composition of various woods means varied looks from each angle. Being a part of solidwood it has elegant looks that can be used in furniture finish.
Cost Comparatively costs more than engineered and veneered wood considering the quality and durability. Since the wood is composed of a variety of woods, therefore comparatively lower in cost. An affordable wood piece for home furniture, but can be used only if you can compromise on quality.
Reuse Products composed of solidwood can be reused at some point of time to produce new useful products. Can be reused only under certain conditions and based on how the wood was previously used. Not the type wood that can be easily reused under any possible circumstances.
Types Mahogany, Maple, Oky, Teak, and Walnut Cedar, Douglas fir, Juniper, Pine, Redwood, Spruce Finest Material. Skirting solid board

Composition of Hardwood and Softwood

Softwoods contain more glucomannans than hardwoods, while hardwoods contain more xylans. Hardwoods are generally far more resistant to decay than softwoods when used for exterior work. However, solid hardwood joinery is expensive compared to softwood and most hardwood doors, for instance, now consist of a thin veneer bonded to MDF, a softwood product. Check our insights on the best types of wood for furniture and choose the high-quality wood material for home.

Basis Hardwood Softwood
Cellulose  42+2% 45+2%
Hemicellulose 27+2% 30+5%
Lignin 28+3% 20+4%
Extractives 3+2% 5+3%

 

Summing Up!

We hope that our list of different types of wood for furniture helped you to know which type of wooded furniture would best match your style and needs. Do make sure to check our wooden furniture to know what all wonders we have got under our different types of wood.

We will be back with the next blog soon, till then, stay tuned!

Image Source: WoodenStreet & Google

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FAQs

QWhich Type of Wood is Best for Furniture?

ATeak, oak,maple, mahogany, and walnut are best choices for furniture.Teak is excellent for water resistance, oak is strong, maple is dense, mahogany adds elegance, and walnut offers a rich finish.

QWhich Wood is the Highest Quality?

ATeak is the best wood for furniture due to its durability, rich texture, and resistance to moisture.

QWhich Wood is Expensive for Furniture?

AIndian rosewood, teak, and mahogany are among the most expensive types of wood for furniture.

QWhich Wood is Cheapest for Furniture?

APine, mango wood, and rubber wood are some of the most affordable wood types.

QWhich is the Most Durable Wood for Furniture?

ATeak, oak, and maple are among the most durable woods for furniture. Teak resists moisture, oak provides exceptional strength, and maple withstands heavy use.

QWhich Wood is Best for Bed Furniture in India?

ASheesham Wood is highly preferred for making beds due to its strength and durability.

QWhich is the most costly wood in India?

AIn India, Satinwood and Teak are among the most expensive woods used for furniture. 

QHow many types of teak wood are there?

ABurma teak wood, African teak wood, South American teak wood, Indonesian teak wood, and Thailand teak wood.

QWhich wood is best for bed?

AHardwoods like Oak, Maple, Cherry, and Ash are more suitable for bed due to higher strength and durability. 

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