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How do I Choose the Best Wooden Rocking Chair?

Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers

Wooden rocking chairs can suit nearly any home since there is such a variety. Before you choose the most appropriate wooden rocking chair for your home, you should consider the type of wood you want, as this can make a difference when it comes to durability, price, and appearance. The color is often also important since it should match the rest of your décor. Finally, choose the style that you like most, keeping in mind that this factor should depend on where you will put the rocking chair in your home.

One of the most popular types of rocking chairs is made of hardwood, which is known for being the most durable kind since this type of wood does not usually bend or warp. The most common hardwoods include maple, mahogany, and oak, though you can also find chairs made with elm or cherry wood. Unfortunately, it is often more expensive to get a hardwood rocking chair, which is why some people opt to save money with softwood, instead. Evergreen is just one example of a softer wood, and is often found on the least expensive rocking chairs available. Of course, if you expect your wooden rocking chair to last for generations in your family, it is often best to spend the money on the hardwood.

Woman posing
Woman posing

Most people are satisfied with a wooden rocking chair that is left in its natural shade of tan, brown, or cherry red. On the other hand, you might prefer one that has been painted a different color, especially if you want it to perfectly match a painted room, or even brighten up an otherwise dull area of the home. Of course, you can also find chairs with paint that still allows it to look natural, as some just feature a light stain, or even a glaze that complements the wood's original shade. If you are unsure about whether you want a tinted wooden rocking chair, consider purchasing an unpainted product for now, since you have the option of painting it on your own later.

The style of a wooden rocking chair is often what allows it to stand out, as there are a few different types. For example, a ladder back chair features horizontal and vertical wooden slats on the back of the product, and often looks traditional enough to fit in well in a home with rustic décor. A chair with a more rounded back and wooden spindles also creates a traditional look, while a chair with a modern twist may feature geometrical designs and small or nonexistent arm rests. By contrast, the Adirondack wooden rocking chair, which features wide arms and a backward slant, often fits perfectly outside, whether on a front porch or a backyard deck.

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