The Beauty and Durability of Mango Wood Dining Tables

When picking a dining table, the material of wood is important in deciding its durability, look, and functionality. Mango wood has been well recognised in recent times because of its distinctive grain patterns, eco-friendliness, and affordability. 

In fact, did you know that mango wood is up to 40% more sustainable than traditional hardwoods like oak and teak due to its rapid growth cycle? But, is dining table mango wood a desirable option for dining tables? Well, this article discusses the characteristics, advantages, and potential of mango wood to assist you in making an informed choice.

Understanding Mango Wood

Mango wood is produced by the mango tree (Mangifera indica), mainly cultivated in the tropics, such as in India, Thailand, and Indonesia. The tree is mainly produced for the fruit, yet in 15 to 20 years, its life of producing fruits is complete. At that stage, the tree is harvested, so mango wood is a renewable and eco-friendly material to make furniture from.

Mango wood is a hardwood, albeit one that is slightly softer than other hardwoods such as oak or teak. Still, it is tough and resilient and can be used as a furniture material, even for dining tables.

Advantages of Mango Wood Dining Tables

1. Sustainability

One of the most significant strengths of mango wood is that it is sustainable. Unlike hardwoods, which require decades to reach maturity, mango trees grow very fast and are harvested when they no longer produce fruit. This limits deforestation and encourages sound utilisation of natural resources. Furthermore, mango wood tends to come from plantations and not from natural forests, further adding to its green image.

2. Durability and Strength

Mango wood is a sturdy and resilient hardwood, able to tolerate regular use. It possesses a solid grain structure that adds to its stability, ensuring that it is less likely to warp or split than softer woods. This makes it a great choice for a busy room such as a dining room.

3. Special Aesthetic Value

Mango wood has deep, warm colours from golden brown to dark chestnut, sometimes with streaks of pink, yellow, or black. The natural grain patterns on each piece of furniture create a distinctive appearance, making it a highlight of any dining room. The natural finish of the wood suits most interior designs, ranging from rustic and industrial to contemporary and modern.

4. Affordability

Compared to other hardwoods such as oak, walnut, or mahogany, mango wood is reasonably priced. In spite of its strength and durability, it is still affordable, which makes it a great option for those who want a quality dining table without spending too much.

5. Pest and Rot Resistance

Mango wood naturally resists water damage, insects, and fungal rot. This makes it an ideal choice for furniture, with a long lifespan requiring little maintenance. Nevertheless, proper maintenance and periodic polishing can further extend its lifespan.

Comparison of Mango Wood with Other Popular Dining Table Materials

To assist in deciding if mango wood is the best option for your dining table, here's how it compares to other popular materials:

Mango Wood vs. Oak

• Durability: Oak is harder and more scratch- and dent-resistant compared to mango wood.
• Aesthetics: Mango wood provides better colour variation, whereas oak is classic and homogeneous in grain.
• Sustainability: Mango wood is more sustainable based on its growth rate.
• Cost: Mango wood is usually less expensive than oak.

Mango Wood vs. Teak

• Durability: Teak is among the hardest woods to come by, yet mango wood still offers good furniture strength.
• Resistance to Water and Insects: Both timbers are resistant to water and insects, although teak is more so.
• Sustainability: Mango wood is more sustainable as teak takes decades to grow.
• Cost: Teak is far more costly compared to mango wood.

Mango Wood vs. Walnut

• Durability: Walnut is a harder timber and more durable.
• Aesthetics: Walnut has a darker, uniform grain in comparison to the different tones of mango wood.
• Sustainability: Mango wood is more sustainable because it has a quicker growth cycle.
• Cost: Walnut is costlier than mango wood.

Tips for Caring for a Mango Wood Dining Table

• In order to prolong the life of your mango wood dining table, use the following care and maintenance tips:
• Regular Dusting: Dust the table using a soft, dry cloth to keep dust and debris off.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep the table away from direct sunlight exposure because direct sunlight will fade or dry out the wood.

Use Placemats and Coasters: Shield the surface from water, heat, and spills.

• Polish every now and then: Apply natural wood polish or beeswax to keep its shine.
• Wipe Spills Immediately: Avert stains by cleaning up spills as soon as they happen.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Mild soap and water are best instead of using abrasive cleaners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is mango wood strong enough for a dining table?

Yes, mango wood is a hardwood that is able to resist regular use. Though not as hard as teak or oak, it is long-lasting and robust with adequate maintenance.

2. Is dining table mango wood high-maintenance?

No, mango wood is not too demanding. Periodic dusting, occasional polishing, and prevention from exposure to excessive sunlight or water will help keep it well maintained.

3. Are mango wood dining tables available for customisation?

Yes, mango wood is a workable wood that can be easily used to create different designs, finishes, and customisations for various decor styles.

4. Is mango wood water and stain resistant?

Mango wood does possess some natural water and stain resistance, but it is still recommended to use coasters, placemats, and clean up spills right away to avoid damage.

5. Does mango wood darken over time?

As with most natural timbers, mango wood may over time develop a richer patina when exposed to sunlight. This may add beauty and character to it.

6. Where can I purchase a quality mango wood dining table?

Mango wood dining tables are found in furniture stores, online retailers, and bespoke furniture makers. Purchase responsibly sourced and well-made ones.

Final Thoughts

Mango wood is an excellent choice for dining tables due to its durability, affordability, and unique aesthetics. Its sustainability makes it an environmentally responsible option, while its natural beauty complements a variety of interior styles. If you’re searching for a stylish, cost-effective, and eco-friendly dining table, mango wood is definitely worth considering.

Finally, the right decision will be based on your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. By considering the advantages and making a comparison of mango wood with other materials, you can identify if a mango wood dining table is what you need and what will improve your home's dining experience.