Child writing at a wooden table with a dog nearby
real life happens at the table

furniture, kids, & pets

Here's what you can expect.

These aren't Life-proof. They are where life happens.

Family gathered around a dinner table with wine glasses and food.

the honest answer

Our tables are built to last - but they aren't indestructible.

Our furniture is made from solid wood, not plastic or laminate. That's what give it warmth, character, and the ability to last generations.

But it also means:

  • it can dent
  • it can scratch
  • it will change over time

And that't not a flaw - its what makes real wood, real.

Practical tips

from our team

Here are some tips that have helped other clients choose the right wood and stain for their Amish furniture.

  1. Choose a wood type with a more pronounced grain pattern, such as oak or Hickory. This helps hide everyday scratches and dents.
  2. Choose light to medium-toned stains. Darker stains make fingerprints and dust more visible. Also, when scratched, the natural wood will be more visible due to the contrast.
Wooden samples in various colors on a wooden surface with a plant in the corner.

what you can do to minimize wear

Outline of a rectangular plate with a central circular dish and a vertical line on a white background

use placemats

Use placemats or tablecloths for every day meals

Simple line drawing of a circular object

add felt pads

Under decor or frequently moved items

Outline of a paw print on a white background

Pet nails

Keep pet nails trimmed

Black line drawing of a droplet on a white background

wipe up spills

Wipe up spills and messes in a reasonable amount of time

what to expect

with kids

  • Dropped forks, toys, and homework time can leave small dents or marks
  • Writing directly on the surface (especially with pressure) can leave impressions
  • Spills are fine when cleaned up, but letting liquids or foods that can stain is not ideal

What to do - protect surfaces with placemats, tablepads or protective coverings.

Educational materials including a notebook, pencils, and a math worksheet on a wooden table.
Dog sitting on a wooden table with a cup and plant in the background
what to expect

with pets

  • Claws can leave light surface scratches, especially on softer wood species
  • Jumping on chairs or benches can cause scratches or wear
  • Claws can also damage upholstered items

The Long View

Set of markers on a wooden surface with a plant in the corner

Unlike veneer or laminate furniture, solid wood furniture can be:

  • Touched up
  • Refinished
  • Restored

Many small marks blend into the character of the furniture over time. What starts as a scratch often becomes part of the story.

The Trade Off

Family gathered around a dinner table with wine glasses and food.

If you're looking for something that will always look brand new, no matter what - this may not be it.

But if you want something that:

  • Ages with your family
  • Holds memories, not just meals
  • Can be renewed instead of replaced

Then you're in the right place.

Dining room with wooden table and chairs in a well-lit room with large windows.

They aren't life-proof

They are where life happens

Thank you for trusting us with a piece of your story. We're honored to build the furniture where it all unfolds.

related learning center articles

Hand resting on a wooden surface with text overlay 'Our Wood Guide' and branding elements.
Wood sample blocks labeled 'White Oak', 'Cherry', 'Walnut', and 'Brown Maple' on a dark background with text 'Complimentary Samples'.
Table with design materials and an open book, featuring 'Design Center' text.
Inspiration board with photos, fabric swatches, and decor elements on a wooden surface.