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A dresser is an essential piece of furniture that not only offers storage but also adds style to your bedroom. Over time, it can experience wear and tear due to daily use. Whether it’s a scratch on the surface, a wobbly drawer, or a chipped corner, repairing your dresser can bring it back to life.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through common wear and tear on different materials and how to fix them. Plus, we’ll explore popular dresser styles to help you find the perfect match for your home.
Repairing Common Dresser Wear and Tear Based on Material
Different materials used to make dressers require different care when it comes to repairs. Below, we’ll look at some common dresser materials and how to fix common problems.
1. Engineered Wood
Engineered wood, also known as particleboard or MDF, is a budget-friendly option often used in modern dressers, such as the Charmond Collection dresser by Ashley Furniture and Omni Collection dresser by Steve Silver Furniture.
While it’s more affordable, it’s prone to specific issues such as:
- Peeling veneer: Over time, the veneer on engineered wood can start to peel.
- Dents and scratches: The softer surface of engineered wood is more susceptible to damage.
How to Repair It:
- For peeling veneer, use wood glue to reattach the loose piece. Apply glue underneath and press it down using a clamp or heavy object. Let it dry for at least 24 hours.
- For scratches and dents, use a wood filler or wax stick to fill in the gaps. Sand the area smooth and apply matching paint or finish to blend in the repair.
Charmond Dresser
2. Marble Top
A marble top adds a luxurious look to a dresser, as seen on Elements International’s Kendari 9 Drawer Dresser, but it can be prone to stains, chips, and dullness over time.
- Stains: Marble is porous, which makes it prone to staining from liquids like coffee, wine, or even water.
- Chips: The edges of marble tops can chip if they are hit or mishandled.
- Dullness: The surface of dressers with marble tops can become dull from frequent use or exposure to acidic substances.
How to Repair It:
- For stains, create a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the stained area, and let it sit for 24 hours before wiping it clean.
- For chips, purchase a marble repair kit that contains resin or epoxy. Carefully apply it to the chipped area and smooth it out.
- For dullness on your marble dressers, use a marble polishing product to restore shine. Apply it with a soft cloth in circular motions and buff the surface until it’s glossy.
Kendari 9 Drawer Dresser
3. Metal
Metal dressers, or dressers with metal hardware and accents, such as the Cargo Collection dresser by Acme Furniture, Marisol Collection dresser by Magnussen Home, and Raiden 6-Drawer Dresser by Furniture of America, are known for their durability. However, metallic dressers can still experience rust, tarnishing, and bending.
- Rust: Exposure to moisture can lead to rust forming on metal dressers.
- Tarnishing: Metal handles or accents can lose their shine and become tarnished.
- Bending: Thin metal parts can bend if they experience pressure or are mishandled.
How to Repair It:
- For rust, remove the affected area with a wire brush or sandpaper. Apply a rust remover solution, and once the rust is gone, protect the surface with a clear sealant or paint.
- For tarnishing, you can clean the metal with a metal polish or a mixture of vinegar and water. Buff the surface to restore its shine.
- For bending, use pliers to gently reshape the metal. For larger bends, you may need to take the dresser to a professional.
4. Pine Solids
Pine is a popular choice for rustic or farmhouse dressers due to its natural beauty, like our pine dressers for sale: the Calistoga Collection drawer dresser, Pasco Collection dresser, and Abington Collection 8-drawer sliding door dresser, but it’s a softwood, meaning it can dent, scratch, and wear more easily.
- Dents and scratches: The soft surface of pine can get easily damaged.
- Discoloration: Pine can change color over time due to exposure to sunlight and moisture.
How to Repair It:
- For dents and scratches, use a wood filler to fill deeper dents. Light scratches can be treated with a mixture of vinegar and olive oil. Rub it onto the scratch and let it sit for a while before wiping it clean.
- For discoloration, lightly sand the discolored area and apply a matching wood stain or finish to even out the color.
Calistoga Drawer Dresser
5. Wood
Dressers made from hardwoods such as oak, natural cherry wood, mahogany, or walnut, like the Meadowbrook Collection 6-drawer dresser by American Woodcrafters, Summer Creek Collection dresser by ART Furniture, Weston Hills Collection 6-drawer dresser by Pulaski Furniture, and Chatsworth Collection tall dresser by Progressive Furniture, are sturdy and long-lasting, but they still face common issues like scratches, water rings, and loose joints.
- Scratches: Dark wooden dressers are durable, but surface scratches can happen.
- Water rings: These can appear if wet items are placed on the wood.
- Loose joints: Over time, the joints connecting the drawers or sides may loosen.
How to Repair It:
- For scratches, use a wood touch-up pen that matches the color of your dresser. You can also use a mixture of oil and vinegar to minimize the appearance of scratches.
- For water rings, apply a mixture of baking soda and water, or use a specialized wood cleaner to remove the stains.
- For loose joints, reapply wood glue to the affected area and clamp the joint until it dries.
Exploring Different Dresser Styles for Your Home
Now that you know how to repair common wear and tear based on material, it’s time to explore the different dresser styles available. Choosing the right dresser style can elevate the look of your bedroom while providing functional storage.
1. Farmhouse
Farmhouse dressers are known for their rustic charm and natural wood finishes. That’s why they’re one of the most popular dresser styles in our ultimate guide to dressers.
They often feature distressed wood, metal accents, and a cozy, inviting aesthetic, such as the Hillcrest Collection 9-drawer dresser by Coaster Furniture and the Foundry Collection dresser by Aspen Home Furniture.
- Materials: Pine solids, wood, and metal.
- Common Features: Rustic finishes, weathered wood, and practical storage options.
- Why It Works: Farmhouse dressers are great for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in any room.
2. Contemporary
Contemporary dressers focus on sleek lines, minimalism, and modern finishes, like the Demetria Collection dresser, Taylor Collection 7-drawer dresser, and Lanterna 6-Drawer Dresser by AICO Furniture. They’re designed to be functional while complementing a wide range of decor styles.
- Materials: Engineered wood, metal, and high-gloss finishes.
- Common Features: Clean lines, neutral colors, and minimal hardware.
- Why It Works: Contemporary dressers fit perfectly in modern and minimalist spaces, offering a polished and uncluttered look.
Demetria Dresser
3. Rustic
Rustic dressers embrace a more rugged and natural look, as seen on the Vista Canyon Collection dresser by Emerald Home Furnishings and the Grandpa's Cabin Collection 7-drawer dresser by Liberty Furniture, often made from reclaimed wood or wood with a rough texture. They are perfect for adding an organic feel to your room.
- Materials: Pine solids, reclaimed wood, and metal.
- Common Features: Rough-hewn wood, natural finishes, and simple designs.
- Why It Works: Rustic dressers bring a touch of nature indoors and pair well with neutral, earthy tones.
4. Traditional
Traditional dressers offer classic designs with elegant details like carved wood, ornate handles, and rich wood tones. Dressers such as the ones from the Lake Way Collection by Avalon Furniture and Canyon Creek Collection by Samuel Lawrence, as well as the Americana Modern Bedroom 9 Drawer Dresser by Parker House are timeless and add a sense of sophistication to any room.
- Materials: Solid wood, wood veneers, and metal hardware.
- Common Features: Carved details, elegant designs, and rich finishes.
- Why It Works: Traditional dressers are perfect for those looking to create a refined, timeless bedroom.
Americana Modern Bedroom 9 Drawer Dresser
5. Transitional
Transitional dressers blend elements of traditional and modern styles, such as the Regency Park Collection dresser and Townsend 6 Drawer Dresser by Legacy Classic Furniture. They offer a balanced look that works well in a variety of room styles.
- Materials: Wood, metal, and engineered wood.
- Common Features: Clean lines with subtle details, neutral finishes, and versatile design.
- Why It Works: Transitional dressers are ideal for anyone who wants a mix of classic and modern in their decor.
Townsend 6 Drawer Dresser
6. Modern
Modern dressers emphasize simplicity, sleek lines, and bold design choices, like the Marquee Collection dresser, Versailles Contemporary 12 Drawer Dresser, and Summerland Dresser, are often made with unique materials and finishes, giving your room a contemporary feel.
- Materials: Engineered wood, metal, and glass.
- Common Features: Sleek lines, bold colors, and minimalist designs.
- Why It Works: Modern dressers are perfect for those looking to make a statement while keeping the design simple and functional.
7. Glam
Glam dressers are all about luxury and elegance, like the Heidi Collection 9-drawer dresser, Voeville II Collection dresser, and Twenty Nine 6 Drawer Dresser. With metallic finishes, mirrored surfaces, and tufted details, glam dressers add a touch of sophistication to your bedroom.
- Materials: Metal, mirrored surfaces, and velvet.
- Common Features: Shiny finishes, tufted details, and luxurious designs.
- Why It Works: Glam dressers are perfect for creating a high-end, opulent look in your bedroom.
How to Prevent Future Wear and Tear on Your Dresser
Preventing damage to your dresser can help it last longer and look better. Here are some tips to avoid common issues like scratches, dents, and fading:
Best Practices to Care for Your Dresser
- Use coasters or placemats: Place coasters under drinks and mats under decor to avoid scratches and water rings on the surface.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Keep your dark grey dressers and brown dressers away from direct sunlight to prevent fading or discoloration, especially for wood or veneer surfaces. Learn where to put a dresser in the bedroom for the most optimal experience.
- Regular dusting and cleaning: Dust your dresser furnitures weekly with a soft cloth to prevent dirt buildup, and clean it with appropriate cleaners to maintain the finish.
- Use drawer liners: Line the drawers with felt or paper to protect the inside from scratches or stains.
- Be mindful of weight: Avoid overloading the drawers, as heavy items can cause the bottom to sag or the tracks to wear out.
Taking Care of Your Dresser
No matter what material or style your dresser is made from, it’s important to keep it well-maintained to ensure it lasts for years. By understanding the common wear and tear associated with different materials, you can make simple repairs that will restore your dresser to its former glory.
And if you’re in the market for a new dresser, exploring different styles like farmhouse, contemporary, and glam can help you find the perfect piece for your bedroom. Shop bedroom dressers for sale at Local Furniture Outlet.
