When it comes to furniture, few countries carry the legacy of craftsmanship like India. From intricately carved temple doors in Rajasthan to sleek Sheesham dining tables in modern homes, wood has always been the backbone of Indian interiors. But here’s the catch — not all wood is created equal. The type of wood you choose can make the difference between a chair that becomes a family heirloom and one that squeaks and wobbles within a year.
In this article, we’ll explore the five most common types of wood used in Indian furniture, their unique characteristics, pros and cons, and how to choose the right one for your needs. By the end, you’ll not only know your teak from your mango but also have the confidence to make informed buying decisions.
Why Choosing the Right Wood Matters
Before diving into the types, let’s pause for a second. Furniture isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about durability, maintenance, cost, and climate suitability. A bed that works perfectly in the dry heat of Rajasthan may warp in the humid air of Kerala. Likewise, office desks in Bengaluru tech hubs don’t need the same ruggedness as an outdoor bench in Shimla.
Think of wood like personality types: some are strong and timeless, others are versatile and affordable, and a few are stylish but high-maintenance. Your choice should align with your lifestyle.
1. Teak Wood (Sagwan)
If wood were royalty, teak would wear the crown. Known locally as Sagwan, teak has been the gold standard of Indian furniture for centuries.
Characteristics
- Golden-brown to dark hues that get richer with age
- Extremely durable and resistant to termites, decay, and moisture
- Dense, oily texture that gives it natural polish
Common Uses
- Outdoor furniture (thanks to its resistance to weather)
- Luxury sofas, beds, and dining tables
- Antique-style carvings and traditional Indian wardrobes
Pros
- Longevity: lasts for decades, even generations
- Minimal maintenance compared to softer woods
- Naturally resists termites and fungi
Cons
- Expensive (sometimes 3–4x the cost of other woods)
- Heavier, making it difficult to move
Example
My grandparents’ teak-wood almirah has stood tall in our family home for 60 years. Apart from a few scratches that add character, it’s as sturdy as the day it was bought. That’s the magic of teak.
2. Sheesham Wood (Indian Rosewood)
If teak is the king, Sheesham is the dependable prince. Popular across North India, Sheesham — or Indian Rosewood — strikes a balance between affordability and durability.
Characteristics
- Reddish-brown with darker streaks
- Slightly less durable than teak but still strong
- Good natural resistance to termites
Common Uses
- Dining tables, coffee tables, cabinets
- Decorative furniture with carvings
- Modular and modern home furniture
Pros
- Affordable compared to teak
- Beautiful natural grain patterns
- Easy to polish and maintain
Cons
- Can develop cracks in extreme dryness
- Slightly heavier than softwoods like mango
Example
When I shifted to Delhi for work, my first “grown-up” purchase was a Sheesham study table. Affordable yet solid, it became my favorite corner during work-from-home days.
3. Mango Wood
Now here’s the underdog. Mango wood may not sound luxurious, but it’s an eco-friendly choice loved by millennials and modern homeowners.
Characteristics
- Light to golden-brown color with unique streaks
- Softer compared to teak or Sheesham
- Eco-friendly since it comes from mango trees that stop bearing fruit
Common Uses
- Bookshelves, TV units, and side tables
- Affordable beds and wardrobes
- Rustic or farmhouse-style furniture
Pros
- Budget-friendly without looking cheap
- Sustainable, as it repurposes old mango trees
- Lightweight, making it easy to move
Cons
- Less durable than hardwoods like teak
- Needs extra care against termites and water damage
Example
A friend in Bengaluru swears by her mango-wood bookshelf. Lightweight yet sturdy enough for her massive book collection, it cost half of what Sheesham would have.
4. Sal Wood
Often overshadowed by teak, Sal wood is the unsung hero of Indian carpentry. Known for its toughness, it’s widely used in construction as well as furniture.
Characteristics
- Dark brown, coarse texture
- Extremely hard and heavy
- Naturally resistant to water and insects
Common Uses
- Doors, window frames, and heavy-duty furniture
- Traditional charpoys and rural furniture
- Structural elements in homes
Pros
- Incredibly strong and durable
- Termite- and water-resistant
- Cheaper than teak
Cons
- Coarse texture makes polishing difficult
- Heavy and not as aesthetically refined as Sheesham
Example
During a trip to Bihar, I noticed most traditional homes had Sal wood doors. Despite decades of use and monsoon exposure, they looked solid and unyielding.
5. Oak Wood
Although not native, oak wood has made its way into modern Indian homes, especially urban apartments with Western-style interiors.
Characteristics
- Light to medium brown with prominent grain
- Strong and durable, often imported
- Available in both red oak and white oak varieties
Common Uses
- Contemporary wardrobes, dining tables, and chairs
- Office furniture
- Blends well with minimalist and Scandinavian designs
Pros
- Stylish, with a natural modern look
- Strong and durable
- Readily available in urban furniture markets
Cons
- Expensive due to import costs
- Requires good maintenance to avoid staining
Example
I once visited a café in Pune that had oak-wood tables. They instantly gave the space a cozy, European vibe — proof of oak’s global charm.
Comparison Table: 5 Common Woods in Indian Furniture
| Wood Type | Durability | Price Range | Best For | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Teak (Sagwan) | ★★★★★ | High | Luxury, heirloom furniture | Expensive |
| Sheesham (Rosewood) | ★★★★☆ | Medium | Affordable, carved furniture | Can crack in dryness |
| Mango Wood | ★★★☆☆ | Low | Eco-friendly, rustic furniture | Less durable |
| Sal Wood | ★★★★☆ | Medium | Heavy-duty furniture, doors | Coarse finish |
| Oak Wood | ★★★★☆ | High | Modern, Western-style interiors | Expensive, maintenance |
People Also Ask (PAA)
Is teak wood better than Sheesham for furniture?
Yes, teak is more durable, water-resistant, and long-lasting. However, Sheesham offers a beautiful finish at a lower price, making it a budget-friendly alternative.
Which is the cheapest wood for furniture in India?
Mango wood is the most affordable option, widely used for budget-friendly furniture that still looks stylish.
How do I identify real teak wood?
Real teak has a golden-brown color, oily texture, and distinct straight grain. Knock on it — it feels heavier and denser than most woods.
Is Sal wood good for making beds?
Yes, Sal is incredibly strong and durable, making it excellent for bed frames. However, it’s heavier and less refined in appearance compared to Sheesham or teak.
FAQs
Q1: Which wood is most durable for furniture in India?
Teak wood is the most durable, capable of lasting decades with minimal maintenance.
Q2: Can mango wood furniture last long?
Yes, with proper care, mango wood furniture can last 10–15 years, though it won’t match the longevity of teak or Sheesham.
Q3: Is Sheesham wood termite-proof?
Sheesham has natural resistance to termites, but regular maintenance is still recommended.
Q4: What’s the best wood for outdoor furniture?
Teak is the best choice for outdoor furniture due to its natural oils that resist moisture and decay.
Q5: Where can I buy quality wooden furniture in India?
Trusted options include FabIndia, Pepperfry, Urban Ladder, and local carpenters who specialize in custom-made wooden furniture.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right wood for your furniture is a blend of budget, lifestyle, and design preference. If you’re building a forever home, invest in teak or Sheesham. For stylish yet eco-friendly interiors, go for mango wood. If practicality and strength matter most, Sal is unbeatable. And if you want that sleek, modern touch, oak wood fits perfectly.
The next time you walk into a furniture showroom or browse online, remember — you’re not just buying a table or a chair. You’re investing in a piece of wood that will witness your life’s stories, from family dinners to late-night work sessions. Choose wisely, and your furniture will be more than décor — it will be a companion for years to come.