ᐅ How can I protect Ikea HEMNES furniture from sunlight?

Created on: 26 Feb 2022 08:43
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Gibapin
Hello everyone,

I own several IKEA Hemnes furniture pieces, especially sideboards and cabinets made of solid pine wood, which I would like to protect from sunlight. This is important to me because I have noticed that direct sunlight, especially over a long period, can cause the surface to fade slightly and gradually change the color or accelerate the aging of the wood. Therefore, I would like to know how to best protect my Hemnes furniture from UV radiation without affecting their natural appearance and feel.

Are there specific care products or covers suitable for this purpose? What has been your experience with preventive measures, for example regarding windows (curtains, UV protection films) or the placement of the furniture?

I look forward to your well-informed tips, including explanations of why something works or doesn’t.

Thank you in advance!
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blapau
26 Feb 2022 12:01
Gibapin schrieb:
Which exact products do you use, and how often should they be applied?

I use a specialized hard oil with UV protection designed for interior wood. Examples include linseed oil-based products enriched with UV blockers. The wood should be clean and free of grease, but sanding is usually not necessary if the surface is intact. Just lightly sand (with fine sandpaper) and then apply the oil to help it absorb better.

The treatment should be done approximately every 6 months, depending on sun exposure. I haven’t noticed any stickiness with thin layers, and color darkening is minimal with high-quality products.
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GIPAPO
26 Feb 2022 13:04
I have installed UV protection films on the windows. Since then, the fading of the furniture surfaces has noticeably slowed down. I do not use any maintenance treatment – that is too time-consuming for me.
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Kolepau
26 Feb 2022 14:29
Hey, great topic! Hemnes furniture looks so nice, and I had the same issue in the summer! I just hung lightweight curtains in front of the windows and occasionally treated my furniture with a mild wood care product, which is really easy to do! This way, the beautiful natural look stays intact and it doesn’t take much effort. Give it a try—you can keep the furniture looking great for a long time!
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GLALEO
27 Feb 2022 08:56
Great tips so far! Here’s an additional suggestion from me: A removable protective cover, such as a custom-made fabric slipcover, can effectively shield furniture from sunlight—especially useful with the seasonal angle of the sun. Just put it on in spring and remove it again in winter. It works great and doesn’t cause any permanent damage to the wood!
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umberto
27 Feb 2022 09:21
Mounting curtains or blinds in front of the windows is the best protection. A film is only worthwhile if strong direct sunlight shines on the furniture for a long time.

Clean regularly with soapy water; do not use aggressive cleaning agents.
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PAUREO54
27 Feb 2022 10:02
Do not keep windows open for too long; avoid heat and UV rays. This provides optimal protection for the wood.