Buying guide: Dining tables

4 How many people do I need to seat?
What are your seating needs? They’re often dictated by life stage. When you’re younger, space might be at a minimum in your home, and further, you’re more likely to be going “home” to Thanksgiving dinner, say, than hosting it yourself.

For many singletons, a tiny square table may be all you’ll need for eating alone or hosting a couple of pals for the odd night in. For example, IKEA’s mini Ingo table, at 75 cm x 75 cm is a classic in first-apartment decor and can seat up to four.

For families and couples who entertain, a dining table with a minimum of 125 cm of length by 75 cm of width will be required. That will snag you room for four on the sides, plus two heads of the table, but things will be on the close side. For added elbowroom, or added seats, consider a table that comes with a leaf, so it can expand as needed for big get-togethers.

5 How much care can I commit to?
Low maintenance
If you can’t commit to anything beyond wiping the table down when it needs it, look for waterproof, stain-resistant finishes like laminate or glass.

Medium maintenance
Hardy and patina-friendly woods like maple, teak and oak will require basic maintenance. Wipe spills and condensation immediately and apply a light spray-on wood conditioner every few weeks. Seasonal wax applications will help keep wood from drying and cracking during the dryer months.

Higher maintenance
Wood veneers can be delicate, so vigilantly follow your dealer’s care recommendations, including those for waxing. Furniture pads may be a smart choice under tablecloths to further protect the table surface from the heat and bangs that can accompany big festive meals.

Image courtesy of Crate & Barrel

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