Many of us will have our own way of storing our chess sets when they’re not in use, but what’s considered the right way, and what things should you avoid doing?
Some people invest in luxury chess sets made from exotic woods such as ebony and rosewood, intending to pass them down through the family as an heirloom. Others purchase travel-size sets hoping to make use of them on their annual holidays when they enjoy a peaceful moment. No matter what your intended use is, by storing your chess set correctly, you can ensure that it lasts for many years to come.
The Right Way – Keeping your Set Pristine for Years
Some tips to keep your set in tip-top condition include:
- Store your chess pieces in a sturdy chess piece box, case, or bag – This helps to protect them when placed into storage.
- Store your chessboard in a place where it won’t get scratched – The manufacturer’s packaging, if retained, can be ideal to use as a protective sleeve.
- Keep your chess pieces and board maintained – You can gently clean these using a microfiber cloth to remove any dust or grime.
- Don’t topple your pieces carelessly – Whilst it might be common to topple your king in defeat, do so in a controlled manner to prevent indenting the board or damaging the piece.
- Use silica gel packs or moisture absorbers in storage containers – Especially useful if storing sets in areas prone to slight humidity – they help regulate moisture and prevent mildew.
- Attach felt pad feet to your chessboard – Particularly helpful for boards made with veneers; this reduces the risk of scratches to the underside and to the table or surface it sits on.
The Wrong Way – Leading to Premature Wear
- Don’t leave your chess set in direct sunlight – Prolonged exposure to UV light can bleach the wood, and if pieces are left on the board in this instance, you’ll be left with circular marks on the chessboard.
- Don’t use abrasive cleaning chemicals and materials – Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials to clean your set, as they can cause staining, scratches, and remove the polished finish.
- Don’t lean the chessboard against a wall – Doing this for an extended time can cause damage to the veneers due to the uneven stress. It’s best to lay your board flat.
- Don’t store in a damp attic – It’s best to keep the humidity levels stable at around 40-60%. Temperature fluctuations and moisture can ruin veneers and pieces.
- Don’t store wooden pieces in plastic bags – Plastic traps moisture, which can cause condensation and lead to cracking or mould, especially in changing temperatures.
- Don’t keep your board or pieces near heat sources – Radiators, fireplaces, or sunny windowsills can dry out or warp wood over time, and glue joints can become unstable.
- Don’t use furniture polish or wax unless manufacturer-approved – Some finishes, especially on lacquered boards, can react poorly with waxes or silicone-based sprays and end up sticky or dull.
By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll help ensure your chess set stays in excellent condition for years to come. That said, life happens – whether it’s a curious pet chewing a pawn or a child accidentally knocking pieces over during play. If you’ve purchased your set from us and find yourself in need of a replacement piece, we’re always happy to help track down a suitable match.
