When shopping for furniture—especially at great prices—it’s easy to come across terms like solid wood, veneer, or MDF. But what do they actually mean? And how can you tell if a piece is built to last?

At Warehouse Furniture Clearance (WFC), we sell end-of-line and excess stock from some of Australia’s leading furniture retailers—at a fraction of the original price. That means you can often find high-quality, solid wood pieces without paying retail markups.

Here’s your go-to guide to understanding what “solid wood” really means—and how it compares to other materials.

What Exactly Is Solid Wood Furniture?

Solid wood means exactly what it sounds like: the furniture is made entirely from real, natural timber—no fillers, no manufactured boards.

Each part of a solid wood piece (like table legs, tops, drawers, and sides) is cut from planks of timber such as oak, acacia, mango wood, pine, or teak.

What are the Benefits of Solid Wood?

• Long-lasting and durable
• Can be sanded and refinished if damaged
• Each piece has a unique grain and natural beauty
• Ages beautifully with time

How Is Solid Wood Different from Veneer or MDF?

Furniture sold in Australia often includes a mix of solid and engineered materials. Here's how they differ:

1. Engineered Wood (MDF or Particleboard)

• Made by compressing wood fibres or chips with resin
• Affordable and uniform in appearance
• Can be prone to swelling or damage if not well-maintained

2. Wood Veneer

• A thin layer of real wood attached to a core of MDF or plywood
• Gives the look of solid timber, but not the same durability
• Can’t usually be refinished or sanded

3. Solid Wood

• Real timber throughout—no internal fillers
• Higher weight and strength
• Can last decades when properly cared for

Why Does This Matter When Buying Clearance Furniture?

At WFC, our stock comes from deleted ranges and overstocked inventory from leading retailers. That means you could be getting a premium solid wood piece—originally worth thousands—for a clearance price.

Here’s why knowing the material helps:

• Solid wood: Great for investment pieces like dining tables or bed frames
• Veneer/MDF: Perfect for light-use items or trendy styles at lower prices
• Combination pieces: A mix of solid wood frames and veneered panels offer durability at better value

How to Tell If a Piece Is Solid Wood

Not sure what you’re looking at? Here are a few signs:

• Look at the edges—solid wood will show continuous grain, not a glued-on surface
• Feel the weight—solid wood is heavier than MDF or particleboard
• Knock on it—solid wood has a deeper, more muted sound compared to a hollow thud from engineered boards
• When in doubt, ask our staff! We’re happy to help you identify what materials a piece is made from so you can shop smart.

Whether you’re furnishing a new home or upgrading a single room, understanding what “solid wood” means helps you get the best value—especially when shopping clearance.

At WFC, you can find premium-quality pieces that were once sold at major retailers—often including solid wood furniture—for up to 70% off the original price.

Come explore our warehouse during the next sale event or browse online for a sneak peek.