When you think of modern times, are steep pipes and aluminum gizmos all that you can envision? Those may be true to science fiction novels and movies, but in the real world, modernity is associated with a fine assortment of both old and new materials. This checklist contains a rundown of some of the materials that make up modern home furniture pieces. Read on to find out what these materials are.

• ALUMINUM. A favorite material for sinks, curtain rods and a number of kitchen utensils and appliances, aluminum sports a number of desirable attributes: It is shiny, scratch-proof, light-weight, stainless and low-maintenance. Although it is generally resistant to strong detergent, aluminum lasts longer when exposed to less of the strong stuff. To clean aluminum-made home furniture pieces, simply wipe the items with a piece of dry cloth. For tougher stains and dirt, use a damp cloth soaked with mild, soapy water, then pat dry.

• GLASS. No, glass is not old-fashioned. Rather, it is a timeless material that delicate home furniture pieces are made of. Do not be misled by the pervading description “delicate” though. Modern pieces are made of fiber glass, the sturdier type that is less prone to cracking, breaking and shattering upon impact or upon exposure to higher temperatures. Jalousies, chandeliers, sinks and tables are just some of the many glass-made pieces you can get for your home. Glass makes your home daintier and gentler, softening the austere lines created by solid furniture.

• REED. The story of Moses as a baby of the Nile has long passed, but the sturdiness of the reed lives on. To give your abode a touch of exoticness, reed is the material that makes up native and woven chairs, side tables and even lamp shades. Since the origin of the reed is basically organic, the same care afforded to most wooden home furniture pieces applies to reed-made home furniture. Make sure the item you are buying is pretreated so you can spare your abode from the onset of termites and other pests. You may clean with items with a damp cloth soaked in mild, soapy water, but take care not to soak everything wet as doing so can facilitate rotting.

• WOOD. Definitely an all-time favorite, wood continues to grace many homes with finely crafted or simply designed head boards, sideboards, chairs, tables, beds, stools and a dazzling array more of modern home furniture pieces. What is quite outstanding with modern pieces is that manufacturers have become adventurous, daring to transcend the traditional and preserved wooden look with painted and bold designs. Wooden furniture that has been painted pastel green, pink or yellow serve well your child's play room, while the conventional varnished look will surely complement your country-themed kitchen or bedroom.

Aluminum, glass, reed and wood are just some of the top materials that modern home furniture pieces may be made of. If you wish to consider other options, feel free to do your homework and consult your favorite furniture dealer for advice and suggestions.