10 Tips for Wood Furniture Care

Quality wood furniture can last a lifetime and is often a valuable heirloom passed down many generations. Still, even the finest wood is susceptible to scratches and abrasions if not properly cared for.

In this article, we have prepared 10 tips to make your furniture look the best.

1. Do Not Abuse Furniture

To avoid rings and heat damage, always use coasters when placing glasses or mugs on wooden tables. Never place hot food directly on your table without a hairpin or pot protection. Use decorative floor mats or a tablecloth to protect your dining room table from food and beverage spills.

2.Prevent Environmental Damage

Sunlight, heat, and other environmental factors can damage your fine wood. Do not place valuable furniture in front of open windows, vents or fireplaces as light and heat can damage the wood and cause it to fade.

3. Dust Frequently

Dust is one of the best ways to take care of your furniture. Particles in the air can form a thin layer on the wood that scratches the surface. Frequent dusting prevents this build up. Always use a soft cloth such as a cotton T-shirt or microfiber to avoid damage.

4. Keep Your Wood Clean

Never use all-purpose cleaners that could damage the coating. If you have a very dirty or sticky spot, soak a cloth in water with a mild dish soap. Tighten as much as possible and gently wipe the area. Simply rinse with a damp cloth containing water, then immediately wipe with a soft dry cloth.

5. Protect Your Wood

Most commercial polishes and sprays contain petroleum distillates or silicone oil to create a fresh and shiny finish and provide some protection for your wood. Make sure you do not use too much product, as this can create a dull, sticky film that can cause dirt-compound buildup. Always be sure to polish the products well when using them to avoid this buildup.

6.Repair Wear and Tear

Even with the best care, wooden furniture can withstand abrasions. For minor nicks and scratches, use liquid polishes. This liquid polish restores the natural beauty of the wood and hides abrasions.

If the damage is too much to cure with polish or touch up sticks, and you are not fully prepared to give up your precious fixture, you may need to resort to something harder. Painting a damaged furniture will breathe new life into it and give it a few more good years.

7.Regrease Dry Wood

If the furniture has been stored and is becoming overly dry, you may need to regrease it. Begin this job by first cleaning with a suitable cleaner and then prep the surface with # 0000 steel wool. Apply your furniture oil generously and let it sit in the wood for about 15 minutes. You will apply a protective coating, let your furniture dry for at least 24 hours before continuing.

8.Repolish as needed

Depending on the finish, some furniture may have a wax protective coating. As these parts age, the surface may need to be re-polished for continued protection. Always prepare the surface with fine # 0000 steel wool, then wipe with a soft cloth to remove any residue. Apply a coat of beeswax and spread, always following the bumps. Do not let the wax harden for more than 20 minutes. Remove excess wax with a clean pad and polish with a soft cloth until the surface is smooth.

9.Keep the Wood Fresh

Sometimes old parts develop an unpleasant odor, especially if they have been stored. You can sprinkle baking soda to refresh the surface and put some charcoal in the drawers to absorb the odors from inside. You can even leave the piece outside in a shady area on a hot and dry day to get rid of a foul odor and make your furniture brand new.

10.Remove Tough Stains

Despite your best efforts, sometimes the inevitable happens and your beautiful wood furniture will get stained. Whatever type of stain you have, make sure to clean it as quickly as possible – the longer the stain remains, the harder it will be to remove.

• Apply equal amounts of white toothpaste and baking soda for any white circles left over from wet glasses. Rub it on the stain until it’s gone. Then wipe the furniture and buff it with a dry cloth.
• For dark spots caused by water damage, try gently removing the stain with a cloth dipped in vinegar.
• For crayon marks, apply mayonnaise to the area. Leave it on for a few minutes before wiping it clean with a damp cloth and polishing with a dry cloth.

Taking care of your wooden furniture properly is not difficult or so time-consuming, and the reward for your effort will be a house full of beautiful wood furniture that looks and feels as good as the day you get it now and for years.