10 tips for taking care of wooden furniture

Quality wooden furniture can last a lifetime and is often a treasured heirloom passed down from generation to generation. However, even the highest quality wood is prone to scratches and abrasions if not properly cared for.

When purchasing furniture it is always a good idea to ask for specific cleaning and care instructions. For furniture already in your home, here are 10 tips to keep the wood looking its best for many generations to come.

1. Don’t «abuse» the furniture

To avoid streaks and heat damage, always use coasters when placing glasses or cups on wooden tables and never place hot foods directly on them without the protection of a coaster or potholder. Include decorative napkins or a tablecloth to protect the dining room table from food and drink spills.

2. Avoid external damage

Sunlight, heat and other environmental factors can ruin your fine wood. Don’t place valuable furniture in front of windows, vents or open fireplaces, as light and heat can damage and discolor the wood.

3. Remove dust

No one really enjoys dusting, but dusting 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 spraying prevents this buildup. Always use a soft cloth such as cotton t-shirts, cloth diapers or microfiber to avoid damage. Lambswool cloths are great for elaborate carvings or hard to reach places as they attract and hold dust effectively.

4. Keep your wood clean

Sometimes dusting is not enough and you will need to clean your wooden furniture. Never use all-purpose cleaners, which can damage the finish. If the stain is very dirty or sticky, soak a cloth in water containing mild dish soap. Clean it as much as possible and gently clean the area. Be sure to follow with a rinse with a damp cloth containing only water, then immediately dry with a soft, dry cloth.

5. Protect your wood

Most commercial polishes and sprays contain petroleum distillates or silicone oil to provide a fresh, shiny finish and provide some protection to the wood. Make sure you don’t use too much product as it can cause deposits to bond with the dirt to create a sticky film. Always make sure to buff well when using products to avoid this buildup and never use these products with a wax protectant as the combination will result in another sticky mess.

6. Treat wear and tear

Even with the best care, wooden furniture can sustain injuries. For minor cuts and scratches, use a liquid polish that hides abrasions, restoring the wood’s inherent beauty.

If the damage is too great to treat with nail polish or touch-up sticks and you’re not yet ready to part with your precious device, you may need to resort to something more drastic. Painting a damaged piece of furniture will give it new life and give it a few more years. Painting also saves you time by avoiding sanding, which you can’t do if you decide to do it again.

7. Re-grease the dry wood

If the furniture has been put away and becomes too dry, it may need to be re-oiled. Start by cleaning it with a suitable cleaner, then prepare the surface with #1 steel wool. 0000, always working in the direction of the grain. Apply furniture oil liberally and let it penetrate the wood for about 15 minutes. If you will be applying a protective layer, let the furniture rest for at least 24 hours before proceeding.

8. Re-wax as needed

Depending on the finish, some furniture may have a protective layer of wax. As these parts age, it may be necessary to re-wax the surface for continued protection. Always prepare the surface with #1 fine steel wool. 0000, then wipe with a soft cloth to remove any residue. Apply a layer of wax and spread with a Scotch Brite pad, applying light pressure and always following the grain. Do not let the wax solidify for more than 20 minutes. Remove excess wax with a clean Scotch Brite pad and buff with a soft cloth until the surface is smooth to the touch.

9. Keep the wood smelling fresh

Sometimes older parts develop an unpleasant odor, especially if they have been stored. You can sprinkle the surface with baking soda to freshen it up and place some charcoal in the drawers to absorb odors emanating from inside. You can also leave the furniture outside in a shaded area on a warm, dry day to alleviate unpleasant odors and keep your furniture looking new.

10. Remove stubborn stains

Despite your best efforts, sometimes the inevitable happens and beautiful wooden furniture gets stained. No matter what type of stain you have, make sure you clean it as quickly as possible – the longer it stays, the harder it will be to remove.

For white circles coming from wet cups, apply a paste made of equal amounts of white toothpaste and baking soda. Rub it into the stain until it disappears. Next, clean the furniture and polish it with a dry cloth.
For dark stains due to water damage, try gently wiping the stain with a cloth soaked in vinegar.
For pencil marks, apply mayonnaise to the area. Leave to rest for a few minutes before wiping with a damp cloth and drying with a dry cloth.
Properly caring for your wood furniture is not difficult or time-consuming, and the reward for your efforts will be a home full of beautiful wood furniture that looks as good as the day you got it, now and for many years to come.

For solid wood furniture and more, in various designs and colors that can be easily integrated, see our promotion valid until May 31st: Clearance stock at a 40% discount.

Keep up the good work, dears!

PS Article source: