Wood Furniture Care and Maintenance Guide

Wood furniture can elevate any space. These elegant pieces will add style and exquisiteness to your interior design and décor, making you feel better in your home and delighting your guests. However, real wood furniture is not only more expensive than other alternatives but also requires special care and maintenance.

The good news is that once you know how to take proper care of it, it won’t take you much time – you just need to do it right. Plus, it will allow your new wood furniture to serve you for years to come.

Dusting, cleaning, shining, daily and periodical care – all that might sound a bit overwhelming at first. To help you get started, we’ve created a concise guide to wood furniture care and maintenance. Join us as we go through the details below.

Dust Properly and Frequently

One of the most important things you can do to maintain your wood furniture is to dust it regularly. Dusting should be done at least once a week, but if you live in a dusty area or have pets, you might need to do it more often.

As recommended by the specialists from Sena Home Furniture Store in UK, to dust properly, use a microfiber cloth or a soft, lint-free cloth. Gently wipe in the direction of the grain to avoid scratching the surface. If there is any stubborn dirt, you can slightly dampen the cloth. Just make sure not to soak it, as too much moisture can damage the wood.

You can also use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment for larger pieces of furniture. Again, be careful not to scratch the surface and vacuum in the direction of the grain.

Be Careful When Moving Furniture

When moving furniture, be careful not to scratch the floor or the piece itself. Ideally, you should lift the furniture instead of dragging it. If you have to drag it, put a soft blanket or towel under it to protect the surface from scratches.

When lifting furniture, make sure to lift it from the bottom. Use both hands and lift slowly to avoid dropping the piece. If the furniture is too heavy for you, ask someone for help instead of trying and risking hurting yourself or the piece. And, if you decide to get some new furniture pieces for your home, you can learn how to track forwarded packages here, so that you won’t keep worrying about when they will finally arrive.

Adjust Your Care Approach Based on Wood Varieties

Different wood types are characterized by their unique grains, colors, and inherent properties, which influence their care needs and lifespan. The experts at Adage Furniture suggest categorizing them broadly into hardwoods and softwoods.

Hardwoods like Oak, Cherry, and Mahogany are denser, boasting a tight grain that’s resistant to scratches. Regular maintenance involves gentle cleaning with minimal water or dedicated hardwood cleaners. Periodic oiling or waxing can accentuate their natural sheen.

Softwoods such as Pine, Cedar, and Spruce have an open grain, making them more prone to dents and damage. They demand regular dusting with a soft cloth and prompt attention to spills to prevent staining, given their faster liquid absorption rate.

In essence, the type of wood determines its care regimen, underlining the importance of understanding your furniture’s composition.

Clean With Natural Products

When it comes to cleaning, you should avoid using harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the wood. Instead, opt for natural products, such as mild soap or white vinegar solution.

To make a natural cleaning solution, mix 1 cup of water with 1/4 cup of white vinegar. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to give it a pleasant scent. Put the solution in a spray bottle and use it to clean the surface of your furniture. Wipe it dry with a soft, lint-free cloth afterward.

If you want to use soap, choose a mild dishwashing liquid and mix it with water. Again, put the solution in a spray bottle and use it to clean your furniture. Rinse with water and dry with a clean cloth.

To clean hard-to-reach areas, such as carvings and intricate details, use a toothbrush or a cotton swab.

Wax and Polish Periodically

Another essential step in wood furniture care is waxing or polishing. This will help restore the wood’s natural luster and protect it from dirt and moisture.

To wax your furniture, start by dusting it thoroughly. Then, apply a small amount of beeswax or furniture wax to a clean, soft cloth. Rub the wax into the wood in the direction of the grain using circular motions. Wipe off any excess wax with a clean, dry cloth.

If you want to use furniture polish, choose a product that doesn’t contain silicone. Apply it to a clean cloth and rub it into the wood using circular motions. Wipe off the excess with a clean, dry cloth.

Polishing should be done once every few weeks while waxing – when needed (e.g., heavy-wear furniture like chairs should be waxed once or twice a year while other pieces even once every three years).

Deal With Any Damage Immediately

Even if you take good care of your wood furniture, it might still get damaged. The most common problems include scratches, chips, spills and stains.

If you have light scratches, you can try to remove them with a furniture polish or wax. For deeper scratches, you will need to use a wood filler. First, clean the area around the scratch, and then apply the filler with a putty knife. Wipe off any excess filler and let it dry completely. Once it’s dry, sand the area lightly with fine-grit sandpaper and then wax or polish. If your furniture has chips, you can also use a wood filler.

Spills and stains should be dealt with immediately to avoid damage. If you spill something on your wood furniture, wipe it up with a clean, dry cloth as soon as possible. For tougher stains, you can use mild soap or a white vinegar solution. Apply it to a clean cloth and rub it into the stain gently. Wipe it off with a clean, damp cloth, and then dry the area with a clean, dry one.

Use Coasters and Placemats

One of the best ways to protect your wood furniture from damage is to use coasters and placemats. This will prevent water rings and stains from cups and glasses, as well as scratches from plates and cutlery.

When using coasters, make sure they are made of a soft material, such as cork or felt. For heavier items, such as vases and lamps, use larger coasters that will distribute the weight evenly.

Placemats should be used when eating at the table. They will protect the surface of the table from scratches and stains. Choose placemats that are made of soft material and have a non-slip backing.

Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat

Exposing your wood furniture to direct sunlight and heat can cause fading and discoloration. To protect your furniture, keep it away from windows and direct sunlight. If you can’t avoid it, draw the curtains or shades during the day. You can also use a UV-resistant spray to protect the wood from fading.

You should also avoid placing your furniture near heat sources, such as fireplaces, radiators, and heaters. The sudden temperature change can cause the wood to crack or warp.

Final Words

Taking care of wood furniture doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming, but it does require some effort. However, it’s essential if you want it to last for years. You just need to use the right products and choose the suitable approach.

Dust, clean and polish regularly, and don’t forget to use coasters and placemats. Avoid exposing your furniture to direct sunlight and heat, and be careful when moving it. You can also hire a professional for the job if anything beyond dusting is beyond you.

If you follow these simple tips, your wood furniture will stay in pristine condition for a long time.