Wooden furniture plays a central role in most home designs. A strong, versatile material that is used to make everything from chairs and tables to bed frames and doors, there’s simply no getting away from it in modern homes.
Of course, wood is very durable but certainly needs some TLC every now and then in order to make it last a long time. If some of your furniture is looking a little tired and suffering from eroding or damage to its glossy finish, here are a few ways to care for your wooden furniture to keep it looking good.
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Different Types of Wood
To make matters a little trickier, different types of wood need different care regimes. For example, hardwoods like plywood, maple and cherry are often used to construct durable pieces like dining tables and sturdy fitted wardrobes. This is because they can withstand a decent amount of rough and tumble and work well to form a quality piece of furniture.
Other woods include oak which is often used for heavy chests, luxury desks and sometimes furniture. Oak is particularly sensitive to the oils that we have in our skin which can lead to discoloration. Walnut, on the other hand, is prone to fading if left in direct sunlight for too long. As for cherry, you’ll find that it will go redder over time if exposed to sunlight.
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General Care Tips
Don’t Place Near Radiators
It’s not advisable to place your wooden furniture directly next to radiators or other sources of heat. Rapid temperature change can cause the wood to dry out and weaken. In the same vein, avoid placing hot objects directly on wooden surfaces as it can leave a permanent mark.
Clean Properly
Wood might be exceptionally sturdy, but there are still preferred ways to effectively clean it. To keep your wooden furniture looking its absolute best, wipe it with a damp cloth before buffing it with a dry cloth.
Avoid using harsh detergents as this can damage the finish. Instead, use mild detergent to remove tough stains.
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Maintain The Finish
The finish of wood furniture isn’t just there to make it look pretty; it also acts as protection. That’s why it’s important to maintain the finish by reoiling your furniture once every 6 months, focussing on dry patches to get them back to their former glory.
Conclusion
To care for wooden furniture, clean regularly, avoid harsh chemicals, remove water rings gently, protect from sunlight, address scratches promptly, and consider applying a protective coating. These simple steps will help maintain the beauty and longevity of your wooden furniture.
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FAQ
It is recommended to clean wooden furniture regularly to prevent dirt and dust buildup. Wipe the surfaces with a soft, slightly damp cloth or a microfiber cloth once a week to keep them clean. However, avoid using excessive water, as it can damage the wood.
No, not all cleaning products are suitable for wood furniture. Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or ammonia-based solutions, as they can strip the finish or damage the wood. Instead, opt for gentle, wood-specific cleaners or mild soapy water. Always test any new product in a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire piece.
Excessive sunlight can cause wood furniture to fade and lose its color over time. To prevent this, position your furniture away from direct sunlight or use curtains, blinds, or UV-protective films on windows to filter the sunlight. Additionally, applying a protective coating, such as a clear varnish or a furniture wax with UV inhibitors, can help minimize sun damage.
Minor scratches on wood furniture can often be repaired. Begin by cleaning the scratched area with a soft cloth and a mild cleaner. For superficial scratches, you can try using a scratch repair kit or a specialized wood touch-up marker that matches the furniture’s color. Deeper scratches may require filling with wood putty, followed by sanding and refinishing to match the surrounding area.
While not always necessary, applying a protective coating to new wooden furniture can help prolong its lifespan and enhance its appearance. The type of coating depends on the desired look and level of protection. Options include polyurethane, varnish, shellac, lacquer, or furniture wax. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional advice for the best results.
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Michael C Vang is a passionate blogger. He has been blogging since 2013 on a variety of topics. He is committed to creating informative and engaging content that helps readers learn more about everything.
