How to look after your wood furniture. Hints and tips
We love wood, both untreated and treated and this is evident in our home and from the items we make. Wood has a natural beauty, and lasts for generations when cared for properly.
If you have wooden furniture or accessories in your home and want to know how to keep it looking good for a lifetime, we have some helpful advice for you.
Although wood is a natural product, and doesn't require much looking after, some care and attention is necessary and of course accidents do happen.
There are so many different types of wood, and they can be untreated or treated with stains or varnishes etc. These factors must be considered when caring for your wood, so we thought you might find these general tips for caring for your wood furniture and accessories useful in preserving your treasured items and ensuring they withstand normal daily use and are still treasured family heirlooms in years to come.
Day to Day Care
Sunlight, heat and other environmental factors can wreak havoc on fine wood furniture. It is best not to place valuable furniture in front of uncovered windows, or fireplaces, as the light and heat may damage and fade the wood.
Protect with Coasters and Trivets
Always use coasters when placing cups or glasses on wood, as this avoid rings and heat damage, and always use a trivet or place mat when placing hot food on the table.
Dust Frequently
Frequent dusting, yes I am afraid its a necessity to take care of your furniture. Airborne particles can build a filmy layer on wood that scratches the surface and dusting help keep this build up from happening.
Cleaning : Important Tips
To bring out the best in your furniture you occasionally have to clean your wood. Never use all-purpose cleaners as they can cause damage. For a soiled or sticky spot, dip a cloth in water that contains a mild dish detergent. Wring it out as much as possible and gently wipe the area and follow this with a rinse from a damp cloth containing just water and immediately wipe with a soft dry cloth.
Clean and Polish
To clean and polish wood at the same time, mix two parts white vinegar, one part olive oil, and about one tablespoon of lemon juice per cup of combined olive oil and vinegar. Rub the mixture into the wood going with the grain. Wipe over with a dry cloth.
Light Scratches
If you have a light scratch in your wood they can be filled and coloured over using a walnut or an almond. Break the walnut or almond in half and rub over the scratch several times. Then, rub with your finger until the area is warm, to help the wood absorb the oil from the nut.
Treating wood
Wood can be treated in various ways, such as oil, varnish, lacquer and it may even be painted. Treated wood needs regular maintenance, and will need a reapplication of the oil or varnish etc, and possibly a light sand. Always read the label carefully when reapplying.
Caring for your wood properly will ensure it can be treasured for generations.
We will provide more information of the various types of wood treatment in a future blog.
If you have any questions about your own furniture at home, please email and we will be happy to offer advice and tips
We are excited to hear about your loved furniture and are happy to help. A simple email could preserve and even enhance the value of your items for the future.