5 Tips for Caring for Your Wood Furniture

There’s good reason why wood furniture is an appealing choice among homeowners. Besides being a timeless design staple, the durability of wood enables you to pass down cherished pieces as heirlooms. Regular upkeep will ensure your wood furniture lasts for years to come, so learn these tips for maintaining and cleaning it the right way!

1. Prevent Sun and Water Damage

Avoid placing your wood furniture under constant and direct exposure to the sun. Prolonged exposure to sunlight and heat will degrade furniture finishes and form surface spots, which may be difficult to reverse. Likewise, do not use excessive water to clean your wood furniture regardless of its finish, as it may cause permanent stains.

2. Use Your Furniture With Care

Be gentle with your wood furniture, especially when placing items on surfaces. Use coasters under mugs to prevent water stains on tabletops. Tablecloths and placemats are also necessary so that hot objects do not come in direct contact with the wood. Heat can cause unwanted swelling that affect the shape of your furniture.

3. Dust Your Furniture Regularly

Wipe dust and grime off your wood furniture with a soft terry cloth, to minimise dulling of the surfaces. Dusting sprays should be used with caution depending on the wood finish, as certain ingredients such as silicone or oil could form a film that attracts more dust instead. Make sure you add dusting spray to your cloth, rather than spraying it directly on the furniture.

4. Adopt Correct Cleaning Techniques

Familiarise yourself with the types of finishes used for your wood furniture in order to clean the pieces properly. As a rule, water should never be allowed to sit on wood. Use a warm and mild soap solution or opt for commercial products formulated for the right finish, and work with the grain when cleaning with a soft cloth. Always remember to dry thoroughly afterward.

5. Polish to Protect and Revive Shine

Regular polishing can maintain your wood furniture’s resistance to water and restore shine. Similarly, knowing the type of furniture finish will determine the polishing method and products you need. If applying wax, use a cheesecloth and let the wax sit on the wooden surface for a few minutes before buffing it in with a clean cloth.

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Source: mynicehome.gov.sg