TIPS FOR KEEPING WOOD FURNITURE CLEAN AND WELL PRESERVED

Basic Dusting, Cleaning, and Deep Cleaning

Although it seems to go without saying, simply dusting your wood furniture on a regular basis is important. The film of dust that develops over time can scratch the surface of the wood.

If your wood furniture is in need of more than just a dusting, use warm water and mild dish soap. Dampen a soft cloth or paper towel and rub gently until the wood comes clean. It is okay to use an old toothbrush for hard-to-get areas if used gently. Use a soft cloth to dry off any remaining moisture.

If mild soap and water aren’t quite doing the trick, this is a very effective mixture used by experts. Mix equal parts olive oil, gum turpentine, denatured alcohol and strained lemon juice. Apply the mixture with a soft cloth and buff out with a clean cloth.

Waxing and Polishing

Silicone oil is the main ingredient in most commercial spray and liquid furniture polishes. This does provide some protection, but you can easily use wax to create your own beautiful shine. The best way to protect a well-cleaned piece of wood furniture is to wax using good-quality soft paste wax. Follow label directions using a thin coat. Wait five minutes and then buff gently with a soft cloth or brush. Wait another 45 minutes and then buff and brush again, but with a bit more elbow grease. You'll see the return of a beautiful shine that will last for several months.

Monitor the Climate of Your Home

Another important factor in caring for your wood furniture is to keep it out of the sun and away from heat sources. Sun coming through the windows and heat coming out of vents, can fade and destroy fine finishes over time, drying out and shrinking the wood. Use a humidifier or dehumidifier to balance the humidity in your home. Wood swells in high humidity and shrinks in low humidity. This can warp the wood and can even cause breakage.

Protection Plan May Be Your Best Bet

If this all sounds like too much or you’re just not sure of the most appropriate cleaning method, try a service like Guardsman On-Site Care and Repair for wood furniture maintenance. Guardsman will be at your beck and call for stain removal, general cleaning, liquid marks, burn/heat marks, and protection. There are different plans available to suit your needs and their experienced technicians are very well trained and dedicated to caring for your wood furniture.

For more information from our qualified professionals, visit us online at Michael’s Fine Furniture or call (503) 674-0414.