Wooden Furniture Care

Maintaining product appearance and ensuring longevity requires care and appropriate maintenance, so we have put together a straightforward guide and general instructions in how best to do this.

When it comes to wood, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s an organic material and therefore furniture crafted from it will have its own individual look and life. From the unique knots and texture directions to the colour and volume, these elements will affect the appearance and how it changes over time. However, these natural adjustments don’t mean that it should be left to sit without proper care, as maintenance will aid in its longevity and condition.

 

Cleaning & Care

Cleaning products can be detrimental to the look of your furniture if the formula is unsuitable or too harsh. Usually, they strip the protective layer from the wood’s surface and dull the appearance. Instead, a clean, dry, cotton cloth will do the trick. A damp cloth with a little water is also acceptable, but make sure to dry the surface off afterwards.

Specific care must be considered for a number of surfaces.

Materials that the manufacturer has treated with natural oil will have to be treated with the same oil type. For example, if a whitewash oil has been used, opt for this when considering future care. Treat both sides of a wooden surface to maintain the clean lines and shape.

For wood with wax treatment, the use of a furniture spray wax at least twice a year should suffice. Consider more frequent treatments if the item is subject to daily use.

If ever in doubt, refer back to the manufacturer’s instructions on the appropriate treatment.

Humidity

Wood furniture is dried down to a low wood humidity, which generally equates to 40% air humidity at 20˚. This simply means that wooden furniture (solid woods in particular) should be housed in spaces with 40-60% humidity. This will help prevent the material from absorbing too much moisture. Wood expands and contracts with moisture and fluctuating temperatures, which can cause cracks and other cosmetic maladies.

Tip: Invest in a hygrometer to keep an eye on humidity percentage.

General Maintenance Points

• Wood needs to breathe, so don’t cover it with plastic or oilcloth for long periods – or any airtight material.
• Painted surfaces will crack at the joints if the humidity fluctuates too frequently.
• Wood will change colour over time with light and humidity. That is a natural part of its lifespan. However, the colour change will accelerate if the furniture sits in direct light for long periods. It’s also wise to keep in mind that items sitting on wooden surfaces at length might lead to colour differences in the overall process.
• Avoid placing cups and hot items on top of the furniture, as these are likely to leave marks.

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