How to Properly Care for Your Hardwood Furniture

Hardwood furniture is a classic and timeless addition to any home, but it requires proper care to keep it looking its best. If you’re a proud owner of hardwood furniture, you may be wondering how to properly care for your hardwood furniture. In this guide, we’ll explore the key elements of properly caring for your hardwood furniture, so you can enjoy its beauty for years to come.

Cleaning

Cleaning your wood furniture pieces is essential for their proper care. Here are some tips to keep it looking its best. 

Dusting 

Regular dusting is important to prevent scratches and keep your furniture looking clean. Once a week, use a microfiber cloth or a feather duster to remove dust and debris from your furniture.

Spills and Stains

If a spill occurs on your wooden furniture, clean it up immediately to prevent staining. Avoid using water or harsh chemicals on the wood, as they can cause damage. Instead, use a damp cloth and a mild soap solution. For stubborn stains, try using a mixture of equal parts vinegar, baking soda, and water. Apply the solution to a cloth and gently rub the stain. If this doesn’t work, you can also try mild dish detergent mixed with water to carefully treat the stain. 

Polishing

Use a wood-specific polish or oil to maintain the wood’s natural shine and protect it from moisture. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and apply the furniture polish in a circular motion with a dry cloth. To properly care for solid wood furniture, it is a good idea to polish it around every six weeks. 

Deep Cleaning 

For deep cleaning, you can use a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar. Apply the solution to a cloth and gently rub the surface of the furniture. Be sure to rinse the furniture with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.

Professional Cleaning 

If your hardwood furniture is particularly dirty or has been damaged, consider having it professionally cleaned. A professional can use specialized tools and techniques to clean and restore your furniture to its original condition.

Avoid Water Damage

Water damage is a major problem for hardwood furniture. It can cause warping and cracking to the piece of wood. You will want to keep your furniture away from sources of water like sinks, bathtubs, and even windows. When setting water cups on your furniture, use coasters or tablecloths to avoid water rings. If a spill occurs, clean it up immediately to prevent staining. A soft, dry cloth will do the trick. 

You will also want to protect your piece of furniture from humidity. Hardwood can expand and contract based on the humidity levels in your home. To prevent warping or cracking of the wood, keep the humidity levels in your home between 40-60%. 

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Sunlight can also be damaging to your hardwood furniture. It causes fading and discoloration over time. Place your hardwood furniture away from windows and other sources of direct sunlight. You can also close curtains or blinds during the day to prevent exposure.

Another thing you can do to avoid direct sunlight on your furniture is to rotate it regularly. This helps distribute the effects of sunlight and prevent uneven fading and discoloration. 

However, if your furniture is exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period, it might be time to consider covering it with a sheet or cloth to protect it from the sun’s rays. Remember, sunlight causes irreversible damage to wood, so it’s important to take preventative measures to protect your furniture.

Protection from Scratches 

Scratches can be unsightly and can reduce the beauty and value of your hardwood furniture.

First, place coasters under glasses and plates to prevent scratches from condensation and spills. Use tablecloths or placemats to protect the surface of your furniture from scratches.

Next, avoid dragging objects across the surface of your hardwood furniture, as this can cause scratches. Pick up objects and move them carefully to avoid damaging the wood.

Additionally, you will want to place protective pads on the furniture legs. This will help the wood surface of your floor to be protected from moving furniture across it. 

Professional Cleaning and Maintenance

Professional cleaning and maintenance can help keep your hardwood furniture looking its best and prolong its lifespan. To ensure your hardwood furniture stays looking great, have it professionally cleaned every few years to remove dirt, grime, and other buildup that can accumulate over time.

Make sure that you choose a reputable and experienced professional who specializes in cleaning and maintaining hardwood furniture. They will have the knowledge and equipment needed to properly care for your furniture.

Over time, the finish on your hardwood furniture may become dull or damaged. Consider having the furniture refinished by a professional to restore its shine and protect it from moisture.

Properly caring for your hardwood furniture is important to maintain its beauty and longevity. This includes regular cleaning, polishing, protecting from scratches, avoiding water damage and sunlight, and having it professionally cleaned and maintained. By following these steps, you can ensure that your hardwood furniture continues to look its best for many years to come. Remember, hardwood furniture is a valuable investment, and taking the time to properly care for it will pay off in the long run.