Wood Furniture Care

Wood Furniture Care Tips

Got that new entertainment center, bedroom furniture or dining set you have been waiting and saving up for? Delivery guys left you with a great new look, then sped away...So how do you keep it in good shape and looking good? Here is a basic guide to get the most out of your new wood furniture investment.

A note about different finishes

Environmental laws that went into effect 10 years or so ago severely limited manufacturers from using certain chemicals and "shellacs" that were in use. As a result the substitutes that are used now react differently to polishes, waxes and other cleaners. As a result, be careful using cleaners not specifically meant to be used on wood. Non wood cleaners that used to not harm finishes can now strip the newer finishes or damage them. Stick to products meant for wood for cleaning and overall care.

Spray waxes and polishes.

Use a general dusting type product for day to day dusting. Using a wax or polish every time can lead to a buildup and eventually dull the overall finish. Once a month or so use a good liquid wood polish to bring out the shine.

Different Sheens of finish

Some finishes are meant to be more of a satin finish, and others re a high gloss type. Test out your polish or wax on a hidden area to make sure it does leave a film or look funny after application.

Drawers and glides

Drawers use different types of sliding mechanisms. Some Dressers use wood on wood glides and others use metal ball bearings or plastic wheels on rails. If you have wood on wood and you want the glides to not stick or move more smoothly, try getting a piece of wax paper and rub it on the wood rails that touch each other.