Please be advised, when purchasing furniture it is best to ask for specific care and cleaning instructions direct from the manufacturer.
Wood furniture is transcendent amongst all design styles, making appearances in farmhouse, industrial, Scandinavian or contemporary design. A well made piece of wood furniture can last for generations, but food stains, superficial scratches and water marks and build up from polishes and generic cleaners can diminish the appearance. If your furniture is in need of a little TLC keep reading for our best care and cleaning tips!
Dusting
Regular dusting is a great way to keep your house looking pristine and free from allergens, but did you know that layers of dust built up over time can actually scratch the surface and dull the finish? If a piece has been neglected for quite some time and is dustier than you might like to admit, use a very lightly dampened clean microfiber cloth to wipe off the dust film before drying with a clean, dry terry towel and then dusting as usual. Make sure to invest in the right dusting tools and not ones that will just spread dust around or scatter it into the air.
Feather Dusters
A feather duster’s soft and fluffy shape make it a great tool for trapping and removing dust from delicate surfaces such as antiques, silk lampshades, ornate mirrors or picture frames, fine art and other collectible items. Unlike Swiffer dusters, feather dusters can also be shaken off outside to remove the trapped dust.
Wool Dusters
Wool dusters contain lanolin, a waxy substance found naturally in lamb’s wool that creates static electricity when rubbed against your furniture, effectively attracting dust and removing it from the surface. Wool dusters are great for ornate furniture pieces with turned legs or carved arms, and you might also find them useful for dusting hard to reach pieces like light fixtures, ceiling fans or the tops of bookshelves. Like feather dusters, wool dusters can be shaken off or even cleaned by hand and reused.
Microfiber Dusters
Microfiber dusters are said to be one of the most effective for trapping and removing dust and bacteria, making it highly recommended for allergy sufferers. Microfiber cloth acts like a magnet, will not scratch delicate surfaces, and can be washed in between uses.
Cleaning
Cleaning wood furniture can be a disaster if you’re using the wrong products. Some store-bought cleaners contain chemicals like bleach that can strip the finish. When cleaning, you’ll want to start with the most mild solution of warm water and dish-washing liquid, testing first on a discreet area, and then work your way up to something stronger only if needed. When using the soap and water method be sure not to saturate the wood; wring your cloth or sponge out so that it is barely damp before wiping the surface, rinsing often. This simple solution can provide really dramatic results, but you may also use mineral spirits and a clean cloth to remove any leftover grime. If your furniture still looks a bit grimy after the soap and water mixture and mineral spirits it may need professional refinishing.
Preventative Care
The key to beautiful, long lasting wood furniture is the steadfast effort of simple preventative care practices.
- Always use a coaster or hot pad
- Keep furniture away from direct sunlight or heat from furnaces or fire places
- Dust often and clean when necessary
- Rub sticky drawer slides lightly with a white candle
- Treat minor nicks and scratches with furniture polish
- Prevent foul odors in older pieces with a shallow pan of charcoal inside the drawers or a light sprinkle of baking soda over the surface.
