A few months ago, I moved a client’s antique sideboard from her basement to a game room that we’re designing. The sideboard (which is gorgeous) had a crack about 1/8 inch wide. Within a few weeks of being in the game room, the crack virtually disappeared.

I know it can be difficult, especially in Vermont, but keeping furniture at a fairly consistent temperature and humidity level will protect the wood.

I know it can be difficult, especially in Vermont, but try keeping your home at a fairly consistent temperature and humidity level. It will help protect your
wood furniture.

Here are some additional thoughts on caring for your wood furniture:

Direct sunlight causes drying, fading and creates hairline cracks.

When moving furniture lift it whenever possible. Pushing furniture across a floor weakens joints and can cause damage.  Since I frequently rearrange rooms by myself, those furniture moving pads are quite handy.

Rearranging accessories and lamps on table tops helps prevent color distortions and fading.  Another reason to keep wood out of direct sunlight.

Wood develops a rich patina over time and purchasing a matching piece a few years later (in the same finish from the same manufacturer) does not guarantee it will match.  Fortunately, a new piece will ‘catch-up’ after a period of time.

Water is wood’s nemesis so be careful to keep plants elevated and use saucers (or cork coasters) underneath them.

Use coasters underneath glasses and mugs to prevent rings and water spots. My mother loved using footed glasses and mugs.  First, for their elegance and second, because she didn’t have to worry about coasters.   Make sure your coasters have a cork or felt backing to prevent scratching.  There are several manufacturers who use a special ‘sealer’ that protects the finish from everyday spills and accidents but even they recommend (in the fine print) to use coasters.

Of course, you want to keep paint thinners, nail polish removers, colognes, perfumes and other items with an alcohol base away from wood. They can dissolve wood finishes and cause staining.

I prefer not to use tablecloths on my dining table so I have a custom glass protector. We use our table for a variety of reasons and glass is more practical for us than a felt dining table pad.  But either of them will keep your table protected.

Never leave vinyl or plastic placemats (or tablecloths) in one place for long periods. They can cause stains and have been known to destroy the finish.

Please don’t put valuable pieces or antiques near heaters, humidifiers or fireplaces.

Did you know that dust is abrasive? Be sure to dust frequently. I use a cloth dampened with water for my weekly dusting and I use an ostrich feather duster for in-between dusting when necessary.

Wood needs to be nourished and fed to look its best so use a good polish on occasion.  I polish with Howard’s Feed & Wax.  For a quick pick-me-up I use Orange Oil. Be careful not to put down anything immediately after waxing or using wood oil; it could stain. When polishing, put the product on the cloth and then rub the wood. Do not put the product directly on the wood. Rub in a circular motion moving with the grain when possible.

Since we have a busy household we get nicks and scratches on our wood. When that happens, I use furniture cover sticks. They’re sold at hardware stores and even some grocery stores. If a piece really needs some TLC, I recommend Restor-A-Finish. It’s an amazing product and it’s an antique dealer’s best kept secret.

If you purchase good-quality wood furnishings and take care of them, your children (and possibly grandchildren) will thank you.

Cheers,

Ruxana

 Credits: Barbara Jennings, Cheerful Caregiver, Specialist Guide to Chinese Furniture, Networx, Joamos