Chances are you have at least one piece of wood furniture, if not more. They’re often a valuable and essential component of any household, as they not only add a touch of charm and character to a room but also enhances its functionality. However, wooden furniture piece often require more care to maintain its beauty and longevity than furniture of other materials. Regular cleaning of wood furniture not only keeps it looking its best but also prevents damage from moisture, dirt, and dust. Cleaning can also enhance the natural beauty of wood furniture, but it can also prevent expensive repairs or replacements down the line. So let’s dive into the learning about best techniques for cleaning and maintaining your wood furniture.
Prevent Busting By Dusting
Dusting is an important step in cleaning wood furniture as it removes the dirt and dust particles that can scratch and damage the surface. Dust accumulates on furniture from various sources, like open windows, pets, or everyday use. So, it’s a good general practice to dust regularly to prevent scratches and damage to the wood surface.
For dusting, you can simply use a soft microfiber cloth or a feather duster to gently wipe the surface of the furniture. It’s best to remove any loose debris or dust with a soft-bristled brush before you dusting. When you actually begin dusting, then use the cloth or duster to dust the furniture in the direction of the grain.
Be sure to dust every nook and corner of the furniture, including the legs and underside.
A Trick for Treating Scratches
Scratches on wood furniture can be unsightly, but a little bit of treating and care, you can vanquish that eyesore for sure. Now, for minor scratches, you’ll want to apply a small amount of furniture polish onto a soft cloth and rub it into the scratch. The polish is going to help fill in the scratch and make it less noticeable. For deeper scratches, use a wood filler that matches the color of the furniture. Apply that filler to the scratch, and then sand it gently with a fine-grit sandpaper until the surface is smooth. Just be careful not to sand too much, as this may damage the wood even further. After you’re done sanding, make sure to wipe the area down with a damp cloth to remove any dust and debris. Then go over the area with some furniture polish.
Abolish the Blah with Some Polish
Polishing adds shine and protects the surface of the wood furniture. Choose a high-quality furniture polish that is designed for the type of wood furniture you have. Avoid using silicone-based polishes, as they can attract dust and leave a sticky residue. Apply the polish to a soft cloth and rub it into the surface in a circular motion. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label for the best results. Don’t use too much polish, as excessive use can leave a waxy buildup that attracts dust and dirt. After polishing, use a clean, dry cloth to remove any excess polish and buff the surface to a shine.
Slay the Stain
Wood furniture can get stained from spills or other mishaps, and it’s essential to remove the stain as soon as possible to prevent it from penetrating deeper into the wood. For removing stains, start by mixing a solution of warm water and mild soap. Dip a soft cloth into the solution and wring it out. Gently rub the stained area in a circular motion until the stain lifts. Be careful not to use too much water, as excessive moisture can damage the wood. Rinse the cloth and repeat the process until the stain is completely gone. Once done, wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. If the stain is still visible, you can try using a wood stain remover or sanding the affected area.
Mitigate Moisture Damage
Moisture damage is one of the most common problems that wood furniture can encounter, particularly in humid or damp environments. Excessive moisture can cause wood to swell, warp, or even rot, leading to irreparable damage to your furniture. Preventing moisture damage is crucial to keeping your wood furniture looking its best, and there are several ways to do this.
It’s rather essential to keep your wood furniture away from sources of moisture. Avoid placing furniture near windows, doors, or air conditioning units where it’s likely to be exposed to excessive humidity or water. If you live in a particularly humid environment, consider investing in a dehumidifier to keep the air dry and prevent moisture from accumulating in your furniture.
Also, you want to be sure to clean up spills and stains immediately to prevent them from seeping into the wood. Use a soft cloth to blot up any excess liquid and then gently clean the affected area with a wood cleaner or mild soap and water. Be sure to dry the area thoroughly with a clean cloth to prevent any moisture from penetrating the wood.
