Hardwood furniture has something to it that adds that extra oomph and sophistication to the way your home looks and feels. Hardwood furniture has been the topmost priority and the favorite choice for homeowners and interior designers. Whether it has something to do with the uniqueness of hardwood furniture and how it stands out from common plastic and metal furniture, or the traditional, classic look and feel it brings to your space, hardwood furniture has always been the love of furniture enthusiasts. However, the stature they bring to your space comes at a price; they need significantly more maintenance to keep them in their best state. Below are five ways to keep your hardwood furniture clean.
1. Prevent Environmental Damage
The first step toward keeping your hardwood furniture clean and maintained is to ensure it is prevented from environmental damage. Avoid placing these items somewhere where direct sunlight or heat could reach them. If they are placed near a fireplace or a window, make sure they can be moved away or covered properly.
2. Dust, Dust, Dust
Dusting your furniture regularly is not much of an enjoyable chore, eh? But this is the best thing you can do for your hardwood furniture to keep it clean and well-maintained. Dust and other airborne debris build up a thin coating on the wooden surface, leaving scratches and marks. Dusting frequently helps to keep this buildup to a minimum. When dusting, it’s better to use a soft cloth such as a cotton shirt, a microfiber towel, etc. to prevent damage to the surface of the wooden furniture.
3. Don’t Use Harsh Products
Sometimes, dusting alone can’t do the job, so you might be tempted to use some quick, all-purpose cleaner. However, these harsh products can damage the finish of your hardwood furniture. If your furniture has some stubborn, sticky spots, use the mixture of a mild dishwasher detergent and water. Dip a soft, cotton cloth in this mixture and wring it properly before gently cleaning the spots on the surface. Next, rinse it with a damp cloth dipped in clean water. Follow it up with wiping and drying the spots with a dry, cotton cloth.
4. Don’t Overuse Sprays and Polishes
Most commercial sprays and polishes for hardwood furniture contain either petroleum distillates or silicone oil to create a shiny and fresh finish. Both of these compounds also serve to protect the wood. When using these products on hardwood furniture, make sure you don’t use too much of them as they can cause excess build-up. Dust and filth will cause the surface to become coated in a sticky film. To prevent buildup, always buff after using these products. Avoid using wax-protective polishes and sprays on furniture because they merely leave a sticky film behind.
5. Re-Oil Dry Hardwood
Hardwood furniture can get too dry when stored away for a long time. To keep it maintained and clean, you might need to re-oil it. Start by cleaning the wooden surface with an effective cleaner. Next prepare the surface using 0000 steel wool or non-woven abrasive pads. After that, apply a generous amount of furniture oil and give the wood 20-25 minutes to absorb it. If you intend to coat the wood with a protective coating, allow the oil to sit for 24 hours before doing so.
Conclusion:
While hardwood furniture adds a lot of grandeur to your house, it does need regular maintenance and the right kind of care. Maintaining the good looks of your wooden furniture is simple with the appropriate cleaning techniques and supplies. Your furniture will survive longer in addition to looking cleaner and maintained, adding elegance and warmth to your house for years to come.