Wood Furniture 101: The Key to a Long-Lasting Finish

Wood furniture brings timeless beauty and warmth to any room. At Home Furniture & More, we believe caring for your furniture should be simple, too. 

Here are some practical ways to clean, polish, and protect your wood furniture so it stays beautiful for years to come.

Before you begin, it is important to remember that all wood isn’t the same. Different finishes — such as oil, wax, lacquer, or polyurethane — respond differently to cleaners. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions first and test any cleaner on a hidden area to make sure it won’t damage the finish.

For more helpful tips, this guide from HGTV breaks down what you need to know about different wood types and finishes.

Simple Everyday Care

The easiest way to care for wood furniture is regular, gentle dusting. Use a soft, dry cloth or a slightly damp microfiber cloth if your furniture is finished. (Not sure if it’s finished? Sprinkle a little water on the surface. If it beads up, it’s finished. If it soaks in, it’s unfinished.)

Home Furniture & More Pro-Tip: Protect wood surfaces with placemats, coasters, and soft pads under decorations to avoid scratches and marks.

Polishing Tips

If you use store-bought polish, a little goes a long way. Over time, polish can cause a buildup that looks dull or streaky. For a homemade solution, mix one-part white vinegar with three parts olive oil for a simple, homemade solution.

Looking for even more ideas? Martha Stewart’s guide has several great tips for natural polishing.

Handling Stains and Scratches

Life happens, and when it does, here’s how to handle common marks and scratches:

• Water Rings- Wipe with mild soapy water (for finished wood) or use a salt paste for unfinished wood.

• Fingerprints- A damp cloth with gentle detergent will do the trick.

• Scratches- Use an old crayon that matches the wood’s color to fill small scratches, then buff gently.  The wax will fill the scratch! You can also purchase furniture markers to help disguise dings.

• Ink stains- Try a baking soda paste and a soft cloth to lift stubborn marks.
  
  

With a little care, your wood furniture will stand the test of time. If you’re ready to refresh your space, we’ve got you covered. Stop by Home Furniture & More at any of our four Florida locations in Bartow, Live Oak, Winter Haven, or Ocala to find the perfect new pieces for your home. From timeless wood dining sets to modern bedroom collections, we’re here to help you create your perfect space. Welcome home!