Proper maintenance extends the life of your furniture and preserves the quality of restoration work. These guidelines help protect your investment for generations.
Wood continues to respond to its environment long after it becomes furniture. Temperature and humidity fluctuations cause expansion and contraction, which can stress joints and finishes. Maintaining stable conditions is the foundation of furniture care.
Ideal conditions for wood furniture include temperatures between 65-75°F and relative humidity between 40-55%. Extreme variations should be avoided, particularly rapid changes that don't allow the wood time to adjust gradually.
Use a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust regularly. Microfiber cloths work well for this purpose. Dust in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratching the finish. Avoid feather dusters, which can scratch delicate surfaces.
Address spills immediately by blotting with a soft, absorbent cloth. Never let liquid sit on wood surfaces. For sticky residues, use a slightly dampened cloth followed immediately by a dry cloth. Avoid rubbing, which can damage the finish.
Use coasters, placemats, and trivets to protect surfaces from heat, moisture, and scratches. Felt pads under decorative objects prevent finish wear. Avoid placing furniture near heat sources like radiators or heating vents.
Direct sunlight fades wood and damages finishes over time. Position furniture away from windows or use curtains and UV-filtering window film. Rotate decorative objects periodically to ensure even aging of exposed surfaces.
Wood furniture requires different care as seasons change and indoor conditions shift. Winter heating and summer air conditioning both affect humidity levels, which in turn affect wood.
The appropriate cleaning method depends on the type of finish applied during restoration. Different finishes require different care approaches.
Oil-finished furniture benefits from periodic reapplication of the same oil used in restoration. Clean with a barely damp cloth, dry immediately, and apply a thin coat of oil once or twice yearly, buffing to a soft sheen.
Waxed surfaces should be cleaned with a soft cloth only. Reapply paste wax annually, working in thin layers and buffing to a lustrous finish. Avoid silicone-based products, which can interfere with future restoration work.
These hard finishes require minimal maintenance. Clean with a slightly damp cloth and dry immediately. Avoid commercial furniture polishes, which can build up and dull the finish over time.
Shellac is sensitive to alcohol and water. Clean only with a dry or barely damp cloth. Never use alcohol-based cleaners. Shellac can be refreshed by a professional when it becomes dull or damaged.
Improper handling causes more damage to furniture than years of use. Always lift furniture rather than dragging it. Support pieces from their strongest points, typically the base or frame rather than arms, legs, or decorative elements.
When moving furniture, remove drawers, shelves, and loose components first. This reduces weight and prevents internal damage. For pieces with doors, secure them closed or remove them entirely for the move.
Upholstered furniture requires regular attention to maintain appearance and prevent premature wear. Vacuum upholstery weekly using a soft brush attachment to remove dust and prevent it from settling into fibers.
Some issues require professional attention to prevent further damage. Contact a restoration specialist if you notice any of the following:
Furniture that receives consistent, appropriate care can last for centuries. The key is developing habits that protect your pieces without requiring excessive time or effort.
Document your furniture with photographs and written descriptions, including any known history and details of restoration work performed. This information becomes increasingly valuable over time and helps future caretakers understand how to maintain the pieces properly.
If you have questions about caring for specific pieces or notice any concerns, we are available for consultation. Early intervention often prevents minor issues from becoming major restoration projects.
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