Beautiful, well-made pieces of furniture can really make a home. And furniture that is crafted form durable hardwoods that are built to last, like this single wooden ottoman bed, can be with you for a lifetime or even longer if they’re cared for properly.
We’ve put together some helpful tips and suggestions to help you care for your favourite pieces of wood furniture, so it will be with you and your loved ones for many, many years to come.
Regular Dusting
- Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the surface.
- For intricate carvings, use a soft-bristle brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment.
- Avoid feather dusters, as they can spread dust around.
Cleaning Wood Furniture
- Mild Soap Solution: Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water. Dampen (not soak) a cloth, wipe gently, then dry immediately with another cloth.
- Vinegar Solution (for disinfecting): Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, lightly dampen a cloth, wipe, and dry. (Avoid excessive moisture.)
- Avoid harsh chemicals like ammonia, bleach, or abrasive cleaners—they can strip the finish.
Removing Stains & Sticky Spots
- Water Stains: Blot with a dry cloth, then apply a small amount of toothpaste (non-gel) or mayonnaise, rub gently, and wipe clean.
- Heat Marks: Gently rub with a paste of baking soda and water, then wipe clean.
- Sticky Residue: Use a little olive oil or rubbing alcohol on a cloth, rub gently, then wipe dry.
Polishing & Protecting
- Natural Oils: For unfinished wood, use linseed oil or tung oil to nourish the wood.
- Beeswax or Furniture Wax: Provides a protective layer for finished wood.
- Commercial Polish: Use sparingly (2-4 times a year) to avoid buildup.
Preventing Damage
- Use coasters, placemats, and trivets to protect from heat, spills, and scratches.
- Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and drying.
- Maintain humidity levels (40-45%) to prevent warping or cracking.
If you follow these steps, your wood furniture will stay beautiful and hopefully last for generations!
