Furniture Care 101: How to Protect Your Wood Furniture

When you invest in high-quality wood furniture, you're not just buying a piece of furniture—you're bringing home a work of art.

Real wood furniture can add a touch of elegance to your home decor that simply cannot be achieved with artificial "wood-look" alternatives. Plus, when properly cared for, real wood can last for many generations without fading, warping, or otherwise losing its charm.

At Domaine Furnishings, we understand that your furniture plays a vital role in creating a sophisticated, well-designed space.

To help you keep your wood pieces looking their best for years to come, we're sharing expert tips on protecting your investment. Here, we cover everything from preventing scratches to maintaining that flawless finish so your furniture stays as stunning as the day you brought it home.

Know What You're Working With

First, understand that not all wood is created equal. Different types of wood have different characteristics and, thus, different care requirements. Hardwoods, for example, tend to be denser and less prone to scratches or other surface damage. Some examples of hardwoods commonly used in furniture include maple and oak.

Meanwhile, softer woods (including pine) may be more porous and thus prone to staining, scratching, warping, and other damage. These woods may require more care, protection, and general maintenance to keep them looking their best.

In order to create a maintenance plan for your wood furniture, it's a good idea to know exactly what type of wood you're working with from the beginning.

Dust Surfaces Regularly

 

One of the best things you can do to protect your wood furniture from unwanted scratches and other damage is to simply dust it regularly. Dusting removes small particles from the surface of your furniture that can dull its appearance and even cause surface scratches over time. When dusting your wood furniture, always use a soft, dry cloth. Microfiber is an excellent choice because it's soft and won't leave any unwanted lint behind.

Avoid Too Much Moisture

 

Moisture is the enemy of wood and can cause it to gradually warp over time. With this in mind, it's critical to dry off wood immediately with a soft cloth if it becomes wet during cleaning or during everyday use. This includes being proactive about cleaning up any accidental spills and using coasters when setting drinks down, as condensation from drink glasses can leave unsightly rings on your wood furniture otherwise.

Go With the Grain

When cleaning wood furniture, get into the habit of wiping your microfiber cloth in the same direction as the natural grain of the wood. Not only will this help to more effectively clean the surface, but moving in the direction of the grain will also minimize the risk of surface scratches or other damage.

Avoid Direct Heat

Over time, exposure to heat can cause wood to dry out and crack. With this in mind, it's ideal to keep wood furniture away from any direct sources of heat (such as radiators and heating vents). Even prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause wood to fade and crack over time, so it's a good idea to keep window treatments closed during times of heavy sun. Another option is to rotate or change up the positioning of furniture pieces to distribute sun exposure (and potential fading) more evenly.

Nourish Wood Surfaces

An occasional polishing can go a long way toward keeping your wood furniture looking its best and protecting against damage. Once a year, use a high-quality furniture polish that's specifically formulated for use on your furniture's wood type. The right furniture polish or wax can also add moisture to wood, which may prevent it from drying out and cracking over time.

When applying furniture polish, always follow the instructions printed on the bottle. Keep in mind that furniture polish is formulated for different types of woods, including hard and softer varieties—so you may need to shop around to find the product that's right for your needs.

Say "No" to Harsh Chemical Cleaners

 

Speaking of products, taking care of your wood furniture also means staying away from cleaners that contain harsh chemicals. Unfortunately, these chemicals can strip the natural oils and protective surface off of your wood furniture, exposing it to more potential damage over time. 

Selecting eco-friendly cleaning products that are specifically formulated for use on wood will not only protect your furniture but the environment as well. Be especially careful to avoid any cleaning products that contain ammonia, bleach, or anything abrasive—as these can be especially damaging to natural wood. 

A Few More Tips for Treating Wood

Treating wood living room furniture, bedroom furniture, or even dining chairs can be a great way to further protect them from the elements while maintaining the natural lustre of the wood itself. 

Generally, wood can be treated as needed (once every few years, in most cases)—but be sure to keep the following tips in mind:

• Prepare the wood with a thorough dusting and cleaning.
• Choose the right wax, polish, or oil that is specifically formulated for your furniture's wood type.
• Apply wood treatment following the posted instructions and allow it to dry completely. Depending on the ingredients in the product, you may need to treat the wood outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.

Questions? We're Happy to Help!

By following these simple yet effective care tips, you can preserve the beauty and integrity of your wood furniture for years to come.

At Domaine, we believe that well-maintained furniture is the cornerstone of a timeless, elegant interior. Whether you’re protecting a family heirloom or a new statement piece, the right care can enhance the longevity and charm of your furniture. Remember, your investment deserves the best, and with a little attention, your wood furniture will continue to elevate your space and reflect your impeccable taste for generations.

If you still have questions about properly caring for your wood furniture or simply need help identifying the type of wood that you're working with, our interior design team is here to help.

Get in touch with us today, and we'll do our best to assist you! And if you're looking for a selection of beautiful wood furniture from the industry's favourite brands, be sure to browse our inventory for yourself.