Caring for your furniture

All wood contains water within its structure and any changes within the moisture content will affect its density, volume, shape and behaviour in your home.
Wood will naturally absorb moisture if available so taking a few careful steps to avoid excessive absorption will help avoid any problems of this type.
However...changes in household temperature (*changes in room temperature) which vary widely from average levels, will cause the furniture to absorb, or even lose, water – resulting in changes in structure and shape. In very extreme cases, this results in door or drawer jamming and cracks appearing in surfaces.

In order to avoid extremes in wood temperature and moisture contents, a few simple guidelines should be observed:-

Allow adequate room ventilation to create air movement and stabilise humidity and temperature levels.
Avoid keeping furniture where extreme fluctuation in temperature may occur – such as in direct sunlight or close to radiators or sources of heat.
Direct sunlight can also create fluctuations in surface colour – so, if displaying items on top of furniture, then it is a good idea to rotate them at regular intervals to avoid ‘patches’ appearing.
Direct, localised heat sources from hot plates and cups should be avoided at all times. Use protective covering or mats to avoid placing the object directly on the wood surface.
Clear any spillage as quickly as possible. *Remember – wood naturally absorbs moisture so avoid exposing it if you can.
Regularly maintain wax and oil finishes on furniture to protect the wood from moisture absorption.
Avoid slamming drawers and doors as this can cause damage and the splitting of wood.
Avoid dragging furniture when moving it. Lift at all times, from the furniture’s strongest point. Avoid lifting from the ‘top’ of furniture. Use supporting rails or structure where possible.

Lacquered finishes

Maintenance is straight forward with the furniture requiring no more than regular cleaning with a good quality furniture polish.

Wax finishes

In general, wax finishes require a little more attention than lacquered finishes, but usually no more than occasional re-waxing with specialist waxes available from your DIY shop. This is a simple task that can be undertaken with no specialist skill and we will be more than happy to advise on the best wax to match your furniture and how to apply it.

Oil finishes

In order to maintain the finish of your oiled furniture, we recommend regular treatments with Danish Oil. Repeat every six months to areas of heavy usage such as table tops, or tops of chests...areas that will benefit as the result of frequent applications.

Oiling could not be easier. Simply apply a thin coat and leave for about 5-10 minutes for the oil to penetrate before removing all excess. Leave for a further 30 minutes and wipe dry. *Always pay careful attention to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Remember: never use chemicals, abrasive materials or cleaners on your wooden furniture as these may damage, permanently, the wooden surface.

For more information on the care of your wooden furniture please contact Customer Services.