Wooden furniture has a timeless, rustic charm. Any wooden object instantly creates a feeling of warmth, turning the house into a cozy home. The natural, earthy texture and shade create an inviting living atmosphere.
Wooden furniture is a classic that never goes out of style. Whether it is a wooden coffee table that will become the main decoration or a bookshelf where it will be comfortable to read, wooden furniture always evokes a feeling of nostalgia and timelessness.
But it is also important to ensure that the beauty of the tree remains intact. It requires careful care and maintenance to ensure the longevity of wooden furniture.
In an interview with HT, Wootique CEO Dhruv Parekh shared some tips on how to care for wooden furniture. He also provided expert advice for each maintenance proposal to ensure optimal care.
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1. Dust regularly
Dusting is one of the most effective ways to care for wooden furniture. Dust particles can scratch the surface and tarnish the coating over time. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or feather duster to gently clean the surface.
Pro tip: Always wipe in the direction of the grain of the wood to avoid micro-scratches and keep the surface smooth.
2. Watch the humidity
Wood is a natural material that absorbs moisture from its environment, making it prone to swelling, warping or staining. To avoid this, always clean the furniture with a damp, not wet, cloth and dry it immediately.
Pro tip: Use cup and plate coasters or mats to protect your furniture from water rings and heat marks.
3. Protect with stands and overlays
Simple measures such as using coasters, coasters and felt pads can prevent everyday damage caused by hot cups, glasses and decorative objects. This not only protects the surface, but also helps preserve the natural finish of the wood.
Pro tip: Attach felt pads to the bottom of furniture legs to prevent scratches on both the furniture and the floor
4. Treat stains with home remedies
Spills and stains are bound to happen, but they don’t have to be permanent. Here’s how to deal with common characters:
● Water stains: Make a paste of baking soda and water, then gently rub it into the stain in the direction of the grain. Wipe off the residue and polish the surface.
● Greasy or sticky stains: Mix equal parts vinegar and olive oil. Wet the cloth with the solution and clean the area in a circular motion, then wipe dry.
Pro tip: Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous spot to make sure it won’t damage the finish.
5. Give it a professional polish
While regular cleaning is key, a professional polish every 2-3 years can bring furniture back to its shine and remove deeper scratches. Polishing also adds a protective layer, making the wood more resistant to damage.
Pro tip: Schedule professional help to fix structural issues like loose joints or wobble while you’re at it.
The longevity of wooden furniture is increased when proper care is provided, as Dhruv mentioned in the recommendations on protecting it from moisture and heat and how to remove traces of stains. Wooden furniture can even become a generational heirloom that will last for years if properly cared for.
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