Advice on Keeping Your Heirloom-Quality Furnishings in Tip-Top Shape for Years to Come
Put simply, solid wood furniture is some of the best furniture you can buy. The material checks both boxes when it comes to durability and beauty.
If cared for properly, it can last for generations, becoming such a mainstay in your home that your space would feel incomplete without it.
Many of my own favorite pieces are crafted from solid wood – items I could never imagine parting with. Over the years, wood pieces take on so much character, and while they may not look as perfect as they did the day you bought them, they’re still just as stunning.
If you’re currently in the market for solid wood furniture for sale – or just want to know how to look after your current pieces a bit better – keep reading for my tried-and-true advice on wood furniture care.
Dust Your Solid Wood Furniture Often
Dusting isn’t the most enjoyable chore, but it is necessary to keep your solid wood furniture in its best condition. Airborne particles build up and form a filmy layer that can actually scratch the surface.
Use a soft microfiber cloth when dusting to avoid damaging the wood in any way. A lambswool duster is also great to have on hand if your furniture includes ornate carvings or has hard-to-reach spots, because it effectively attracts and holds onto dust.
Clean Your Solid Wood Furniture Regularly
Dusting isn’t always enough, though. You should regularly clean your solid wood furniture as well, using a cleaner specifically designed for wood and the wood finish you have. An all-purpose cleaner can ruin your piece’s finish.
If you come across any soiled or sticky spots, wet a cloth in water with a mild dish detergent, wringing it out before gently wiping the area of concern. Then follow up with a cloth that’s only been dampened with water to remove any soap residue, and immediately wipe it dry with a separate cloth.
Properly Protect Your Solid Wood Furniture
Every time you place something on solid wood furniture, you risk diminishing its overall quality. Of course, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t set anything down; you just have to be smart to protect your investment.
Always use coasters under glasses and mugs to avoid unsightly rings; heat and liquids can harm wood finishes. Tablecloths and placemats are great ways to add an extra barrier between your wood table and dinnertime spills. (Also, they’re must-haves for creating an elegant and inviting tablescape!) It’s these finishing details that help make your home a true reflection of your style. Kansas City furniture stores ultimately carry these home accessories for a reason!
Additionally, if you have lamps sitting on wooden end tables, it’s a good idea to place felt pads underneath for added protection.
Be Mindful of Where Your Solid Wood Furniture Is Located
Solid wood furniture is particularly sensitive to light and fluctuations in temperature. As a general rule of thumb, keep your pieces away from uncovered windows; too much exposure to sunlight can fade wood over time.
Because of wood’s porous nature, it’s subject to swelling in heat and retracting in colder months. This creates warping, which causes lasting damage to your most treasured pieces. If your home is susceptible to inconsistent humidity levels, you may consider investing in a humidifier and dehumidifier.
Tips and Tricks for Treating Wear and Tear
No matter how hard you try, it’s inevitable that your solid wood furniture will collect some signs of wear. Here are a few of the most effective ways I’ve found to combat stains, scratches, and other damages:
- If you find a small nick in your solid wood furniture, a touch-up pen in a similar shade can help mask the affected area. For deeper cuts, you may need something more substantial, like a wood filler or putty.
- For white rings left behind by drinking glasses, you can try using the heat of a blow dryer to lift the stain. If that doesn’t work, though, white toothpaste or a mixture of vinegar and olive oil may do the trick.
- Ink stains can be removed with a mixture of baking soda and water (or baking soda and dish soap for treated surfaces). Spread the paste on the stained wood, and wipe it away with a damp cloth. As with any stain, start with a small test spot in an inconspicuous area before tackling the entire thing.
For any kind of solid wood furniture damage, it’s best to get to it sooner rather than later. Moisture can travel deep into wood, and the more time you give it to work its way in, the harder it will be to remove.
While these tips work well in many cases, every wood and wood finish is different, so you should always seek out vendor advice first.
Shop Solid Wood Furniture for Sale That’s Actually Solid Wood
When you’re searching for wood furniture near you, it’s easy to assume that everything that looks like wood is wood. But not all wood furniture is created equally. Many pieces are made instead with a wood veneer that covers MDF or particle board. While these items are typically lower in price, they won’t necessarily have the longevity of solid wood furniture and can be more prone to damage, even with light usage. For true solid wood furniture, you need to shop at a trusted, established, and premium Kansas City furniture store.
Do you have any solid wood furniture care suggestions I didn’t cover? Let me know in the comments! Until next time – happy decorating!