Wooden Furniture Care
Protect Your Investment
The beauty of furniture care is that it helps to protect your investment. Fine furniture is an
important purchase. Proper care will help maintain your furniture’s finish and ensure that it
looks great year after year.
Caring For Furniture
Caring for furniture is easy. Following a few simple guidelines will help extend the life of your
furniture.
*Always dust with a polish moistened cloth. Polish cushions the cloth, eliminating the
scratching that occurs with dry dusting. Dust will scratch the furniture surface if not removed
quickly. Use a soft, clean cloth that won’t scratch the surface. Avoid coarse or scratchy
materials or fabrics.
*Avoid using soap and water on furniture. Water can penetrate the finish and raise the grain on
wood, causing damage.
The Enemies of Furniture
Many common problems in furniture care are caused by the elements. If you are aware of
these troublemakers, the resulting damage can easily be avoided.
*Sunlight’s ultraviolet rays can damage wood finishes. Arrange furniture out of direct sunlight,
use sun screening drapes during intense sunlight hour, rotate furniture in place and in room
arrangements.
*Liquid spills will damage furniture if not removed promptly. Use coasters under beverage
glasses saucers under cups and flowerpots. If a spill occurs, immediately blot it gently without
rubbing the surface.
*Heat creates a chemical change in the furniture finish. Which can result in a white spot. Use
protective pads under hot dishes, utensils or cooking appliances.
*Cyclic changes in temperature can damage furniture. I-lot blasts of air such as those found
from central heating should be avoided because they cause extreme localized drying of the
wood.
Tips for Better Dusting
*Be sure in use the sauce type of polish consistently. Your furniture will appear cloudy or
streaky if oil-based and wax-based polishes are interchanged.
*Always use a fine furniture polish when dusting. Never dry dust, as it could cause microscopic
scratches on your furniture surface. Remember to change dusting clothes frequently since a
dirty cloth may scratch your furniture’s surface.
*Spray your furniture surface evenly, but not too generously. Wipe in a circular motion with a
soft, clean cloth to clean and loosen the old polish.
