Genuine wood furniture is pretty hard to come by these days. That’s why it’s so important to maintain it carefully. Whether your wood furniture is new or an antique, follow these tips to keep it looking fantastic.

1.      Control the elements

Wood furniture should never be kept too moist or too dry. Try not to place wood furniture directly in front of windows where it gets warm. It’s also not a good idea to place it directly over heat vents. Keep your home’s temperature consistent all year to maintain proper humidity levels.

2.      Dust frequently

Dusting is essential to keeping wood furniture looking great. It protects the surface from scratches. Choose a lamb’s wool duster for authentic wood furniture. These dusters naturally contain lanolin, which effectively attracts dust.

3.      Clean annually

No special cleaners are required. A little water and your usual dish soap do the trick. Use the water sparingly. It’s not necessary to soak the wood, which only harms it.

4.      Use paste wax

Apply a paste wax after cleaning. Follow the product’s instructions, and you’ll have furniture that shines like it’s brand new. Usually the wax is coated onto the finish, then allowed to sit for a short period of time. The finish is then buffed gently before a second, longer waiting time. Buff it again, and your furniture will give off a lovely, subtle glow.

5.      Get rid of rings

Despite best efforts, rings on wood furniture are almost inevitable. Don’t be afraid that there’s a lot of sanding and refinishing in your future. Most rings can be lifted away by using common household items. A paste made of toothpaste and baking soda or a mixture of vegetable oil and ashes can be applied to the spot. Rub gently with a soft cloth until the ring disappears. Others have success with a towel and an iron. Set the iron to medium heat. Place the towel over the spot and move the iron around on the towel for 15 seconds. Keep checking to see if the ring is disappearing.

6.      Troublesome odors

Sometimes wood furniture, particularly older pieces, seem to absorb peculiar odors. Fight this by sprinkling baking soda over the surface. If the smell comes from the interior, place a pan filled with charcoal briquettes inside the cabinet or drawer until the odor subsides.

Taking care of wood furniture isn’t particularly difficult. With a little time and care, any genuine wood furniture piece can become an heirloom.

Information credited to Jamco Wood Products Ltd., custom wood furniture Toronto.