There’s something that feels timeless about oak. It’s a hardwood that has exquisite beauty. You will immediately notice it if you see a door or a piece of furniture carved from it. That is why so many master crafters have used it for eye-catching pieces over the years.
You can often find some exquisite pieces of oak furniture in the UK if you shop around for them. If you buy one, though, you also want to be sure not to damage or ruin it. You can learn how to take care of a piece of genuine oak furniture. We will discuss that in detail now.
Utilize a Protective Layer
The first thing you will want to do to take care of your oak furniture is to put a protective layer of wax or polish on it. You can grab some at a hardware store like Home Depot or Lowes, or you might also order some from an online retailer like Amazon.
This layer of wax or polish will not just protect the wood, but it will repel any moisture that otherwise could damage it as time passes. This is one of the most fundamental things you can do to preserve the beauty of an oak piece that serves as the centerpiece of a dining room or living room set.
You can also consider using a harder wax oil blend. This has the properties of varnish, but of oil as well. Some oak furniture owners swear by it.
Avoid Any Harsh Chemicals
You should also make sure not to use any harsh chemical solvents on the oak. There are many furniture cleaners that are loaded down with abrasive elements. These are fine for pressboard pieces, but not solid oak.
Clean It Regularly
It’s vital that you clean any genuine oak piece regularly. That means no less than a couple of times per month at a minimum.
A soft cloth that you dampen slightly should do the trick. Wipe down the wood’s surface, making sure to get any inlays or other crannies. If there is scrollwork or any other details, make sure you get it with the cloth as well.
There are also hand-held vacuums with soft brush attachments that you can use to run over the wood’s surface. This will remove any lingering dust from the hard-to-reach spaces.
Make Sure to Use Coasters
Ensure that guests do not put their drinks directly on the wood. It’s not impossible to get those rings out, but it’s difficult and potentially costly.
Instead, place coasters in places where people can’t help but see them. You might even issue a few words of warning to guests who come over for parties. You don’t want the preservation of your oak furniture pieces to become an obsession, but there is nothing wrong with caring for what you have and letting people know that this is a prized possession.
These tips, provided that you follow them, will ensure that you enjoy your oak furniture for years to come.
