How to Care for Wood Furniture
Never Use Wax Polishes - Regular use of wax polishes may result in the build-up of the wax film on the surface of the furniture. This build-up may then pick up dirt, smoke, and other pollutants in the air. This film may then start to smudge and streak. Used long enough, this may cause the finish to soften, requiring expensive refinishing work.
Never Use Silicone Polishes - Silicone oil is an ingredient used by many furniture polish makers to impart a high degree of shine. However, by doing this, it also raises the sheen of the furniture beyond that intended by the manufacturer. Also, should it become necessary to refinish a piece of furniture, silicone makes it very difficult process - even for a professional refinisher.
Never Use Petroleum Distillate Polishes - The main problem with petroleum distillate (solvent type) polishes is that they are often flammable, and toxic if swallowed. Also, they are seldom removed from the furniture.
Polishing - It is recommended that polishing be done once a month depending on the amount of use your furniture receives. Furniture does not need to be polished as often as most polish makers would like you to think. Over polishing is the main cause of damaged finishes. Use a soft, lint-free, absorbent cloth and work the grain of the wood.
Dusting - It is recommended to dust as often as needed. Feather dusters scatter the dust particles into the air only to have them resettle back on your furniture. Use a Fine Furniture Dusting Cloth that is specially treated to attract and lock dust into the cloth fibers. It can be washed repeatedly and still retain its effectiveness. It is more efficient and convenient than spray dusting products.
Tips to Rejuvenate Chipped Wood Furniture
Wood furniture gets nicked up from time to time but there is an easy solution. Rejuvenate Wood Furniture & Floor Repair Markers work great on these little nicks and chips. These great little tools make scratches disappear in any color wood. They come in six (6) colors: Maple, Oak, Cherry, Walnut, Mahogany, Espresso and they can be purchased at any hardware store.
Be sure you have thoroughly cleaned you furniture and removed any debris before applying. Then, test the colors to find the best match. Once the color is tested and matched with the correct marker, simply apply it. Next, carefully remove excess pigment with a cloth. Give it some time to dry before touching it. You can apply multiple coats to achieve the perfect look of your furniture.