Ten Tips for Caring for the Wood in Your Home
One: The most economical and environmentally safe way to clean your wood is by simply damp mopping it or wiping it down with a slightly damp cloth (water being the liquid) and then immediately drying it. This can be done on a regular basis for upkeep and works wonders in keeping the wood looking new. Dust that accumulates too long can be hard to get rid of and is not good for the wood so it is important to be consistent with your dusting and this method is both practical and effective.
Two: Furniture polishes can be used occasionally to add a nice shine. If you have any future plans of refinishing the wood, however, make sure you find a polish that does not contain silicone. Those that have it will affect the wood in such a way that refinishing it will not be a possibility, not even if you remove the existing wood via stripping.
Three: Using an oil-based cleaner such as Murphy’s oil can be done on occasion. Know, however, that the ingredients in this type of cleaner may not be good to breath. Read the instructions carefully and be sure to use with proper ventilation. While these cleaners leave the item they are being used on clean and with a pleasant fragrance, they also tend to smudge and show finger or footprints. Also make sure to check the directions to see if the type of oil-based cleaner you are using is flammable, and if so, take necessary safety precautions.
Four: A water-based cleaner specifically designated for wood surfaces can be used and in fact, is a superior method of wood cleaning if there is built up dust in corners, grooves or designs. Just be sure to test the cleaner first in a small spot to ensure it will not damage the wood you are using it on. Follow the manufacturer’s directions when using.
Five: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially when dealing with wood. Keep wood items out of direct sunlight to prevent fading, never place wet or damp items on anything that is made of wood, take care when placing heavy items on it, and take care not to place heated or very cold items on it, which can penetrate the surface and leave permanent damage.
Six: Some wood items may require periodic waxing. If so, make sure you are using a waterproof wax and that you use only the minimum amount needed for the job. Less is better definitely applies when talking about wax. If you are waxing your walls, opt for the soft wax and if you are using it on floors, opt for a hard wax.
Seven: You can use a vacuum cleaner or dry dust mop on floors for regular maintenance. This is especially true for areas that are vast in space, such as floors and paneling.
Eight: You can have a professional person to come in and service your wood if necessary but with continued maintenance and care, this will only be necessary in extreme cases. If damage is beyond preventative measures and you do consider hiring out, be sure to hire a reputable source with good references and guaranteed work.
Nine: If you find it necessary to strip an item and redo it, be sure to research the type of wood you are stripping and staining to know which products are best fit for your particular item(s). Ask questions from professional sources and be sure to read manufacturer’s directions entirely and strictly adhere to what is written. Also be sure not to skip any steps that are required during the process.
Ten: A last tidbit, and one that should be common sense but is often overlooked, is to put measures in place that will help prevent accidents, scratches, dings, etc. to your wood. Put coasters on wood surfaces people use for drinks, put runners or rugs in high traffic areas such as hallways, place felt covers on the bottoms of heavy furniture or furniture that will be rolling across the wood, remove shoes that may damage floors prior to walking on them, and put an area rug down in entry ways and exits.
With proper care and consideration your wood, from floors to furniture and everything in between, is sure to provide you with years of durability, style and function.
