There are many furniture care products on the market today. It is confusing to know which product is best for your fine furniture. Should you use furniture polish, wax or oil? The type of product actually depends on what you are trying to accomplish.
These furniture care tips can help you chose wisely:
Remove Dust and Dirt From Furniture:
- Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down furniture to remove dirt or food making sure to dry the furniture thoroughly
- Dust furniture with a spray polish or oil and then buff.
Make Furniture Shine:
- Use spray polishes, waxes or oils to add a sheen and a layer of protection. (Note: Oils will also add shine, but may attract dust easier)
- Use a soft cloth and always rub in the direction of the wood grain.
Cover or Remove Furniture Scratches:
- Start with light colored scratch cover and then go darker. Stain markers work well on edges but are very difficult to use on flat surfaces. You don’t want to use a dark scratch cover on a light piece of furniture.
- Use extra fine steel wool moistened with furniture polish to gently remove scuff marks left behind by a vacuum cleaner. Don’t rub too hard or too long or your could damage the finish.
Add Moisture and Protect Furniture:
- Solid wood and wood veneer come from living plants. As soon as the wood is harvested, it begins to dry out. It is important to replenish the moisture.
- Use oil and wax products to put moisture back into your furniture. The wax will add a longer lasting protection and only needs to be applied about every 6 months.
When using any furniture care product, always follow the furniture and product manufacturer’s instructions for care.
If you have an antique piece of furniture that needs some TLC, you may find that cleaning and waxing will restore the piece to its natural beauty. If your antique requires more extensive work, consider having it refinished professionally.
Using these furniture care tips will help minimize damage caused by daily use. Additionally, be sure to blot up spills immediately and keep harsh chemicals, such as nail polish remover, away.
Are you in need of professional refinishing service for that family heirloom? Contact Salpeck’s Furniture Service for a quote at 919-449-7902
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