How to Care For Rustic Wood Furniture
Whether you’ve purchased reclaimed wood furniture for your home or are looking to get a new piece of rustic wood decor for your home, caring for reclaimed wood furniture is essential. Here are some tips to care for rustic wood furniture. These steps include routine maintenance, regular cleaning, and avoiding scratches and nicks. Continue reading for more details. And remember, the more you care for your rustic wood furniture, the longer it will look great.
Cleaning reclaimed wood furniture
To prevent scratches, stains, and water damage, you need to keep reclaimed wood furniture clean. A lint-free cloth will do wonders for the surface, but you may want to use a brush to remove any small crumbs or dust. You can also use a solution of vinegar and water to clean unfinished pieces. For treated wood, Murphy Oil Soap’s Original Wood Cleaner is the ideal choice.
Reclaimed wood can be cleaned using a pressure washer, but be careful to not over-wash it, as it can damage the natural characteristics of the wood. Always make sure that the wood is completely dry before pressure washing it. If the wood has been wet, it can harbor pests and mold. If you don’t clean reclaimed wood thoroughly, you may create a breeding ground for insects and fungi.
Protecting reclaimed wood furniture from scratches and nicks
Regular dusting and wiping of your reclaimed wood furniture are essential to protect it from stains and scratches. Use a lint-free microfiber cloth to wipe the surface and ensure the fibers are consistently turned inwards. If you have a habit of using furniture polish, use lint-free polish instead, since this will cause buildup and attract dust. If you’re prone to crumbs, use a small paintbrush to remove crumbs from your furniture.
If you’re concerned about the nicks and scratches that may affect your reclaimed wood furniture, use protective coverings to protect it. Use a non-plastic covering instead of plastic, as plastic can cause the wood to swell. Also, place your reclaimed wood furniture in a room where humidity and heat are stable and can’t affect the finish. In addition to protective coverings, consider raising your wooden furniture on blocks or planks, since these methods will ensure the wood won’t get damaged by water.
Routine maintenance of reclaimed wood furniture
Routine maintenance of reclaimed wood furniture is important to protect its original finish. Avoid using paste or liquid waxes as they tend to stain wood. Instead, opt for Renaissance Microcrystalline wax, which is colorless and sits on the surface of wood, protecting it from darkening and changing color. Use a soft cloth to apply Danish oil to the reclaimed wood furniture, as it will require six coats. Overbrushing is okay, but keep in mind that it will accentuate the wood grain.
If you’re not sure how to care for reclaimed wood furniture, start by removing all dust and debris from the surface. If possible, avoid placing the furniture near heating and cooling vents. Exposure to UV light causes the wood to discolor, and frequent temperature and humidity changes may cause cracks and other problems. To protect your reclaimed wood table from heat and moisture, use coasters and trivets when needed. If you live in an area that is prone to excessive humidity, you may need to purchase a dehumidifier or humidifier.
