Category: Modern Furniture, News
Bespoke wooden furniture is a tremendous investment as its strength, durability and timeless aesthetic appeal mean it can last for generations. But this longevity depends on how well it is cared for, and it’s important to know how to look after your wooden items to ensure they stay in great condition for many years to come.
Follow these top tips for looking after your bespoke wooden furniture, and there’ll be no reason why it shouldn’t bring joy and practicality to, not only you and your family, but future generations as well.
1. Position furniture carefully
Where you place your furniture within your home matters. Wood doesn’t cope well with moisture or excessive heat and light, so avoid placing your bespoke pieces right next to a radiator, for example, or in direct sunlight. Too much heat can cause wooden furniture to expand and even crack, while excessive light can cause bleaching.
Fluctuating temperatures should also be avoided where possible, so avoid keeping your furniture in parts of the house where this is accentuated, such as an attic, or where moisture could build up, like a basement.
2. Protect your bespoke wooden furniture
Prevent accidents by being careful how you use your treasured wooden furniture. Bespoke pieces are treated with a more gentle finish than mass-produced items, which brings out the natural beauty of the wood but makes them more susceptible to damage.
Use coasters and place mats under mugs and dishes, and consider using a tablecloth over a dining table. Never let children climb on furniture, and take care when moving it around, too.
3. Keep it dust-free
Keeping your furniture clean and free from dust build-up will help preserve its condition and last longer while looking beautiful. But it’s important to do this the right way and not just treat your bespoke pieces in the same way you would any other.
Use a slightly dampened microfibre cloth to dust wooden furniture once a week, working in the direction of the grain and following it up with a dry microfibre cloth, so moisture doesn’t sit on the surface for longer than necessary.
When it comes to cleaning, less is more with custom pieces. Avoid using chemical cleaning sprays as these are often harsh and can cause damage.
4. Polish it every year
To keep wood in perfect condition, polish it annually to both revive the shine and beauty of the wood, and help protect it too. Ask a professional for advice on the best wax to use, and test it on a subtle section first.
Apply it in a small amount using a microfibre cloth, and polish lightly in the direction of the grain. Follow instructions carefully, and be sure not to leave the wax on the surface of the wood for any longer than needed before polishing it off.
5. Call a professional for repairs
High-quality wooden furniture is very strong and highly durable, but sometimes damage or breakage does occur. In these instances, don’t attempt to make repairs yourself. Instead, ask your furniture maker for advice. Entrusting an expert joiner to make repairs and carry out maintenance will go a long way to ensuring that your bespoke wooden furniture lasts the test of time.
For maintenance advice or to bring your dream furniture alive, contact Tucker Joinery today.