Updated 1/31/2025
If you want to spruce up your home, wooden furniture like a wooden bed frame or a wooden dining table can make a world of difference. Solid wood furniture is a great way to add a touch of character and personality to your space. But remember, proper care is key to keep these solid wood pieces looking beautiful for years to come.
To ensure your investment in wooden furniture stays as stunning as the day you bought it, you can follow these five essential tips:
- Clean up spills immediately
- Choose the Right Cleaners
- Avoid Placing Rubber or Plastic on Wood Furniture
- Limit Direct Sunlight Exposure
- Check and Retighten Hardware Periodically
- Keep Furniture from Sliding on Solid Floors
- Avoid Placing Hot Items Directly on the Surface
- Prevent and Eliminate Odors from Wood Furniture
1. Clean Up Spills Immediately
Whether it's your favorite wooden side table or the party-favorite dining table, it's important to protect their beauty and longevity. Never let spills sit for too long on solid wood surfaces, as they have the potential to leave behind stubborn stains and unsightly discoloration that can harm the furniture's appearance.
Similarly, make sure to use coasters under all drinks to retain your furniture’s natural beauty. By quickly dealing with spills, you can keep your favorite wooden pieces in top-notch condition.
2. Choose the Right Cleaners
When cleaning wooden furniture, it's important to be mindful and avoid any potential damage to the finish. Steer clear of cleaners that contain harmful chemicals such as ammonia, abrasives, silicones, or acetone.
These chemicals can take away from the beauty of the finish, compromising the overall appearance and aesthetic appeal of your wooden chairs, solid wood desk, or other furniture. For proper cleaning, start with a soft, damp cloth. If needed, you can use gentle, non-abrasive cleaners made for wooden furniture. This way, your wooden pieces continue to serve as staples in your home.
3. Avoid Placing Rubber or Plastic on Wood Furniture
Rubber or plastic materials, which are often found on the bottom of items like lamps or clocks, can sometimes react poorly with lacquer finishes. This chemical interaction has the potential to affect the appearance of your furniture.
To keep your wooden console table, nightstand, and other wood tabletops in the best condition, swap out the feet for felt. By doing so, you create a protective barrier that minimizes the risk of any harm or scratches to your stunning wooden furniture pieces.
4. Limit Direct Sunlight Exposure
Your gorgeous wooden bench or comfy wooden bed frame may seem like the ideal spot to bask in the sun, but remember to watch out for the possible effects of sunlight exposure on your furniture. Long periods of intense sun exposure can slowly fade your wooden furniture's color, so it's important to take proactive steps to protect and maintain its vibrancy.
Move your wooden furniture to a spot with limited direct sunlight or add curtains to your furniture's finish stays as rich and vibrant as the day you bought it.
5. Check and Retighten Hardware Periodically
Over time, due to regular use and environmental factors, the hardware that secures your wooden chair or solid wood dining room table may gradually loosen. It is recommended to inspect these pieces every so often and, when necessary, retighten them to maintain their stability.
However, remember to be cautious and not over-tighten things, as too much force can cause damage. By staying on top of these maintenance tasks, you can keep your wooden furniture pieces extra sturdy and in great shape.
6. Keep Furniture from Sliding on Solid Floors
Solid wood furniture is designed to be sturdy, but it’s important to protect both your furniture and your floors. Sliding furniture on hard surfaces like wood or tile can cause scratches on your floor and wear on your furniture’s legs. To prevent this, add felt pads or furniture glides to the bottom of each piece. Not only do they protect against damage, but they also make it easier to adjust the placement of your furniture without causing unnecessary strain or noise.
7. Avoid Placing Hot Items Directly on the Surface
Wooden furniture is as durable as it is beautiful, but hot items like mugs, pots, or serving dishes can leave permanent heat marks on the surface. Protect your investment by always using coasters, trivets, or heat-resistant mats under hot items. This simple step ensures your wooden tables and countertops stay smooth and free of damage, preserving their timeless appeal for years to come.
8. Prevent and Eliminate Odors from Wood Furniture
Solid wood furniture adds warmth and character to any space, but it’s important to keep it fresh and odor-free. For a natural refresh, wipe the wood with a mixture of white vinegar and water, or place a bowl of activated charcoal or coffee grounds inside enclosed areas to absorb stubborn smells. These simple household tricks work wonders without the need for harsh chemicals.
To prevent odors from developing, ensure your furniture stays in a well-ventilated space and avoid storing damp or strongly scented items inside. Add natural fresheners like lavender sachets or cedar blocks to keep things smelling clean and inviting. With regular care and a little attention to detail, your furniture will stay as beautiful—and fresh—as the day it became part of your home.
Discover Solid Wood Furniture by Plank+Beam
At the end of the day, the best way to care for your wooden furniture is by appreciating its natural beauty and understanding its unique characteristics. If you're looking for wood furniture that can withstand years of use and serve as a staple in your home, Plank+Beam offers the perfect options for you.
With options ranging from solid wood dining tables to wooden dining chairs to solid wood dressers and other bedroom furniture, Plank+Beam is sure to add warmth, texture, and beauty to any room in your home for years to come. With the right care, Plank+Beam's timelessly designed furniture will last a lifetime as the perfect staple in your home.
Shop Plank+Beam's wide array of solid wood furniture today and get free shipping when you spend $200 or more.
