Old wooden furniture might not be your immediate thought for adding character and personality to your home, but it is truly an underappreciated piece that can do wonders for any room.
Over time, though it can be vulnerable to dust, dirt, and grime, which can affect the look and value of the furniture.
Cleaning the wood and keeping on top of it will not only make the furniture look great but also help the furniture last longer. You can avoid scratches or damage that could affect the furniture or even devalue it.
Through proper cleaning, you can restore the natural glow of the wood while also protecting it from wear and tear.
Why it's important to keep this furniture clean
Cleaning old wood furniture is not just about appearance, it’s about making sure that the furniture also keeps its integrity.
Dust, dirt, and other grimy particles can be as rough as sandpaper, which will slowly wear down the surface over time. The truth is that failure to clean wood furniture can also lead to damage such as stains and, in the worst cases, mould.
Remembering to take care of it will make sure that your furniture remains in good condition for many years.
The benefits of cleaning
Prevent damage
Cleaning regularly can prevent scratches and damage that reduce the value of the furniture.
Reveal wood grain
Removing dust and dirt will show the fine texture of the wood grain.
Restore shine
Always get the original shine and moisture in the wood by using cleaning techniques that have been recommended by professionals.
That way, the wood will always look vibrant and inviting.
The best way to clean old wood furniture
To safely clean old wood furniture, follow these simple steps that use gentle and effective methods.
Strong chemicals will strip the finish of the wood and cause permanent damage, so keep in mind what you are using and make sure it’s not affecting the finish.
Dusting
Dust and dirt can be tricky. Use microfiber cloths that are slightly damp to wipe down your furniture then dry with a lint-free cloth to stop streaking or water damage.
On untreated wood, use a dry microfiber cloth to avoid exposure to water.
Spot cleaning
Use a gentle bristle brush to sweep out dust and stains from fragile details. Blot spills as soon as possible with a soft, dry cloth to prevent water marks or damage.
General cleaning
Mix a mild solution of dish soap and warm water, and then soak a soft cloth in the solution to properly clean the furniture.
Do not saturate the wood, as excessive water will warp or stain the material.
Polishing
Apply a wood polish to restore the furniture's natural look, and apply the polish with a soft cloth. Make sure that when you clean, you do so in the direction of the wood grain so that it doesn't affect the look
Final thoughts
Keeping old wood furniture intact is simple - it may seem like a challenge, but as long as you stay aware of proper cleaning techniques and keep on top of the maintenance, you can keep it looking beautiful for longer.
Look after your old wooden furniture, and it will be a classic piece in your home for generations to come.
Want to find out something more information about old wooden furniture? Take a look at our blog on how to identify the types of wood in antique furniture
