Oak furniture is a classic and timeless choice for any home and is known for its durability and natural beauty. However, in order to maintain the look and longevity of your oak furniture, it is essential to take proper care of it. In this blog, we will discuss the various steps you can take to ensure that your oak furniture remains beautiful and functional for many years to come.
Regular cleaning
The first step in caring for your oak living room furniture is regular cleaning. Dust and debris can accumulate on the surface of the wood, which can cause scratches and discolouration over time. To clean oak furniture, gently wipe down the surface with a soft and slightly damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the wood. Instead, opt for mild soaps or furniture polish specifically designed for use on wood. You can also use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust and debris from the crevices and grooves of the wood.
Exposure to the elements
In addition to regular cleaning, it is also vital to protect oak furniture from exposure to sunlight, heat, and moisture. Sunlight can cause the wood to fade and discolour over time, while heat and moisture can cause the wood to warp or crack. To protect your oak furniture from these elements, place it in a room with limited exposure to direct sunlight, use curtains or blinds to filter it, and keep it away from heat sources, such as radiators or fireplaces. Additionally, use a humidifier or dehumidifier to keep the humidity levels in the room at a consistent level. These will prevent the wood from expanding or contracting due to changes in humidity, which can cause warping or cracking.
Maintaining the finish
Another important aspect of caring for oak furniture is maintaining the finish on the wood. Depending on the type of oak furniture you have, it may have a natural finish or a stained or varnished finish. If the furniture has a natural finish, it is crucial to occasionally oil or wax the wood to keep it moisturised and protected. This will help enhance the wood’s natural beauty and provide a protective barrier against scratches and stains. If the furniture has a stained or varnished finish, it is important to reapply the finish as needed to keep it in good condition. This will help protect the wood from scratches and stains and keep the colour and finish of the wood looking fresh and new.
Handling
Another important factor to consider when caring for oak furniture is how you handle and move it especially larger pieces such as sideboards, hifi units or bookcases. Oak is a heavy and sturdy wood, but it can still be damaged if not handled properly. When moving or rearranging oak furniture, always lift it from the bottom or the legs to avoid straining the joints. Additionally, use furniture sliders or pads to protect the wood from scratches or dings when moving it across the floor. This will help to prevent damage to the wood and make it easier to move the furniture around.
Placement
Finally, it is important to be mindful of the placement of your oak furniture. Oak is a heavy and sturdy wood, but it can still be damaged by impact. Avoid placing furniture in high-traffic areas where it may be bumped or knocked, and make sure to set it on a level and stable surface to prevent it from tipping over. Also, keep in mind to avoid placing furniture near windows or doors where it may be exposed to direct sunlight or drafts.
In conclusion, caring for oak furniture requires regular cleaning and maintenance, protection from exposure to sunlight, heat, and moisture, proper maintenance of the finish on the wood, and adequate handling and moving of the furniture.
After all if in doubt, speak to one of our experts at Only Oak Furniture or have a read of our many top tips in our blog section or one of our great articles on how to design a modern living room.
With 0% interest-free finance and FREE UK Delivery to 90% of postcodes, we are confident of finding the next piece of metal, glass, wood or oak furniture for your home!
