Care of Wood Dining Tables

A wooden dining room table is usually a major furniture investment, and it adds warmth to any home. To care for your table, keep in mind that like all products made from wood, it is subject to environmental conditions. It expands and contracts with changes in the humidity and is easily damaged by water or sun exposure. Although scratches and water damage can usually be fixed, properly protecting your dining room furniture will prevent expensive repairs. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Close draperies during the day or move the table so it doesn't sit in direct, bright sunlight because sunlight can fade or bleach the wood. Cover the table with a tablecloth to protect it from sunlight, water spills or scratches.

2

Place glasses on coasters, place mats or tablecloths, and place a cloth underneath vases. Even if water in vases and glasses doesn't spill, it can condense, forming moisture on the table's surface and potentially damaging the table.

3

Dust the table at least weekly to remove dirt and debris that can build up and dull the table's finish. Apply a paste wax or furniture oil to moisturize the table. Avoid silicone polishes, which tend to dull the finish over time. Dust the legs or base of the table, as well as the top.

4

Wipe up any spills immediately with a dry, soft cloth. Spilled water or alcohol can cause white spots or ruin the finish. If white spots remain, dampen a clean cloth with ammonia and wipe it lightly across the surface. Follow with a cloth dampened slightly with clean water.

5

Use votives or containers when burning candles to protect the table from melted wax. If wax gets on the table, place several ice cubes in a plastic bag. Hold the bag on the wax to harden it. Gently scrape the wax off with a plastic spatula, taking care not to scratch the table.

6

Keep the dining room table away from heating vents or radiators and try to avoid extreme temperature or humidity changes. Run a humidifier if the air is dry; low humidity can cause the wood to crack.