Tips for maintaining oak

When properly cared for, oak furniture can last for generations. The maintenance of oak is never very time consuming, but some people may overlook the importance of it. Despite being very durable and hard wearing, the effort you exert to maintaining its appearance will certainly pay off in the long run. Like with other surfaces, any spillages on solid oak must be wiped up straight away - the best is to use a dry cloth to soak up the liquid and smooth over any remaining dampness - this will help prevent stains and watermarks.

Choosing where to locate your piece of oak furniture is another factor in ensuring its preservation. If you have just purchased a new oak coffee table or an oak table, make sure you place it out of direct sunlight and away from nearby radiators. This way you will help keep the joints sturdy - an over exposure to heat may cause them to wobble. If you cannot avoid a little sunlight try to cover it with a cloth to minimise the exposure.

Dusting is another obvious but important method of keeping your solid oak clean. Use a standard polish and a dry cloth, lightly spray the product onto the surface, and wipe away any dust. Harder stains can be removed with wood cleaner or oil that is compatible with finish of your furniture.

An obvious method of preserving your solid oak's appearance is to use mats and coasters under dishes and glasses to prevent them from touching the surface. You may occasionally need to oil or wax your oak, but always refer to any instruction you received with your purchase. It is probably best to wax your oak every couple of months - this will help protect against small nicks and bumps and will enhance its overall shine. For coloured solid oaks you can purchase furniture touch up kits. Each kit contains markers of different shades to restore colour of light, medium, and dark coloured wood.
So there are a number of ways you can keep your oak in its prime condition - and, if you consider the amount of use your solid oak furniture will provide you, it is worth your time and effort in caring for it.