Solid wood furniture adds beauty to any room, and your dining room is no exception. There are many reasons to add a handmade solid wood dining table to your home. Not only are they strong and rugged enough to take on whatever your family throws at it, but they age gracefully and last for years to come. Visit our store to find the perfect table for your home. In order to keep your dining table in excellent condition and looking great, here are a few basic tips to care for it.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
If your dining table is placed near a window, keep your blinds or drapes drawn when you're not at home. This will limit the furniture's exposure to sunlight. Sunlight can fade wood over time which means your handmade solid wood dining table will begin to look less than great. There are UV resistant coatings that may protect your table, but they only slow down the fading effect rather than avoid it altogether. Another thing to consider is the heat from the sunlight. It can have a drying effect on the wood which will cause cracking over time.
Use Coasters!
When entertaining, break out the coasters or anything you can use to create a buffer between anything that is wet, hot or cold and your table. Temperatures and moisture aren't the only things that are hard on wood. Sliding glass or other surfaces around and placing warm containers down directly on the table can cause minor damage to the table. Always be sure to use a protective layer between the table and the surface whether it's mats, coaster, or oven mitts.Go the extra mile to protect your handmade solid wood dining table.
Dry After Wiping
Your table will need to be cleaned as your family uses it. Don't be afraid of wiping the surface of the table with a damp towel. It is a very effective way of removing dirt, dust, and stuck on food that can accumulate. Be sure to use a soft, dry cloth afterward and follow along the grain to avoid streaks. Be sure there are no remnants of water left on the table to prevent damage. If dust is the only material collecting on the table, forgo the use of water and simply use the dry, soft cloth.
Avoid Aerosol Polishers
Using an aerosol polish may sound like an easy way to care for your table. Unfortunately, silicone-based furniture polish can seriously attack the varnish on your table. Plus, these polishes can start to build upon the surface of the table. That's not to say you can't use polish, but you should use one sparingly and make sure it is the right one for your handmade solid wood dining table.
Time for a New Table?
Caring for your table is the best way to protect your table from excessive wear and make it last. A handmade solid wood dining table is an investment that can last a lifetime, if properly cared for. If it’s time to upgrade your dining table, check out our online catalogue, or bring us your original design ideas for a quote!