Unlike other tables, wooden tables have unique cleaning guidelines. There are some considerations to keep in mind, like avoiding the application of cleansers or detergents. Doing so could damage the nice warm stain.
Also, hard brushes and other sharp cleaning tools are not recommended since they risk scratching the smooth surface. So how do you go about cleaning a wooden table? Here is a simple and effective guide to assist you.
Choose the right cleaning aids
The strong chemicals could damage the exterior polish of the wooden table. So, be sure to carefully read the labels as there are cleansers that are created specifically for wooden tables or are safe for wooden furniture.
Selecting the right cleaning agent will not merely clean, but will also disinfect, without waxing or coating. A soft towel and plain water might also work well in some situations to clean a wooden table. You can also use natural cleaning supplies, such as vinegar or dish soap to clean the table and get rid of tough stains and marks.
Related Post: Tips and Guidance on How to Disinfect Wood
Ways to clean and maintain a wooden table
Cleaning a well-preserved wooden table is easier if you have all the right cleaning materials. It begins with choosing the right cleaning aids before proceeding to the actual cleaning.
Things you will need
- Warm water
- White vinegar or dish soap
- #000 grit steel wool
- Charcoal
- Baking soda
- Cotton fabric
- Wax (optional)
- Wood varnish (optional)
1. Removing dirt and grime
Here’s a simple walkthrough for you.
- Add one or two tablespoons of white vinegar or a small amount of dish soap to a big bowl of warm water.
- Thoroughly combine the two to agitate the dish soap or vinegar and water.
- Spray the soapy water or vinegar mixture on the towel to moisten it.
- Use the cloth to clean the table.
- Find the area or edges with grit and dirt where people typically sit and dine at tables.
- To get rid of these marks, make a strong circular motion.
- Rinse the fabric in freshwater.
- Repeat the procedure until all of the dirt has been eliminated.
- If you want to, you can add waxes or wood finish.
Related Post: 7 Methods that Work to Remove Heat Marks from Wood
2. Applying waxes and finishes
Wax provides a more durable finish and protection to wood than polishes or sprays. Thus, it is a good idea to utilize wax designed for use on wooden furniture. Wax finishes can last up to two years, although they might last less if you use the table regularly.
For the application:
- Put a tablespoon of wax on pure cotton cloth.
- When it’s already soft, wrap it around the wax and knead it.
- Rub the wax in a circular motion, one small area at a time, until the entire table’s surface is coated.
- Wipe off extra wax if the surface becomes dull.
- Then, use a clean, soft cotton cloth to wipe away excess.
- Repeat waxing and wiping until the entire piece is waxed.
- If you notice a streak, wipe the excess wax away. Polish the wood using a soft cloth or lambs-wool pad attached to an electric drill or power buffer.
- For a deep shine, apply a second coat of wax similarly.
3. Deep Cleaning
There is a need for deep cleaning if the wooden table has layers of deep dirt. It means that the table has been used for years without a maintenance routine. To clean this wooden furniture, use water, soap, and oil.
To start:
- Remove the ingrained dirt and grime using a sponge.
- After the removal, rinse it thoroughly and lightly clean it with a #0000 steel wool.
- Place the table outside to eliminate unpleasant odors, but do not expose it directly to the sun.
4. Dusting
To prevent airborne particles from collecting on the surface of your hardwood table, dust it frequently. Use a feather duster or a dry, soft cloth to clear the dust. To avoid spreading dust particles into the air, dampen the cloth. Dust and dirt can be picked up and held using a soft, non-scratching cloth.
Other Tips For Protecting a Wooden Table
You may also consider the following tips to protect your wooden table.
1. Keep away from the radiator.
When deciding where to put the wooden table, it is crucial to consider how close the nearest heat source will be. For instance, positioning your table within 1-2 meters of a fireplace or radiator may compromise its structural integrity. Direct heat may cause the wood’s fibers to contract, which could lead to splitting or breaking along the grain or at the tabletop’s joints.
2. Monitor the Humidity level
Try to maintain humidity levels in your home between 40 percent and 45 percent, as with all woodwork, from flooring to trim, from dining tables to other furniture. Any lower or higher could result in wood cracking and swelling, respectively. For most of us, this entails using an air conditioner or dehumidifier in the summer and a humidifier in the winter.
3. Use Tablecloths and Coasters
Using cotton or linen sheets on the top of your tables is certainly one of the most inexpensive ways of keeping up the durability and charm of your wooden table. However, moisture can still seep in through the cloth. So, while using cups, hot pans, or dishes, place a coaster beneath the utensil.
4. Installing a glass top
Consider ways to enhance the overall attractiveness of the wood table as you consider how to safeguard a wood dining table. Both of these problems have a one-way solution provided by a glass tabletop. You may easily have a glass top made for your hardwood table, regardless of its size or shape. Glass will shield the table from heat and moisture.
5. Avoid common wood stains on the surface.
While it might be easier to slide the forks across and toss the keys around the table, on the dull side, the scratches that these follies cause can be irreversible. It might take less than a minute to place things in their right place and just a second to hand over things instead of sliding them. So, why let them happen in the first place when scratches can be awful?
Water Rings are nothing but the result of our carelessness. Every time we place a glass of water or a cup of tea on the table, we invite water rings to taint the beauty of our tables. Grabbing a coaster, a tablecloth, or even a placemat is the easiest and least time-taking solution to keep your table out of the reach of irksome water rings.
Besides these seven fundamental yet crucial solutions for protecting a wood dining table, one can also get the table polished once or twice a year. It will not only keep up its shine but will also keep fungus at bay. Sprucing up the table with candles and flowers on occasion is sure to give a beautiful experience.
Conclusion
There are a lot of ways to clean a wooden table. You must dust, wipe, and wax it to last a long time. Accordingly, you should never use just any strong cleaning solution. Make sure to use a solution made especially for cleaning wooden furniture. This way, you can maintain a cleaning routine for your wood without compromising its quality.
Further Readings
Wood Types 101: Three Main Types & How To Identify
Help is Here: Inspecting Wood Infestation and Applying Best Solutions
