How to care for your solid wood furniture

Easy tips to keep your wood beautiful for years

Solid wood furniture isn’t just a design choice - it’s a long-term investment. It’s warm, unique, and built to last. But like anything natural, it needs a little bit of regular care to keep it looking its best. Whether you’ve just bought a rustic shelf, a new dining table, or a handmade bench, knowing how to look after it will help protect the wood and preserve its beauty. Below you’ll find a complete guide for everyday maintenance, long-term care, and small fixes you can do at home.

List of Contents

1. Why solid wood deserves your attention
2. Daily cleaning and dusting
3. How to protect your wood from heat, moisture, and scratches
4. What sunlight and temperature can do
5. Simple ways to fix small marks
6. When and how to refresh the finish
7. Important things to avoid
8. Caring for different finishes
9. Final advice and where to get more help

Why solid wood deserves your attention

Unlike furniture made from cheap materials like MDF or veneer, solid wood has real depth and personality. Every piece is different - it might have knots, small cracks, or slight bends in the grain. These are not flaws; they’re what make your piece one of a kind. Wood is strong, but it’s also alive in a way. It reacts to its surroundings, and with the right care, it only gets better with time. That’s why a few simple steps can go a long way in making sure your furniture stays strong and looks great.

Daily cleaning and dusting

The best way to care for wooden furniture is also the easiest: keep it clean. Dust builds up quickly and can dull the surface, so wipe it down with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth once or twice a week. Microfibre cloths are perfect because they don’t scratch the surface.

If needed, use a little mild soap and warm water, but never soak the surface. Wipe it dry right away. Avoid harsh cleaners, antibacterial sprays, or anything with ammonia or silicone - these can break down the protective finish over time.

How to protect your wood from heat, moisture, and scratches

Wood is sensitive to moisture and heat. You might not see the damage right away, but over time, even small things like hot mugs or water rings can leave marks. That’s why coasters, placemats, and felt pads are your friends.

In the kitchen or dining room, be extra careful with wet dishes or oily foods. And if something spills, try to clean it up right away with a dry cloth - letting water sit too long can stain or warp the wood.

Also, don’t forget about the bottom of items you place on wood - small scratches can come from vases, lamps, or plant pots that move around. Add soft pads or felt underneath them to help prevent this.

What sunlight and temperature can do

Just like your skin, wood can be affected by sunlight. Over time, strong direct sun can cause fading, especially in one area. If possible, rotate items or use light curtains to soften the exposure.

Temperature and humidity changes are also important. Solid wood expands and contracts depending on the season. To help with this, avoid placing wooden furniture next to radiators, heaters, or cold windows. If your home gets very dry in the winter, a humidifier can help maintain the right balance.

Simple ways to fix small marks

Don’t worry if your table gets a few scratches or your shelf has a dent - this is part of the charm of real wood. Many small marks can be treated at home.

Try gently rubbing the area with a bit of wood wax or oil using a soft cloth. This often helps small scratches blend in. For deeper marks, a light sanding with fine sandpaper (always go with the grain) and a fresh finish can work wonders. Always test a small, hidden spot first.

When and how to refresh the finish

Even with good care, your furniture might start to look dry or lose its shine after a few years. That’s a sign it’s time to refresh the finish. At Chill House, we offer a selection of wood finishes in colours like Natural Oak, Tudor Oak, Walnut, Teak, Dark Oak, and more.

These finishes not only highlight the natural grain but also add protection against daily wear. If your piece looks dull, you can reapply the finish - just make sure the surface is clean and dry before starting. You can use a soft cloth to apply, and allow it to dry fully.

Important things to avoid

There are a few simple things to keep in mind to avoid damaging your furniture:

- Don’t use bleach or strong chemical cleaners

- Don’t place hot pans or mugs directly on wood

- Don’t let water or cleaning spray sit on the surface

 - Don’t place plastic mats or rubber pads that trap moisture underneath

- Avoid dragging heavy objects across the surface

- These tips may seem small, but they make a big difference in the long term.

8. Caring for different finishes

Every wood finish is slightly different, and some require more care than others. If your furniture is unwaxed or has a light stain, it may need more frequent refreshing. Darker finishes might hide marks better but still need regular dusting and care.

We always recommend ordering samples first if you’re choosing a finish - that way, you can see how it looks in your space and how much maintenance it might need.

9. Final advice and where to get more help

Caring for your wood furniture doesn’t need to be complicated. It’s really about giving it a little bit of attention now and then. Just by cleaning it regularly, protecting it from extreme conditions, and refreshing the finish every so often, you can make sure your furniture stays beautiful for years.

At Chill House, we’re proud to make high-quality, handmade pieces using sustainable wood. If you ever need advice on care, finishes, or custom orders, we’re always happy to help.