Avoid extreme temperatures
Oak furniture is durable, but you should avoid placing items in areas that experience extreme temperatures. Conservatories can be too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter; they also let in a lot of sunlight which can fade a piece of oak furniture. Avoid placing items in these extreme conditions and cover up your table if the sun shines directly in through the window onto the wood. Radiators can be another source of high temperatures which can impact our oak furniture. Avoid putting your furniture against a radiator; always leave a gap or avoid that area altogether. Generally, leaving a slight gap between any oak furniture and the wall is a good idea. This will help to protect your furniture and promote air circulation around the item.Wax your oak furniture
Regular waxing will add a protective layer to the top of your oak furniture. This will protect the wood and make it easier to wipe off any spillages. You should wax your furniture once every six months. Before applying the wax, it's recommended that you try it out on a hidden area of the wood first. If you like the finish, you can cover the rest of the furniture in wax and leave it for five minutes or whatever is recommended in the wax instructions. Afterwards, you should remove the wax using a buffer in the direction of the wood grain. This is a quick process once you have the materials in your home. It will also help to keep your oak furniture looking like new.Use covers to protect your furniture
Protective covers can stop hot plates, paint and other substances from ruining your oak furniture. You can also pick up cheaper items from an oak furniture clearance that may have slight damage or scratches. A strategically placed tablecloth or placemats will conceal the issue and help your furniture look its best. Never place hot pans, mugs or plates on the surface of an oak dining table without protection. They can burn the wood and leave a lasting imprint. Always use protective mats that are designed to withstand high temperatures. If you’re painting a room, try to remove oak furniture and store it in a safe place. If this isn’t possible, you can cover the furniture with protective sheets to prevent unwanted paint from spoiling the finish of your oak furniture.Clean your furniture correctly
Cleaning off spills should be easy if you’re regularly waxing your oak furniture. The wax will seal the wood and provide a protective layer to stop any moisture from entering the wood. You can simply wipe away any water or marks with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid using any abrasive materials, as this could damage and scratch the wood. Any spillages should also be cleaned up quickly to prevent the moisture from being absorbed. If you find a stain or ring that’s been left and set into the wood, you can get in touch with a professional that will remove the ring for you and restore your furniture back to its original state.Polish your oak furniture
To keep your furniture looking its best and to remove dust, you can polish it regularly. This will add some moisture to your furniture between your waxes. It will also keep your house looking and smelling fresh. Always choose a polish that’s suitable for wood, and don’t spray it too close or directly onto the oak furniture. Instead, spray the polish onto your cloth, then wipe down the furniture afterwards.For households looking for furniture that will last a long time and look classic in style, oak furniture is a great choice. If you follow these tips, you can keep your oak furniture looking new for longer, saving you money and keeping your home looking great.