Mark Lund
Don’t...
Keep furniture in direct sunlight. It can damage the finish and bleach the wood.Place furniture close to radiators or fireplaces. The heat can warp the wood or cause it to crack.Leave rubber or plastic sitting for long on wood (avoid using vinyl tablecloths and place mats). These materials react with some finishes and may cause damage.Clean wood with abrasive or ammonia-based detergents, such as window cleaners.Use spray polish containing silicone. If the ingredients aren’t listed, don’t use the product.Rub household oils into wood, especially olive oil, which will leave a sticky surface and can permanently stain wood.Drag furniture to move it. Pick it up or move it on slider disks instead.
Do...
Try to maintain a relative humidity of around 50 percent (use a humidifier if necessary). Air that is too dry will cause wood to crack.Immediately blot or soak up (don’t wipe) alcohol spills with a dry cotton cloth.Use felt pads under lamps and other objects whose bases might scratch the wood’s finish.Use coasters, pads, cloths, and runners to protect against spills and water rings. Never place anything hot on a table without a trivet.Dust often with a soft, lint-free cotton
cloth, slightly dampened with water. (With fine antiques, use distilled water.) Turn or fold
the cloth as soon as dirt is visible, and switch cloths frequently to avoid spreading dust.
