Don Williams, a senior furniture conservator at the Smithsonian Institution, recommends paste wax, applied once a year at most, for varnish and shellac finishes. Use clear wax on light finishes. For darker finishes, amber-colored wax helps fill in discolorations and even out sheen. For a shinier finish (and easier application), some restorers recommend silicone-free Guardsman polish. If cleaning is needed, use mineral spirits or a mild soap-and-water solution (see Cleaning Painted Furniture).

Cream Polish

Guardsman Furniture Polish (about $7 at hardware stores) can be used on light or dark finishes.

Paste Wax

Butcher’s Boston Polish ($6.50 at hardware stores) is an amber formula that works well on dark furniture.