Maintaining the beauty and longevity of a wood desk involves proper moisturizing and care. This guide will walk you through various methods, from oiling to cleaning and polishing, ensuring your wooden furniture remains in excellent condition.
Understanding Wood Finishes and Moisturizing
When it comes to caring for wood furniture, it's important to understand how different products interact with the existing finish. Some common misconceptions exist regarding the effectiveness of certain treatments.
The Role of Oils in Wood Care
Oils, such as Boiled Linseed Oil (BLO) and lemon oil, are often used to moisturize wood. However, their effectiveness and application methods vary.
Applying Boiled Linseed Oil (BLO)
When applying BLO, a common method is to pour some onto the surface and spread it with a rag to achieve a generally even coat. Continue this process until the surface no longer absorbs the oil. After wiping off any excess, use a clean rag to remove any remaining oil missed by the soiled rag. Allow the surface to sit for an hour or two to ensure nothing else seeps out.
For best results, especially with products like the GERTON table top, reapplying every few days for a period until the surface is saturated is recommended. It's crucial to be aware that BLO-soaked rags can spontaneously ignite if left in a pile. Therefore, always ensure they are allowed to dry flat and away from any fuel sources.
Understanding Lemon Oil
Lemon oil, along with orange oil, are non-drying oils. They act primarily as solvents and impart a pleasant scent. While they can make the wood appear temporarily shinier due to the oil evaporating, they do not inherently preserve or protect the wood underneath an existing finish. Unless the table was originally finished with a non-drying oil (which is unlikely in most cases), the existing finish acts as a barrier. Lemon oil will not penetrate this barrier unless the finish has worn off down to bare wood, and even then, it offers no real preservation or protection.
Most commercial lemon oil products contain light mineral oil with a lemon scent. Real lemon oil is expensive and can oxidize over time in the bottle. Therefore, the perceived benefits of lemon oil are often due to its cleaning properties and pleasant fragrance rather than its restorative capabilities.
Alternatives for a Matte Finish
If a matte finish is desired, BLO is a suitable option. It helps preserve the wood's natural color and maintains its tactile feel.
Cleaning Wood Furniture
Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the appearance and condition of your wood desk. Different cleaning methods are suitable for various issues, from general grime to stubborn stains and odors.
General Cleaning with Oil Soap
For best results, always test wood cleaner products on an inconspicuous area with a cotton ball to ensure they do not damage your specific type of wood.
In a well-ventilated area, mix 1/2 cup of Murphy’s Oil Soap into a gallon of warm water. Using a clean, soft cloth and wearing protective gloves, wipe down the entire piece of furniture with the soapy mixture. Pay special attention to crevices and small details. Afterward, use a dry cloth or paper towel with clean water to wipe away any soapy residue. Immediately dry off any excess water.
While dish soap or all-purpose cleaners like Simple Green can be used, Murphy’s Oil Soap is particularly effective at removing musty smells due to its citronella oil content. For very stubborn odors, placing the furniture in direct sunlight for about an hour can help, but avoid prolonged exposure as it can fade wood finishes.
Deep Cleaning Stubborn Stains
If, after cleaning, you encounter stubborn stains or sticky spots, a more intensive cleaning method involves using a damp microfiber cloth with mineral spirits. Lightly rub the affected area for a few minutes. The spot may appear dull after applying mineral spirits, but wood oil applied in subsequent steps will help restore its appearance.
Removing Water Spots
To address water stains or damage, such as water rings, apply a moderate layer of Vaseline or mayonnaise to the affected area using a lint-free cloth. Let it sit overnight, or up to 24 hours. Wipe clean to reveal a more even wood tone. Repeat the process if necessary.
Cleaning Off Residue
After treating water spots with Vaseline, use Murphy’s Oil Soap again to clean off any residue. This ensures that the polish can penetrate effectively in the next step.
Alternative Wood Furniture Cleaner Recipe
For an alternative wood furniture cleaner, mix 4 parts water with 1 part vinegar and 1 part olive oil in a spray bottle. Spritz this mixture all over your wood furniture and then dry with a clean cloth.
Polishing and Conditioning Wood Desks
Polishing and conditioning help to restore shine and protect the wood's finish.
Applying Wood Polish
Using a soft cotton cloth, wipe down the surface of the wood furniture in circular motions with a wood furniture polish like Old English Wood Furniture Polish or Howard Restore-A-Finish. Howard is often preferred, but Old English can be a good alternative. You can also use linseed oil.
Concentrate on any scratches or dings to ensure they are covered. The mineral oil in the polish will begin to recondition the wooden surfaces, giving them a nice shine. After 2-3 minutes, wipe away any excess moisture.
Considering Paste Wax
For a longer-lasting sheen on dull spots, applying a good quality paste wax (without silicone) can be beneficial. However, this wax will need to be removed if the furniture is ever refinished.
Addressing Specific Wood Issues
Different types of wood and finishes present unique challenges. Understanding these can help in choosing the right care methods.
Dealing with Dry Areas on Vintage Furniture
On vintage furniture, particularly pieces with original finishes that may appear dry in areas, applying lemon oil has been a common practice. However, as noted, lemon oil primarily cleans and scents rather than conditions. If you observe oil soaking into the wood, it might indicate that the original finish is not entirely intact or that it was an oil-based finish. This is more likely to occur on solid wood parts like turned legs and carved trim.
Commercial furniture from the 1930s was often finished with lacquer. If applied in sufficient coats, lacquer forms a film impervious to most liquids, though not to alcohol or stronger solvents. Dry areas might suggest an incomplete film application. In such cases, lemon oil does not benefit the finish or the wood underneath.
Testing New Finishes
If you suspect the original finish might have been oil-based and are considering a product like Minwax Antique Oil Finish, it's advisable to test it first. Clean an inconspicuous area thoroughly with mineral spirits or naphtha, then apply a coat or two of the finish according to the directions. Allow it to dry for a few days and check if it can be scratched off with a fingernail. If it holds well and looks satisfactory, proceed to a larger, less visible area, and observe for a month or two to ensure it remains stable and does not peel.
Removing Buildup and Gunk
Over many years of polishing, furniture can accumulate a buildup of waxes and polishes, which can dry out and look unsightly. Wiping down with a quality furniture polish can help remove this accumulated gunk without damaging the wood or finish. Products specifically designed for removing this buildup are also available.
Trying a "gunk remover" can be a good first step to understand the nature of any buildup. If it effectively removes gunk, it provides valuable information about the furniture's history and care.
Caring for Hardware
If your desk has hardware that appears grimy, it can be cleaned separately.
Cleaning Grimy Hardware
Scrub hardware with Barkeepers Friend and an old toothbrush with a little warm water. Non-gel toothpaste or white vinegar can also be effective. Rinse the hardware and allow it to dry completely.
Regular Maintenance Schedule
Following these simple steps every couple of years can help keep your furniture in good condition.