The Essential Wood Furniture Care Guide

Good wood furniture is an investment, and like any investment, it pays you back in proportion to how well you look after it. Whether you've commissioned a mahogany dining table, an oak console, or a teak outdoor bench, the fundamentals of care are largely the same — and refreshingly simple.

Clean Gently, Clean Often

A soft cloth is your best tool. Dust and light grime build up faster than most people expect, and letting them sit can dull a finish over time. Wipe with the grain, not against it, and reach for wood-safe cleaners only — general household cleaners and anything containing ammonia or bleach can strip a finish or discolour the wood underneath.

Keep It Out of Direct Sun

Sunlight is wood's quiet adversary. UV exposure fades colour unevenly and, over years, can dry out and crack a finish. If a piece sits near a window, consider light curtains or simply rotating it occasionally so the fading — if any — stays even.

Polish With Purpose

Reapplying polish periodically — roughly every few months for furniture in regular use — keeps the surface protected and the colour rich. There's no need to overdo it; a thin, even coat applied with a soft cloth, left to absorb, and buffed gently is all most pieces need.

Built for Mahogany, Oak, and Teak Alike

These three woods behave a little differently — teak's natural oils make it especially forgiving outdoors, while mahogany rewards a slightly gentler touch — but the core routine of clean, shade, and polish holds true across all of them. If you're ever unsure what a specific piece needs, our team is always happy to talk through it.