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How to Care for Antique Furniture

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Whether you’re a garage sale scavenger or a furniture hoarder, you’ve often wondered whether the furniture you find or have is an authentic antique or just old. There are many different styles of furniture that all come with distinguished features. For the most part, you’ll find that you encounter traditional English and American colonial the most often. The basic English and American styles run the gamut from ornate to severely functional, from massive to delicate. Just remember, if you like it, the style is right.

It’s important to take care of your antique furniture properly to ensure it continues to shine through the test of time. Here are some helpful tips to keep your restored and antique furniture looking its best.

  • Never use Pledge or any type of lemon-based cleaning product
  • Never use anything to scrub your furniture that has a rough texture to it
  • Never use a feather duster to clean your furniture as any broken feathers can scratch the surface
  • Do use a quality paste wax like Mini-wax to wax the wood
    • Apply a small portion at a time working toward the grain of the wood and building up a deep layered finish.
  • Do use a very soft cloth, such as cheesecloth, for waxing
  • Do use a small amount of wax at a little time – a little bit goes a long way.
  • Do avoid extremes in temperatures where you house your antique furniture.
  • Do use a humidifier in rooms where you store your antique furniture if you live in dry areas

When it comes to your antique furniture, it’s important to leave nothing to chance. If you’re unsure about the proper maintenance of your antique furniture, then contact us today. We’ll be happy to assist you on-site with all of your furniture restoration needs.