• Determine the type of wood

Of course you can ask a seller in the shop, what kind of wood you have. But (sad to say it) most likely they won’t clarify the situation. So make your own test – take an inconspicuous spot to do the testing.

Start with a few drops of linseed oil rubbed gently over the wood. If your surface absorbs it, then you have to stop the test – you have an oil finish. No absorption? Go on! This time take a few small drops of denatured alcohol and apply them to the wood. If the finish is made of shellac, the process of dissolution will go on in a very quick way, but if it is made of varnish, the reaction will be a bit slower.

Choose the type of cleanser only in a strict accordance with the kind of wood finish you have!!! Otherwise you can spoil your furniture and it will never look like it should.

• Be careful and never mix different types of polish. It is no use to polish the wood more than every three to four months.

General Cleaning tips

• never use wet cloths. They will leave stains and can even damage the wood;
• from time to time dust your furniture using a soft cloth or a vacuum cleaner;
• never put a cup of tea or a plate on a wooden surface without coasters, place mats or other protective materials;
• always wipe off the spilled liquid immediately;
• don’t even think to put hot cups and plates directly onto the wood, they can leave awful and permanent stains;
• try to protect your wood furniture from excessive exposure to sunlight, heat, cold.

It is really awful but aftermaths can be devastating. Once light and nice wood chair can become a dark one because of sun light.

If you are an owner of wood that is composed of cellulose you must always stay alert. Since humidity is your main enemy. When moisture in the air increases such wood absorbs water and swells a little and vice verse. Because of such changes glue joins become weak and your furniture can split or crack.

Always check your furniture for damages before moving it. Don’t forget to take off the furniture shelves, drawers and doors. Be sure to pick up furniture at its strongest point.

If you happen to find some insects in your furniture items, try your best and catch them, then send one specimen to a conservator for advice.

Good luck!