It could be your grandma’s antique dresser or brand new furniture, proper care of the same would mean enjoyment for the generations.

Advice on handling furniture varies.  And with so many furniture polishes, waxes, oils and sprays on the market, consumers are left in a quandary.

According to American Hardwood Council, the idea is fueled by the myth that wood is alive and needs to breathe. On the contrary, according to the council’s information center, wood doesn’t need to be “moisturized” with oily cleaners and polishes. If wood dries and cracks, it’s due to changes in humidity, not for lack of oil.

Experts agree to some extend on the basics of wood care: Dust to be removed frequently. Place furniture out of direct sunlight and away for heat sources. How ever one should understand the importance of handling furniture with care and following steps to be taken to prevent damages.

Getting down to basicsBesides placing furniture away from direct sunlight, heat sources and extreme temperature and humidity changes, experts generally agree on these tips:

Environment

Since excessive heat and dryness can cause wood to split, moderate temperatures of around 70 degrees and a relative humidity between 30 and 50 percent are best. Using air conditioners in the summer and dehumidifers in winter can help.

Curtains and blinds, window tints and screening films can avoid damage from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

Table leaves should be stored near the table so they are exposed to the same relative humidity and temperatures. Keep table locks closed.

It’s better to store furniture in an unheated space where humidity is constant than a heated area where humidity fluctuates greatly.

Basics tips
Besides placing furniture away from sunlight, heat sources and extreme temperature, experts generally suggest the below tips
Environment
Since excessive heat and dryness can wood to split, moderate temperatures of around 70 degrees and a relative humidity between 30 to 50 percent is good. Using air conditioners in summer will help.

Curtains and blinds, window tints and screening films will avoid damage from sun effects.

It’s better to store furniture in an unheated space.

Regular cleaningDust can cause small scratches on wood, so dust frequently with a soft clean cloth that’s slightly moistened to pick up dust. A dry cloth can be abrasive and eventually dull the finish.

Don’t use a feather duster or a dry cloth that simply moves the dust.Don’t place plastic on wood because it can stick to the finish and remove finish when the plastic is lifted. Its colors also can leach into the wood.Wood surfaces can be cleaned with a mild nonalkaline soap and water solution, but don’t let the Wood get soaked.
Polishing

If oils, polishes or waxes are used to rejuvenate the wood’s luster, they should be compatible with the finish.
• For lacquer finishes: Occasionally wax with a good quality furniture paste wax.
• Waxed finishes: When the finish looks dry, apply more wax, then buff.
• Polyurethane: With its clear, strong shield, no polishing is needed.
• Clear varnish: Apply a thin coat of good paste wax once a year.
• Oil: Apply oil annually.