Maintaining Wooden Furniture: Cleaning and Care Tips for Painted Pieces

Wooden furniture is a charming addition to any home. However, maintaining the condition and the colouring of painted timber furnishings requires a bit of knowledge and the right approach. From tables and chairs to chests and shelves, the way you care for your painted wooden pieces will significantly impact their longevity.

The following is a thorough guide on how to keep your painted wooden pieces in top-notch condition.

Understanding the Nature of Painted Wood

Before diving into maintenance tips, it’s important to understand that painted wooden furniture behaves differently than its untreated counterparts. Paint acts as a protective layer, but it can also be susceptible to chips, scratches, and wear over time. The type of paint used (oil-based, acrylic, latex, etc.) can also affect the care process. If you’re looking for top quality timber paint to beautify and protect your wooden pieces, Sadolin has you covered. Browse our extensive range of wood prep, protection, and paint for both interior and interior surfaces to find your perfect match.

Dust regularly:

A simple but effective way to care for your painted furniture is by dusting regularly. Small particles on the surfaces of your furnishings will act like sandpaper, wearing down the finish over time and creating tiny scratches that can dull and damage. Using a soft, dry microfibre cloth, gently wipe the surfaces until clear.

Clean gently:

When cleaning your painted furniture, you’ll want to avoid harsh chemicals as they can damage paint. Choose a mild detergent mixed with water. Dip a soft cloth into the solution, wringing it out so it’s only slightly damp. Use the cloth to gently wipe down the furniture, taking care so that water doesn’t sit as it can seep into the wood and damage it.

Handle spills promptly:

Promptly cleaning spills on wood surfaces is essential to prevent staining, warping, or potential rot, as wood is naturally porous and can absorb liquids. Swift action preserves the wood’s beauty and structural integrity, reducing the risk of permanent damage from acidic substances or dyes.

Protect from environmental factors:

Exposure to direct sunlight can cause paint colour to fade over time. Position your furniture away from prolonged direct sunlight. Furthermore, maintaining a stable environment in terms of humidity and temperature can prevent the wood from expanding or contracting, which can cause the paint to crack or peel.

Touch-up as needed:

For furniture with chipped or peeling paint, touch-ups may be needed. Use a small detail brush to apply a matching paint to the impacted areas. If the piece needs a complete repaint, make sure it’s clean and lightly sanded to allow the new paint to adhere properly.

Check your furnishings frequently:

Promptly addressing concerns like loose joints, chipped or peeling paint, or unstable legs can prevent further deterioration, which is why it’s always wise to inspect painted wooden furniture regularly. By taking immediate action, you’ll not only prevent minor issues from turning into more significant problem, but you’ll prolong the lifespan of your pieces.

Investing a little time and effort in regular maintenance will preserve the beauty and integrity of your painted wooden pieces for decades—or centuries—to come. For expert advice on all your timber-related projects, call into your local Sadolin stockist.