Wood furniture withstands the test of time and home and office trends for its style, functionality and craftsmanship. Whether you’ve just splurged on a statement wooden table for your dining room or found the perfect wooden side or coffee table during your last antiquing trip for a bargain, knowing how to protect a wooden table is important to maintain its beauty and ensure your investment lasts for years to come.
Identify the Wood Type
Just as you need to understand yourself to take better care of your well-being, knowing the type of wood your table is made from is also the key to proper care.
Start by confirming it’s solid wood. Hardwoods often have a more distinct grain, while softwoods are smoother. You can differentiate based on the weight and hardness. Hardwoods are heavier and more scratch-resistant. Consider the intended use of the wood. You can also take note of any distinctive features. Finally, examine the endgrain for more clues. Look at the end of the table for rings or open pores. On solid wood, the grain on the side will line up perfectly with the endgrain and match in color. If they don’t align or the color is different, you might be looking at veneer or plywood.
Reduce Damages With a Protective Layer
To start protecting your wooden table from everyday damages and stains, adding a protective layer is a smart move. You can find protective pieces that are beautiful and match your style.
However, some protective pieces, like placemats, coasters, and tablecloths, can be made of materials that can be harmful to your wooden table. Avoid products made of plastic or vinyl. Decorative pieces such as vases for centerpieces can also be a threat as they could potentially scratch the surface of your wooden table. Consider placing cork or felt pads underneath those kinds of pieces to protect it.
Try using crochet coasters to avoid having scratches on the wooden surfaces
Credit: ©Dolly Bagobe; photographer on Canva.com
Take Care of Minor Scratches to Maintain the Appearance of Your Wooden Table
Even with the best care, your table will naturally show some wear and tear over time. But don’t worry, most scratches can be fixed quickly and easily on your own! There are budget friendly choices to restore the appearance of your wooden table. From wood touch up markers, to liquid scratch covers, and wood filler sticks, you have many options to repair scratches.
Try using wood filler sticks to smooth out the surfaces
Credit: ©Roman Budnyi on Canva.com
Clean Your Wooden Table Regularly
It's important to keep your table clean to ensure it stays looking great. Wipe away spills promptly to prevent any stains or damage. Dusting and polishing regularly can help prevent scratches and maintain its finish. You will also need to avoid harsh chemicals and using natural cleaning products to keep your home safe are the key steps in learning how to protect a wooden table.
Apply Wax to Protect and Restore Smooth Finish
A “finish” is used on wood furniture to boost its appearance and create a protective seal that safeguards the wood. There are many oils, sprays, and polishes for maintaining your wooden tables, but wax is especially effective. When applied regularly, wax not only enhances the table's beauty but also provides protection from damage.
Polish and oils offer a more cosmetic solution that can help bring back shine to your wooden table. Typically, they do not provide additional protection for it.
Beside applying wood oils, using wax can protect your wooden furniture by adding an additional protective barrier. Many waxes also help restore a glossy look, which can keep your wooden table looking shiny and new year after year.
Using wax can protect the pristine look of your wooden tables
Credit: ©Monkey Business Images on Canva.com
Keep Your Table Away from Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight can make your wooden table fade and damage the finish over time. Using curtains or blinds to shield the table from UV rays and help avoid discoloration and damage in case you can’t move it somewhere else. Knowing how to protect a wooden table outside is good, so keeping it away from sunlight is key.
Control the Humidity
Keep the indoor humidity levels around 40-45% to maintain the best condition for your wooden table, because too much moisture can cause swelling and warping, while too little can result in cracking. Let's keep that wooden table looking fantastic for years to come!
Use Metal Table Legs to Enhance Stability
Metal legs are a great choice for your wooden table. Our metal legs are strong, stylish, and come in various designs. They are easy to install and built to last, which will give your table a standout look. At Flowyline, we’re here to help you find the perfect match and enhance the stability of your wooden furniture. Ready for your next great table upgrade? Here are some options to inspire you:
Single Pedestal Table Base for Wooden Tables
For your wooden tables, single "leg" or base furniture comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. It is easy to push your chairs flush against this style of table, although long legs may struggle with the center obstacle. Single pedestals are ideal for round, compact, and/or pub tables in your eat-in kitchen or breakfast nook. When seating fewer than eight people in your dining area, a single pedestal table base is ideal. When expanded further, it is prone to tilting if someone leans on one end or the other.
Double Table Legs for Wooden Tables
A set of 2 table legs for wooden tables can be "opened" to accept leaves on geared slides, making them simple to extend and adapt to any form of wooden table. A pair of table legs gives your wooden table fantastic balance, making it simple to easily fit 12 or more people. Perfect for those big gatherings with family and friends! Double table legs also give your dining space a more official appearance.
Four Legged Tables
The most popular table legs is the 4 leg table, which is quite adjustable. You might be amazed at how well a 4 legged metal table set supports the styles/types of wooden table tops that you choose. Our sets of four metal table legs are not only stylish but also incredibly strong. Each set can support table tops weighing up to 1000 lbs. They’re perfect for any project you have in mind!
At Flowyline Design, we strive to provide you with a variety of options and solutions for your home, including tips on how to protect a wooden table. Looking for some unique metal table legs with pre-drilled mounting plates carefully designed for your wooden table? Check out our website—you’re sure to find the perfect match! Become our member now and be the first to know about useful tips and exciting news you won’t want to miss.
