Furniture Care Tips: Timber

Timber is versatile and flexible in complementing many different interior styles. Recycled timbers are traditionally reclaimed from historical buildings or house frames, and are most often local hardwoods like Victorian Ash or Tasmanian Oak. Timbers take some time to stabilise, both while they are being produced, and after you take them home. Timbers will absorb varying degrees of moisture depending on their environment (e.g. humid areas create higher moisture absorption, whereas timbers in airconditioned or cooler areas are generally drier). Changes in environment over time can create expansions and contractions in the wood, and cracking or warping is not uncommon. This, along with naturally occurring knots, gum veins or variations, is not an indication of an inferior product, but simply a feature of the changing face of this natural fibre.

For general care we recommend dusting with a clean, dry cloth, or wiping down with plain water.

Natural

Solvents like nail polish remover or metho can cause significant damage to your timber furniture. Do not use these products with timber as direct contact will require re-varnishing to repair. Another common enemy of timber is direct heat, for example, placing a saucepan on your timber table. This can burn or melt the varnish.

Common stains like red wine from a dinner party or glue from communal homework can be removed with a damp cloth; and should be attended to as quickly as possible to avoid the stain seeping in to the timber. Regular polishing will enhance the look and longevity of your timber furniture.

Painted

Painted timbers are susceptible to peeling if they become too wet, so using a dry cloth for cleaning is a better option. Frequent dusting is important, as dust can accumulate in the porous surface, causing the timber to crack. Stains should be attended to quickly with a slightly damp cloth (and mild detergent if necessary), and dried immediately with a clean cloth.