How to Care for Your Solid Wood Furniture
The Rustic Loft's Guide to Protecting, Preserving & Enjoying Your Investment
Solid wood furniture is more than décor — it’s a commitment to craftsmanship, longevity, and a home filled with warmth and character. At The Rustic Loft, each piece is built to stand the test of time. With the right care, your furniture will remain stunning for years to come.
Here’s how to protect it.
1. Clean Your Wood the Right Way (Why Wood Love® Works Best)
Many cleaners contain silicone, ammonia, wax, or residues that can damage or dull your finish.
That’s why we recommend Wood Love® — a plant-based, pH-neutral cleaner that removes smudges, dust, and fingerprints without leaving buildup.
Wood Love® benefits:
Plant-based and non-toxic
Safe on all finished woods
Streak-free, residue-free
Non-greasy, non-waxing
Perfect for everyday maintenance
Use 2–3 times per week for best results.
2. Protect Your Furniture From Heat, Water & Everyday Use
A few simple habits go a long way in preserving your wood’s finish:
Do:
Use coasters and placemats
Wipe spills immediately
Use felt pads under décor
Lift objects instead of sliding them
Avoid:
Harsh chemical cleaners
Magic erasers
Steam mops
Oil-based polishes
These can permanently damage or cloud the finish.
3. Humidity Matters — Especially During Long Island Winters
Wood breathes. It expands and contracts with the seasons, which is why humidity control is essential for long-term stability.
Dry winter heat pulls moisture from the air and your furniture, causing:
Dryness
Gapping
Cracking
Warping
Surface roughness
✔ Place a Humidifier in the Same Room as Your Furniture
This is the most important step you can take.
Running a humidifier where your dining table, console, or bedroom set lives — especially from November through March — keeps moisture levels consistent and prevents seasonal damage.
Target humidity:
35%–45% indoors year-round
A simple room humidifier can make all the difference.
✔ Add Live Plants for Natural Moisture
Plants release humidity into the room throughout the day and help stabilize the environment.
✔ Keep Wood Away From Heat Sources
Avoid setting furniture directly next to:
Radiators
Heat vents
Fireplaces
Baseboard heating
Space heaters
Stable humidity + consistent temperature = stable wood.
4. Protect Against Sunlight Exposure
Over time, strong direct sunlight can fade or alter wood color.
Prevent this by:
Using UV-filtering curtains or blinds
Rotating your décor or centerpiece every season
Keeping long-term harsh sun off your table if possible
This keeps the finish rich and even.
5. Rustic Loft’s Easy-Care Routine
Weekly
Clean with Wood Love®
Dust with a microfiber cloth
Monthly
Check humidity levels
Inspect for roughness or dryness
Seasonally
Adjust humidifier use
Rotate table décor
Monitor sun exposure changes
6. Tips for Extendable Tables & Leaves
Always store table leaves in the same environment as the table.
Do not place them in garages, basements, attics, or other extreme environments.
Consistent conditions prevent uneven expansion and keep the table perfectly aligned.
7. What to Expect From Real Wood Over Time
Natural wood will experience:
Minor seasonal gaps
Subtle grain movement
Soft color changes
These are normal characteristics of genuine craftsmanship — not defects.
The Rustic Loft Promise
Every piece we create is made with intention, artistry, and longevity in mind. With simple care — and everyday use of Wood Love® — your solid wood furniture will stay beautiful for generations.