How to Clean Antique Furniture

Cleaning most household furniture items can be a simple task, but antique furniture takes cleaning to a whole new level. In order to properly care for antique furniture, simple techniques must be followed.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• duster
• dry cloth

1. Antique furniture is some of the most precious and valuable contents in your home. Often, it has sentimental value as well as monetary value. First and foremost, do not expose your fine antique pieces of furniture to extreme lighting or weather conditions. Antique furniture should not be kept outside or in a dominantly lit area of your home. The suns rays and constant weathering will fade and deteriorate your antique pieces of furniture. Display them in a room that is exempt from these poor conditions.

2. Keep all items that could possibly stain off of the antique furniture. Make sure that you have coasters on all of the table tops or put a glass top on all of the tables. A doily will not be sufficient enough to keep liquids, vapors, and heat elements off of the wooden surfaces. You can also purchase protective mats and cover them with a table cloth or table runner.

3. Clean your antique furniture cautiously with a dry duster. Most older pieces of furniture can not withstand chemicals or waxing agents. Avoid any type of cleaner that is wet or damp. In addition, avoid any type of pledge or furniture polish that comes in a pump or spray can.

4. Don't clean any antique hardware while it is on a piece of furniture. The cleaning agents will inevitably wind up on the surface of the wood. In addition, older pieces of antique hardware can at times lose their luster and vibrancy, but harsh cleaners can damage the metals. Try using a sterling silver cleaning rag to see if that is enough to brighten the antique hardware.

Tips & Warnings

• With valuable furniture, always be prepared to seek the advice of an antique dealer or restorer for proper care.