How to Care for Distressed Wood

Distressing is a process that ages new furniture, giving it a rustic look. Distressed wood contains chips, nicks and other slight imperfections that make the wood look as though it has been passed down over the years. This type of wood is either finished with oil, lacquer or paint, and the finish determines what kind of care you need to give your furniture. To test the finish on your distressed wood, place a few drops of linseed oil in an inconspicuous area. If the linseed oil soaks into the wood, it has an oil finish. If the wood repels the linseed oil, you have either a painted or lacquer finish.

Things You'll Need

• Linseed oil
• Lamb's wool duster
• Lanolin
• Lint-free cloth
• Coasters
• Felt mats
• Water
• Dish washing liquid
• High-quality paste wax

Instructions

1. Protect your distressed wood from scratches, water damage and stains. Always use coasters under drinks, and place felt mats underneath plates and centerpieces. Use a damp cloth to clean up any food stains or spills immediately. For stubborn, sticky spots, clean the wood with a lint-free cloth dipped in a mixture of water and dish washing liquid, then rinse and dry with a clean cloth. Even though distressed wood is meant to look worn, an unplanned scratch, unsightly water spots and food stains will ruin the look of your furniture.

2. Dust your oil-finished distressed wood with a lamb's wool duster several times a week. Rub a small amount of lanolin between the palms of your hands, then use your hands to lightly coat the duster. The lamb's wool combined with lanolin takes the dust out of the nicks and crevices that are common in distressed wood. For paint or lacquer-finished wood, use a damp, lint-free cloth to remove the dust. It's best to save the dusting for the last step when cleaning the house, as vacuuming can stir up dust and make your distressed wood furniture appear dirty.

3. Oil your oil-finished wood furniture at least once a month. Apply a few drops of linseed oil to a clean lint-free cloth, then use the cloth to rub the oil all over the wood, as if you were dusting it. Make sure that the wood is clean before you apply the oil, as dirt and dust particles can cause scratches.

4. Polish your paint or lacquer-finished wood furniture using a high-quality paste wax every six months. Apply the wax in a circular motion with a clean, lint-free cloth, then continue to buff the wood until all of the residue is gone and your wood furniture regains its natural shine.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid using all-purpose cleaners on your distressed wood. These cleaners may contain harsh chemicals that will damage the wood.

References

• Amateur Woodworker: Distressing Wood
• Better Homes and Gardens: Wood Furnishings Care