Cleaning and caring for your natural wood furniture

Wood and veneer can have unique variations in colour, grain and knots - these are all characteristics of natural timber and not faults.

– Position your furniture away from heat and sunlight which can cause colour fading and surface degradation

– To keep your wooden dining table looking its best, always use place mats to protect the table top from hot plates and to prevent scratches. Wipe clean after every use

– Make sure any accidental spills are dealt with immediately to prevent stains from setting in

– Give your wooden furniture a weekly clean to prevent dust build up. Use a soft, damp cloth and dry with a soft duster making sure no surfaces are left wet

– It's important to dust frequently as leaving dust to build up can cause tiny scratches that damage the wood finish

– For stubborn stains or grease spots, dip a lint-free cloth in a solution of highly diluted dishwashing liquid and water then wring it out and gently wipe the area. Make sure you follow up with another rinse using a cloth dampened with only water then wipe with a dry cloth

– Your wooden dining table will benefit from a deep, thorough clean once or twice a year. Start with wiping off any dust then dip a lint-free cloth in a gentle solution of water (1 cup) and white vinegar (3 tablespoons) to wipe your furniture, working from section to section. Avoid soaking the wood in water and always keep a dry, soft cloth on hand to wipe away any excess moisture

– Restore the natural lustre of your wooden furniture with carnauba wax by buffing it in with firm, circular motions for a gentle shine. If you don't have wax, you can make an easy homemade polish by mixing vinegar (1 tablespoon) with olive oil (3 tablespoons)

– If you have a watermark on your wooden table, it's very likely that it's not set in the wood but in the wax layer instead. Try rubbing it with mayonnaise to lift the stain out

– For ink or paint marks, try a homemade paste of baking soda (1 tablespoon) and water (about a teaspoon) - apply it to your wooden furniture with a soft cloth and rub until the stain disappears

– Do not use scourers, abrasives, solvent based cleaners, detergents or corrosives as these can cause surface damage

– Be careful with sharp objects such as studs, buckles, jewellery, heels, toys or a pet's claws on your natural wood furniture as they can cause scratches

– Regularly tighten any bolts to avoid damage and maintain stability and strength

– Do not drag your furniture when moving, instead lift and place it carefully

Always follow the care instructions that came with your furniture