Woodek Product Care Guide

Our furniture is crafted from natural materials designed to be enjoyed every day.  A little regular care will help preserve its beauty for years to come.

Because wood, stone, leather, fabrics and finishes have different care requirements, always follow any product-specific instructions provided with your Woodek piece. If you are unsure about a finish or cleaning product, contact us before applying it.

Solid Oak Dining Tables

Solid oak is a durable natural material, but the surface finish still needs protection from heat, standing moisture, scratches and harsh cleaners.

Everyday Protection
  • Always use coasters under drinking glasses, bottles and mugs. Cold glasses can produce condensation that may leave moisture rings on the finish.
  • Use placemats or table linens under plates and serving pieces to reduce scratches, moisture and heat exposure.
  • Always use a trivet or heat-resistant pad under hot serving dishes, cookware, pans, kettles, coffee makers and other heated objects.
  • Never place cookware or dishes directly from the stove, oven or other heat source onto the wood surface.
  • Wipe spills, condensation and standing water immediately with a clean, soft, absorbent cloth.
  • Do not allow wet glasses, damp cloths, flowerpots, vases or other moisture-producing objects to remain directly on the tabletop.
  • Use felt pads beneath decorative objects, lamps and other accessories that may scratch the surface.
  • Lift objects when moving them. Do not slide dishes, decorative objects or other items across the tabletop.
  • Do not cut, chop or write directly on the tabletop. Use an appropriate protective surface.
Heat, Sunlight and Humidity

Solid wood naturally responds to its environment.

  • Keep furniture away from radiators, fireplaces, heating vents and air-conditioning vents.
  • Avoid prolonged direct sunlight, which may cause the wood and finish to change color unevenly over time.
  • Maintain a reasonably stable indoor environment. For solid wood, an indoor relative humidity of approximately 40–60% is ideal.
  • Sudden or extreme changes in humidity can cause solid wood to expand or contract and may contribute to small seasonal gaps, movement or hairline checking.
  • Natural movement of solid wood is part of the character of the material.
Extendable Dining Tables

Natural wood can gradually change color when exposed to light. Table leaves that are stored separately or used less frequently may therefore develop a slightly different tone from the main tabletop over time.

Keep extension leaves in a dry, climate-controlled indoor environment and follow the specific storage instructions supplied with your table.

Periodically check table hardware and connections and tighten them gently when necessary. Do not overtighten.

Make sure the table is positioned level and stable before use.

Wood Furniture

Woodek furniture may be finished with matte lacquer, natural oil-wax or another finish depending on the individual product.

Always check the product description before applying oils, waxes, polishes or restoration products.

Regular Cleaning
  • Dust with a clean, soft, dry microfiber cloth.
  • For fingerprints or light dirt, use a soft cloth that is only slightly damp.
  • Dry the surface immediately after cleaning.
  • For more stubborn dirt, a very small amount of mild dish soap diluted in water may be used when appropriate for the finish.
  • Never saturate the wood or allow water to remain on the surface.
Matte Lacquer Finish

A matte lacquer creates a protective layer over the wood while preserving a natural appearance.

Cleaning
  • Dust with a soft, dry microfiber cloth.
  • For fingerprints or light spills, wipe with a slightly damp cloth and dry immediately.
  • When necessary, use a small amount of mild dish soap diluted in warm water.
  • Use as little moisture as possible and dry the surface thoroughly.

Avoid

Do not use:

  • Abrasive pads or rough sponges
  • Scouring powders
  • Magic Erasers
  • Bleach
  • Ammonia
  • Acetone or nail-polish remover
  • Strong alcohol-based cleaners
  • Solvent cleaners
  • Steam cleaners
  • Abrasive furniture cleaners
  • Oils, waxes or furniture polish unless specifically approved by Woodek for that product

Some rubber-, vinyl- or plastic-backed materials can trap moisture or interact with certain furniture finishes. Avoid leaving these materials in continuous contact with the wood for long periods.

If a scratch, heat mark, moisture mark or other damage occurs, contact Woodek before applying polish, wax, oil, stain, touch-up products or attempting to sand the surface.

Natural Oil-Wax Finish

An oil-wax finish penetrates and protects the wood while allowing much of its natural texture to remain visible and tactile.

Regular Care
  • Dust with a clean, soft, dry cloth.
  • Wipe everyday dirt with a soft, slightly damp cloth and dry immediately.
  • Use mild soap only when necessary and avoid excessive water.
  • Clean spills immediately.
  • Always use coasters, placemats and trivets.
Maintaining the Finish

Oil-waxed furniture may eventually benefit from a maintenance treatment depending on use and wear. It should not automatically be re-oiled on a fixed schedule.

If the surface begins to look unusually dry, dull or worn, contact Woodek so we can confirm the correct maintenance product and procedure for your particular finish.

Do not apply generic furniture oils, waxes, silicone polishes or household restoration products unless they have been confirmed as compatible with the original finish.

Do not sand or refinish the furniture without first contacting Woodek. Local sanding can change the color, texture or sheen of the surrounding wood.

Natural Characteristics of Solid Wood

Solid wood is a natural material, and no two pieces are identical.

Variations in grain, texture, knots and color are natural characteristics rather than defects.

Wood may also gradually deepen, lighten or change tone as it ages and is exposed to light.

Seasonal changes in temperature and humidity may cause small changes in dimensions, joints or grain. Maintaining a stable indoor environment helps minimize excessive movement.

Moving and Using Wood Furniture
  • Always lift furniture when moving it. Never drag it across the floor.
  • Use felt pads under furniture legs when placed on hardwood or other delicate flooring.
  • Keep furniture level whenever possible.
  • Do not use table bases, pedestals, chair stretchers or other structural components as footrests.
  • Do not lean backward on dining chairs.
  • Periodically check hardware and connections and gently tighten them when necessary.

Upholstery

Everyday Care
  • Vacuum occasionally using an upholstery attachment.
  • Rotate and fluff removable cushions and pillows regularly to distribute wear.
  • Keep upholstery away from prolonged direct sunlight, excessive heat and moisture.
  • Light pilling may occur naturally with some fabrics. A fabric shaver may be used carefully where appropriate.
  • For thorough cleaning, professional upholstery cleaning is recommended.
Spills

Blot spills immediately using a clean, absorbent, undyed cloth.

Do not scrub or aggressively rub the fabric. Work gently from the outside of the affected area toward the center to reduce the possibility of spreading the stain or creating a ring.

Always test any approved cleaning method in a hidden area first.

Leather

Leather is a natural material that will gradually develop character and patina with use.

  • Dust with a soft, dry cloth or vacuum carefully with a soft upholstery attachment.
  • Keep leather away from prolonged direct sunlight and strong heat sources.
  • Blot liquid spills immediately using a clean, absorbent cloth. Do not scrub.
  • Avoid oversaturating leather with water.
  • Use only cleaning and conditioning products suitable for the specific type of leather.
  • Always test a care product in an inconspicuous area first.
  • Avoid bleach, ammonia, acetone, abrasive cleaners and harsh solvents.

Do not use standard leather cleaner or conditioner on suede, nubuck or other napped leathers unless specifically approved for that material.

For significant stains or damage, professional leather cleaning or repair is recommended.

Wicker, Rattan and Woven Natural Materials
  • Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth.
  • Use a soft brush or vacuum attachment to remove dust from woven areas.
  • For light dirt, wipe gently with a slightly damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
  • Avoid soaking natural woven materials.
  • Keep indoor wicker and rattan away from excessive moisture and prolonged direct sunlight.
  • Do not stand on woven seats or surfaces unless the product is specifically designed for that use.
  • Avoid harsh chemical and abrasive cleaners.
Metal
  • Dust regularly with a clean, soft, dry cloth.
  • Wipe spills and moisture immediately.
  • Avoid abrasive cleaners, rough sponges, harsh chemicals, ammonia and silicone-based products.
  • Use coasters, trivets or protective pads on metal tabletops to reduce heat marks, moisture marks and scratches.
  • Avoid dragging hard or sharp objects across metal surfaces.

If the finish becomes scratched or damaged, contact Woodek before applying a touch-up or restoration product.

Stone and Marble

Natural stone can be porous and may react with acids and harsh chemicals.

  • Wipe spills immediately.
  • Clean with a soft cloth, mild soap and water when appropriate.
  • Dry thoroughly after cleaning.
  • Use coasters beneath drinks.
  • Use trivets or protective pads beneath hot dishes.
  • Use felt pads beneath decorative objects.
  • Avoid abrasive cleaners and scouring pads.
  • Avoid vinegar, lemon and other acidic cleaning products.
  • Avoid bleach, ammonia and harsh household chemicals unless specifically approved for the particular stone.

Natural stone varies in veining, tone and mineral pattern. These variations are part of the material's natural character.

Rugs
  • Vacuum regularly using the appropriate setting and attachment.
  • Avoid aggressive beater bars on delicate or high-pile rugs.
  • Rotate rugs periodically to distribute traffic and sunlight exposure.
  • Use an appropriate rug pad for stability and to protect both the rug and flooring.
  • Blot spills immediately with a clean, absorbent white cloth. Do not rub.
  • Do not oversaturate rugs during spot cleaning.
  • Never pull loose yarns or threads. Carefully trim them instead.
  • Some shedding is normal with new wool rugs.
  • Natural-fiber rugs can be sensitive to humidity and moisture.
  • For significant stains or periodic deep cleaning, professional rug cleaning is recommended.

Always follow the product-specific instructions for the particular fiber and construction.

Bedding, Pillows and Throws

Always follow the sewn-in care label or product-specific instructions first.

Different fabrics, fillings and constructions can require different washing and drying methods, so one cleaning method should not be used for every Woodek bedding product.

  • Treat stains promptly.
  • Use mild detergents where machine washing is permitted.
  • Avoid bleach unless specifically permitted by the care label.
  • Do not expose delicate fabrics or fillings to excessive heat.
  • Make sure filled bedding is completely dry before use or storage.

Professional cleaning may be recommended for certain filled pillows, comforters or specialty textiles.

Mirrors and Glass

  • Dust frames with a soft, dry cloth.
  • Clean glass using an appropriate glass cleaner applied to the cloth rather than spraying excessively around wood or finished frames.
  • Wipe away excess moisture immediately.
  • Avoid abrasive pads and cleaners.

Decorative Accessories

  • Dust regularly with a soft, clean cloth.
  • Protect furniture underneath decorative objects with felt pads where appropriate.
  • Avoid leaving wet vases, plant pots or vessels directly on wood surfaces.
  • Empty and dry watertight vessels periodically.
  • Lift decorative objects rather than sliding them across furniture.

Candles

  • Trim the wick according to the candle instructions before lighting.
  • Place candles on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
  • Keep candles away from drafts and flammable materials.
  • Never place a hot candle vessel directly on an unprotected wood surface.
  • Never leave a burning candle unattended.
  • Keep candles away from children and pets.

Need Help?

If you are unsure about your furniture's finish, a cleaning product, a stain or a repair, contact Woodek before attempting a treatment.

Photos are especially helpful when asking about scratches, water marks, heat marks, stains or other surface damage.

We will help you identify the safest care method for your particular Woodek piece.