Safe Wood Care Guide

Safe Wood Care Guide

Caring for wood furniture shouldn’t involve harsh chemicals or guesswork.

From Arlington Woodworks — Veteran-owned • Handmade • Eco-conscious

Wood finish before and after - Arlington Woodworks

Left: Damage from common cleaners. Right: Protected wood using natural care.

🚫 Are You Accidentally Damaging Your Wood Furniture?

Many wood lovers don’t realize that common cleaning products can harm their furniture over time. Sprays that “shine” often contain ingredients that:

  • Dry out natural wood
  • Leave a sticky residue
  • Dull the grain and fade the finish

🧴 Ingredients to Avoid in Commercial Wood Cleaners

Cleaner ingredients to avoid - Arlington Woodworks

These ingredients are common — and harmful. They dry out wood and leave residue.

  • Silicones: Create short-term shine but dull finish over time
  • Petroleum distillates: Dry out wood and damage the grain
  • Synthetic fragrances: Can trigger allergies and headaches
  • Ammonia or bleach: May strip or discolor finishes

When in doubt, trust your instincts — or make your own cleaner using vinegar, castile soap, and essential oils.

🌿 A Safer Option: Natural Dusting Spray

We recommend Moody Homesteader's Natural Dusting Spray — handmade, plant-based, and gentle on wood.

  • No silicones
  • No petroleum products
  • Safe for your home, family, and furniture

🧽 Safe Cleaning Routine for Wood Furniture

✅ What to Look For in a Safe Cleaner

  • Short, simple ingredient list
  • Biodegradable components
  • No harsh chemicals or synthetic scents

🧼 Daily or Weekly Dusting

  • Use a soft microfiber cloth or feather duster
  • Dry dusting is safest

🧪 Monthly Deep Clean (DIY)

Mix your own natural cleaner:

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar
  • A few drops castile soap
  • (Optional) 5–10 drops essential oil (lavender or lemon)

Spray onto cloth (not directly on wood) and wipe with the grain.

✨ Polish Occasionally (1–2x/year)

Natural Polish Recipe:

  • 2 parts olive oil
  • 1 part lemon juice

Buff with soft cloth to restore natural shine.

🪵 Restore and Protect Your Wood — Naturally

It’s not too late to revive your wood furniture. Try our all-natural, handcrafted Wood Balm No. 524 to:

  • Restore deep tones and protect against drying
  • Leave a non-greasy, satin finish
  • Be safe for food surfaces, pets, and kids

Try it Risk Free — Free Shipping + First-Use Guarantee

Shop Our Organic Wood Balm

Curious why more people are switching to natural wood balmss? This quick read explains what makes ours different — and why it works: Read: The Benefits of Using Organic Wood Finish.