Like most people, you probably don’t think about how to oil wood furniture until it’s too late. Your furniture is dry, cracked, and possibly even warping by that point.
This blog post will show you how to oil wood furniture to look new again. Not only is this process simple and easy to follow, but it will also protect your furniture from further damage.
So without further ado, let’s get started!
How to Oil Wood Furniture
Tools and materials needed:
- Lint-free cloth
- Olive oil or other food-grade oil
- Water
Steps to follow:
- Dust your furniture with a lint-free cloth. This will help to remove any surface dirt or debris that could cause the oil not to absorb evenly.
- Pour a small amount of oil onto a clean, lint-free cloth.
- Rub the oil into the furniture in a circular motion until the entire surface is covered.
- Allow the oil to soak the furniture for at least 30 minutes.
- Wipe away any excess oil with a clean, lint-free cloth.
- Repeat steps 2-5 as needed.
That’s it! You’re now ready to enjoy your newly oiled wood furniture. Follow these steps regularly to keep your furniture looking its best.
Will Oiling my Furniture Change its Look?
Oiling your wood furniture will change its appearance, but not badly! Oiling is one of the best ways to protect your furniture and keep it looking new.
When you oil wood furniture, the oil penetrates the wood, creating a barrier against water damage, heat damage, and general wear and tear.
Additionally, oiling your furniture will give it a beautiful, natural shine.
How Often Should I Oil My Furniture?
That depends on a few factors, such as the type of wood, the finish, and how often you use the piece of furniture.
As a general rule, however, you should oil your wood furniture every six months to a year. If you live in a dry climate or have indoor furniture that doesn’t get much use, you may only need to oil it once a year.
On the other hand, if you live in a humid climate or have outdoor furniture that gets a lot of use, you may need to oil it every six months.
What Type of Oil Should I Use?
A few different types of oil can be used on wood furniture, such as linseed oil, tung oil, and olive oil.
Linseed oil is the best wood oil for furniture because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to find.
Tung oil is a bit more expensive but more durable and provides a better finish. Olive oil is the most expensive option but is also the most effective at restoring dry, damaged wood.
No matter which type of oil you choose, be sure to select a food-grade oil that is safe for use on wood.
How do You Clean Wood before Oiling?
You cleaning wood before oiling depends on the type of wood, how dirty it is, and what kind of oil you will use.
If the wood is very dirty, you may need to sand it down to remove the built-up dirt and grime. You can then clean it with a soap or detergent solution, using a brush to scrub off any remaining dirt or debris.
Finally, rinse off the surface with water and allow it to dry completely before oiling.
If the wood is not very dirty, you may only need to wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt. You can then apply the oil directly to the surface of the wood.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Tips for Protecting Wood Surfaces
In addition to oiling your wood furniture, you can do a few other things to protect it.
First, avoid placing hot items directly on wood surfaces. Instead, use coasters or placemats to protect the surface from heat damage.
Second, wipe up spills immediately. Water and other liquids can cause stains and damage the finish.
Third, dust your furniture regularly. Dust can scratch and damage the wood over time.
Following these simple tips can keep your wood furniture looking new for years.
FAQs
Can I Use Furniture Polish Instead of Oil?
Yes, you can use furniture polish instead of oil. However, it’s important to note that not all furniture polishes are created equal. Some furniture polishes are made with harsh chemicals that can damage your wood furniture. So be sure to read the label closely before purchasing a furniture polish and choose one made with natural ingredients.
Also, apply the polish thinly and avoid saturating the wood. A heavy coat of polish can make your furniture look greasy and shiny. Instead, allow the polish to dry completely before buffing it off with a soft cloth.
What is the best way to oil wood?
The best way to oil wood is with a natural vegetable oil like olive oil, sunflower oil, or canola oil. These oils will penetrate the wood and provide some protection against moisture and sunlight. Use a soft cloth to apply the oil in a thin coat. Rub the cloth in the direction of the wood grain. Allow the oil to soak in for several hours before wiping any excess. Reapply every few months as needed.
Can you sand wood after oiling?
You can sand wood after oiling, but you should avoid sanding too much. Sanding will remove the oil and may leave the wood susceptible to moisture damage. It’s best to wait at least 24 hours after applying the oil before you start sanding. If you need to sand the wood, use fine grit sandpaper and be careful not to sand too deep. You can always apply another coat of oil when you’re finished sanding.
Conclusion
Applying a coat of oil to wood furniture is an easy way to keep it looking its best. The type of oil you choose and the frequency of application will depend on the finish of your furniture and the climate where you live.
Following these simple steps can protect your investment and enjoy your furniture for years. Have you tried oiling your wood furniture? What tips would you add?