Caring for solid wood furniture

Most care is simply prevention. Use coasters under glasses, mats under hot dishes and felt pads under objects that get moved often.

Dust with a dry, soft cloth. For everyday cleaning, use a cloth wrung out in clean water, then dry the surface straight away. Avoid silicone sprays and multipurpose cleaners, which can leave a film that makes re-oiling harder.

Keep furniture away from radiators, air-conditioning vents and long periods of direct sun. Sudden changes in temperature and humidity are harder on timber than steady conditions.

Oiled surfaces benefit from a fresh coat of hardwax oil once or twice a year, or whenever water stops beading on the surface. Apply thinly, leave for the time on the tin, then buff off the excess.