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How to care and maintain a wooden dining table

May 9, 2023 Posted by La Maison Care and Maintenance wooden dining table

When you are considering purchasing a wooden dining table it is important to inform yourself about the care and maintenance for the material. Solid wood such as teak wood, ash wood or oak wood is particular popular for dining tables because of its organic feel and the durability. Not only it stands the test of time, solid wood tables introduce warmth and texture to your dining space. While a wooden dining table may be strong, it is a natural product and needs a proper care to keep its attractive appearance.

Especially if you invest in a valuable design peace, it’s smart to keep the care and maintenance in mind –regardless of whether you use your dining table on a daily basis or only on special occasions. In this guide we give you simple tricks on how to maintain for your wooden dining table and ensure its longevity.

Oak Wood Dining Table
Photo by @donkaveen via Unsplash
Ash Wood Dining Table ltd ijraSE4S 90 unsplash
Photo by @3dottawa via Unsplash

Understanding the Types of Wood Used in Hamptons-Style Dining Tables

There are many options for dining tables, yet we would recommend to watch out for solid wood. Here’s an overview of the most typical woods in furniture design:

Teak Wood is popular for its beautiful natural hue but more so ever for being highly resistant to rot, pests (bugs, termites and worms), and fungi. It’s naturally water-resistant, not prone to significant humidity changes and physically very strong and durable. Teak wood contains oils that make it naturally weather-resistant and low maintenance. Hence, why teak wood is the most used wood for outdoor dining tables.

alfresco hamtpons dining sest
Hampton Teak Wood Dining Table, Photo by @threebirdsrenovations

Ash wood is a light coloured, smooth-grained hardwood and a very attractive option for fine furniture. The most interesting features are its durability, lightweight and aesthetics. Especially its characteristics as a shock-resistant wood and the ability to absorb wood stains, make it perfect for furnishing with a high frequent usage. Ash wood furniture is particularly chosen for mid-century modern home style.

Hampton style dining chairs
OVALIS Ash Wood Dining Table

Oak Wood is one of the most popular woods used in furniture manufacturing and is generally a good choice in terms of eco-friendliness because it grows fast. It’s highly durable and comes in a number of hues. Its grain pattern is quite unique, you can enjoy it natural or with a light finish to protect the surface. Oak has a lovely golden hue, which fits perfectly in a warm coastal design scheme.

Perla Round Dining Table Natural Large And Small Size Front
Perla Oak Wood Dining Table
Perla Round Dining Table Natural Large And Small Size Detail

General Care and Maintenance Tips

Naturally your wooden dining table will have some wear and tear over time. There are a few simple tricks that you can practice on a daily basis to protect your dining table from damages.

  • Direct heat can cause the wood fibres to shrink, which may result in splitting or cracking. Make sure you place your wooden table at least 1–2 metres from a radiator or fireplace as well as from direct sunlight coming through windows. When placed outside protect it with a cover from direct sunlight when not in use.
  • Moisture can damage the finish of your wooden dining table. Ensure to remove any spills of food or liquid immediately.
  • To further protect your solid wood dining table, make sure to minimise the possibility of scratches and stains. We strongly recommend using place mats when sharp objects like plates and cutlery come on the table. For hot and cold drinks, try to use coasters and most important never place hot pots directly on the table, better use heat-resistant trays or place mats to prevent burn marks and head damage.

    Teak Wood Dining Table
    Photo by @sidekix via Unsplash

    Cleaning Your Hamptons-Style Wooden Dining Table

    A proper care and maintenance for your hardwood dining table includes regular cleaning, mostly on a daily basis if it’s the place where you regularly eat. With wooden furniture it is important to avoid cleaning products with harsh chemicals and abrasive cloths that can cause irreversible damage. A vinegar mixture or diluted washing up liquid can be used in three easy steps:

    1. Wiping: Use a barely damp soft microfiber cloth to remove any dust, crumbs, and stains that may have built up.

    2. Applying cleaning solution: Sticky spots you can remove by adding a few drops of dish soap to a bowl of warm water. Dip your damp microfiber cloth into the soapy water and gently rub the affected area.

    3. Drying: Your wooden dining table should never sit with water. After cleaning make sure to use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to dry and buff the table.

      round hamptons dining table
      Hampton Round Dining Table, Photo by @littlewhitelabel

      Polishing Your Hamptons-Style Wooden Dining Table

      In addition to preventive measures and regular care and maintenance, your wooden dining table deserves some occasional pampering. You will notice over time that the shine of your wooden table might fade. To bring it back to life we recommend polishing your solid wood dining table at least once a year. Make sure to use a suitable clear wax, refrain from using silicone-based polish products as they’re absorbed easily by the wood and cause cosmetic damage to your table. 

      One great thing about solid wood furniture is that it can easily be refurbished. Scratches start to mellow and blend it over time, and yet they can be easily fixed. If well maintained wooden furnishing ages beautifully and will bring you a lifelong joy.

      https://unsplash.com/@cameronsmith
      Photo by @cameronsmith via Unsplash

      Conclusion

      Taking care of your wooden dining table is a simple matter of habit. With daily maintenance and awareness for protection you can make it last longer and maintain its beauty. Keep your dining table dust free, remove spills immediately and be cautious with sharp objects and hot plates. These are the main things to remember. Whether you opt to teak wood, ash wood or oak wood, ensure to read the instructions that your manufacturer provides, and check out the furniture care section on our website for more information.

      At La Maison you can find a wide selection of wooden dining tables, perfect for Hamptons style homes as well as contemporary home designs. Pair it with comfortable dining chairs for a perfect entertaining experience for your family and your guests. PS: Sign up to our La Maison Insider newsletter to be the first to know about new arrivals and promotions.