Product Care for Your Timber Furniture

We use natural, sustainable stains and oils, rather than toxic lacquers or polyurethane coatings.

Many timber tables come finished with polyurethane or lacquer, but we believe these toxic products are harmful to both your health and the environment. Beyond their toxicity, they don’t improve the longevity or beauty of timber furniture. While polyurethane or lacquer finishes may look pristine on day one, they can quickly show damage through small scratches or marks. In contrast, the stained and oiled finishes we use develop character over time, similar to how an old wooden church floor or a leather jacket gains a unique patina. Your table will become richer in character as it ages.

How to Maintain Your Interior Table:

To ensure your table stays in top condition, follow these care tips:

Cleaning
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. We recommend wiping your table with a damp cloth and water after each use, and immediately after any spills.

Heat
Do not place hot items like pots or oven trays directly onto the timber surface.

Storage
Store your table inside your home rather than in a shed or garage. Solid timber is sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. Ensure any temperature changes happen gradually. For example, if the table is delivered in the winter, avoid placing it near a heater straight away.

Sunlight and Temperature
Keep the table out of direct sunlight and avoid exposure to extreme temperatures (below 10°C or above 35°C). This will help prevent warping or cracking.

For Exterior Furniture:

To extend the life of your outdoor furniture, particularly in New Zealand’s harsh weather conditions, here are some tips:

Rain and Winter Protection
During heavy rain or winter months, cover your furniture with a waterproof tarp when not in use to protect it from the elements.

Re-Oiling
After the first 3 months of use, apply a protective exterior oil to your furniture. Reapply every 6–12 months or as needed when you notice signs of wear. Regular oiling helps to prevent degradation caused by exposure to the sun, wind, and rain.

Expect Natural Aging
Exterior timber furniture will naturally show signs of aging over time, including warping, twisting, and cracking. These are natural effects of outdoor conditions, but with proper care, you can minimize the impact. Maintaining your furniture and covering it when not in use will help to slow down this process.

 

For Wooden Boards:

Cleaning the Boards
After use, simply wipe the boards down with mild dish soap and warm water. Do not soak the boards in water or place them in a dishwasher, as this can cause warping and damage.

Drying the Boards
After washing, ensure the boards are dried thoroughly. Allow the boards to air dry completely after each use.

Maintaining the Oil Finish:
If you notice the boards becoming dry or rough to the touch, they may need to be re-oiled. To re-coat, use Osmo clear oil or a similar food-safe oil. Apply a thin, even layer of oil to the board’s surface using a clean cloth and allow it to dry completely. Alternatively, if you're unsure or prefer us to handle this, reach out to us, and we’ll be happy to assist with re-coating.

Need Assistance?
If you have any questions about caring for your furniture, we offer a care, coating, and repair service to keep your pieces in the best possible condition. Reach out to us anytime.

 

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