How to Care for Solid Oak Furniture: Cleaning, Oiling, and Avoiding Damage 

06/22/2025

When we purchase solid oak furniture, we invest in timeless craftsmanship, enduring beauty, and sustainable living. Oak is known for its natural elegance, strength, and intricate grain patterns. When proper care is taken, it can last for generations. However, just like any other natural material, regular maintenance is essential for oak furniture. With the right routine, your oak furniture will not only retain its elegance but also develop a richer patina over time, becoming a true heirloom in your home. 

In this brief guide, you will find the essentials of cleaning, oiling, and protecting solid oak furniture so that it stays as stunning as the day you brought it home.  

Special Attention 

Unlike mass-produced veneer products or synthetic furniture, solid oak is a living, breathing material. As a result, it reacts to daily use, humidity, and light. At Enoak, in many of our pieces, we use untreated and lightly oiled French oak. This allows the raw beauty of the wood grain to shine through. At the same time, it also means that protecting and enhancing the finish relies heavily on maintenance.  

It is also important to remember that oak wood tends to evolve naturally and its charm lies in the subtle changes it undergoes over time. Proper care not only keeps your furniture in excellent condition, but also helps guide this aging process.  

Everyday Cleaning  

A simpler approach is always better for your oak furniture clean. Always avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.  

• To prevent buildup of dirt and particles, dust regularly using a lint-free cloth or soft microfiber. 
• Use a lightly damp cloth for sticky spots or light soiling, followed by a dry wipe to avoid water absorption. 
• Always wipe your oak furniture along the direction of the grain.  
• Please remember that commercial wood cleaners with silicone, ammonia, or alcohol can damage or strip the finish of the wood’s finish. 
• Use excessive water can lead to swelling or stains as oak is porous and can absorb moisture.  

Oiling Oak Furniture 

Oak furniture needs oiling for maintaining or restoring its natural sheen, nourishing the wood, and protecting it from drying or cracking. a natural furniture oil is highly recommended for maintaining the finish. Oiling is required every 6–12 months for high-use surfaces such as dining tables. On the other hand, once a year is typically sufficient for decorative or less-used items.  

The step-by-step process involves 

• Thorough cleaning of the surface and drying it completely. 
• To smooth out marks or raised grain, lightly sand the area with fine-grit paper. 
• Apply a thin layer of oil and rub it evenly into the grain with a cloth. 
• Allow it to soak in for 15–30 minutes, and then wipe off any excess. 
• Before use, allow it to dry for at least 24 hours.   

Damage Prevention 

Though oak is naturally resilient, it must be protected from extreme conditions.   

To protect it from moisture resulting from spills and condensation, coasters, placemats, and table runners can be used.  Spills from liquids like wine and oil must be wiped immediately to protect the wood from staining. 

Always keep your oak furniture away from direct heat sources such as heaters, fireplaces, or radiators. In dry climates or during winter, use a humidifier to help maintain consistent indoor conditions. 

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the wood to fade or darken unevenly. To soften natural light, curtains or blinds can be used. On the other hand, the exposure can be balanced by periodically rotating furniture pieces and accessories.   

With just a bit of precautions and care, it is possible to ensure that your oak furniture will remain as captivating as the day it arrived. Please contact us today for more tips to maintain your oak furniture.