Care Guide: Oak Furniture
Wood is a natural material, valued for its distinctive grain and rich texture. Our solid oak dining tables are available in a range of oiled finishes, from light white and blonde tones to smoked, grey and deep black — designed to complement both contemporary and traditional interior design schemes. As with all natural wood furniture, oak will evolve over time. Subtle movement and tonal changes are part of its character as it adjusts to your home’s environment. To protect your oak dining table, position it away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which can cause the wood to dry and crack in extreme conditions. Maintaining your oak table is simple, though care requirements vary depending on the finish and grain. Following the correct oak table care guidance will ensure your dining furniture remains beautiful for years to come.
Daily oak dining table care
To keep your oak dining table looking its best:
- Wipe it daily with a clean, dry cloth
- For spills or marks, use a lightly damp (well wrung-out) cloth, wiping in the direction of the grain
- Dry the surface immediately with a soft cloth to prevent moisture damage
- Avoid chemicals, abrasive cleaners, scouring pads or wire wool, as these can damage the finish of your wood dining table. Acidic substances such as vinegar and lemon juice can stain or dull oak very quickly
- Wipe spills immediately and dry thoroughly
- To protect against heat and liquids, always use placemats and coasters
How to oil a wooden table
We recommend oiling your table twice a year. For smooth surfaces, sand gently with an extra-fine sandpaper in the direction of the grain and remove all dust with a soft, dry cloth. Apply the recommended oil between 15C and 25C. A little goes a long way, so apply sparingly. Leave for at least 30 minutes, then repeat the process three to four times. Wipe away any excess with a lint-free cloth. Depending on the environment, it make take up to 24 hours to dry.
Neptune dining tables
Holloways is a Neptune partner store, offering the full collection of Neptune solid oak and tulipwood dining tables and dining chairs. Neptune oak furniture is protected with IsoGuard®, a VOC-free, linseed oil-based formula designed to guard against spills and fluctuations in heat and humidity. Bonding at a molecular level, IsoGuard preserves the wood’s natural matt finish while enhancing durability. It is available in a selection of refined shades, including Natural Oak, Chalked Oak and Seasoned Oak. We also stock specialist Neptune IsoGuard cleaning products, including Treatment Oil, Surface Soap, microfibre e-cloths, Tannin Spot Remover for metal-induced stains, and the complete IsoGuard care kit for tackling grease and water marks.
For expert aftercare and interior design advice on Neptune oak furniture, contact our Neptune specialist, Victoria Twinberrow, or call 01886 884665.
