Here are practical, safe, and effective wooden furniture cleaning tips, suitable for all types of wood finishes. These are general best-practice methods commonly recommended by furniture experts—including shops like ARV Furniture in Mississauga, Ontario, which specialize in wood furniture.

Wooden Furniture Cleaning Tips
1. Dust Regularly (Weekly)
Use a soft microfiber cloth.
Avoid dry feather dusters—they can scratch surfaces.
Dust following the wood grain to pick up particles more effectively.

2. Use a Gentle Cleaner (Monthly or as Needed)
Mix a mild homemade cleaner:
1 cup warm water
A few drops of dish soap
Steps:
Dampen (do NOT soak) a microfiber cloth with the mix.
Wipe gently following the wood grain.
Immediately dry with a clean, soft cloth.
Avoid alcohol, ammonia, or harsh chemicals—they damage the finish.

3. Deep Clean With Mineral Spirits (Occasionally)
If there’s built-up grime or sticky residue:
Use odorless mineral spirits on a soft cloth.
Test in a hidden area first.
Rub gently; dry immediately afterward.
This restores shine without harming most finishes.

4. Polish or Condition the Wood (Every 3–4 Months)
Use:
A high-quality furniture polish (silicone-free), or
A beeswax-based wood conditioner.
Benefits:
Enhances shine.
Adds temporary moisture resistance.
Prevents drying and cracking.

5. Protect from Moisture
Use coasters, placemats, and table runners.
Wipe spills immediately—water rings form in minutes.
Avoid placing wood near humidifiers, vents, or radiators.

6. Avoid Sun Damage
Prolonged UV exposure causes fading or cracking.
Keep furniture away from direct sunlight or use curtains/blinds.

7. Remove Water Rings
Try these safe methods:
a. Hair Dryer Method
Use low heat → move in circles → moisture evaporates.
b. Mayonnaise/Baking Soda Paste
Apply a tiny amount, rub gently with a soft cloth.
Wipe clean and polish afterward.

8. Fix Light Scratches
Use walnut oil, olive oil + vinegar (1:1), or a wood touch-up marker.
Buff gently along the grain.

9. Avoid These Common Mistakes
❌ Furniture polish sprays with heavy silicone
❌ Wet cloths left on wood
❌ Abrasive scrub pads
❌ Vinegar on finished wood (too acidic)
❌ Steam cleaners
If You Own Furniture from ARV Furniture (Mississauga, ON)
ARV typically sells solid wood and veneer pieces, so:
Stick to gentle, non-abrasive cleaning.
Use coasters and placemats religiously (especially on dining sets).
Ask the store which finish your furniture has (lacquer, oil, polyurethane) for exact care instructions.
If you’d like, I can also provide:

📌 A printable care guide
📌 A step-by-step routine for your specific type of wood
📌 Cleaning tips for leather/metal/glass furniture from ARV Furniture

Just tell me!