Routine Cleaning & First Aid

DUST CAREFULLY with a soft cloth, following the grain pattern of the wood. Use an old T-shirt, baby diaper or cheesecloth that has been laundered.

DUST OFTEN to remove everyday abrasive particles from wood surfaces.

CONSIDER CLEANING with mild non-alkaline soap and water. Use the suds in a damp sponge or cloth, but be sure to pre-test the solution on an out-of-sight section to make sure it doesn't damage the finish. Dry immediately with a soft cloth and buff lightly, following the grain.

DON'T WAX: or use any polish that contains any silicones! Catalyzed heat and moisture resistant finishes don't need additional polish.

Here are some common problems and ways for you to correct them. With all of these solutions, try a small area first to assure that the remedy doesn't damage the finish.

WATER MARK RINGS: Rings are often in the wax, not the finish. Cover the stain with a clean, thick blotter, press down with a warm iron, and repeat. Or try rubbing with salad oil, mayonnaise, or white toothpaste. Then wipe dry.

WHITE MARKS: Rub with cloth dipped in a mixture of cigarette ashes and lemon juice or salad oil. Or rub with a cloth dipped in lighter fluid, followed by a mixture of rottenstone and salad oil. Wipe dry.

HEAT MARKS: Rub gently along the grain using a dry steel wool soap pad, extra-fine (0000) steel wool, or a cloth dampened with camphorated oil mineral spirits.

STICKING PAPER: Dampen the paper thoroughly with salad oil, wait five minutes and rub along the grain with extra-fine (0000) steel wool. Wipe dry.

WAX OR GUM: Harden the substance by holding an ice cube wrapped in cloth against it. Pry off with a fingernail. Rub the area with extra-fine (0000) steel wool dipped in mineral spirits. Wipe dry.